Gulf Coast Town Center — Attraction in San Carlos Park

What do you say to a successful, multi-talented chef that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, and is located in the Gulf Coast Center? How about, “Let’s Eat!” The owner and hands-on manager, of De Adriatico, Hugo Cardenas, has spent a lifetime living, and learning the craft of how to cook in a host of European countries. A visit to his new home, De Adriatico, in Gulf Shores Center, will leave you impressed, and satisfied with his culinary creations. Walking in, you’ll think you’re on a cruise as you look up and around the airy and colorful surroundings. Take special note of the art work; original paintings, like the Mona Lisa, are created into finely stitched needlepoints. Against one wall is a beautiful mural of an outdoor scene that enhances your pleasure at being there. And speaking of outdoors, there’s a patio tucked away where you can enjoy the balmy breeze of a romantic Florida evening. The menu has a wonderful assortment of appetizers, along with a full bar to quench that thirst. Appetizers, like the Grilled Vegetables, are simply made; yet seasoned to satisfy. Same can be said of the Mediterranean Dip; a tasty trio of Hummus, Baba Ghanoush and Tzatziki, all flanked by slabs of warm flat bread. Ever heard of Halloumi cheese? Try it. It’s grilled and paired with fresh watermelon slices; all drizzled with a balsamic reduction. In the Salad Section, there’s a whole family of greens that include familiar faces like Caesar’s, also a Kalamata salad of olives, roasted peppers, white beans, and feta cheese served with a lemon dressing. Try the Tropical Salad. Baby greens, in cahoots with strawberries, papaya and grana padano cheese. Moving on to Main Courses.. First up is the Seafood Paella. It’s loaded with shrimp, mussels, clams, scallops and… chorizo…all on a cushion of Arborio rice. The star of the Seafood Section is the Branzino, a Mediterranean sea bass. Joining the show is the Adriatico Salmon, served in an original lemon dill sauce, while Mahi Mahi makes an appearance dressed in a piccata sauce. Like shrimp? Try the Scampi, finished with a rosemary and balsamic glaze. Adventurous? There’s Grilled Calamari surrounded by carrots and asparagus in a flavorful marinara sauce.

When it comes to the pastas, there’s the whole family from which to choose. Like the seafood and want pasta with it? It’s here too. So is the rigatoni, tortellini and ravioli all dressed up and ready to enjoy. The Meat Portion of the menu is varied, with the usual players; Lemon Chicken and its cousins, Milanese, Parmesan and Marsala. The sauces are fresh and made on site; hot to the touch and flavorful. Veal here is the real deal, so don’t pass up the Medallions. Steak, is in its own class. Whether it’s a New York Strip, or the Filet Mignon served De Adriatico style in a porcini mushroom sauce your hunger becomes a distant memory. Same for the Sarma, a European Stuffed Cabbage or the Punjene Paprike, otherwise known as European Stuffed Peppers. Your appetite will thank you for your choice. Leave room for the desserts. Starting with the house made Baklava, the Crème Brulé, Chocolate Mousse or Tiramisu, they’re all so good. You might be familiar with Canoli, but have you ever heard of Chocolate Tartufo? Think chocolate and vanilla gelato with a cherry almond center and then coated in chocolate. There’s also Sorbetto for that cool Italian finish. What’s so great about De Adriatico, is that exotic flavors from so far away are available so close to home. The staff is young., vibrant and will be so happy to see you. The chef is dedicated, and the owner is proud and waiting to show you what he can do. We all may live in Florida, but your appetite will love the experience of going on a gastronomical voyage. De Adriatico. The Mediterranean way to say,...

The current owner/investors of this once popular location for shopping, food and nightlife have let this place go. COVID seems to be the popular go to excuse Even though we're in Florida. 🤔 We actually saw graffiti on two of the buildings which I have to admit was somewhat impressive because it was almost two stories in the air but it should still be cleaned up and painted over. The retail price points for both merchandise and food / drink has gone up at an unacceptable rate. If you're suffering in this type of business the best thing you could do is lower pricing to attract patrons and make your money on volume. Both retail stores and most restaurants are understaffed. We went to Red Robin one weekend and waited twice as long for food that cost twice as much while the restaurant was almost completely empty. The next weekend we went to PF Chang's in hopes of a different experience and IT WAS GREAT ! They were properly staffed and they were high energy, knowledgeable. The recommendations were fantastic as I have not personally been there in a while and the food was clearly fresh and served piping hot. Multiple staff would deliver food and clear plates throughout the dining experience which was fantastic to see and my wife and I brought are three kids with us who enjoyed themselves as well were all too happy to leave a generous tip for the staff. So if you go to Gulf Coast Town Center definitely check out Bass pro shop enjoy a movie at their IMAX theater and have a bite to eat...

This sprawling development has had its ups and downs since inception. Although certain infrastructure layout challenges may never get resolved (poor inbound and exit traffic flows, awkward navigation within then property, little rain protection) the property is slowly experiencing a rebound. Despite the brick and mortar retail Armageddon caused by online shopping and exacerbated by the pandemic, the shopping center is slowly rebranding (with a much better look), and keeping visitors coming thx to anchors like Costco and Target. There are myriad dining options here with Connor's, Burntwood Tavern and Pinchers among my regular stops. The Cat Cafe is a wonderful asset too. I only pray that these entities survive the economic challenges that come with renting and operating within a massive complex where everyone's attention is up for auction. The onslaught of new commercial and residential development within walking distance of the town center bodes well for future sources of patrons. When the massive highway facing pistil and stamen monument sign is finally replaced with a more tasteful presentation I will feel like somebody finally cares about GCTC's...