Margarita Mama's, Banana Joe's Set to Open Friday

In May St. Pete learned the historic Kress Building in downtown St. Pete. 

On Friday, Margarits Mama's and Banana Joe's, 475 Central Ave., will officiall open after several months of renovating the first-floor and basement of the building. The two businesses were former tenants at the Channel Side entertainment district in Tampa. 

From 6 – 8 p.m. Friday, the grand opening celebration will benefit The Children’s Dream Fund, a non-profit organization that has been making dreams come true for children with life-threatening illnesses for over 30 years.

According to a news release, the event will feature live music and complimentary cocktails, funds raised from a silent auction and raffle will sponsor dreams for some special area children. 

“The Children’s Dream Fund is looking forward to welcoming Margarita Mama’s and Banana Joe’s to St. Petersburg, and is grateful for their caring hearts and generous support,” said Cynthia Lake, Executive Director, in a news release.

In the main level of the Kress Building, Margarita Mama's will offer a full lunch and dinner menu served up in their trademarked "Mexican Food the American Way,” as well as a full bar. The restaurant will have flat screen TVs, pool tables, darts, interactive amusement games and an old school shuffleboard court. Live entertainment will be featured nightly.

According to a news release, Banana Joe's is going underground. Located directly under Margarita Mama’s guests can enter from inside the main restaurant or the Central Avenue sidewalk.

Banana Joe’s Underground will feature Top 40 dance music with the most popular DJ's in the area and nightly drink specials.