Caddy’s in Treasure Island has reopened after months of closure due to the extensive damage caused by the 2024 hurricanes, which left its main building unusable. Thanks to a recently approved city ordinance, the restaurant has found a new way to operate.

“We have just about the same amount of tables that we did outside, the beach tables, so that’s no loss there,” General Manager Stephen Santasieri explained to Bay News 9. “Inside is a little bit different.”

To adapt, Caddy’s is using a large tent and a food truck to continue serving customers. Although these adjustments bring unique challenges, Santasieri expressed excitement about resuming operations.

Treasure Island Mayor John Doctor highlighted that the new ordinance permits businesses like Caddy’s to set up food trucks, tents, portable restrooms, and similar temporary structures on their property. Previously, such setups were limited to nine days at a time, with a maximum of four consecutive uses.

The updated ordinance now allows businesses to operate this way for an initial six-month period, with the possibility of two additional 90-day extensions—giving establishments up to a full year to restore their regular facilities and secure proper permits.

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(Image credit: Spectrum News/Matt Lackritz)

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