The locals are tops at this longtime favorite, which has dispensed icy treats to generations of Safety Harborians (Harborites? Harborers?). On the menu, you'll find everything from steamy, Southern-style fried green tomatoes to a knock-out grouper dinner, an unusually imaginative "four-seasons" salad complete with homemade raspberry vinaigrette, and, of course, the requisite good-quality, cold ice cream, soft-serve and sorbets. Wash it down with wine or beer — unlike a typical ice cream stand, this one serves alcohol, too. Can't beat it with a stick.
The Whistle Stop Grill, 915 Main St., Safety Harbor, 727-726-1956 or www.whistlestopgrill.com.
This article appears in Sep 25 – Oct 1, 2003.