by Captain Chuck Simpson

Situated roughly 16 miles south of Tallahassee is the small gulf-port town of St. Marks, which played a significant role in the writing of Florida's state history and in determining the location of Florida's state capitol. This sleepy coastal hamlet is a favorite among area fisherman, boaters and day-trippers and an easy escape from the hustle and bustle located just to the north.

Overlooking the St. Marks River just above its confluence with the Wakulla River is Riverside Café. Since its establishment in 1995, it's been known as a place "where the locals hang." Riverside Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with side dishes of riverside atmosphere and local color to a host of regular patrons and randomly visiting diners.

A well-rounded menu with plenty of choices provides something for everyone. And, of course, there are plenty of seafood selections. The "Blackened Grouper Sandwich" and the "Other Guy's Chicken Sandwich" are two of my personal favorites. Appetizer selections from the menu offer a light snack or a good opener. If you happen to be returning from a day of fishing and don't want to fire up the cooker at home, bring your cleaned catch by and they will be happy to prepare it for you.

Food is not the only draw to this eatery. Riverside is the perfect place to take a load off the feet and mind. Watch as the boats make their way to and from the gulf. Catch an occasional glimpse of a passing manatee or enjoy the evening as it fades to dark. The entertainment is ever changing; on weekends live music is played, so if you are inclined, sit back and enjoy the beat.

Riverside's proprietor, Stan West, has been successful in weathering the blows dealt by hurricane storm-surges (the most recent being Hurricane Dennis in 2005) and their economic impact over the last 15 years. If there's any doubt, just look at the marks on the posts in restaurant that denote high water levels.

Stan still continues to provide a welcome, relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere for those arriving by boat or land. Next time you are in North Florida and need a little break from the norm, travel south through Wakulla County on highway 363 until the road dead-ends, look straight ahead and you will see 69 Riverside Dr.  Riverside Cafe - where the locals hang.

For more information regarding Riverside Café, please visit: www.riversidebay.com