Live the Gala Life in St. Pete-Clearwater with Alexia Gonzalez (@TheGalaLife)

Brunch Vibes

Alexia begins the day strolling downtown St. Pete, admiring the bold mural art that defines the city's visual energy. A perfect brunch spot? Juno & The Peacock—where tropical boho meets elevated brunch plates. Afterward, she pops into local art galleries before hitting the St. Pete Pier Market, where local vendors meet breezy waterfront vibes.

Caffeine Fix & Vintage Finds

In the Grand Central District, you'll find her sourcing one-of-a-kind outfits at Curated Heat or Full Court Classics, then grabbing a classic cafecito at Bodega to power up for more shopping. Mezzo Market days are her absolute favorite—think sunshine, creative vendors, music, and fashion.

Skybeach Hotel & Marina

Skybeach Hotel & Marina is Alexia’s go-to for an effortless day of lounging and relaxing. Tucked away on the water, this stylish spot blends modern resort aesthetics with a laid-back marina vibe—making it perfect for a breezy brunch, poolside cocktails, or simply watching boats drift by.

Lunch Loves

Alexia is obsessed with local flavors! Her current rotation is a bold, flavorful tour of some of St. Pete’s most exciting culinary gems:

• Apululu Latin Street Food: A fiesta of flavors! This spot is serving up vibrant, crave-worthy Latin-inspired bites that pack a punch. Think perfectly seasoned meats, zesty sauces, and a casual vibe that makes it feel like a sunny day on your plate.
• Wildchild: Equal parts cocktail artistry and culinary creativity, Wild Child is Alexia’s trusted go-to. The tropical-meets-modern decor sets the scene for bold plates and a stellar mezcal and tequila-forward drink menu.
• Barbouni Raw Bar: For next-level seafood and sleek coastal vibes, Barbouni is the place. From oysters on the half shell to beautifully plated crudo, everything here feels fresh, refined, and a little indulgent. It’s perfect for when she’s craving seafood with a sophisticated twist.

Golden Hour Hot Spots

• Pier Teaki: The ultimate rooftop escape perched above the water, Pier Teaki offers panoramic views of Tampa Bay, tropical cocktails, and those salty-sweet breezes that make you want to stay all night. It’s where Alexia unwinds with friends—or kicks off a date night—with a pineapple drink in one hand and her camera ready for the cotton-candy sunset.
• Pluma Lounge: Sophisticated yet chill, Pluma Lounge is one of her favorite spots for a pre-dinner cocktail with elevated style. With sweeping views of Beach Drive and a curated cocktail menu, it’s the ideal setting for quiet conversations, people-watching, and that unmistakable downtown glow. 
• Baba on Central: Mediterranean comfort food meets local cool. Whether she’s in the mood for a mezze spread, house-made pita, or a glass of natural wine, Baba always delivers. The food is soulful, the setting is cozy, and the ambiance feels like your artsy friend’s favorite backyard dinner party.

Dinner & Nightlife Picks

Start the Night at:

• Grazzi Italian Grille: Rich pastas, hearty Italian classics, and cozy candlelight set the tone. Whether she's with the girls or on a romantic date, Grazzi’s delivers big flavor in a warm, welcoming space that feels like a neighborhood staple (because it is).

Bar Hop Along Central Avenue:

• Saigon Blonde: Funky, eclectic, and filled with retro decor, this is one of Alexia’s top picks for creative drinks and a transportive vibe. Think jungle-chic meets secret-agent speakeasy.
• Mandarin Hyde: Sleek, stylish, and known for its perfectly balanced cocktails, Mandarin Hyde is a go-to for elevated sips in a low-key lounge atmosphere.
• Floridian Social Club: This gorgeously restored venue is where the dancing never stops. Whether it’s live music, DJ sets, or theme nights, Alexia knows she can count on Floridian Social Club for energy, elegance, and an unforgettable time.

Bonus:

Secret karaoke room at Good Fortune? Yes, she’s in. Sushi, cocktails, and singing with the St. Pete Gals make it an iconic night out. Hidden behind its trendy sushi restaurant is a secret karaoke room that’s perfect for belting out early 2000s hits over sake and cocktails. It’s fun, a little wild, and exactly the kind of night out that earns a spot in Alexia’s memory (and her stories).

Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro

Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro is an Alexia favorite that combines coastal vibes with unbeatable marina views. According to Alexia, their lobster roll is a must-try—perfectly buttery, generously stuffed, and served on a toasted split-top bun that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine or a local craft beer and you’ve got one of the best bites in town! She likes to stop by this spot before going to her favorite must-see attraction.

Must-See Attraction

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, The Dalí Museum is a surrealist haven that’s always worth the visit. Set along the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront, this architectural gem is home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s work outside of Spain—and it’s as mind-bending as it is beautiful.

Alexia is a huge fan of the museum’s rotating exhibitions, which often feature other iconic surrealist and contemporary artists. She loves how each visit offers something new—whether it’s immersive installations, interactive experiences, or thoughtful, curated pairings of Dalí’s work with modern voices.

And while you're there, don’t skip:

• The Avant-garden is a peaceful outdoor space perfect for reflecting (or Instagramming).
• The gift shop is filled with creative and quirky treasures.
• And the on-site Cafe Gala for bites that art inspired by Dali's works of art. 

The Vinoy Resort

Alexia’s top pick? The Vinoy Resort. This pink icon isn’t just a hotel—it’s where her St. Pete story began. From her first visit to her husband’s proposal overlooking the bay, the Vinoy and Beach Drive are her forever favorites. The elegance, the energy, the emotion—it’s everything she loves about St. Pete in one stunning stretch.