This is a classic travel story. One evening in 1927, a Mrs. Mae Risher and her husband were dining at the elegant Vinoy in St. Petersburg, Florida. Before leaving the dining room, they asked the waiter for a paper cup of water for their thirsty dog, who was in the car. The water was delivered, in typical Vinoy style, in a small silver creamer pitcher.
After satisfying the dog’s thirst, they said they tried to return the creamer, but somehow managed to drive off with the creamer. This little pitcher, now on display at the Vinoy, traveled the world with the couple to places as far away as Germany and Hawaii. Mrs. Risher finally was able to return the creamer to the Vinoy in 1999.
Today, the luxurious 77-year-old Renaissance Vinoy Resort, still offers a truly magnificent experience for travelers. Originally built in 1925, this stylish resort in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, pampers guests with its elegant setting, a variety of fine dining experiences, and attentive, yet unpretentious service.
At The Terrace Room, you’ll be surrounded by massive pillars, hand-painted ceiling and walls, and rich plaster carvings that provide a stylish setting for your breakfast, lunch, dinner—or most impressive Sunday Brunch. How does Macadamia Crusted Grouper and Black Pepper Stuffed Ravioli with feta cheese, spinach and pine nuts sound? These are some of the most popular items on their menu.
The Vinoy offers variety of other dining options including Marchand’s Bar and Grill, with a definite Mediterranean flair, both in décor and in cuisine. Chef Tom Chin’s creativity is something you’ll soon learn to appreciate once you dine here.
At Alfresco, the resort’s Florida-style restaurant, you can enjoy indoor/outdoor (this is Florida, after all) service with a light and creative menu. Since the restaurant overlooks the pool and tennis complex, you’ll definitely be able to enjoy a tropical, laid-back atmosphere.
And, if those choices aren’t enough, there’s Fred’s Bar, a private dining room open to Vinoy Club members and resort guests only, the Clubhouse Restaurant, located at the famous Renaissance Vinoy Gold Club, and the stylish Promenade Lounge, their graceful open-air cocktail lounge.
Warning, if you dine at the Vinoy, you’ll wish you had made reservations to stay here.
For more information about the Renaissance Vinoy, visit www.renaissancehotels.com