Hidden Gems, Tampa Bay eateries that are just a bit off the beaten path

Tampa Bay's Hidden Gems - Eli's Bar-B-Que, Dunedin

Again, as I so often do, I have reverted to my Southern roots and found a great little barbecue place, which just happens to be near the beach. So far, I've not been able to convince any of my North Carolina friends that such a place exists, but it does. I promise.

Eli's Bar-B-Que is located on S.R. 580 (the locals call it Main Street) in Dunedin, directly adjacent to the Pinellas Trail. They serve a limited menu of barbecue pork, chicken, ribs and smoked sausage. There are also some side items such as pecan or sweet potato pies, cole slaw, beans and various drinks, but that's pretty much it. But, then again, that's all that really matters with a great barbecue joint. The folks at Eli's turn out some of the best barbecue in the area and the parking lot is always packed, which brings me to an important point. Eli's is only open on Friday and Saturday, from 11:00am - 6:00pm, which is a small window of opportunity to grab enough barbecue to last until the next Friday. But that doesn't seem to deter mobs of people from lining up long before they open the window for business. Another important point is that demand often outweighs supply so, if you show up late Saturday afternoon looking for some ribs, you might be out of luck. My advice is to get there early and don't risk it. Also, bring cash, Eli's doesn't take credit cards, debit cards or checks.

As one of Tampa Bay's Hidden Gems, Eli's Bar-B-Que might be a bit difficult for some folks to find. Fortunately, I'm willing to divulge the exact location so that others can enjoy it as much as I do. As long as you don't cut in front of me in line, that is.

Eli's Bar-B-Que, 360 Skinner Blvd Dunedin, FL 34698-5769, (727) 738-4856