Pensacola Renaissance

Latitudes (American Eagle In-Flight Magazine) | Feature story | 2015 | print and digital

By Kelly Oden

Known affectionately as the city of five flags, Pensacola has been claimed, at different times, by Spain, France, Britain, the Confederacy and the United States. With well-preserved military forts, a historic village and a number of significant shipwrecks off the coast, Pensacola is a history buff’s dream. And though locals are proud of their town’s past, it is the city’s present and future that have everyone abuzz.

The last five years have seen a true renaissance for Pensacola’s historic downtown district. A slew of trendy new restaurants, bars, boutiques, galleries and businesses have sprung up. Spurred, in part, by the opening of a waterfront community maritime park and stadium, downtown Pensacola’s rebirth has been epic. Anchored by Palafox Street, which runs straight down to Pensacola Bay, the historic district’s ancient oaks and wrought iron balconies reflect a distinctly French influence, while street names like Cervantes, Zaragoza and Intendencia provide a constant reminder of Spanish rule.

THE ARTS

The Saenger Theatre, dubbed the Grand Dame of Palafox, haswitnessed the ebb and flow of downtown Pensacola like few other buildings. Opened in 1925, the grand theatre has been used as a vaudeville stage, a movie house and a performing arts center. In recent years, the Saenger has been meticulously restored to its original glory and now offers a broad range of programming. Don’t miss the Classic Movie Series, which treats patrons to a selection of classic films presented in the opulent theatre.

Vinyl Music Hall is a different kind of space. The intimate music venue housed in a 115-year-old Masonic lodge, features local, regional and national touring acts. A diverse array of performers have graced its stage, from Dr. John and Steve Earle to Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, seminal punk band X and Bauhaus front man Peter Murphy. Make sure to step through the rolling barn door that connects the historic site to 5 1/2 Bar and try the divine concoctions prepared by expert mixologist Patrick Bolster. With a number of art galleries and a full-blown arts museum, as well as downtown Pensacola’s lively Gallery Nights, the art scene here is also alive and well. Artel Gallery is a unique space that offers cutting-edge art “in its purest form without concern for commercial marketability.” Located in the Old Escambia County Courthouse—a work of art in its own right—this nonprofit, volunteer-staffed gallery is home to the Cinco Banderas Collection, a permanent juried collection featuring edgy regional artists.

CULINARY FINDS

Carmen’s Lunch Bar is the culinary brainchild of local chef Mari Josephs, whose concept for the restaurant won the 2011 Pensacola Business Challenge. Her intimate, elegant lunch bar is housed in one of the recently refurbished 115-year- old Penko buildings. The menu features an eclectic assortment of soups, salads, tapas and homemade sandwiches, showcasing both Southern and international flavors. Try the seasonal soup of the day, made fresh with entirely local ingredients. The cava-based Cranberry- Orange Bubbly “Soda” is delightfully refreshing.

What’s better than building your own burger? At The Tin Cow, diners can choose their own bread, protein, toppings, sauces—you name it—to create a completely customized burger cooked to order. Don’t leave without trying the spiked milkshakes and the highly addictive Parmesan truffle fries.

Al Fresco brings the exploding food truck trend to Pensacola with four Airstream trailers from which Gourmet treats are served in a lush, urban setting. Situated on the popular corner of Palafox and Main, Al Fresco offers gourmet grilled cheese, tacos, green smoothies, barbecue and salads. Anchoring the Airstream offerings is the brick-and-mortar Jerry’s Cajun Cafe, a city staple that serves authentic Cajun food.

Those looking to try their hand at making a gourmet feast themselves should stop by The Bodacious Olive first. The shelves at Rishy Studer’s epicurean market are stocked with a breathtaking array of artisanal oils and vinegars. Stored in stunning stainless steel fustis, the full-bodied oils and pungent vinegars are available for customers to sample before buying. Favorites include the aged balsamic vinegar and the white truffle oil.

TRIED AND TRUE

Joe Patti’s Seafood and Jackson’s Steakhouse are two downtown Pensacola institutions that are a requisite stop for any visitor. A feast for the eyes and a seafood lover’s delight, Joe Patti’s market has offered fresh ocean fare to Pensacola residents and visitors since 1931. At the helm of this family business is Frank Patti, Sr., a salty old sailor who can often be found behind the counter offering a friendly smile along with the freshest cuts of seafood—from Gulf shrimp and sushi-grade blue fin tuna to fresh lobster—all at wholesale prices.

Overlooking the serene grounds of Plaza Ferdinand, Jackson’s Steakhouse is a Wine Spectator and Golden Spoon award-winning restaurant. A visit to Jackson’s is imperative if you are looking for an artistically prepared meal and exemplary service. Grain-fed beef, fresh Gulf seafood and a stellar wine list set Jackson’s apart from the rest. Comfort food lovers will especially relish the cast-iron baked three cheese macaroni, a lunchtime favorite.