Steve Fiske
The humming of the powerful twin 115 horsepower
mercury motors reverberates across the water, in the far
distance a waterskier is barely visible as she is being towed
across the placid lake, nearby, a blue heron stretches its
wings and then shoots like a dive bomber to a safe landing
on the rugged shoreline. Just over the brown wooden railing
in front of us we spot a small restful alligator as it floats just
enough above the surface to be noticed. The scene is somewhat
reminiscent of a James Audubon painting, however this
contemporary real life canvas changes hourly from a perfect
viewing point on the dining deck of Billy’s Tarpon Turtle on
beautiful Lake Tarpon.
The “Turtle” as it is affectionately referred to by local fans
has recently undergone some major aesthetic and culinary
changes, thanks to long term local resident and new owner
Billy Hotaling. “I wanted to create a different environment
where one can come to enjoy the picturesque tropical setting
in a casual and classy atmosphere as well as offer an eclectic
menu to literally match all tastes”.
Billy has used the architectural richness of wood and
glass that one might find popular in lakefront resorts from
Wisconsin to New England to design his venue, and he has also merged the abundant
natural beauty of Lake Tarpon to create the perfect casual and elegant atmosphere for
socializing while enjoying excellent food and adult beverages.
The Tarpon Turtle has something to please every palate. From a wide assortment of
reasonably priced appetizers, i.e. Seared Tuna, Baked Brie, Oysters, Huge Clam Strips,
Fish Tacos to Flat Breads, Burgers and Wraps to a host of mouth-watering Salads and
Sandwiches, and a wide array of Main Course Dinners, the food is excellent. Beef lovers
will enjoy the steaks and burgers prepared with top quality Braveheart Black Angus
Beef. There are a variety of Seafood selections as well as several Chicken and Pasta
Dishes available. Kabob lovers will also not be disappointed. All of their food is fresh,
not frozen.
Save room for the Triple layer Chocolate cake. DECADENT and DELICIOUS!
Billy’sTarpon Turtle is located at 1513 Lake Tarpon Ave. in Tarpon Springs.
You may reach the “Turtle” at 727-940-5360
aste of
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