Tales from the Road: Eat Where the Locals Eat

While recently on the road, I realized the problem with a four-day trip – there isn’t enough time to eat everywhere that you want to. You know what I’m talking about, those little places that look so interesting while you’re passing through town.

So, it’s importantly that you choose wisely, especially if you know that you might not be back in the area for a while.

One place that intrigued me on my road-trip adventure was Clawdaddy’s in Crystal River, Fla. I had seen the billboards and maybe it was the persuasion advertising, but I thought this would be a place for me.

And I wasn’t wrong.

Clawdaddy’s is one of those no-frills seafood (and meat) places. The menu is simple, yet offers a lot of choices and there are specials of the day. As bad as I wanted to try the Conch Chowder ($3.99/cup), I opted for the Gator Tail ($7.50), steamed oysters ($7.99/dozen) and Snow Crab legs (special of the day). And trust me when I say that I wasn’t disappointed.

I would recommend to end you meal with a slice of their Key Lime pie. I didn’t have any room, but I overhead the waiter suggest it to others around me.

The next day after visting Manatee Springs State Park in Chiefland, there was a place at the intersection whose name intrigued me, The Burger House. And from where my car was at the light, The Burger House looked like a large, single story brick home. Don’t ask me how, but I knew this place would be good.

Of course, when I was there it was in the thick of lunchtime and the cars were deep.

A person would come to your window to take your order.  According to the menu outside, in addition to hamburger’s, there’s also a chicken sandwich ($2.40), barbecue beef sandwich ($2.40), ham and cheese ($2.40), as well as other selections. Then you drive up on either side and your order would be ready.

Fast, effecient and fun  - couldn’t have asked for a better lunch.

When you are out and about traveling, take it from me and go where the locals go. They won’t steer you wrong.