Lance Ponton

Commercial Real Estate

Favorite spot to take out-of-town guests: Wright’s Gourmet House for sandwiches and desserts. They just renovated and expanded.

Favorite place for a power lunch: Ciccio Cali always has familiar faces at lunch – any day of the week.

Favorite place for a client dinner: On Swann has a great atmosphere for business dining. It’s a great addition to Hyde Park Village.

Favorite place for a special family occasion: Charley’s Steak House is a go-to for the family. I had one too many Long Island Iced Teas there on my 21st birthday.

Favorite place for a healthy snack: Stacy’s Gluten Free Goodies is an allergy-free dessert place. I’m there at least once a week.

Favorite Mexican restaurant: I would have to say Besito. Try the street tacos for your meal and churros for dessert!

Favorite weekend brunch spot: Pinky’s Diner is the place for pancakes and eggs Benedict. The self-serve coffee while you wait is the best.

Favorite Asian food: Thinh An is a new Vietnamese place with a huge pre-made area to pick up food and go.

Hidden gem restaurant: Vino E Pasta is a great place to carb up the night before the Gasparilla races.

Favorite pizza: I pick up a pie at Gourmet Pizza Company every weekend after the gym and get a large pizza for myself. If the kids are good, I’ll share.

Favorite sushi: Yoko’s on MacDill is tucked away in a small shopping center and has a happy hour sake and sushi menu. It’s usually my Wednesday night date place.

Favorite place for a craft cocktail and cocktail of choice: Haven for a scotch or bourbon – neat!

Favorite place to sit with a cup of coffee and coffee drink of choice: Coffee and a shoe shine from Jimmy at Oxford Exchange is the best way to start the day.

Favorite place to catch live music: Curtis Hixon Park for the Rock the Park series or the Gasparilla Music Festival.