I had one week left in Tampa before heading to law school, and I was determined to squeeze in a wide array of epicurean adventures. I accomplished the following without getting a sour stomach, even though all of my adventures were not pleasing to my taste buds.

The Bricks: Ybor’s newest joint, operated by the SPoT guys. The Pita Monkey sandwich was very interesting and tasty (someone must have been high to come up with this recipe involving pita, bananas and cheese).

Tacos de lengua at Taqueria La Costena: Sadly, we were too early for the tongue tacos. I had no idea that it takes over four hours to prepare. However, the pollo was delicious!

Saturday special at La Teresita’s cafeteria: The patas de certa — I had seen the pig’s feet on the menu for years. I had always wanted to try it, but never had the nerve. This was my last Saturday in Tampa for some time, so I went for it. It was a strange gelatinous, bony stew. Better than I expected, but I’ll probably stick to the arroz con pollo next time.

Sidebern’s: Being one of my favorite places in Tampa, I could not leave town without a trip here. My boyfriend David, our friend Patrick (who happens to be single, ladies), and I sat at the bar, ordered from the lounge menu, and I sipped a Lazenby. I love, love, love Sidebern’s for its uniqueness and extravagant, yet affordable atmosphere and culinary creations. The honey white chocolate panna cotta with lavender, summer fruit, and lemon balm ice cream was luscious. (Thank you, Asbel, for recommending this — thank you!)

This article appears in Jul 22-28, 2010.