Nestled in modest white cottages just off Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key is a great family story. In 1979, Harry and Lynne Christensen opened a gourmet takeout deli called Continental Kitchen next to their family home. The concept worked and catering was added. Fast forward a few years: They moved their home and opened a restaurant in it to accompany the deli trained in these cottages, along with son Hal, who now runs the family business known as Harry’s Continental Kitchens.

“They went to New York and studied [renowned gourmet takeout spot] The Silver Palate and different delis,” explained Hal. “People don’t necessarily want to cook when they come out here, but they want great food that holds up when you bring it home. They can heat this up at their leisure.”

Nearly 50 years later, it’s still a winning concept. One case is filled with refrigerated take-and-bake entrees, but at an elevated level. There are few places you can find grab-and-go Beef Wellington, Veal Piccata, or Chicken Florentine Crepes. I brought home Chicken Marsala and my husband had no idea I had not made it fresh. There are house-made deli salads, gourmet soups like vichyssoise and gazpacho, and unbelievable-looking pies and cakes. An international wine selection lines the front wall. The lunch crowd chooses made-to-order sandwiches.

“You’ll have people that own the $8 million house on the Gulf in line with the plumbers. And they are all getting the same sandwiches, and they’re all great. And it’s quick, never more than a few minutes.”

Across the way, another quaint cottage houses the sit-down restaurant, with a popular bar and cute patio. Hal describes the menu as classic delicious food that people count on every season.

“It’s hard to change a whole lot,” he admits. “People don’t like change at all; they want to know where their favorites are. So we order new things as specials. Wine dinners are great because everything is unique.”

Harry’s Continental Kitchen
525 St Judes Dr, Longboat Key
941-383-0777
harryskitchen.com