Once in awhile we get a craving for a big, juicy burger. <insert mouth-watering expression here> A gourmet delight that you can really salivate over.
When that urge hits, we head for Ford’s Garage.
Bedecked with vintage Ford vehicles outside and another over the center bar,
the Ford theme runs throughout giving a 1920’s service station vibe, complete with gas pumps
and fixtures, such as the clamp ring -wrapped tableware.
Even the restaurant’s door handles are auto-inspired.
While there, diners can sink their teeth into…the city mayor? Believe it or not, some of these menu masterpieces are named after local royalty.
Ford’s Signature is the George Cretekos Mayor,
a half pound of grilled black Angus, aged sharp cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, bourbon BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato and red onion on a brioche bun.
Doug gobbled his up before I could blink.
My favorite every single time remains the Estate Burger, aka the Doreen Caudell [former] City Councilmember,
another half pound of grilled black Angus with smoked Gouda cheese, an awesome sweet red onion marmalade, arugula, tomato, fried onion straws and a delicious white truffle bacon aioli on a brioche bun.
A variety of delectable garnishes top other thick beef patties.
The hamburgers are almost too big for one’s mouth.
Other select entrees are named for County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, County Commissioner Kenneth Welch, Chief of Police Daniel Slaughter, Hall of Famer golfer Chi Chi Rodriguez, former Tampa Bay Rays Manager Joe Maddon, Fire Chief Scott Ehlers and more.
You’ll just have to come in to explore who you’ll take a bite out of.
And if you’re not into beef, that’s okay. The Ahi Poke Stack with Avocado is to die for.
Other choices include a Gigantic Funnel Tower of Jumbo Piston Onion Rings,
Ford’s Classic Wings, Famous Firestone Shrimp, Ford’s [enormous] Nachos, Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna, Berries and Gorgonzola Salad, Maine Lobster Mac n’ Cheese, Old-Fashioned Shakes and Floats and so much more.
At the bar, a selection of Fusion Drinks, Craft Beers, Mules and Hoptails will quench one’s special thirst.
And if you have room for dessert (and we definitely did not), tantalizing delights such as the Chocolate Peanut Butter Thunder Cake or Mom’s Secret Recipe Rum Cake await.
Darnit. After writing this, I’m in the mood for another Doreen Caudell…
Visit Ford’s Garage for your next pit stop at 26210 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33761, (727) 228-3673 and explore the menu at www.FordsGarageUSA.com.
