Community gathers to celebrate local chef’s newest endeavor

There was a festive atmosphere in the dining room at Pomodoro Italian Grill on Jan. 26 as members of the community gathered to celebrate local chef Alejandro Arreguin’s newest culinary endeavor.

The restaurant, which is located at the St. Joseph Bay Golf Club, is a passion project of Arreguin’s. It serves a variety of classic Italian fare, a culinary style that played an important role in the chef’s career.

“The first restaurant and the first food I learned was Italian food, so that’s what Pomodoro is. It’s a dream come true,” said Arreguin, who was raised in Mexico City and spent decades working in restaurants in San Diego before moving to Port St. Joe.

“What I like about Italian food is it’s simple, easy, but flavorful. It’s the same as tacos. I always compare pasta with tacos.”

Arreguin said he expects the restaurant’s location will present a challenge — one he is determined to overcome.

“It’s difficult to get people to come out here from town,” he said, “where all the good restaurants are… but I want to give people a reason to come out here to the golf course.”

“Plus, this gives me a chance to go play. I love golf,” he joked.

Pomodoro will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays.

For more information about the restaurant or to view their menu, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pomodoroitaliangrillandbar.psj.