Panhandle Loses Criolla, Jacksonville Gains Orsay

October 29th, 2008 · No Comments

Restaurant news from around the state: Criolla, at Rosemary Beach, has closed. Chef/owner Johnny Earles and his wife Debbie are going into catering and private events, etc., for the Panhandle crowds. I’m sorry to see this happen — it was always a favorite stop on my way to Pensacola, and the place to recommend for a unique experience along the white-sand Panhandle coast.

Heard from Stuart food-friend and savvy businesswoman Pat Williams that I simply must check out Orsay in Jacksonville. It’s the former Crush Bistro, with some of the staff and sous chef-now exec chef from that popular spot. California-French and fresh, it has “simply the greatest cassoulet,” duck breast and steak frites anywhere, Williams vows. She also loves the decor – rough textures juxtaposed with elegant fixtures at the same time. Works for me — I’ll let you know when I go. Sounds like a find.

Orsay