A Culinary Gem Where Exquisite Flavors Converge in St. Pete, FL

Nestled in the center of Beach Drive in St. Petersburg, Florida is a restaurant by the name of Allelo - a self-proclaimed "neighborhood spot for small plates, good times and lots of wine".

Serving up a variety of shareables, pasta dishes, and large format entrees, Allelo is best enjoyed in the company of others – because aren't meals better when you can try a multitude of taste-bud-tinglers as opposed to just one?

A serendipitous discovery presented itself to me at the bar as I awaited my companions' arrival: the delightful custom of serving free pintxos! For those unfamiliar with the culinary landscape of southwestern Europe, pintxos are the quintessential bar snacks of Spain, particularly prevalent in the Basque region. Among the offerings, my favorite bites were the roasted chickpeas and truffle arancini (dare I say worth paying for!). Allelo thoughtfully extends these delicious morsels at the bar Monday through Thursday from 5pm to 6pm.

Let’s talk drinks! Allelo is a wine bar but who can resist trying a well-crafted cocktail? The”‘Bay Got Me Sippin'” was right up my alley with its smoky mezcal flavor and herbaceous hint. If you are of the more performative nature, try the “No Smoke Without Fire” … because is it ever not fun when a blowtorch is taken to your drink? As for wines, the entire selection is thoughtfully curated, promising the perfect pour for every preference.

As for the main course, we indulged in a variety of delectable splendors: meatballs, rabbit agnolotti, shrimp scampi, cacio e pepe, and the Basque burnt cheesecake for a sweet finish.

My sentiments? Allelo certainly knows how to make a quality dish. The meatballs were tender and flavorful as if they came straight from Nonna’s kitchen. The shrimp scampi and cacio e pepe were equally rich and balanced. But, the star of the show was by far and away the rabbit agnolotti. With a delectably tender, and not overly gamy filling, these pillowy filled pasta pockets were simply heaven — complete with thinly shaved rabbit over top to complete the bite.

So next time you decide to step out for an evening of sophisticated, convivial fun, consider Allelo: your neighborhood spot for small plates, good times and lots of wine.

Complimentary pintxos at the bar accompanied by the “Bay Got Me Sippin’” cocktail.