Popi’s Place: Big Breakfasts, Greek Flavors, and That Famous Patty Melt

It's been a staple in Manatee County since 1983.

Published Jul 10, 2025

By Jean Totti

While plenty has been written about Popi's Place over the years, it feels right to revisit this spot now that I’m in Parrish. Plus, with Discover Bradenton launching a new site dedicated to the North River area—Parrish, Ellenton, and Palmetto—it’s the perfect time.

The Ameres Family continues to be the heart and soul behind all of the Popi's locations in Port Manatee, Palmetto, Bradenton, and Sarasota. This Greek-owned, diner-style, family restaurant is one of the last standing Florida original restaurants with lots of history and good food. I have visited all the locations and, in particular, the one on US 301 in Ellenton (closest to Parrish near Port Manatee).

The staff is friendly and ranges the spectrum of all ages, just like the family they’re known for. The menu features a huge breakfast selection and plenty of sweet and savory delights to satisfy just about any craving.

Let’s start with breakfast. Served every day until 3 pm., it includes selections such as omelettes, steak and eggs, chili and cheese, biscuits and gravy, and one of their most beloved dishes - the Chicken Biscuit Breakfast. You can also get French Toast, Pancakes, and Oatmeal as a full breakfast or sides.

Maybe it's a bit later in the day, and you want something different? Onion Rings, Chicken Wings, or Cheese Fries are all good choices too.

You’ll also find Salads and Deluxe Sandwiches such as Valandi’s Monte Cristo, Popi’s Club Sandwich, or the Greek Gyro. Popi's restaurants are also known for Soups, Italian Specialties, and Wraps.

I’m always set with a cup of the Clam Chowder and the Patty Melt. Hungrier folks can dig into a Sirloin, Cowboy or Chopped Steak,or Pork Chops.

The Crab Cakes are made in-house and never frozen – and Fish & Chips, Jumbo Shrimp, and Fish Fillet complete the seafood selection.

There are also plenty of Greek Specialties to satisfy everyone’s taste. Every section of the menu has a Greek influence in it. For example, for breakfast you can have a Spinach & Feta Omelette or a Greek Omelette with gyro meat or sausage.

Spanakopita makes a great appetizer or a dinner – with other options like Pita & Tzatziki, a Greek Gyro, Chicken Pita, and even a Greek Burger.

Entrees also include a Mediterranean Chicken, Crab Stuffed Fish Fillet Dinner, and Pita Cheese Pizza for kids.

Lastly, everyone knows that every good diner has incredible homemade desserts and Popoppis is not exception. They have a delicious selection of homemade pies like Chocolate Silk, Peanut Butter, and Cheesecake Pie. They’re incredible, so if you haven’t saved room, make sure to take a slice (or two!) home with you.

Popi’s Place locations include two in Palmetto, and additional locations in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Ellenton. Each location has different hours, so check your desired location before you visit.

Visit PopisPlace.com for more details.

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