New Gulfport Restaurant Gets Attention From Tampa Bay Times Reviewer

J's Restaurant is barely a month old, but already has garnered attention from the Tampa Bay Times.

In a restaurant review titled "J's on Gulfport waterfront looks for its niche," writer  Laura Reiley details the revolving-door history of restaurants and bars that have occupied the waterfront space at 3128 Beach Blvd.

But J's just may have the lucky charm. 

It's hard not to hunger for the food preparations artfully displayed in a photo gallery that accompanies the review. The Portabella Napoleon looks like a work of art, a visual feast for the diner. The Parmesean-crusted grouper is bathed in Key lime butter for an Old Florida meal. 

Reiley describes the new J's as "nautical-themed" and "family-friendly," a big, casual comfortable place in Gulfport that is sure to fit in with the small-town friendly restaurants in this coastal town.

Reiley also notes that owners Rita and Mike Janecek are no strangers to the beachside restaurant business in southwest Florida. They own two Paradise Grilles – in Pass-a-Grille and Upham Beach. They also run the Snack Shack in Madeira Beach. 

These veterans clearly know a thing or two about coastal dining. There are no surprises here. Expect conch fritters, peel 'em and eat 'em shrimp, calamari and fish specials. 

While Reiley writes that the place has yet to distinguish itself, it's still a newborn as restaurants go, finding its way in a competitive market, even in laid-back Gulfport.

Said Reiley: "I suspect the Janeceks, restaurant pros, will figure out what niche they are trying to fill in restaurant-rich little Gulfport. They've assembled a team of friendly and efficient servers and offer a number of wallet-friendly drink deals to lure diners."

J's is open from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday.

Here's how J's describes itself on its new Facebook Page: "Three beautiful bars with one overlooking the water in beautiful downtown Gulfport."

You can read Reiley's complete review here and take a look at those amazing food photos!