UPDATE:  As of July 11, Sammy + Taco’s is Temporarily Closed, with reopening plans uncertain. However, the owners have now opened a new space for Lolita’s Wine Market.

Sammy + Paco’s is a brand new restaurant from the owners of Lolita’s and Sophia’s in St. Petersburg — and it’s the next big thing near Historic Kenwood. The concept first opened in early May, and it’s already receiving rave reviews.

One breakfast sandwich we are eager to try includes pimento cheese, avocado mash, thick cut bacon, and fried egg served on gently pressed Cuban Bread.

Current hours are Wednesday-Friday from 7am-2pm for Breakfast + Lunch; and  Saturday-Sunday from 8am-2pm for Brunch.

“This is a new concept for us and will be a cafe/market/bakery,” wrote Kelly Rodriguez-Laureano in an email to I Love the ‘Burg. 

Chef Alex Rodriguez is working with Executive Sous Chef Alicia Carson to refine a fun fresh breakfast/lunch menu for the cafe.

Fresh baked goods on the menu

“We will also feature fresh baked goods from Pastry Chef Megan Barnes who created our desserts for Sophia’s,” wrote Rodriguez-Laureano. If y’all have experienced the finer things at Sophia’s, then you know an infusion of its sweets into the Sammy + Paco’s concept is excelsior.

These teased treats will include bagels, muffins, fruit breads, cookies, pies and cakes. Sammy + Paco’s is also set to include a substantial grab and go section.

“The grab and go section is structured much like the charcuterie menu from Lolita’s. Everything will be a la carte so you can mix and match to create a meal but choose a gourmet sauce or custom compound butter to accompany your choices.”

Named after some very special pets

This structure will allow Sammy + Paco’s to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions.

So, what’s in name?

Those familiar with Lolita’s and Sophia’s will know the concepts get their names from the pets of the owners. Meet the other two members of this boisterous furry family.

“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.”

Packaged beer and wine will be available once open.

Sammy + Paco’s will also offer indoor and outdoor seating for the public enjoy.

While an official date isn’t set. the owners hope to be open sometime in February 2021.

Sammy + Paco’s, 2735 5th Avenue North.

If you’re having trouble finding the place, just look for the giant sunflowers. The building is one of several locations for the Happy Mural Project.

New I Love the ‘Burg merch

You can find even more I Love the ‘Burg designs on our Threadless page. We also have brand new I Love the ‘Burg tees LIVE on the site.

What to read next: 

Inside Wild Child: a tropical culinary escape in St. Pete

CocoAddiction now open on St. Pete Beach

AMPED Fitness opening brand new gym in Tyrone area of St. Pete

Wendy’s Closet opening new location on Central Avenue

Porchfest and Art in the Park announced for Roser Park

Cocktail St. Pete announces Grand Opening date

Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen announces plans for St. Pete and Brandon locations

Best Parks to take a walk around in St. Pete

Pete’s General opening second location in the Grand Central District