G
CI
TY
,^
OOUU
P
Tin^ Roo
f^
Trading
Bing
Rooming
House
Maryland
Chicken
PLACE: PLANT (^) CITY, FLORIDA
DATE: December (^2018)
WEATHER: 75 ºC, sunny
TRAVELLER: Lloyd French
COUNTRY: USA
Although it is the Winter Strawberry
Capital of the World, Plant City is not
named for its agricultural output but for
railroad developer Henry Plant. When
you’ve eaten your fill of fruits and
vegetables at farm gates and country
markets, the historic downtown offers
a glimpse of this central Florida town’s
industrious past.
COP THIS ‘CUE
The line of sheriffs’ cars parked alongside
Smokin Joe’s BBQ stand on County Road
39 is a sure sign that this is one badass rib
joint. Place your order at the window and
join the local law on picnic benches during
their lunch break. Awesome ‘cue with the
boys in blue — er, brown. 10252 S County
Rd 39, Lithia
Safe Keeping
At Tin Roof Trading you’ll find all kinds
of unique gifts, antiques, vintage knick-
knacks and décor items. Each room in
this former bank building — including
the strong room — is decorated in funky,
rustic style. Coffee and treats are available
while you browse. http://www.tinroof39.com
Berry Bounty
Stock up on strawberries, citrus and other
fresh produce at Parkesdale Market, one-
stop shop for local fruits, veggies, pickles
and jams. In season (January to April) the
strawberry shortcake is legendary. Year-
round the folks line up at the ice cream
counter for tangerine swirl soft serve,
parfaits, fresh fruit milkshakes and ice
cream sundaes, including an awesome
banana split.
http://www.parkesdale.com
HISTORY LESSON
On an unassuming side street in downtown,
Bing Rooming House, built in 1928, was the
first lodging for people of colour in Plant
City during segregation. Now a museum, it
celebrates the culture and history of the
city’s African American community.
http://www.plantcitybinghouse.com
Bird is the Word
Oh Lordy! Southern fried chicken never
tasted so good. Get thee to Maryland
Chicken and feed your soul with the juiciest
birds, coated with special spices and
seasoning, pressure cooked in pure peanut
oil. Potato salad, slaw, baked beans, mash
with gravy, okra, mushrooms, hot bread
rolls and more on the side. Serving Plant
City since 1969.
http://www.plantcityfriedchicken.com
14 TAST E&^ TRAVEL INTERNATIONAL^ APRIL–JUNE 2019
TAST E& TRAVEL JOURNAL
PLANT^ CITY,
FLORIDA