Date: July 26, 2011
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: 2675 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL 33759
Party: Three adults, two children
Immediate Impression:
They have made some interior changes which is for the better; less pretentious
Service:
Overall the service was HORRIFIC! First, it took 20 minutes for anyone to even come to our table, then there was confusion as to who was actually our waiter. We chose to stay with the female server because her demeanor was nicer (the male looked so uninterested and rather upset we were making him do his job). I can't really blame her for all the service errors, she was slammed and the restaurant was obviously understaffed, however, we think she forgot to put in one of our orders.
Menu/Food:
We went for the all-you-can-eat sushi and one of the children ordered off the regular menu.
MISO SOUP: Skip it, it tastes a bit like dishwater
GINGER SALAD: If you don't like your salad smoothered in dressing, ask for it on the side; they glob it on.
SUSHI: The sushi is actually really good and fresh; and there is enough on the menu to fill you up. However, it took us 2 hours, because of the horrible service, to make it worthwhile. Also, read the descriptions carefully and if you order the vegetable roll make sure you ask which vegetables.
Allegren Info: If you can't eat butter, you should be fine, it wasn't used on this menu, but beware if you order off the regular menu. For those with a gluten allergy, you should be safe, but stay away from the Krab stuff, they aren't clear if it is real or fake. Everyone else, if you can't eat sesame seeds, make sure they know that and again, get specification on the vegetables.
Price: They say the price is $19.95 before taxes, what they don't tell you is they are also going to AUTOMATICALLY charge you 20% for gratuity! Last time I was there, we were a party of 6 so I understood, but this time we were a party of 5, and they still did it. This is NOT listed on their menu. There is NO WAY I would have given that much in tip during this trip.
The rest of the non-sushi menu seems reasonable, but $6.95 for a bowl of edamame and is RIDICULOUS!
Final thought: I am not really sure...$19.95 for all you can eat sushi seems like an excellent deal, however, the poor service really makes me stop to think - how valuable is my time? Luckily this week, I had the time to sit for 2 hours (8pm-10pm) but normally, during the week, I don't. There is going to have to be a VERY GOOD REASON for me to go back!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Pappa's Ranch Steakhouse Bar
Date: June 21, 2011
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: 2630 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33759
Party: Two adults
**Note: Went to this restaurant as part of Tampa Bay Restaurant Week; review is isolated to the Prix fixe menu offered @ http://cltampa.com/media/location/2280800/pappasranchweb.jpg)***
Immediate Impression:
Huge location, very clean and well laid-out.
Service:
Our server was extremely nice, although she didn't have alot of knowledge regarding the menu. She did say they were revamping the menu and some items had changed. Since we were only planning to order off the Prix Fixe this didn't pose too much of a problem except for dessert. She made sure our water glasses were always full, and promptly took away all used dishes. The manager came to our table to thank us at the conclusion of the meal.
Menu/Food:
WARNING - you had better come hungry or bring extra people! All of the dishes are HUGE! Based on the prix fixe menu, my guest and I each ordered a different appetizer, entree and dessert to be able to taste as much as possible. My order was: Fish Spread, Pork Chops w/garlic mashed potatoes & steamed butter broccoli and Bread Pudding; my guest ordered: Ceasar Salad, Ribeye w/ garlic mashed potatoes and garlic green beans, and Key Lime pie.
Fish Spread - I was not impressed, it lacked flavor and I think it was made with cream cheese. I did like the use of celery to make it crunchy. It really could have used more of a kick; honestly it tasted like chicken salad especially because the fish chucks were HUGE! I wouldn't order again, but my guest liked it, so this is probably simply personal preference.
Ceasar Salad - First, this could easily have fed 4 people. This salad is HUGE! The dressing has a bit of a kick to it, but overall enjoyable. Even with two of us eating, there was still 1/2 a bowl left before our entrees got there.
Pork Chops Entree - the mashed potatoes and broccoli were good sides, nothing really exciting to them, except for again, the portion sizes are huge. The pork chops were delicious and the peppercorn pomegranate dressing awesome (I used it as the gravy on my mashed potatoes) I brought home literally half of my meal.
Rib-eye - first, the green beans are fantastic - order them if you can! The steak was cut & cooked perfectly. Seemed to have very basic seasoning of only salt & pepper. My guest also brought home half of their meal.
Desserts - I normally skip dessert, but since it was part of the prix fixe, we went ahead and ordered it; however, I warn you, as with everything else on the menu, these are huge. Any one dessert could be split by 2-4pp. The Key lime pie is extremely tart, so if you only like a light flavor, stay clear. The bread pudding almost tasted like custard it was so smooth, however, it might have been because it is soaking (yes soaking) in warm butter!
Drinks: if you can get there before 7pm, they have a plethora of drink specials, otherwise, drafts are $2 and pitchers $7.
Allegren Info: If you can't eat butter, this is not the place for you! Everything has butter and lots of it! While looking over the menu, there seems a little something for everyone, but remember the portion sizes are HUGE! Be careful with the dessert or make sure you speak with the manager/chef. For those with a gluten allergy, ask about the sauces used on the meat, I believe they are flour based.
Price: The prix fixe price was $25pp; our meals would have costs $28.50 and $33.50 respectively with out the discount, but that is including dessert ($11.00 extra) which I normally wouldn't do. Truthfully, the menu is pretty normal for the area, and you could easily share the salad and the appetizer.
Final thought: I will be back to try other items. Overall, my experience was pleasant and the food ample. Because of the size of all the items, this would probably be a very good place to host a dinner party. Plus....now I have lunch for today!
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: 2630 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33759
Party: Two adults
**Note: Went to this restaurant as part of Tampa Bay Restaurant Week; review is isolated to the Prix fixe menu offered @ http://cltampa.com/media/location/2280800/pappasranchweb.jpg)***
Immediate Impression:
Huge location, very clean and well laid-out.
Service:
Our server was extremely nice, although she didn't have alot of knowledge regarding the menu. She did say they were revamping the menu and some items had changed. Since we were only planning to order off the Prix Fixe this didn't pose too much of a problem except for dessert. She made sure our water glasses were always full, and promptly took away all used dishes. The manager came to our table to thank us at the conclusion of the meal.
Menu/Food:
WARNING - you had better come hungry or bring extra people! All of the dishes are HUGE! Based on the prix fixe menu, my guest and I each ordered a different appetizer, entree and dessert to be able to taste as much as possible. My order was: Fish Spread, Pork Chops w/garlic mashed potatoes & steamed butter broccoli and Bread Pudding; my guest ordered: Ceasar Salad, Ribeye w/ garlic mashed potatoes and garlic green beans, and Key Lime pie.
Fish Spread - I was not impressed, it lacked flavor and I think it was made with cream cheese. I did like the use of celery to make it crunchy. It really could have used more of a kick; honestly it tasted like chicken salad especially because the fish chucks were HUGE! I wouldn't order again, but my guest liked it, so this is probably simply personal preference.
Ceasar Salad - First, this could easily have fed 4 people. This salad is HUGE! The dressing has a bit of a kick to it, but overall enjoyable. Even with two of us eating, there was still 1/2 a bowl left before our entrees got there.
Pork Chops Entree - the mashed potatoes and broccoli were good sides, nothing really exciting to them, except for again, the portion sizes are huge. The pork chops were delicious and the peppercorn pomegranate dressing awesome (I used it as the gravy on my mashed potatoes) I brought home literally half of my meal.
Rib-eye - first, the green beans are fantastic - order them if you can! The steak was cut & cooked perfectly. Seemed to have very basic seasoning of only salt & pepper. My guest also brought home half of their meal.
Desserts - I normally skip dessert, but since it was part of the prix fixe, we went ahead and ordered it; however, I warn you, as with everything else on the menu, these are huge. Any one dessert could be split by 2-4pp. The Key lime pie is extremely tart, so if you only like a light flavor, stay clear. The bread pudding almost tasted like custard it was so smooth, however, it might have been because it is soaking (yes soaking) in warm butter!
Drinks: if you can get there before 7pm, they have a plethora of drink specials, otherwise, drafts are $2 and pitchers $7.
Allegren Info: If you can't eat butter, this is not the place for you! Everything has butter and lots of it! While looking over the menu, there seems a little something for everyone, but remember the portion sizes are HUGE! Be careful with the dessert or make sure you speak with the manager/chef. For those with a gluten allergy, ask about the sauces used on the meat, I believe they are flour based.
Price: The prix fixe price was $25pp; our meals would have costs $28.50 and $33.50 respectively with out the discount, but that is including dessert ($11.00 extra) which I normally wouldn't do. Truthfully, the menu is pretty normal for the area, and you could easily share the salad and the appetizer.
Final thought: I will be back to try other items. Overall, my experience was pleasant and the food ample. Because of the size of all the items, this would probably be a very good place to host a dinner party. Plus....now I have lunch for today!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Been off the radar...
Dear Fans:
I apologize for being off the radar for so long...since my last post, my life has changed dramatically - I have moved, started two new companies, been involved with a few national fundraising campaigns, and am within weeks of finally getting divorced, so its been a tremendous roller coaster (actually, its been pretty darn exciting)!
Restaurant Week in the Tampa Bay Area begins on Thursday, and I was asked by a dear friend to write up rants on all the restaurants I visit...so stay tuned!
Thanks for following!
Ingrid Shawn Magnani (soon to be Rodriguez)
I apologize for being off the radar for so long...since my last post, my life has changed dramatically - I have moved, started two new companies, been involved with a few national fundraising campaigns, and am within weeks of finally getting divorced, so its been a tremendous roller coaster (actually, its been pretty darn exciting)!
Restaurant Week in the Tampa Bay Area begins on Thursday, and I was asked by a dear friend to write up rants on all the restaurants I visit...so stay tuned!
Thanks for following!
Ingrid Shawn Magnani (soon to be Rodriguez)
Friday, November 19, 2010
Courtside Grille, Clearwater, FL
Date: November 18th
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, Fl
Party: Me
Immediate Impression:
Loud sports bar, yuppie-ish, but upscale sports bar feel
Service:
My server was fantastic, prompt and stayed on top of things. The manager however was unhelpful and lacked managerial skills. I sat in a booth which had its own TV, I asked to get the TV switch to the Bolts game; 4x my waitress said she had to find the manager. The manager never materialized after 15 minutes the game was over. I was not please at all.
Menu/Food:
I kept my order simple - French Onion Soup, Chicken & Steak K-Bob's (their spelling not mine) and a Guinness. The soup was digestible but had a bit too much vinegar; the Guinness was old and a terrible pour; however, it was the K-Bob's which ruined my evening. They looked delicious. I promptly took them off their stick and mixed them with the rice pilaf they came with. I started eating the vegetables and chicken first -no really problem, but every once and a while there was a funny taste. Then I had my first piece of beef - which was 100% rotten meat!! OMG, it was nasty spit it right out. Just to be sure, I cut a small piece of another piece and - yuck - exactly the same thing. I lost my appetite completely.
When I told the waitress - she showed some concern and asked if I wanted anything else. She said she would talk with the manager. Although the manager took the k-bob's off my bill, the manager never came to the table to talk with me; furthermore, s/he had the waitress tell me - "the steak is marinated overnight maybe you just didn't like it." Which was extremely insulting cause if you've ever had bad steak its not a taste you soon forget.
Allegren Info: The french onion soup comes with tons of scallions on top, and be sure to make sure they do not put almonds in your rice pilaf. And I recommend smelling your meat before you place it in your mouth. If you have severe allergies to mold, you may want to only drink bottled beer, the taps are dirty.
Price: Pricing is high. My Guinness was $5.25 before tax, and my entree would have been $16.95.
Final thought:
This is my local bar now; its a good happy hour spot. I would go back for sports, appetizer and happy hour drinks, but other than that, its expensive and a little to self-important for my taste.
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, Fl
Party: Me
Immediate Impression:
Loud sports bar, yuppie-ish, but upscale sports bar feel
Service:
My server was fantastic, prompt and stayed on top of things. The manager however was unhelpful and lacked managerial skills. I sat in a booth which had its own TV, I asked to get the TV switch to the Bolts game; 4x my waitress said she had to find the manager. The manager never materialized after 15 minutes the game was over. I was not please at all.
Menu/Food:
I kept my order simple - French Onion Soup, Chicken & Steak K-Bob's (their spelling not mine) and a Guinness. The soup was digestible but had a bit too much vinegar; the Guinness was old and a terrible pour; however, it was the K-Bob's which ruined my evening. They looked delicious. I promptly took them off their stick and mixed them with the rice pilaf they came with. I started eating the vegetables and chicken first -no really problem, but every once and a while there was a funny taste. Then I had my first piece of beef - which was 100% rotten meat!! OMG, it was nasty spit it right out. Just to be sure, I cut a small piece of another piece and - yuck - exactly the same thing. I lost my appetite completely.
When I told the waitress - she showed some concern and asked if I wanted anything else. She said she would talk with the manager. Although the manager took the k-bob's off my bill, the manager never came to the table to talk with me; furthermore, s/he had the waitress tell me - "the steak is marinated overnight maybe you just didn't like it." Which was extremely insulting cause if you've ever had bad steak its not a taste you soon forget.
Allegren Info: The french onion soup comes with tons of scallions on top, and be sure to make sure they do not put almonds in your rice pilaf. And I recommend smelling your meat before you place it in your mouth. If you have severe allergies to mold, you may want to only drink bottled beer, the taps are dirty.
Price: Pricing is high. My Guinness was $5.25 before tax, and my entree would have been $16.95.
Final thought:
This is my local bar now; its a good happy hour spot. I would go back for sports, appetizer and happy hour drinks, but other than that, its expensive and a little to self-important for my taste.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Time for a change
It't time for a change...as a Crohn's Disease sufferer and one who has multiple food allergies, I realized my blog is just not good enough.
Its not enough for me to simply rant/rave about the service, food quality, decor, etc; I owed it to people like me to help them make informed decisions; especially if my experience could help others feel comfortable or save them from pain/angst.
It is not easy being the odd person out at the restaurant - the one who has to constantly ask about the ingredients, ask for substitutions and carry Benedryl - just in case! It can be humiliating, awkward, and in my case, even life threatening.
So, from now on, I am going to add another section which concentrates on possible allergens and things to be aware of. Hopefully this will better assist you - my followers - and those you know and love when ordering at the restaurants on my blog.
I may even come up with some sort of grading system for those restaurants who go out of their way to please their patrons.
Good eating everyone!
Ingrid
Its not enough for me to simply rant/rave about the service, food quality, decor, etc; I owed it to people like me to help them make informed decisions; especially if my experience could help others feel comfortable or save them from pain/angst.
It is not easy being the odd person out at the restaurant - the one who has to constantly ask about the ingredients, ask for substitutions and carry Benedryl - just in case! It can be humiliating, awkward, and in my case, even life threatening.
So, from now on, I am going to add another section which concentrates on possible allergens and things to be aware of. Hopefully this will better assist you - my followers - and those you know and love when ordering at the restaurants on my blog.
I may even come up with some sort of grading system for those restaurants who go out of their way to please their patrons.
Good eating everyone!
Ingrid
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Bar Louie, Tampa, FL
Date: multiple nights April/May
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: International Mall, Tampa, FL
Party: large group
Immediate Impression:
This place is huge, loud and just a little off; but they do have ALOT of beer
Service:
Never great but not terrible. You'll have to wait a bit for your drink, so order another before you finish your first.
Menu/Food:
Edible, good bar food. Nothing which stands out as fabulous or disgusting. I do, however, enjoy that they serve tater tots. Who doesn't like tater tots?!?
Price: Beer pricing is reasonable, food pricing is high, but its International Mall. They have specials all the time, so be on the look out
Final thought:
This is a good meet-up spot for happy hour or to watch a sporting event; would not use it as a date spot or out-of-town visitor place;
Time: Dinner/Drinks
Type: Restaurant/Bar
Where: International Mall, Tampa, FL
Party: large group
Immediate Impression:
This place is huge, loud and just a little off; but they do have ALOT of beer
Service:
Never great but not terrible. You'll have to wait a bit for your drink, so order another before you finish your first.
Menu/Food:
Edible, good bar food. Nothing which stands out as fabulous or disgusting. I do, however, enjoy that they serve tater tots. Who doesn't like tater tots?!?
Price: Beer pricing is reasonable, food pricing is high, but its International Mall. They have specials all the time, so be on the look out
Final thought:
This is a good meet-up spot for happy hour or to watch a sporting event; would not use it as a date spot or out-of-town visitor place;
Ciccios/The Lodge
Date: Multiple nights in April
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant/bar
Where: 16023 Tampa Palms Boulevard West, Tampa, FL 33647
Party: 3 peeps
Immediate Impression:
Odd - trying a little too hard to mesh the Lodge/Fusion theme
Service:
Bar service is much better than table service! First time, we sat at a table, service was slow and we had to repeat ourselves a lot. She also must not have heard me say - no nuts, I'm allergic! But I digress...the bartender on the other hand, stayed on top of our dishes and even made recommendations.
Menu/Food:
I really like the menu, even if it is all over the place with options. The "TV Dinner" option is a novelty and kinda cute. The menu its self is huge - from sushi to specialty macaroni & cheese, rice bowls to taquitos. Everyone - with every type of dietary constraint - should be able to find something to eat.
One recommendation - skip the Potato soup, not very good, way too much butter. The pizza's are really good and make a great appetizer for 2-3 people. I am a huge fan of the Mac & Cheese bowls. Can't really comment on anything else but everything coming out of the kitchen looked presentable and delicious.
Price: about right for New Tampa, reasonable but towards the high side. The best deal is the TV Dinner style
Final thought:
I'll definitely count this amongst my close to home bars. Crowd is mixed, services is agreeable (not great/not awful), food is good and beer selection okay. Too bad they got rid of their MLB package!
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant/bar
Where: 16023 Tampa Palms Boulevard West, Tampa, FL 33647
Party: 3 peeps
Immediate Impression:
Odd - trying a little too hard to mesh the Lodge/Fusion theme
Service:
Bar service is much better than table service! First time, we sat at a table, service was slow and we had to repeat ourselves a lot. She also must not have heard me say - no nuts, I'm allergic! But I digress...the bartender on the other hand, stayed on top of our dishes and even made recommendations.
Menu/Food:
I really like the menu, even if it is all over the place with options. The "TV Dinner" option is a novelty and kinda cute. The menu its self is huge - from sushi to specialty macaroni & cheese, rice bowls to taquitos. Everyone - with every type of dietary constraint - should be able to find something to eat.
One recommendation - skip the Potato soup, not very good, way too much butter. The pizza's are really good and make a great appetizer for 2-3 people. I am a huge fan of the Mac & Cheese bowls. Can't really comment on anything else but everything coming out of the kitchen looked presentable and delicious.
Price: about right for New Tampa, reasonable but towards the high side. The best deal is the TV Dinner style
Final thought:
I'll definitely count this amongst my close to home bars. Crowd is mixed, services is agreeable (not great/not awful), food is good and beer selection okay. Too bad they got rid of their MLB package!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Living Room - Dunedin, FL
Date: 04/15/2010
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 680 Main Street, Dunedin, FL, 34698
Party: large group
Immediate Impression:
This place is tiny but intimate...Cozy and I LOVE the live music on the patio. Oh, happy hour til 7, excuse me as I order...
Service:
TJ the bartender was fantastic!!! Pours the best Slutty Tanqueray Martini I've had in Florida!! The rest of the staff seemed a bit dazed and confused. They also don't know their menu very well - pretty lucky I didn't dive into the cheese plate after confirming nothing I ordered had nuts cause those pecans would have killed me!
Menu/Food:
The food is awesome! All dishes are served Tapas style - I still don't really get the large/small plate, so American - but I digress...everything we ordered was delicious. The Olimpia salad phenomenal - everything tasted market fresh and who doesn't LOVE artichokes. Obviously, I had to forgo the cheese platter, but it was presented really well.
The au gratin potatoes were LUSCIOUS! Seriously! I could eat those all day - sorry hips! Lastly, the ribs were cooked to perfection, with an amazing sweet sauce which made me want to lick the plate (actually if less people were around I probably would have!)
Price: on the high side...but, worth every penny!
Final thought:
Fantastic place for a party or great night out. It isn't a pretentious place - everyone seemed comfortable and the music was a perfect fit. Next time I go I will probably stay at the bar or sit on the patio...I could have spent the entire night there, but probably would have been broke after. Highly recommend, and I will definitely go back.
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 680 Main Street, Dunedin, FL, 34698
Party: large group
Immediate Impression:
This place is tiny but intimate...Cozy and I LOVE the live music on the patio. Oh, happy hour til 7, excuse me as I order...
Service:
TJ the bartender was fantastic!!! Pours the best Slutty Tanqueray Martini I've had in Florida!! The rest of the staff seemed a bit dazed and confused. They also don't know their menu very well - pretty lucky I didn't dive into the cheese plate after confirming nothing I ordered had nuts cause those pecans would have killed me!
Menu/Food:
The food is awesome! All dishes are served Tapas style - I still don't really get the large/small plate, so American - but I digress...everything we ordered was delicious. The Olimpia salad phenomenal - everything tasted market fresh and who doesn't LOVE artichokes. Obviously, I had to forgo the cheese platter, but it was presented really well.
The au gratin potatoes were LUSCIOUS! Seriously! I could eat those all day - sorry hips! Lastly, the ribs were cooked to perfection, with an amazing sweet sauce which made me want to lick the plate (actually if less people were around I probably would have!)
Price: on the high side...but, worth every penny!
Final thought:
Fantastic place for a party or great night out. It isn't a pretentious place - everyone seemed comfortable and the music was a perfect fit. Next time I go I will probably stay at the bar or sit on the patio...I could have spent the entire night there, but probably would have been broke after. Highly recommend, and I will definitely go back.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Dunderbaks - Tampa, FL
Date: 03/14/2010
Time: Lunch
Type: Restaurant/Beer Establishment
Where: 14929 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, Tampa
Party: 1 female, 1 male
Immediate Impression:
What a cute place...so glad it's not in the mall anymore! Smells fantastic as soon as you walk through the door
Service:
Sat at the bar in the front room, although the bartender was nice and polite, he had ZERO personality - its was like pulling teeth to talk to him and all his smiles seemed contrite.
Menu/Food:
Traditional German food (with a little polish mixed in). Nothing says comfort food then Chedder Cheese Beer Soup, Jaegerschnitzel n Spaetzle w/a side of yummy yummy Sauerkraut. Now, I have had better German fare, but you can't beat the ability to eat well and drink like a champ simultaneously.
As a beer drinker, I LOVE Dunderbaks! There selection is ever changing and always top-notch! I started with their fresh brewed Root Beer (kinda flat) but graduated to a nice Optimator with my meal.
Price:
Awesome! You will have enough food for two meals and will drink yourself into a stupor without hurting your pocket - just make sure you have a designated driver or take a cab, a DUI will wipe away any savings!
Final thought:
Will definitely be back, and will be bringing a large group with me! You have to experience Oktoberfest there...well worth the trip!
Time: Lunch
Type: Restaurant/Beer Establishment
Where: 14929 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, Tampa
Party: 1 female, 1 male
Immediate Impression:
What a cute place...so glad it's not in the mall anymore! Smells fantastic as soon as you walk through the door
Service:
Sat at the bar in the front room, although the bartender was nice and polite, he had ZERO personality - its was like pulling teeth to talk to him and all his smiles seemed contrite.
Menu/Food:
Traditional German food (with a little polish mixed in). Nothing says comfort food then Chedder Cheese Beer Soup, Jaegerschnitzel n Spaetzle w/a side of yummy yummy Sauerkraut. Now, I have had better German fare, but you can't beat the ability to eat well and drink like a champ simultaneously.
As a beer drinker, I LOVE Dunderbaks! There selection is ever changing and always top-notch! I started with their fresh brewed Root Beer (kinda flat) but graduated to a nice Optimator with my meal.
Price:
Awesome! You will have enough food for two meals and will drink yourself into a stupor without hurting your pocket - just make sure you have a designated driver or take a cab, a DUI will wipe away any savings!
Final thought:
Will definitely be back, and will be bringing a large group with me! You have to experience Oktoberfest there...well worth the trip!
Jasmine Thai - Tampa, FL
Date: 03/15/2010
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 13248 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa
Party: 1 female, 1 male
**Note - there are two Tampa locations, not sure if they have the same ownership or menu ***
Immediate Impression:
Smelled a little funky when you first walked in, but the decor seemed to fit the feel, although it seemed slightly warn-out.
Service:
Our hostess was also our server; she stayed on top of our table until the end - someone else boxed our food and took our check. It wasn't fantastic but it wasn't terrible.
Menu/Food:
Standard Thai fare - lots of peanut and shellfish stuff, so it was difficult to order. I started with their Vegetable Curd Soup - which honestly was off the hook fabulous (wish I could have had a bigger bowl). Only down side, set my expectations too high for the main course!
I love hot and spicy food - seriously, I tend to put Tabasco sauce in everything. My main course - Garlic Chicken and Rice - even with the addition of extra hot sauce was still horrifically bland, even the Jasmine Rice side was easily forgettable.
Price:
Menu prices were fair for the area and the volume of food - SOUP well worth it, entree not so much.
Final thought:
I will definitely go back for more soup, but will probably take it to go.
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 13248 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa
Party: 1 female, 1 male
**Note - there are two Tampa locations, not sure if they have the same ownership or menu ***
Immediate Impression:
Smelled a little funky when you first walked in, but the decor seemed to fit the feel, although it seemed slightly warn-out.
Service:
Our hostess was also our server; she stayed on top of our table until the end - someone else boxed our food and took our check. It wasn't fantastic but it wasn't terrible.
Menu/Food:
Standard Thai fare - lots of peanut and shellfish stuff, so it was difficult to order. I started with their Vegetable Curd Soup - which honestly was off the hook fabulous (wish I could have had a bigger bowl). Only down side, set my expectations too high for the main course!
I love hot and spicy food - seriously, I tend to put Tabasco sauce in everything. My main course - Garlic Chicken and Rice - even with the addition of extra hot sauce was still horrifically bland, even the Jasmine Rice side was easily forgettable.
Price:
Menu prices were fair for the area and the volume of food - SOUP well worth it, entree not so much.
Final thought:
I will definitely go back for more soup, but will probably take it to go.
The Grape - International Mall, Tampa, FL
Date: 03/12/2010 and 03/23/10
Time: Drinks/Appetizers Meeting
Type: Wine Bar
Where: International Mall, Tampa, FL
Party: Group between 7-10 Females
Immediate Impression:
I love anyplace which has wine all over the place! Although the purple decor is slightly overwhelming.
Service:
Fantastic! Our server/s, during both visits, were knowledgeable with the selections offered and made suggestions to fit our needs. The manager/owner also came by to welcome us.
Menu/Food:
Our group chose a plethora of small appetizer plates: various meats/cheese, warm feta spread, hummus platter and some other shellfish/nut dishes which I did not have. I LOVE the feta spread - absolutely fantastic; wasn't impressed with the hummus. The cheese platters vary by what people chose, but you can never go wrong with cheese (sorry lactose intolerant peeps)
Price:
On the high end, both for the wine by the glass and the appetizers. Three glasses of Reisling and the feta spread with tip cost $40. Worth it, but I'd be broke it I went to often.
Final thought:
This is a great after-work, small meeting location. Our group was planning a 50th anniversary, and if we the space was not limited in seating capacity, we would have rented it out. I highly recommend visiting and bring some friends!
Time: Drinks/Appetizers Meeting
Type: Wine Bar
Where: International Mall, Tampa, FL
Party: Group between 7-10 Females
Immediate Impression:
I love anyplace which has wine all over the place! Although the purple decor is slightly overwhelming.
Service:
Fantastic! Our server/s, during both visits, were knowledgeable with the selections offered and made suggestions to fit our needs. The manager/owner also came by to welcome us.
Menu/Food:
Our group chose a plethora of small appetizer plates: various meats/cheese, warm feta spread, hummus platter and some other shellfish/nut dishes which I did not have. I LOVE the feta spread - absolutely fantastic; wasn't impressed with the hummus. The cheese platters vary by what people chose, but you can never go wrong with cheese (sorry lactose intolerant peeps)
Price:
On the high end, both for the wine by the glass and the appetizers. Three glasses of Reisling and the feta spread with tip cost $40. Worth it, but I'd be broke it I went to often.
Final thought:
This is a great after-work, small meeting location. Our group was planning a 50th anniversary, and if we the space was not limited in seating capacity, we would have rented it out. I highly recommend visiting and bring some friends!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Stonewood Tavern, New Tampa, FL
**Update: The manager of Stonewood contacted me personally to apologize for the staff oversight. He stated he would be using my email as a training tool and asked I return to the location at a later date to see what if any changes had been made. I hope to visit during April. I am always impressed with any establishment who takes criticism constructively and look forward to my next visit
Date: 03/09/2010
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 17050 Palm Pointe Dr, Tampa, FL 33647
Party: 1 female
Immediate Impression:
Absolutely no where to park but once inside was not very crowded. The bar and dining room are very dark.
Service:
I sat at the tail end of the bar, next to the service station. At first, my impression was favorable - one of the bartenders assisted me with their drink specials and let me know happy was ending soon. I was please with the bar staff, but the waitstaff really needs to be more aware of their surroundings and what they say to one another with patrons around. Not only where their conversations rude, obnoxious and condescending, but their continual bumping into my chair and putting their arm over my food without excusing themselves was irritating.
Menu/Food:
The menu was very inclusive - something for everyone. I began with their smoked salmon appetizer, which although sweeter then the menu lets on (who would have thought dill mustard seed sauce would be sweet) was delectable and well portion. This could have easily fed 3 people.
My salad - Mediterranean Salad w/o pine nuts - was really great - although again, the dressing was a little too sweet. All of the vegetables were fresh and crisp, and the presentation made you feel you were getting a good value (although for the price, I would say it wasn't ample).
For my entree I ordered a 7oz Medium Rare Sirloin Steak with Rice Pilaf and vegetables. The vegetables were great - again, crisp, fresh and cook correctly; the rice "pilaf" was nothing more than yellow rice and pepper; but the steak was excellent. Cooked to the perfect temperature w/o any overwhelming spices or additional salt.
All the food presented around me looked fantastic.
Price:
Pricey - happy hour wine, appetizer, salad and entree, after tip was $50 even.
Final thought:
Although I wasn't disappointed, there are better steak/fish joints in my area, which I would be more likely to frequent than Stonewood. But if I were to go again, I would definitely sit at the bar, the waitstaff may be nice to your face but they say nasty things behind it!
Date: 03/09/2010
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 17050 Palm Pointe Dr, Tampa, FL 33647
Party: 1 female
Immediate Impression:
Absolutely no where to park but once inside was not very crowded. The bar and dining room are very dark.
Service:
I sat at the tail end of the bar, next to the service station. At first, my impression was favorable - one of the bartenders assisted me with their drink specials and let me know happy was ending soon. I was please with the bar staff, but the waitstaff really needs to be more aware of their surroundings and what they say to one another with patrons around. Not only where their conversations rude, obnoxious and condescending, but their continual bumping into my chair and putting their arm over my food without excusing themselves was irritating.
Menu/Food:
The menu was very inclusive - something for everyone. I began with their smoked salmon appetizer, which although sweeter then the menu lets on (who would have thought dill mustard seed sauce would be sweet) was delectable and well portion. This could have easily fed 3 people.
My salad - Mediterranean Salad w/o pine nuts - was really great - although again, the dressing was a little too sweet. All of the vegetables were fresh and crisp, and the presentation made you feel you were getting a good value (although for the price, I would say it wasn't ample).
For my entree I ordered a 7oz Medium Rare Sirloin Steak with Rice Pilaf and vegetables. The vegetables were great - again, crisp, fresh and cook correctly; the rice "pilaf" was nothing more than yellow rice and pepper; but the steak was excellent. Cooked to the perfect temperature w/o any overwhelming spices or additional salt.
All the food presented around me looked fantastic.
Price:
Pricey - happy hour wine, appetizer, salad and entree, after tip was $50 even.
Final thought:
Although I wasn't disappointed, there are better steak/fish joints in my area, which I would be more likely to frequent than Stonewood. But if I were to go again, I would definitely sit at the bar, the waitstaff may be nice to your face but they say nasty things behind it!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Pita Republic, Wesley Chapel, FL
Date: 03/03/2010
Time: Dinner
Type: "Fast" Food
Where: The Cypress at BBD & County Line Road, Wesley Chapel, FL
Party: 1 female
Immediate Impression:
Brand Spanking new - has an odd sense of emptiness, and really quiet!
Service:
Found out it actually was the establishments first day and I was only their 15th customer, so I will cut them some slack. Honestly, the two gentleman were attentive and lively, and their complimenting me on my beauty definitely helped!
Menu/Food:
Pita sandwiches, regular cold-cut sandwiches and wraps. I went with their Mediterranean wrap on a sun-dried tomato wrap. YUMMY and HUGE!!! I was only able to eat half my sandwich. The warm bread melted my feta cheese which made the sandwich even better.
I didn't eat in so I didn't order anything else, but I will go back to try their other items.
Price:
Moderate - but there are always coupons in the mail, I recommend using them.
Final thought:
I love finding good eats close to home; I will definitely go back soon. Hopefully they will stay busy, its a tough neighborhood for food joints
Time: Dinner
Type: "Fast" Food
Where: The Cypress at BBD & County Line Road, Wesley Chapel, FL
Party: 1 female
Immediate Impression:
Brand Spanking new - has an odd sense of emptiness, and really quiet!
Service:
Found out it actually was the establishments first day and I was only their 15th customer, so I will cut them some slack. Honestly, the two gentleman were attentive and lively, and their complimenting me on my beauty definitely helped!
Menu/Food:
Pita sandwiches, regular cold-cut sandwiches and wraps. I went with their Mediterranean wrap on a sun-dried tomato wrap. YUMMY and HUGE!!! I was only able to eat half my sandwich. The warm bread melted my feta cheese which made the sandwich even better.
I didn't eat in so I didn't order anything else, but I will go back to try their other items.
Price:
Moderate - but there are always coupons in the mail, I recommend using them.
Final thought:
I love finding good eats close to home; I will definitely go back soon. Hopefully they will stay busy, its a tough neighborhood for food joints
Monday, March 1, 2010
Byblos Pitas, North Tampa, FL
Date: 02/28/2010
Time: Lunch
Type: "Fast" Food
Where: 2734 University Square Drive, Tampa
Party: 1 male, 1 female
Immediate Impression:
This place makes me happy! The colors are so vibrant, the space is very open with good light.
Service:
Since this is a "fast" food establishment - by that I mean strictly counter service, I really didn't anticipate much. However, the young man, and the owner, were very helpful and checked in on us to ensure we were enjoying our meal and all was well.
Menu/Food:
Middle Eastern style "fast" food - pita sandwiches, salads and traditional side dishes. I quickly learned the establishment served Lebanese style middle easter food - which does have its variant from other regions.
My guest orderd a Gyro Pita fully loaded, and I ordered the Chicken Shwarma with a side of Hummus. The chicken took a while to prepare - but boy, was it worth it.
I have to say it - I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! My food was not only large portioned, but tasted spectacular. For my pita, the server recommend adding, lettuce, tomato, garlic paste and pickled turnips - yes, I said pickled turnips! I had him dump on some cucumbers and roll it up. Instead of it being a messy fall in your lap standard pita sandwich, at Byblos they wrap them up like burritos, which are much easier for transport. This sandwich was fantastic - I didn't want to stop eating it.
I didn't try the Gyro but my guest was ranting and raving about how good the yogurt dressing was and the gyro meat tasted.
My "side" of hummus was a full half cup and came with pita chips - this came home with me.
Price:
Cheap - and they are running a special where after 5pm all pitas are $5! And for you anglos - they do have French Fries.
They also have FREE wifi and Beer - $2.95 for your first and $1.00 for each subsequent.
Also, they let us finish our meal and THEN pay - it always feels good to be trusted.
Final thought:
I am going to come here as often as possible; the food is fast and healthy. The services is prompt and amicable, and the atmosphere is conducive to a relaxing meal. I could see myself setting up my laptop and enjoying a calm late afternoon there. I am sure this place gets pack at lunch - so be warned.
Hope they open more of these locally - I will definitely have to try their full sit-down restaurant in South Tampa - Byblos Cafe.
Time: Lunch
Type: "Fast" Food
Where: 2734 University Square Drive, Tampa
Party: 1 male, 1 female
Immediate Impression:
This place makes me happy! The colors are so vibrant, the space is very open with good light.
Service:
Since this is a "fast" food establishment - by that I mean strictly counter service, I really didn't anticipate much. However, the young man, and the owner, were very helpful and checked in on us to ensure we were enjoying our meal and all was well.
Menu/Food:
Middle Eastern style "fast" food - pita sandwiches, salads and traditional side dishes. I quickly learned the establishment served Lebanese style middle easter food - which does have its variant from other regions.
My guest orderd a Gyro Pita fully loaded, and I ordered the Chicken Shwarma with a side of Hummus. The chicken took a while to prepare - but boy, was it worth it.
I have to say it - I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! My food was not only large portioned, but tasted spectacular. For my pita, the server recommend adding, lettuce, tomato, garlic paste and pickled turnips - yes, I said pickled turnips! I had him dump on some cucumbers and roll it up. Instead of it being a messy fall in your lap standard pita sandwich, at Byblos they wrap them up like burritos, which are much easier for transport. This sandwich was fantastic - I didn't want to stop eating it.
I didn't try the Gyro but my guest was ranting and raving about how good the yogurt dressing was and the gyro meat tasted.
My "side" of hummus was a full half cup and came with pita chips - this came home with me.
Price:
Cheap - and they are running a special where after 5pm all pitas are $5! And for you anglos - they do have French Fries.
They also have FREE wifi and Beer - $2.95 for your first and $1.00 for each subsequent.
Also, they let us finish our meal and THEN pay - it always feels good to be trusted.
Final thought:
I am going to come here as often as possible; the food is fast and healthy. The services is prompt and amicable, and the atmosphere is conducive to a relaxing meal. I could see myself setting up my laptop and enjoying a calm late afternoon there. I am sure this place gets pack at lunch - so be warned.
Hope they open more of these locally - I will definitely have to try their full sit-down restaurant in South Tampa - Byblos Cafe.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Green Parrot Pub, Tampa, FL
Date: 02/19/10
Time: Late Evening
Type: Bar
Where: 11759 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618-3503
Party: large group
Immediate Impression:
Why is their unfinished 1x6's everywhere...it smells like a great big hamster cage/VFW dance hall! I kind felt their should be balloons and streamers somewhere.
Service:
Our server was good, but less then cordial and/or helpful, in her defense, it was pretty busy and as the night wore on became more so.
Menu/Food:
I saw a kitchen, but I am not sure I would eat there. The bar carries the standard domestics and bottles - Guinness in a bottle. Make sure you ask for drink specials.
Price:
Fair. This seems to be a local college bar so they keep their prices
Final thought:
I only went to this bar because my friend's band was playing, not sure I would ever return without some determining factor like that. The sound system is TERRIBLE, which could be because they have a insulated wall separating the stage for the bar. Not the best venue for music, but seems like a good place for Beer Pong.
Time: Late Evening
Type: Bar
Where: 11759 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618-3503
Party: large group
Immediate Impression:
Why is their unfinished 1x6's everywhere...it smells like a great big hamster cage/VFW dance hall! I kind felt their should be balloons and streamers somewhere.
Service:
Our server was good, but less then cordial and/or helpful, in her defense, it was pretty busy and as the night wore on became more so.
Menu/Food:
I saw a kitchen, but I am not sure I would eat there. The bar carries the standard domestics and bottles - Guinness in a bottle. Make sure you ask for drink specials.
Price:
Fair. This seems to be a local college bar so they keep their prices
Final thought:
I only went to this bar because my friend's band was playing, not sure I would ever return without some determining factor like that. The sound system is TERRIBLE, which could be because they have a insulated wall separating the stage for the bar. Not the best venue for music, but seems like a good place for Beer Pong.
BJ Brewhouse, Pinellas Park, FL
Date: 02/19/10
Time: Lunch
Type: Restaurant
Where: 3800 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park, FL
Party: 2 females and a 3 month old
Immediate Impression:
Definitely not a good idea to get their exactly at noon! Parking extremely limited, but we were seated very quickly.
Service:
Our server was funny! First thing I notices were her really cool wrist tattoos (reason I am not giving her name); she kept our drinks full and helped when we needed hot water for the baby bottle. For the most part, she checked in on us but let us enjoy our meal w/o too much interruption.
Menu/Food:
Standard Sandwiches, Burgers, Salads, Pasta and Pizza dishes; they are also their own brewery - but it was lunch and I had just walked 2.5 miles - so I ordered their homemade Root Beer, which is YUMMY! For lunch, I had a Medley Salad and a bowl of Minestrone Soup, my guest had their Cobb Salad and a bowl of chili. We split a Spinach/Artichoke dip appetizer.
The salad, after I took off the onions and the red peppers, was, well, just plain salad - but sometimes this is all you need. The minestrone soup was great - although I am always surprised at why people put pasta in it and don't mention it on the menu.
As for my guest, her salad looked HEAPING - and it was allegedly their lunch size portion. I can only imagine how big the regular salad is. The chili bowl was also very big and according to her - filling! She had food to take home for later.
Price:
Honestly, for lunch its a bit pricey, but for dinner reasonable. The Soup Salad combo is reasonable especially if you are able to take some home/back to the office for later.
Final thought:
Next time I go I think I am going to try one of their HUGE potatoes and some of the house beers.
Time: Lunch
Type: Restaurant
Where: 3800 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park, FL
Party: 2 females and a 3 month old
Immediate Impression:
Definitely not a good idea to get their exactly at noon! Parking extremely limited, but we were seated very quickly.
Service:
Our server was funny! First thing I notices were her really cool wrist tattoos (reason I am not giving her name); she kept our drinks full and helped when we needed hot water for the baby bottle. For the most part, she checked in on us but let us enjoy our meal w/o too much interruption.
Menu/Food:
Standard Sandwiches, Burgers, Salads, Pasta and Pizza dishes; they are also their own brewery - but it was lunch and I had just walked 2.5 miles - so I ordered their homemade Root Beer, which is YUMMY! For lunch, I had a Medley Salad and a bowl of Minestrone Soup, my guest had their Cobb Salad and a bowl of chili. We split a Spinach/Artichoke dip appetizer.
The salad, after I took off the onions and the red peppers, was, well, just plain salad - but sometimes this is all you need. The minestrone soup was great - although I am always surprised at why people put pasta in it and don't mention it on the menu.
As for my guest, her salad looked HEAPING - and it was allegedly their lunch size portion. I can only imagine how big the regular salad is. The chili bowl was also very big and according to her - filling! She had food to take home for later.
Price:
Honestly, for lunch its a bit pricey, but for dinner reasonable. The Soup Salad combo is reasonable especially if you are able to take some home/back to the office for later.
Final thought:
Next time I go I think I am going to try one of their HUGE potatoes and some of the house beers.
Bonefish Grill, Bellair Bluffs, FL
Date: 02/18/10
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 2939 West Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs, FL 33770
Party: 1 Female and 1 male
Immediate Impression:
Surprisingly busy for a random Thursday night
Service:
Our server, Sylvie, was wonderful! She went the extra mile on everything, from double checking all the menu items to ensure no allergy complications, to ensuring the food was correct and the dishes removed promptly. Sylvie is very knowledgeable of the menu items and extremely helpful.
Menu/Food:
I ordered the Grilled Trout w/Asparagus and a side salad, my guest ordered the sirloin with a succotash side and au-gratin mashed potatoes. My dish was cooked perfectly, I simply added a little lemon and pepper to add some zest. The sirloin was originally under-cooked and came with garlic mashed potatoes, it was brought back to cook a little longer and came with an additional side of au-gratin mashed potatoes. There was enough food for dinner and lunch the following day
Price:
Reasonable even with a bottle of wine; Our tab was $60 for two entrees and a bottle of wine, but both of us did not order super expensive stuff.
Final thought:
Now that it is the Lenten season, expect it to be packed on Friday nights. This is a very good date place, the environment is set up to be romantic yet bustling. I LOVE the trout...only downside is the menu is limited if you are allergic to shellfish.
Time: Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: 2939 West Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs, FL 33770
Party: 1 Female and 1 male
Immediate Impression:
Surprisingly busy for a random Thursday night
Service:
Our server, Sylvie, was wonderful! She went the extra mile on everything, from double checking all the menu items to ensure no allergy complications, to ensuring the food was correct and the dishes removed promptly. Sylvie is very knowledgeable of the menu items and extremely helpful.
Menu/Food:
I ordered the Grilled Trout w/Asparagus and a side salad, my guest ordered the sirloin with a succotash side and au-gratin mashed potatoes. My dish was cooked perfectly, I simply added a little lemon and pepper to add some zest. The sirloin was originally under-cooked and came with garlic mashed potatoes, it was brought back to cook a little longer and came with an additional side of au-gratin mashed potatoes. There was enough food for dinner and lunch the following day
Price:
Reasonable even with a bottle of wine; Our tab was $60 for two entrees and a bottle of wine, but both of us did not order super expensive stuff.
Final thought:
Now that it is the Lenten season, expect it to be packed on Friday nights. This is a very good date place, the environment is set up to be romantic yet bustling. I LOVE the trout...only downside is the menu is limited if you are allergic to shellfish.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
The Brass Tap, Wiregrass Mall, Tampa, FL
Date: 02/16/10
Time: Evening Drinks
Type: Wine/Beer Bar
Where: Wiregrass Mall, Wesley Chapel, FL
Party: 1 Female
Immediate Impression:
Relatively empty but everyone was enjoying themselves; Olympics on the TV, Karaoke being set up, and NTN Trivia going
Service:
Fantastic! My bartendar - whom I forgot to ask her name - was very attentive and kept herself busy w/cleaning glasses and engaging in conversation with the patrons.
Menu/Food:
There is no food at Brass Tap but you can order from Cantina Laredo or GrillSmiths which are both adjacent restaurants. Since my ability to eat is still limitet, I chose to stick with a liquid dinner of - Sam Adams Seasonal Noble Pils - which is yummy!
Price:
Really depends on the night you go - Tuesday was 2 for 1 select drafts (Noble counted) and since it was Fat Tuesday they had a special on ALL Abita beers. The cost is entirely up to what your tastes are. I have never walked away wishing I spent less.
Final thought:
This is my local place, which just happens to have lots of different beers and NTN trivia - my favorite bar past-time. Its a place you can go alone or in a group and receive the same attentive service. The crowd got younger as the night wore on but again, that really depends on the night.
I'd also like to note - probably because a majority of the servers/bartenders are women, the ladies room was really clean.
NOTE: ** if you are a Guinness drinker (as I am) in my experience there are only two bartenders there who pour correctly. Watch**
I of course will be going back - but I will probably eat before I go this time
Time: Evening Drinks
Type: Wine/Beer Bar
Where: Wiregrass Mall, Wesley Chapel, FL
Party: 1 Female
Immediate Impression:
Relatively empty but everyone was enjoying themselves; Olympics on the TV, Karaoke being set up, and NTN Trivia going
Service:
Fantastic! My bartendar - whom I forgot to ask her name - was very attentive and kept herself busy w/cleaning glasses and engaging in conversation with the patrons.
Menu/Food:
There is no food at Brass Tap but you can order from Cantina Laredo or GrillSmiths which are both adjacent restaurants. Since my ability to eat is still limitet, I chose to stick with a liquid dinner of - Sam Adams Seasonal Noble Pils - which is yummy!
Price:
Really depends on the night you go - Tuesday was 2 for 1 select drafts (Noble counted) and since it was Fat Tuesday they had a special on ALL Abita beers. The cost is entirely up to what your tastes are. I have never walked away wishing I spent less.
Final thought:
This is my local place, which just happens to have lots of different beers and NTN trivia - my favorite bar past-time. Its a place you can go alone or in a group and receive the same attentive service. The crowd got younger as the night wore on but again, that really depends on the night.
I'd also like to note - probably because a majority of the servers/bartenders are women, the ladies room was really clean.
NOTE: ** if you are a Guinness drinker (as I am) in my experience there are only two bartenders there who pour correctly. Watch**
I of course will be going back - but I will probably eat before I go this time
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Grillsmiths, Wesley Chapel, FL
Date: 02/02/10
Time: Late Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: Wiregrass Mall, Wesley Chapel, FL
Party: 1 Male, 1 Female
Immediate Impression:
Very sultry; I love the dark woods, dark leather and low light; exudes leisure
Service:
Tad, our waiter, was wonderful! Very attentive, helpful and knowledgeable about the menu and dish contents.
Menu/Food:
My palette is very limited lately, so I ordered the Ahi Tuna Steak with asparagus and mashed cauliflower. Everything was fantastic - especially the asparagus. Although the tuna steak came rolled in sesame seeds, I had to cut this layer off - which was really easy because the searing was done properly. The inside tuna was slightly warm and fresh. As for the mashed cauliflower, this was okay, I would probably stick with Mashed Potatoes - my guest had the Augratin Mashed Potatoes which is worth the extra side!
My guest ordered Stoli Ravioli w/ the fantastic side of Augratin Mashed and Beef Tip Eggroll. OMG - everything tasted yummy and the portions were plentiful - lunch for tomorrow!
Price:
Not cheap - our total bill was under $60 but there were no drinks, and we ate two of the cheaper items on the menu. Expect to spend ~30 per person.
Final thought:
I will definitely go back here - this time to order a steak and a nice bottle of wine. While waiting around I also noticed they have a sunday brunch, which I will have to check out soon!
Time: Late Dinner
Type: Restaurant
Where: Wiregrass Mall, Wesley Chapel, FL
Party: 1 Male, 1 Female
Immediate Impression:
Very sultry; I love the dark woods, dark leather and low light; exudes leisure
Service:
Tad, our waiter, was wonderful! Very attentive, helpful and knowledgeable about the menu and dish contents.
Menu/Food:
My palette is very limited lately, so I ordered the Ahi Tuna Steak with asparagus and mashed cauliflower. Everything was fantastic - especially the asparagus. Although the tuna steak came rolled in sesame seeds, I had to cut this layer off - which was really easy because the searing was done properly. The inside tuna was slightly warm and fresh. As for the mashed cauliflower, this was okay, I would probably stick with Mashed Potatoes - my guest had the Augratin Mashed Potatoes which is worth the extra side!
My guest ordered Stoli Ravioli w/ the fantastic side of Augratin Mashed and Beef Tip Eggroll. OMG - everything tasted yummy and the portions were plentiful - lunch for tomorrow!
Price:
Not cheap - our total bill was under $60 but there were no drinks, and we ate two of the cheaper items on the menu. Expect to spend ~30 per person.
Final thought:
I will definitely go back here - this time to order a steak and a nice bottle of wine. While waiting around I also noticed they have a sunday brunch, which I will have to check out soon!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
TAPS - Tampa, FL
***03/31/10 Yet again Taps has failed to understand their market. The Tampa Bay Beer MUG group, Let's Go Out Tampa Bay, and Tampa Socials, recently hosted a Going Away/Birthday party at this establishment. Management had promised draft beer discounts for the party however when the group arrived they stated they could not honor their prior commitment and treated the group with disdain the rest of the evening. These groups have BANNED TAPS from being used for any future events. Based on these two events, and the overall poor quality of service/consideration, I would strongly advise anyone to avoid TAPS. (see email below from the TBBMUG organizer)
***Update: The female guest did receive a $5.00 credit on our charge, there are currently conversations with the owner regarding this situation. ***
Date: 01/29/2010
Time: Special Event After Party
Type: Bar
Where: 777 N Ashley, Tampa, Florida
Party: Group ~ 15
Immediate Impression:
It was busy, and felt they were understaffed on the floor, my guest and I went straight to bar!
Service:
Our bartender - Johnny - was fantastic! On point, kept our glasses full (with what we ordered) and checked up on us frequently - too bad the rest of the working staff was no where near as good...I digress.
Our first interaction with the floor server revolved around our food order, the floor server started yelling our name while bringing the food. I understood the need to do this, if we were standing on the main floor, however, the bartender had made a note we would be at the bar; - I chalked it up to simply being busy and she was probably slammed. However, I did observe that she was already intoxicated, something, if I were the bar owner, I would not have allowed so early in the day (it was only 7pm).
At some point during the evening, prior to the atrocity below, I also watched the server take a man (the same one) outside the side door and promptly start a groping/making out session. Again, something I don't believe patrons should ever see.
The real tragedy of service came when part of our group decided to leave; one of our female members asked for her tab, when the server brought out the whole tab, our member asked her to split the tab and only charge her for what she had. The server told our member she was not sure what she had, when our member advised her what on the tab was hers, the fiasco began.
After everyone who was on the tab chimed in with what they were responsible for the tab was still off by ONE AMSTEL LIGHT ($4.50). The Manager came to our table to tell US that every drink which was ordered was brought to the table; we told the Manager NOBODY ordered the last Amstel, furthermore, there were still three cups with alcohol in them on the table (they were pouring all the drinks in plastic containers - which again we had no problem with.) The manager notified us she would be taking off the extra Amstel, we felt the issue had been put to rest. Until...
Managers/Servers should be trained to not TALK about customers while within earshot of other patrons - you NEVER know who knows who. The manager was over-heard telling the server "I don't care what she wants, I already have her credit card, just tell her we took it off"! Because of this, when the server came back to tell us the charge had been dropped, we asked for a revised receipt as proof. She told us she was "UNABLE TO REPRINT THE RECEIPT BECAUSE THE TRANSACTION HAD BEEN CLOSED" - which anyone who has ever worked in the restaurant industry knows is a COMPLETE AND UTTER LIE!!
Not only did the female server say she couldn't do it, but so did the MANAGER. Our female member then went to the bar as said if she did not receive her proof of payment, she would notify her credit card company of the fraudulent charge - she was then told they would be calling the POLICE on HER for THEFT! Our female member just left, exasperate, frustrated, belittled and unhappy! The rest of our group left angry. We spent the remainder of the evening, and our money, at the HUB!
TAPS use to be one of the Preferred Vendors for the Tampa Bay Beer Meet Up Group - however, because of there actions this evening, we have advised all our organizers and members to no longer patronize TAPS. This is an unfortunate circumstance of poor service, poor management and offensive behavior.
Menu/Food:
I enjoyed my food, the group split, Tuna Crudo, Baked Mac & Cheese, Guacamole w/chips, and Roast Beef Sliders - considering it was a special event night, we were all pleased with the food.
Price:
This place is not really cheap, but it is standard for the area. However, after the horrific service, buying anything carries way too high a price!
Final thought:
I am going to reiterate what I said above: TAPS use to be one of the Preferred Vendors for the Tampa Bay Beer Meet Up Group - however, because of there actions this evening, we have advised all our organizers and members to no longer patronize TAPS. This is an unfortunate circumstance of poor service, poor management and offensive behavior. I will update the blog when my friend checks her credit card statement to confirm what she was charged
***Update: The female guest did receive a $5.00 credit on our charge, there are currently conversations with the owner regarding this situation. ***
Date: 01/29/2010
Time: Special Event After Party
Type: Bar
Where: 777 N Ashley, Tampa, Florida
Party: Group ~ 15
Immediate Impression:
It was busy, and felt they were understaffed on the floor, my guest and I went straight to bar!
Service:
Our bartender - Johnny - was fantastic! On point, kept our glasses full (with what we ordered) and checked up on us frequently - too bad the rest of the working staff was no where near as good...I digress.
Our first interaction with the floor server revolved around our food order, the floor server started yelling our name while bringing the food. I understood the need to do this, if we were standing on the main floor, however, the bartender had made a note we would be at the bar; - I chalked it up to simply being busy and she was probably slammed. However, I did observe that she was already intoxicated, something, if I were the bar owner, I would not have allowed so early in the day (it was only 7pm).
At some point during the evening, prior to the atrocity below, I also watched the server take a man (the same one) outside the side door and promptly start a groping/making out session. Again, something I don't believe patrons should ever see.
The real tragedy of service came when part of our group decided to leave; one of our female members asked for her tab, when the server brought out the whole tab, our member asked her to split the tab and only charge her for what she had. The server told our member she was not sure what she had, when our member advised her what on the tab was hers, the fiasco began.
After everyone who was on the tab chimed in with what they were responsible for the tab was still off by ONE AMSTEL LIGHT ($4.50). The Manager came to our table to tell US that every drink which was ordered was brought to the table; we told the Manager NOBODY ordered the last Amstel, furthermore, there were still three cups with alcohol in them on the table (they were pouring all the drinks in plastic containers - which again we had no problem with.) The manager notified us she would be taking off the extra Amstel, we felt the issue had been put to rest. Until...
Managers/Servers should be trained to not TALK about customers while within earshot of other patrons - you NEVER know who knows who. The manager was over-heard telling the server "I don't care what she wants, I already have her credit card, just tell her we took it off"! Because of this, when the server came back to tell us the charge had been dropped, we asked for a revised receipt as proof. She told us she was "UNABLE TO REPRINT THE RECEIPT BECAUSE THE TRANSACTION HAD BEEN CLOSED" - which anyone who has ever worked in the restaurant industry knows is a COMPLETE AND UTTER LIE!!
Not only did the female server say she couldn't do it, but so did the MANAGER. Our female member then went to the bar as said if she did not receive her proof of payment, she would notify her credit card company of the fraudulent charge - she was then told they would be calling the POLICE on HER for THEFT! Our female member just left, exasperate, frustrated, belittled and unhappy! The rest of our group left angry. We spent the remainder of the evening, and our money, at the HUB!
TAPS use to be one of the Preferred Vendors for the Tampa Bay Beer Meet Up Group - however, because of there actions this evening, we have advised all our organizers and members to no longer patronize TAPS. This is an unfortunate circumstance of poor service, poor management and offensive behavior.
Menu/Food:
I enjoyed my food, the group split, Tuna Crudo, Baked Mac & Cheese, Guacamole w/chips, and Roast Beef Sliders - considering it was a special event night, we were all pleased with the food.
Price:
This place is not really cheap, but it is standard for the area. However, after the horrific service, buying anything carries way too high a price!
Final thought:
I am going to reiterate what I said above: TAPS use to be one of the Preferred Vendors for the Tampa Bay Beer Meet Up Group - however, because of there actions this evening, we have advised all our organizers and members to no longer patronize TAPS. This is an unfortunate circumstance of poor service, poor management and offensive behavior. I will update the blog when my friend checks her credit card statement to confirm what she was charged
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