When C. Perry Snell arrived in St. Petersburg in the early 1900s, he took one look at the young city’s natural beauty and began planning a waterfront paradise for visitors and natives to live and play.

Now 100 years later, the St. Petersburg Museum of History is proud to announce it has chosen the Seed & Feed Hospitality Group to follow in Snell’s footsteps and create a new concept café – Perry’s Porch – at the Museum of History

Perry’s Porch is the vision of St. Pete natives Ryan Griffin, Bill Griffin and Blake Thompson, who set out to create a historic St. Pete inspired open-air culinary experience. The group enlisted the assistance of award-winning design firm WJ Architects to create Perry’s Porch.

Perry’s Porch design will incorporate Snell’s focus on bringing nature and architecture together to create a unique indoor/outdoor oasis. The plan includes a full restaurant, coffee bar, and plenty of outdoor dining space for guests to relax and soak up the downtown waterfront.

“Being born and raised in St. Pete, the St. Petersburg Museum of History and the wonderful story of our community hold a special place in our hearts,” said Ryan Griffin. “We are extremely honored to be part of the Museum’s next century.”

The menu will focus on fresh and local flavors, like what Seed & Feed Hospitality Group has done with its fresh-fish concept Trophy Fish on Central Avenue. Chef Jon Robben has composed a menu that will not only allow for onsite dining but also provide guests with a one-of-a-kind “picnic basket” experience to take menu items with them while they explore and enjoy the St. Pete Pier.

Perry’s Porch will also feature historical local craft cocktails, designed by Seed & Feed Hospitality Group’s Director of Spirits, Morgan Zuch, fashioned in line with its award-winning cocktail flagship, The Mandarin Hide on Central Avenue.

“We see this as a chance to leave an indelible mark on the St. Pete culinary scene,” said Blake Thompson. “We want this venue to become an extension of the St. Petersburg Museum of History experience and have us help serve as St. Pete ambassadors to each guest that may be visiting our amazing city.”

Perry’s Porch is named for the early 1900s developer who envisioned a beautiful, walkable, park-filled waterfront. Snell’s spectacular Mediterranean Revival styled homes helped create the Northshore, Old Northeast, Snell Isle and Granada Terrace neighborhoods. His 1925 masterpiece, the Snell Arcade building, still stands over the heart of downtown today.

“We are beyond thrilled and excited for Perry’s Porch,” Museum Executive Director Rui Farias said. “Ryan and Blake lead a successful local group that wants to honor the city’s past while providing a unique and historic café experience.”

Perry’s Porch renovation is expected to begin after the Holidays, with the café opening in early Summer.

Photo Credit: St. Petersburg Museum of History

Date Posted: December 16, 2022