Lunch at the Don CeSar

On Sunday, Nov. 15, Debbie Wilson organized a Club outing for lunch at the legendary Don CeSar Hotel in St. Petersburg, FL. Under breezy but pleasant weather conditions, the group of club members motored the approx. 40 miles from our usual gathering spot at the Fruitville Texaco station to the hotel and its Sea Porch Cafe. As you drive over the Sunshine Skyway to St. Pete, the large pink palace off to your left is the Don CeSar. We were led part of the way by Jim Wilson until he lost us at the toll plaza.

“The Don” was built in 1928 during the Florida land boom. Its pink color and design are patterned after the Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki Beach. Although under financial strain during the Depression, the hotel remained viable and was a favorite resort of high society – hosting the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Clarence Darrow, Lou Gehrig and even gangster Al Capone. It was revered internationally and catered to privileged guests from around the world. At the outbreak of WW II, The Don was appropriated by the government and served many functions: an Army hospital, an Air Force convalescent center, and a VA office. By 1969, the government completely abandoned the building and it faced demolition. But a local preservation group spearheaded its salvation and after a multi-million dollar restoration, the facility was revived and and opened again as a luxury resort in 1973. The sugar-sand beach, fine dining and well-appointed accommodations continue to draw an upscale clientele. But our car club was welcomed nevertheless.

The brunch menu offered a lot of options. Everyone enjoyed their meal and, more importantly, the socializing. And it was great to visit a piece of Florida history.

Enjoy our photos from the event!