New gift store opens just in time for holiday shoppers

At the new Creekside Trader gift shop, there’s everything from Santa presents to vacation souvenirs to specialty gifts for children of all ages. Roy Lalone, owner of Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar, infuses the shop with an Old Florida look and great selections at all price points. You don’t need to be a tourist to love it!

Situated between the Table Creekside restaurant and the oyster bar in Phillippi Creek Village, Creekside Trader offers the charming ambience of an Old Florida waterside cottage. Driftwood floors and a white beadboard ceiling set the tone for a casual shopping experience that offers just about anything with a beach theme you’d want to own or give as gifts. The inventory is incredibly varied and prices range from 75 cents (for candy) up to about $150 for elegant glass bowls and serving pieces in delicious beach-glass colors of blues and greens---great for your Florida vacation condominium or as a housewarming gift to new arrivals at the beach.

If you need to pick up beach essentials, Creekside Trader has sunscreen, visors, beach towels, t-shirts, flip flops and more. Just load everything into the car and head for the waves. About 50 percent of the selections are kid-friendly and range from tropical-themed puzzles, games and books to apparel.

“Lots of parents bring kids over the shop while they are waiting for a table at the restaurant,” said manager Amy Berlin. “We’ve got plenty to amuse and delight children as well as parents or grandparents who are looking for gifts for children that enlarge upon their Florida experience in ways that are entertaining and informative.” Additionally, kids and adults will love the jewelry selection with items both casual and sophisticated. You'll also find picture frames ornamented with with shells and palm trees, seahorse candlesticks, vases that look like sand sculpture, Phillippi Creek license plates, vintage wooden signs, art and postcards. You can even buy a can of genuine Florida sand at Creekside Trader.

Since 1979, The Creek has been a favorite seafood destination for Sarasota County's seasonal visitors and residents alike. At the Phillippi Creek Restaurant & Oyster Bar, ambience defines what diners are seeking in a delicious casual lunch with friends or a leisurely budget-friendly dinner of crispy fried and succulent broiled seafood dishes. Freshness has always been the key, and The Creek goes through more than 5,000 pounds of fresh-caught grouper every single week.

Sooner or later everybody who comes to this part of Florida meets and eats at The Creek. Coastal Living magazine did recently, and advised travelers to Florida to be sure and enjoy the food and ambience at The Creek. Have lunch or dinner at The Creek and then shop for gifts for someone back home or for yourself.