Kelly Rodriguez-Laureano alongside husband and chef Alex Rodriguez have been quite the power couple when it comes to opening hit restaurants in downtown St. Peterburg. The duo is behind Lolita's Wine Market as well as Sophia's Cucina + Enoteca—concepts both named after their pups. Not wanting to leave their cats out of the equation, the Rodriguez restaurateur team is launching Sammy + Paco's.
In an interview with local blog, I Love the Burg, Kelly gives a little background: “It’s named for our two boys. Sammy, the older long-haired ginger cat who is Garfield incarnate, and Paco, our newest addition to Casa de Rodriguez, a Persian Grey.”
Sammy + Paco's is set to become a storefront that acts as a cafe, bakery and market. Coming along at 2735 5th Ave. N in Historic Kenwood, the shop will offer indoor and well as outdoor seating for guests looking to stop in for some bites and sips or grab goods to go. Kelly also told ILTB that Alex is working with Executive Sous Chef Alicia Carson to create "fresh and fun" breakfast and lunch offerings.
Shouldn't be much longer until we get a taste of what Sammy + Paco's has cookin', as the couple is looking to debut their latest project in February. More details to come as an official opening date is announced.
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This article appears in Jan 14-20, 2021.