I first discovered Tally Pineapple Express when my friend posted a photo of one of their incredible creations on her Instagram. The guys at Tally Pineapple Express treat their food as an art form. Owner Sam tells us that he was just messing around in the kitchen one day and came up with the idea of using a hollowed out pineapple as a bowl for his food, “less dishes to wash” he laughs.
Photo by Kevin Del Orbe
After cooking, he posted a photo of his meal on Instagram and instantly his followers reacted, asking “What is that?!” and “Where can I get one of those??”. Sam realized that he could capitalize on the buzz he had created and opened Tally Pineapple Express this past April.
Photo by Kevin Del Orbe
This establishment is by far the most unique one that I’ve eaten at since I’ve been in Tallahassee. They have a barber shop downstairs and a music studio upstairs along with the kitchen. Tally Pineapple Express is entirely run by college students. Sam and his other co-owner, Javaughn, plan on expanding their business and have even considered turning their shop into a mobile food truck. But, until then they work out of a house near FAMU’s campus, just a short drive from FSU.
Photo by Kevin Del Orbe
Tally Pineapple Express starts your meal with a base of rice, peppers, and your choice of meat: chicken, shrimp, chicken and shrimp, or an all-new steak option. To customize your meal further they offer a selection of eight different sauces: BBQ, Carolina Gold, Jerk, Bourbon, Lemon Pepper, Cajun, Sweet and Spicy Chili, and Buffalo.
Photo by Kevin Del Orbe
For my first time, I chose to smother shrimp with the Sweet and Spicy Chili option. I’m still wondering what Sam sprinkled on top of it to make the taste linger for so long. I am 100% going to be returning to try out all the flavors they have to offer.
Photo by Kevin Del Orbe
At Tally Pineapple Express nothing goes to waste. At the end when they present you with their final masterpiece, they also give you the leftover pineapple that was hollowed out while making your bowl. It was so fresh and sweet that I finished mine on the drive home.
To order your own customized bowl either call or text (850)-203-0091 and you’ll be on your way to 100+ likes on Instagram, guaranteed.