When a new restaurant announces its presence with the exuberance of Brazilian Carnival, it’s good that it’s named Samba Room. Chef Felicia Lacalle’s tapas bounce around your mouth with flavor combinations that you don’t see coming, and the result is thrilling. From the panzanella salad to the guava glazed pork belly to the dreamy tres leche cake, this place delivers more taste per calorie than any new addition to Bay area cuisine. 1502 S. Howard Ave., Tampa, 813-251-4022, sambaroomtampa.com.
This article appears in Sep 20-26, 2012.