Longbeach Cafe celebrates opening day

There were more cars than usual in the largely vacant Whitney Beach Plaza parking lot Wednesday, as Longbeach Café celebrated its grand opening.

According to co-owner Jeff Daly, diners began entering the restaurant shortly after it opened for breakfast at 7 a.m. yesterday. By lunchtime, nearly every table at the restaurant was filled.

The restaurant is located at 6836 Gulf of Mexico Drive, where the former Isabelle’s Eatery operated. The menu includes many of the same items that Isabelle’s served.

“We loved it and missed it when we’re left, and we’re happy it’s back,” said Gail Heltzer, who stopped in for lunch yesterday with her husband, Arnie.

According to Daly, biscuits and gravy, along with BLTs were especially popular on the first day.
Pete and Colleen Collandra, who was part owner and manager of Isabelle’s, co-own the restaurant with Daly.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday. Catering is also available.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].