Staff writers Annie Martin and Tony Holt were eager for a lunchtime excursion, so they drove from The News-Journal's Palm Coast bureau across the bridge to Flagler Beach, where they stopped at the Salty Dog Lunch Spot.
The Salty Dog is a cozy, quirky place to stop for a bite that's an easy walk from the city's pier or the beach. If you want to sit outside, as we did, there's a handful of umbrella-covered tables. The place is small but eye-catching, with brightly colored walls adorned with beach-themed decorations like a set of swimming area dividers. Beachgoers who walk here in shorts and flip-flops will feel right at home. Service is leisurely, which made for a refreshing long lunch on a mild fall day.
You'll find a broad selection of sandwiches, wraps, salads and quesadillas here. Annie ordered the Lemon Pepper Chicken Caesar Salad, which comes with tender, flavorful grilled chicken and crispy homemade croutons. The lettuce was fresh and crisp, the foundation for a great salad. Tony ordered the Spicy Chicken and Cheddar Wrap, a tortilla stuffed with chipotle pepper sauce, ranch dressing, lettuce and tomato. He reported the chicken was juicy and the sauce had the right amount of kick for his tastes. The wraps and sandwiches are served with potato chips and deli salad on the side.
Annie enjoyed her salad, but on her next trip, will be more adventurous and try the Baked Southern Squash and Cheese Casserole or the Mediterranean Flat Grill, which comes with grilled feta cheese, garlic, spinach and tomatoes folded into a spinach tortilla with a side of olives and balsamic vinaigrette.
Prices are reasonable here — most salads, sandwiches and wraps run between $7 and $9. Remember to stop at the ATM first though, because the Salty Dog accepts cash only. Our tab came to $18.08 before tip.