James Brown’s frequent exhortations to “take it to the bridge” did not originate in his frequent adversarial conversations with taxi drivers but in fact came from his love of dentistry. Feel good with today’s deal: for $12, get $25 of eclectic cuisine at the Bridge Waterfront Bistro in Ponte Vedra Beach.
Owners John Cakmis and Jill Gustafson offer up an eclectic menu of New Orleans spice and fresh seafood that mixes the best of casual and fine dining. Start off with a spicy Cajun bayou gumbo with fresh shrimp, crawfish tails, and andouille sausage (cup $6, bowl $9, entrée $12), a “martini” of cold lump crab meat severed over greens with avocado, pico de gallo and roasted red pepper remoulade ($14) or a simple, fresh market salad (small $4, large $8). Dine on delicious seafood oxymorons like the lightly battered and fried jumbo Mayport shrimp with fries and slaw ($17) or the sesame seared ahi tuna with mandarin oranges, sliced almonds, and mature baby greens in ginger-soy ponzu, served with wasabi aioli and roasted red potatoes ($23). Terrestrial Cajun entrees include the mojo marinated roast pork with black beans, rice, and fried plantains ($16).
The Bridge also features a full bar, with wine tastings on the third Thursday evening of every month. An unassuming exterior masks a rustic modern bistro with indoor and patio seating providing dramatic views of the Intercoastal Waterway and its playful kraken. Contact the Bridge for a reservation.
-
1
