Although the calendar says we have a few more weeks of spring left, locals know summer is already here: the spirit-zapping heat, the clothes-drenching humidity, and the disappearing snowbirds and tourists -- yes, we have the whole sticky town to ourselves. Now that the festivals and fairs have waned, it is time to rediscover our neighborhoods, find the free air-conditioning, and enjoy some tasty tropical beverages. You can even add cool jazz to that list if you head to Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill on a Saturday night. From 8:00 to midnight, you can sip Miracle Mile Mojitos and Coyote Margaritas as you chill to the grooves of the Tony Roberts Quartet, DP Latin Jazz Project, or the Alex Norris Quartet. Kick back by the bar and share some oyster shooters (shucked and served in an iced shot glass with chilies, lemon, and cocktail sauce) or the grilled Tuscan calamari steak (marinated and served with a delicate lemon basil butter). The best part? There is no cover or minimum purchase required to enjoy the tunes. Call 305-444-3210, or visit www.tarponbend.com.
Saturdays, 2006