Politics As Unusual

With tampa and charlotte expecting tens of thousands of visitors descending upon them for the republican and democratic national conventions, some businesses Got creative. We take a look at what by-products, events and changes have mushroomed in anticipation of the conventions.

All that politicking is sure to make convention-goers hungry, and they're in luck. Several local restaurants used the opportunity to raise their wand of culinary wizardry and created dishes exclusively for the RNC and DNC

SHEPHARD'S BEACH RESORT

adds some patriotic color to its menu with the Red, White and Blue Brisket, a slow-smoked barbecue brisket with spicy white cole slaw, red barbecue sauce and lime salted blue corn tortilla chips served on a freshly baked bun—it doesn't get more American than that. Wash it down with the equally colorful Firecracker, a refreshing blend of strawberry daiquiri and piña colada, topped with a Blue Curacao floater. 
www.shephards.com

DINING AT INNISBROOK RESORT

in Palm Harbor has taken a Republican turn with the RNC Steak Spectacular (22 ounces of premium cut, chef-selected beef), the GOP Burger (a 12-ounce patty topped with, what else, American cheese and a fried organic egg) and the Lincoln Roll, named in honor of America's first Republican president (spring rolls filled with four-hour braised short rib beef, fresh vegetables and served with maple and ginger sauces). A Massachusetts Muscle, a specialty cocktail with Johnnie Walker, Jim Beam and Southern Comfort with a splash of Florida fresh citrus nectar, is sure to quench even the most American-sized thirst. Or, grab a Republican Rally —half-yards of local brews that are sure to fire up even the staunchest Democrats.
www.innisbrookgolfresort.com

THE RETREAT

has been a favorite local watering hole since 1938 and has been serving up its Pink Elephant, a tall drink of frothy, fruity goodness, since around that same time. The RNC gives this drink a well-deserved comeback. Its recipe, however, is a secret so well guarded that even the Secret Service would have a hard time cracking it.
www.retreattampa.com