PNJ Headlines: What’s in the News This Monday
As the week begins, the Pensacola community is buzzing with news that impacts both local businesses and residents. From the ongoing repairs at the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel in Warrington to Curaleaf’s plans to open its first medical marijuana dispensary in Santa Rosa, there’s plenty to discuss. However, one of the most exciting developments is the debut of a new culinary venture in the area: Gather, A Culinary Collective.
Repairs on Hold at Suburban Extended Stay Hotel
The Suburban Extended Stay Hotel in Warrington has hit a snag in its repair process, leaving many residents and visitors wondering about the timeline for completion. While the hotel has been a staple for travelers and those in need of temporary housing, the delay in repairs raises questions about the future of this establishment. Local officials are expected to provide updates soon, as the community awaits clarity on when the hotel will reopen its doors.
Curaleaf’s Expansion into Santa Rosa
In a move that reflects the growing acceptance of medical marijuana, Curaleaf is set to open its first dispensary in Santa Rosa. This expansion is part of a broader trend in Florida, where the medical marijuana industry continues to flourish. The new dispensary aims to provide patients with access to high-quality cannabis products, catering to the needs of those seeking alternative treatments. As the dispensary prepares for its grand opening, many are eager to see how it will impact the local economy and healthcare landscape.
Gather: A Culinary Collective Takes Center Stage
This month, Pensacola Cooks has launched its new sister restaurant, Gather, A Culinary Collective, located at 41 S. Navy Blvd. in the former Ceviche 805 space. This innovative dining concept is designed to support local chefs and food entrepreneurs by providing them with the resources they need to thrive. Gather offers a commissary kitchen, food truck plug-in stations, and a shared dining room where chefs can host rotating pop-up services throughout the week.
The rotating schedule of chefs ensures that diners can enjoy a diverse array of culinary experiences. From Portuguese “Prego” steak sandwiches served with a garlicky red wine jus to Ethiopian lamb ribs, the menu promises to keep meals exciting and fresh. Each week, the lineup of participating chefs will be posted on the Gather website and shared on social media, allowing food lovers to plan their visits accordingly.
Supporting Local Chefs and Entrepreneurs
Gather’s mission goes beyond just serving delicious food; it aims to act as an incubator for aspiring chefs. By providing a platform for culinary talent to showcase their skills without the burden of high overhead costs, Gather is helping to foster a vibrant food scene in Pensacola. Denise Shelton, Gather’s director of operations, expressed her commitment to supporting local chefs, stating, “I just like to help people, and it’s very fulfilling to see people figure out how they’re going to make their dream a reality without feeling overwhelmed.”
Among the vendors currently featured at Gather are Luther’s Touch of Heaven, Ethiopian Cuisine By Friends, Sweet Love, Pipasnacks, and Steel Pony Diner. Each vendor brings their unique flavors and culinary traditions, enriching the dining experience for patrons. For example, Eric Michael, co-owner of Steel Pony Diner, is excited about the opportunity to bring Portuguese flavors to Pensacola, combining them with Southern classics to create a menu that reflects his heritage.
A Commitment to Community Revitalization
Shelton and her family, who founded Pensacola Cooks in 2003, are dedicated to revitalizing the Warrington area. Since opening, they have helped approximately 60 restaurateurs develop their businesses, contributing to the local economy and community spirit. Shelton noted, “We’ve seen it very, very slowly start to come around,” highlighting the positive changes taking place in the area.
In addition to providing restaurant-style meals, Gather plans to introduce “dinners on demand,” allowing customers to pick up homemade meals to reheat at home. This initiative aims to cater to busy families and individuals looking for convenient dining options without sacrificing quality.
Stay Connected with Gather
As Gather continues to evolve, it promises to be a valuable addition to the Pensacola community, offering diverse culinary experiences and supporting local entrepreneurs. To keep up with real-time updates and information about Gather, follow them on social media or visit their website. For inquiries, customers can also call Gather at 850-456-0743.
For those eager to stay informed about the latest restaurant news in the area, subscribing to the Pensacola Eats newsletter is a great way to receive updates directly in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign up at Pensacola Eats Newsletter.
As the week unfolds, these stories highlight the dynamic changes and opportunities within the Pensacola community, showcasing the resilience and creativity of its residents.