Meatloaf is one of those dishes that are horrible if not well prepared. Yes, we've eaten plenty of awful meatloaf, but folks, you have to persevere to find the best eats. Try an unusually delectable version at the Front Porch Bar & Grille. The chef starts with ground chuck, bakes it to moist perfection, and then slices and sets it a few minutes on the grill — a lovely, smoky enhancement. When it gets to your plate, it sits atop a big pile of homemade mashed potatoes, bisected by a dreamy river of hearty brown gravy. Presto! Comfort food to the rescue.
Front Porch Bar and Grille, 5924 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 813-237-5511.
This article appears in Sep 25 – Oct 1, 2003.