We think of tiramisu (pick-me-up) as the quintessential Italian dessert — with recipes passed down for generations. Trouble is, it was invented in late 1969 and there’s no universal agreement about technique or exact components beyond ladyfingers, mascarpone, coffee and cocoa. Jackson’s version is a wonderful balance of moist ladyfingers and luscious cream with both the coffee and chocolate announcing their presence without overwhelming your palate. Close your eyes as you take a bite; concentrate on the combination of tastes and textures and be transported. 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa, 813-277-0112, jacksonsbistro.com.
This article appears in Sep 20-26, 2012.