HILLSBOROUGHBRANDON
LA SEPTIMA CAFÉ, 140 N. Parsons Ave. (813-684- 1948). You'll find a taste of the original Latin flavors of old Ybor in this quaint little Brandon cafe. Look for large portions and excellent Cuban sandwiches, succulent roast pork and chicken served with saffron rice. $
LIQUOR LLOYD'S BEACH HOUSE, 779 W. Lumsden Road, Brandon (813-655-0511). A neighborhood pub with an island twist, this inexpensive restaurant has Caribbean-style bar food by day and rump shakin' nightclub action into the wee hours. Try Tahitian teriyaki wings with cool wasabi dip and jerk barbequed baby back ribs. But for the best of the Beach House, go for the fabulous specialty cocktails like the frozen bushwacker, the painkiller and the outstanding piña colada (served, naturally, in a coconut shell). A bit cheesy, we admit, but It's too much fun for us to care.
TAMPACARROLLWOOD/NORTHWEST TAMPA
3 PALMS GRILLE & GALLERY, 8203 N. Armenia Ave. (813-933-2401). A neighborhood favorite featuring an unusually creative mix of ethnic and culinary styles, from crab cakes with banana chutney all the way to mushroom-smothered steak and Southern style meatloaf. The chef's specialty, different varieties of creamy cheesecake, is the best dessert. $$$.
KAISEN SUSHI, Mission Bell Square, 12785 N. Dale Mabry (813-969-3848). This friendly, casual and tiny cafe offers exceptionally fresh, artfully prepared, delicious and value-priced sushi. A must-try is the calamari. Bargain "no-sushi" dinners offer enormous portions of tempura and teriyaki. $$
VALLARTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT, 13731 N. Dale Mabry (813-264-7691). The Jimenez family puts plenty of tasty dishes on the table, all served with zesty homemade salsa and guacamole. Large portions of chimichangas, quesadillas, burritos and taco salads make up most of the long menu, all made with better ingredients and fresher flavors than you'd find if you ran for the border. $
CENTRAL/WEST TAMPACRAZY BUFFET, 2702 N. Dale Mabry (813-998-9228). More than your average Oriental buffet, Crazy's got a design-your-own-dish stir-fry station, a slightly upscale setting and a varied selection of Japanese dishes, from a spread of assorted sushi to an array of refreshing Japanese salads. Selection and buffet pricing vary between lunch, dinner and brunch. $$
JIMBO'S PIT BAR-B-Q, 4103 W. Kennedy Blvd. (813-289-9724). Real down-home pit barbecue is gussied up with Jimbo's own secret seasonings and sauces and served in heapin' portions. Fill up on smoked pig ribs, chicken, sliced pork or beef and ham, along with homemade beans and coleslaw and always a hot slice of homemade apple pie. $
VALENCIA GARDEN SPANISH RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, 811 W. Kennedy Blvd. (813-253-3773 or www.valenciagarden.com). Founded in 1927, it has been operated continuously by members of the same family at the same location just west of downtown. Its menu still offers traditional Cuban Spanish fare, but more contemporary dishes have been added as well to appeal to modern diners. A sure winner: ropa vieja, shredded beef in tomato-y sauce, and flan, washed down with Cuban cafe con leche. $ Lunch; $$ Dinner
TAMPA – DAVIS ISLANDS220 EAST, 220 E. Davis Blvd. (813-259-1220). A well-run neighborhood restaurant with experienced owners and outstanding fare. 220 East has consistently delightful dishes including excellent pastas, crisp salads and homemade desserts. Order grilled portabella mushrooms or satay chicken appetizers, followed by blackened chicken Alfredo or simple fettuccine Alfredo and finish with upside down apple pie. $$
PIPO'S LATIN CAFÉ, 238 E. Davis Blvd. (813-258-8100). Pipo's traditional Cuban boasts large servings, modest prices and the best mojo roast pork in the bay area, made with a family recipe. Or, try favorites like black bean soup or Cuban sandwiches. The restaurant also features dancing in its outdoor plaza on weekends. $
TATE BROTHERS PIZZA, 233 E. Davis Blvd. (813-251-2767). This casual eat-in/takeout pizza place is family-owned and operated. No Ragu and frozen bread dough here. Sauces, meatballs and crusts are homemade. Toppings are fresh and good quality, like first-rate cheeses, pepperoni and, God bless them, fresh garlic on the pizza! Yummy breadsticks, soft and dripping with butter. Calzones are a meal in themselves. $
DOWNTOWN TAMPAALGUSTO TORTILLA & SALSA, 912 W. Kennedy Blvd. (813-250-3500). Zingy, fresh and tasty Mexican fare based on tried-and-true recipes collected from the owners' families in central Mexico. Start at the salsa condiment counter, with its collection of mild to super-hot and spicy salsas, matched with crispy, handmade chips. Next, graduate to the Botanas Platter appetizer, which entails three different dishes – a flauta, a burrito, an enchilada and quesadillas. As an entrée, order the excellent chicken drenched in red mole sauce. $
GRILLE 29, 615 Channelside Drive (813-221-2929). This glamorous spot on the waterfront at Channelside boasts an unusual menu featuring standards like steaks, fancy salads and pasta, interspersed with plebian comfort foods like chicken potpie and macaroni and cheese. Start with "Salad 29," greens mixed with fruit and Gorgonzola, order as an entrée a rare sirloin steak topped with crab Béarnaise, and finish with honey-roasted pear tart. $$-$$$
JACKSON'S BISTRO-BAR-SUSHI, 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd. (813-277-0112). A big, noisy, exuberant crowd gives Jackson's its unique ambiance, packing its sprawling, 20,000-square-foot waterfront location opposite the glowing towers of downtown Tampa. Any sushi dish is a good bet, or the pistachio-coated snapper. $$$
MISE EN PLACE RESTAURANT, 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Ste. 110 (813-254-5373). Owners Marty and Maryann Blitz create a culinary happening in this smart brasserie-style eatery. Billed as a "Neo-American Bistro," its most popular dish is rack of lamb, crusted with grainy mustard and pecans. Try the chocolate pecan toffee tart. $$-$$$
EAST TAMPABIG JOHN'S ALABAMA BBQ, 5707 N. 40th St. (813-626-9800). The tender chopped pork sandwich will spoil you forever, but if you must, order the slab of pork ribs as well, accompanied by cinnamon-flavored baked beans and coleslaw or potato salad. It's just a hole-in-the-wall but a friendly one, so eat in or takeout. You'll not find any better barbecue anywhere in the Bay area. $
FLORENCE LA MEXICANA RESTAURANT, 902 S. 22nd St. (813-248-8566). This modest Mexican cafe, located in a gritty, industrial sector of Tampa, is a good bet for low-cost meals and snacks. Order pork cooked with red chilies and Mexican beer. $
TAMPA – HYDE PARKBELLA'S, 1413 S. Howard Ave. (813-254-3355). After nearly 20 years, this South Howard favorite still packs 'em in with tasty pasta and casual ambiance. Start with lobster bisque, then test the fine fettuccine Bolognese, or pasta il mare, shrimp and scallops with leeks and mushrooms in a roasted tomato cream sauce. Save room for molten chocolate cake! $$
BERN'S STEAK HOUSE, 1208 S. Howard Ave. (813-251-2421). Outstanding, internationally acclaimed restaurant with a half-million bottles of wine in its cellars, 62 different cuts of fabulous prime, aged steaks, dozens of varieties of the finest caviar, plus newer menu items that appeal to more modern sensibilities. $$$$
GOURMET PIZZA COMPANY, 610 S. Armenia Ave. (813-258-1999). The word "gourmet" gets tossed around far too casually. We think it should be reserved for places like The Gourmet Pizza Co., where quality, creativity and flavor really shine. The classic pie is terrific; but give your taste buds a thrill with specialty pies like Thai chicken, with crisp veggies and spicy peanut sauce, or steak gorgonzola, with sliced rib eye, caramelized red onions and fresh mushrooms sprinkled with bleu cheese. $
RESTAURANT BT, 1633 W. Snow Ave. (813-258-1916). BT Nguyen-Batley has distilled her three-restaurant empire into one large catch-all in Old Hyde Park Village. You can enjoy the homemade noodles made famous by her Noodle Shop at lunch, soak up soulful minimalist design while having a kaffir lime leaf martini at the bar, or eat her signature French-Vietnamese cuisine made famous at Café BT. She files the rough edges off her Asian cuisine, sometimes taking a lot of character with it. Doesn't matter – beautiful food and beautiful decor and beautiful chef will keep the place packed.
TAMPA – SEMINOLE HEIGHTSFRONT PORCH BAR & GRILLE, 5924 N. Florida Ave. (813-237-5511). A funky, friendly neighborhood restaurant with an eclectic menu offering everything from plain old hamburgers to chicken Marsala and trout topped with rum raisin sauce. Start with the excellent chicken quesadillas washed down with beer, order comfort food like pot roast or meat loaf and finish with a smoothly accomplished chocolate raspberry cake – yum. $ Lunch; $$ Dinner
VIVA LA FRIDA CAFÉ Y GALERIA, 5901 N. Florida Ave. (813-231-9199). Art in food and decor, La Frida specializes in fresh, flavorful Mexican fare. Its interior is graced with colorful reproductions of artworks of the late Frida Kahlo and originals produced by local artists as well. Order the bleu cheese salad, chicken enchiladas, and for dessert, the delightful mini chocolate almond chimichangas. $$
SOUTH TAMPA/PALMA CEIA/INTERBAYBAMBOO FLUTE, 2307 S. Dale Mabry (813-258-2858). Fresh, flavorful Vietnamese dishes at lowdough prices, like big, plump spring rolls filled with fresh shrimp, mint, cilantro, thin rice noodles and crispy wonton sticks for extra crunch. Enjoy hefty servings of pho, the all-purpose breakfast/lunch/dinner dish of spicy beef broth, noodles, fresh herbs and meat, or big noodle bowls with pork, shrimp or oxtail. Must-tries include the refreshing coconut drink and the tri-color bean pudding. $
CASTELLANO & PIZZO ITALIAN GOURMET FOODS, 4200 S. Henderson Blvd. (813-289-5275). Five generations built this excellent deli, founded in Ybor City and now located in South Tampa. Terrific pasta takeout, like the "pasta fantasia" – that's rigatoni bathed in creamy sauce, and dotted with fresh tomato, verdant broccoli crowns and fat coins of bracciole-sausage, pine nuts, raisins, ham and Romano cheese. Or try lasagna, several varieties of green salad, a cinnamon-y rice pudding and fancy cheese and wine. $
LAURO RISTORANTE ITALIANO, 3915 Henderson Blvd. (813-281-2100). The venerable old Lauro's has reinvented itself with a more relaxed, affordable, family-dining atmosphere. Enjoy Northern Italian cuisine with homemade pastas, breads and fabulous desserts, and a wine list to complement any dish. $$
WRIGHT'S GOURMET HOUSE, 1200 S. Dale Mabry (813-253-3838). Eat in or takeout at this excellent, cafeteria-style restaurant. Family-owned and operated for almost 40 years, it produces excellent soups, sandwiches and salads, and the chocolate cake is without a doubt the best in the Bay area. $
TAMPA INT'L AIRPORT/COURTNEY CAMPBELL CAUSEWAYARMANI'S, Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, 6200 Courtney Campbell Causeway (813-207-6800). One of the Bay area's most accomplished, sophisticated and expensive restaurants, Armani's has it all – a lovely setting and panorama, and fabulous food, wine and service. Order a creamy pasta dish, followed by the complex rack of lamb or veal scaloppine. $$$$
PELAGIA TRATTORIA, International Plaza, 2223 N. West Shore Blvd. (813-313-3235, www.pelagiatrattoria.com). Decorated in generic modern restaurant chic, Pelagia Trattoria is home to the Mediterranean cuisine of Chef Fabrizio Schendardi. He shines with his expertly constructed tapas (called "stuzzichini") and appetizers, a few simple ingredients brought into perfect balance, sometimes hearty, sometimes elegant. The entrees can be hit or miss, but with so many exceptional small plates to choose from, you shouldn't worry. $$$
TOWN N COUNTRYCATCH TWENTY-THREE, 10103 Montague St. (813-920-0045). Casually upscale eatery in Westchase's West Park Village. This seafood spot features standard Floribbean cuisine in a perfect first-date atmosphere. Try the delicious shredded pork and plantains, the unusual, Caribbean-style "shrimp scampi" or any of Catch's excellent fresh fish.
SATSUKI JAPANESE CUISINE, 5537 Sheldon Road (813-884-4128). This small, refined little restaurant is at once exotic and homey, clean as a whistle and affordable. The sushi bar seats eight, serving fresh, well-prepared sushi with daily specials. Menu offerings include soba and udon, delicious Oriental noodles in spicy broths. Try tempura-udon, well-prepared shrimp tempura served alongside a bowl of thick noodles in hot, fragrant broth. Asian beers, hot or cold sake and green tea ice cream round out the meal. $
NORTH TAMPAANGITHI FINE INDIAN RESTAURANT, 2047 E. Fowler Ave. (813-979-4889). Discover a whole new world of delicious exotic flavors at this North Tampa find. Sample the crisp samosas, succulent, moist tandoori-baked meats, and hot and spicy curries. Cool the fire with a smooth and fruity mango lassi drink. Plenty of vegetarian selections and a nice lunch buffet. $$
FLETCHER'S BACKSTREET GRILLE, 508 W. Fletcher Ave. (813-265-4244). Sports fans will appreciate Fletcher's Backstreet Grille, with its big-screen TV visible from every table and on-site sports radio show; but it offers so much more, as the fare is unusually accomplished, especially for a sports-oriented restaurant. Try its crispy, overloaded quesadillas, or a filet mignon. $
THE JERK HUT, 1406 E. Fowler Ave. (813-632-9551 or www.jerkhut.net). Humble Jamaican-style eatery with an impressively complex menu, its fare true to its Caribbean inspiration. Added incentive: Big mounds of food for hardly any money. The adventurous should try the radioactively-hot pepper shrimp for an appetizer. Entrées are favorites like curried goat and jerk pork. Finish with addictively moist, dark rum cake. $
TAMPA – YBOR CITYCARMINE'S SEVENTH AVENUE, 1802 E. Seventh Ave. (813-248-3834). Old-style Spanish restaurant with some of the area's best Cubans, including a terrific veggie Cuban made with marinated red peppers; good, hot homemade pizza; and dynamite black bean soup. $
THE COLUMBIA RESTAURANT, 2117 E. Seventh Ave. (813-248-4961 or www.columbiarestaurant.com). Oldest restaurant in the state, queen of Tampa's Spanish eateries, swathed in priceless antique crystal, marble and stone fretwork, she attracts hordes of tourists and locals as well. Order Cuban sandwiches and salad for lunch, and for dinner, the tasty Cuban platter, followed by flan or cheesecake drenched in guava sauce. Don't miss the fabulous flamenco show, six nights a week. $$ Lunch; $$$ Dinner
LA TERRAZZA RISTORANTE ITALIANO, 1727 E. Seventh Ave. (813-248-1326). Make googly eyes at your date by candlelight at this intimate Italian restaurant with very good fare and equally good service. Since it looks out to the continual party along Seventh Avenue, you can dine on stuffed ravioli, drink a few glasses of wine and, when you're ready to face the crowds, adjourn to the clubs for dancing. $$
OUTER LIMITSTHE BRANCH RANCH DINING ROOM, 5121 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City (813-752-1957). Your taste buds will thank you for stopping at this traditional Southern restaurant, which has been a fixture among the locals for decades. Order baked ham or country fried chicken, with all the family-style accompaniments. $$
FRED'S MARKET RESTAURANT, 1401 W. Martin Luther King Blvd., Plant City (813-752-7763). Fred Johnson, whose family has operated restaurants in Plant City for decades, shows off his skills at this classic, Southern-style restaurant. Order the lunch or dinner buffet, with almost 40 hot selections and desserts, and close to 20 salad bar items. The best dish is Fred's fresh fried chicken, delightfully crisp and juicy, accompanied by real mashed potatoes and a luxe brown gravy, and a bevy of colorful vegetables like okra, stewed tomatoes, black-eyed peas and a wonderfully light carrot soufflé. $
PINELLASCLEARWATERCAFÉ PONTE, 13505 Icot Blvd. (727-538-5768). Chef Chris Ponte apprenticed at Taillevent, in Paris, one of the world's finest restaurants, and it shows in the fare of this casual and eclectic eatery. Start with duck eggrolls with apricot sweet and sour sauce, then sample sesame-encrusted tuna, served with a subtle sauce made from the yuzu, an exotic Japanese fruit. For dessert, order a hot, creamy dome of chocolate soufflé. Very reasonably priced fare is a deal for frugal gourmands. $-$$
LENNY'S, 21220 U.S. 19 N. (727-799-0402). A Clearwater favorite for decades, Lenny's packs 'em in. Try the homemade potato pancakes, still sizzling from the skillet, dunked in cold applesauce or sour cream. Or, nosh on muscular omelets with dozens of accompaniments, and a good selection of fragrant, fresh bagels. $
TIO PEPE RESTAURANTE, 2930 Gulf to Bay Blvd. (727-799-3082). One of the Bay area's premier traditional Spanish and Cuban restaurants, its European mood and old-school charm make it a good choice for a big night out. Try any soup; the house specialty, pompano relleno, is very good; leave room for chocolate seashell dessert or Key lime pie. $$$
NORTH CLEARWATER/COUNTRYSIDEGRILLSMITH, 2539 Countryside Blvd., Suite 6 (727-726-6061). Amazing appetizers, lunches, and low-priced cocktails give way to indifferent dinner entrées at this high-end franchise. Stylish and friendly, GrillSmith is a great place for light fare, but it's still working out its main-course kinks. While you're waiting, try the delicious firecracker shrimp appetizer or the yummy chicken and black bean fritters. $$$
JO-TO JAPANESE RESTAURANT, 2549 Countryside Blvd. (727-796-2022). Belly up to the sushi bar or grab a seat on the floor while a kimono-clad waitress serves traditional Japanese dishes. Try the special sushi and sashimi platters. $$
NEW YORK BAGEL BOYS, 2566 McMullen-Booth Road (727-797-9891). Recommended for breakfast/brunch, N.Y. Bagel Boys prove man cannot live by bread alone. Wonderful bagels (big, dense, crispy and flavorful) are made on site, slathered with flavored cream cheeses or topped with eggs, omelets, ham, Kosher salami, pastrami, lox. Bagel Boys serves lunch too, with traditional N.Y. deli fixings. $
DOWNTOWN CLEARWATERO'KEEFE'S, 1219 S. Fort Harrison Ave. (727-442-9034). This restaurant draws a bigger crowd on St. Pat's Day than the Boston parade. As you might guess, corned beef and cabbage is big on the menu, and it's fork tender, but throughout the year the average diner is more apt to be munching on one of the justly famous burgers (or trying the sandwiches, hot dogs, steaks or seafood). $$
THE PEPPER MILL RESTAURANT, 1575 S. Ft. Harrison Ave. (727-449-2988). A long-time favorite with the white-haired crowd, this local eatery isn't setting any trends, but then again, it isn't trying. Good, classic dishes are its forte; try the Pepper Mill steak or the surf & turf. If you are looking for a bit of spice, the menu balances the old-fashioned feel with a host of Asian-style specialties; try the Empire shrimp appetizer or the Grand Marnier grouper. $$$
TRI-CITY/ST. PETE-CLEARWATER AIRPORT/FEATHER SOUND CARMELITA'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT, 5042 East Bay Drive (727-524-8226). Fresh, homemade Mexican flavors at bargain prices. The best appetizer is the crunchy, tasty taquito. Combo platters are heaped. Sopa de tortillas, chicken-rice-corn soup, makes a meal in itself. Be sure and try sangria soda, a great alcohol-free choice for lunch or the designated driver. $$
MEKONG, 5944 34th St. N. (U.S. 19) St. (727-521-3378). Very authentic Vietnamese eatery. No frills, just pho – and Vietnamese sandwiches, hot and sour "volcano pot soup," fresh rice paper spring rolls, and any number of other very traditional specialties. There's something for everyone here, whether this is your first time trying vermicelli noodle soup, or you're an old hand at cooking raw squid in spicy vinegar (a must-try).
DUNEDINBENEDICT'S, Causeway Plaza, 2676 Bayshore Blvd. (727-736-1600). Recommended for breakfast/brunch. What else would you expect but a tasty and nearly unlimited variety of fluffy poached eggs set atop a toasted English muffin, slathered with a creamy lemon sauce and your choice of ham, crab meat or bacon? But there's more: sweet selections like Belgian chocolate pancakes or zesty flavors like huevos ranchero, all enormous portions. $
THE BLACK PEARL, 315 Main St. (727-734-3463). With only 13 tables, this classy cafe turns out some of the freshest, most creative cuisine in the Bay area. Owner Kathleen LaRoche goes the extra mile to secure fresh, prime ingredients. The cuisine dazzles the eye as well as the taste buds. Every selection, from crab cakes to duckling, will delight you. $$$
CAFÉ ALFRESCO, 344 Main St. (727-736-4299). You'll enjoy leisurely meals on the patio overlooking the Pinellas Trail. Menu specialties include crisp fresh salads and creative pastas. Try the delicious ice cream creations. $$
GULF BEACHES/NORTH DOMENIC'S CAPRI ITALIAN RESTAURANT, 411 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach (727-441-1111). Domenico Forlini's long tenure as one of Clearwater Beach's best chefs pays off in delectable fashion. Great wine list, honored annually by Wine Spectator magazine, a variety of different homemade pastas, all terrific, along with homemade bread and salad dressings, fine mussel dishes and soups, and several well-done desserts, such as chocolate-chocolate cake or tiramisu. $$$
FRENCHY'S ROCKAWAY GRILL & BEACH CLUB, 7 Rockaway St., Clearwater Beach (727-446-4844). For reasonably priced seafood, this restaurant overlooking Clearwater Beach is a favorite of locals as well as snowbirds. She-crab soup, grouper and other local seafood are just a few of the specialties offered. Great place for a rendezvous or dining al fresco. $$
SALT ROCK GRILL, 19325 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores (727-593-7625). Usually beautiful waterfront setting and classy interior distinguishes this restaurant. The food is fresh and hearty but not ravishingly creative. Enjoy the crusty bread, and order the tuna sashimi as an appetizer, and for the main course, flame-grilled lobster or steak. $$$
T.J.'S ITALIAN CAFÉ, 1515 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach (727-596-1515). A casual but classy beachside café with great pizza (yes, they deliver) and lots more. The menu includes some great, Italian-inspired specialties like the excellent peppercorn shrimp appetizer and mountain of seafood medley. Don't forget dessert at the ice cream parlor, T.J.'s House of Sweets, located right next door.
GULF BEACHES/SOUTHCAPTAIN KOSMAKOS, 9610 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island (727-367-3743). Brothers Kosmos and George Kosmakos bring a touch of Greece to a mostly American menu stacked high with classic favorites. Greek specialties, especially the baked chicken and Greek salad, are noteworthy. Other winners: steaks, chops, duckling, fresh seafood and stuffed lobster. $$
CARINO'S NORTHERN ITALIAN CAFÉ & LOUNGE, 9524 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach (727-360-8502). Friendly local favorite whose chef/owner learned to cook in Milan. Order as an appetizer the excellent smoked trout or try any of the fine soups or the house salad. One of the best entrées is veal scaloppine piccata, followed by fruit sorbet for dessert. $$
THE LOBSTER POT, 17814 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores (727-391-8592). Has been serving fresh finfish and shellfish for nearly 20 years now. The focus, of course, is lobster but other treasures of the Gulf are nicely done. Black grouper, snapper and a variety of crustaceans are ever-present on a menu that has some interesting daily attractions. Don't forget to try the chowder. $$$
TED PETERS FAMOUS SMOKED FISH, 1350 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena (727-381-7931). Hot smoked fish dinners have made this a renowned eatery the world over. Smoked fish spread by the pound, delicious Manhattan-style clam chowder, real German potato salad and one-third pound jumbo burgers make this casual indoor-outdoor eatery a must. Peters also boasts one of the cleanest kitchens in eight districts. $$
GULFPORTBACKFIN BLUE CAFÉ, 2913 Beach Blvd. S. (727-343-2583). Quaint little Cafe with classy food, in the heart of an arty district. Great prime rib and meat loaf, excellent fish. Don't miss the corn purée with lump crabmeat or the crab cakes. Great desserts, too. Laid-back, casual and definitely tasty. $$
THE HABANA, 5402 Gulfport Blvd. S. (727-321-8855). Authentic Cuban foods, with the menu topping out at $10.95. Owner Jo Hastings was born in Cuba but grew up here. She serves traditional Cuban food with a today-twist, like roast pork with cumin, laurel and grilled onions, as well as mojo; chicken breast done palomilla style; and catfish with a plantain crust. $
LARGO/SEMINOLECAFÉ LARGO, 12551 Indian Rocks Road, Largo (727-596-6282). This continental-style eatery has been popular with locals as well as tourists for many years. There's great attention to detail paid to the menu as well as the service. Check for monthly specialty dinners that feature a fine taste of French cooking. $$$
PAPPAS' GRILLMARKS BISTRO & BAR, 607 N. Clearwater-Largo Road, Largo (727-584-6235 or www.grillmarks.com). Grillmarks is a swell place to take your honey or celebrate a special event. The fare is reasonably priced, well-done New American cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, Asian-inspired dishes and luscious salads. Some great choices include bistro salad with strawberries and raspberry vinaigrette; filet mignon, served with mashed sweet potatoes and asparagus; and espresso-flavored Crème brulèe. $$
PASTINO'S, 1750 Clearwater-Largo Road, Largo (727-559-0506). Pizzas include Wild Bill's Western steak special, the taco pizza, and even a lobster supreme pizza with lobster, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil, topped with white cheddar and Mozzarella. Pasta range from linguine with clam sauce to ravioli with wild game stuffing. $$
THE SKINNY ROOSTER, 552 Clearwater-Largo Road, Largo (727-581-7993). A casual but elegant breakfast/lunch/brunch spot with a fan-cooled deck overlooking a picturesque pond. With an extensive menu that includes omelets, crepes, waffles, pancakes, salads and sandwiches, the Rooster has something here to satisfy everyone's taste buds. If you've got a sweet tooth, try one of the dessert crepes, Belgian waffles or French toast options, and try a glass of tropical iced tea. $$
PALM HARBORCONSCIOUSNESS BLOSSOMS, 3390 Tampa Road (727-789-1931). Serving breakfast and lunch Tuesday through Sunday, this tiny little café is a true shining star. Not only is it the only entirely vegetarian café in Tampa Bay, it's also one of very few restaurants to receive a 100 percent rating from the health inspector. You'll find light, healthy, delicious food served in a calm, relaxing atmosphere, all inspired by the philosophy of meditation teacher Sri Chinmoy. $
JERUSALEM CAFE & KOSHER DELI, 30610 U.S. 19 N. (727-781-4041). Authentic Middle Eastern and Jewish-American fare is served within the mimic clay stone walls and frescoed scenes of this casual café which is routinely inspected by a mashgiach. Get the kosher Reuben sandwich or the shawarmah for a taste of Israeli culture. Don't forget a slice of homemade halvah for dessert. $
MYSTIC FISH SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR, 3253 Tampa Road (727-771-1800 and www.3bestchefs.com). Stylish eatery with a modern underwater theme serves first rate fresh seafood, unusual turfside options and great mixed drinks. A fine place for a date or a special dinner out; try the escargot, lobster tail, daily fish special and fruit-infused martinis. Make sure you leave room for dessert. $$$$
PINELLAS PARKHICKORY SMOKE HOUSE BARBECUE, 6769 34th St. N. (727-526-8072). A mainstay for decades, this popular barbecue restaurant serves up succulent pork, chicken and beef entrees with all the fixings. Baked beans are a local favorite, and the chunky pork sandwiches should not be overlooked. Sampler platters are the best meal deals. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$
ROGER'S REAL PIT BAR-B-QUE, 6851 66th St. N. (727-544-6671). Smoky oak grill produces tender pork sandwiches, terrific baby back ribs and even low-cal items, like delightful shrimp kebobs with sweet-and-sour sauce and a simple butterflied chicken breast. Huge salad bar with more than 50 items will appeal to light eaters and vegetarians. Regardless of your meat preference, leave room for apple pie. $
SAFETY HARBORGREEN SPRINGS CAFÉ & GATHERING PLACE, 122 Third Ave. N. (727-669-6762). This quaint neighborhood café housed in a cozy old wooden house hides a secret – there's a Culinary Institute of America-trained chef in the kitchen, turning out deeply delicious dishes. $$
SAFETY HARBOR RESORT CAFÉ, 105 N. Bayshore Drive (727-726-1161). If you think eating healthy means giving up delicious flavor, then you need to try the spa meals at this renowned resort. The cafe offers imaginative fare with especially good salads and homemade muffins. $$
ST. PETERSBURGCENTRAL ST. PETE/TYRONEATHENIAN GARDEN, 6940 22nd Ave. N. (727-345-7040). You probably can't get more delicious family-style Greek food at affordable prices without driving to Tarpon Springs. This is the exception. Swift, efficient service and tasty food. The hefty gyros sandwich is a feast. $
CAFÉ CROISSANT, Lighthouse Crossings Shopping Center, 3993 Tyrone Blvd., Ste. 304 (727-347-7389). French bakery and café that serves light breakfast, lunch and dinner, and specialty coffees as well. The best dish is the elegant bouchee a la reine, flaky pastry topped with a creamy white sauce and studded with chicken pieces and mushrooms. Or try a fresh sandwich like ham and Swiss cheese, which comes with a buttery, crunchy pastry called a palmier. $
EL MAGUEY TAQUERIA, 4327 66th St. N. (727-547-9366). Check out this true Mexican taqueria, where good food will fill you up and low-dough prices will leave you with plenty of change in your pocket. This Spartan, but spotlessly clean little eatery serves meal-size burritos grandes, bursting with meat, beans and rice, along with three fresh, homemade and hot-as-hell salsas, tasty tamales filled with pork in green sauce, and good chilies rellenos. Cash only. $
DOWNTOWN ST. PETEBATTER'S EYE RESTAURANT, Tropicana Field, 1 Tropicana Drive (727-825-3250 or www.devilrays.com). Take me out to the ballgame and dine in style at a big buffet in a full-service restaurant, set 404 yards opposite home plate. Try sesame-crusted ahi tuna, salad bar with homemade dressings, moist roast beef or fresh turkey and gravy that bats .500. Then watch the Devil Rays for a perfect day at the ballpark. $$
CENTRAL AVENUE OYSTER BAR, 249 Central Ave. (727-897-9728). Raw oysters on the half shell are the order of the day at this cozy eatery in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. Snack on Louisiana shellfish prepared in a variety of ways (baked, deep fried, or simply as nature made them), as well as a variety of crabcakes, pasta dishes, steaks and chicken, so landlubbers can rest easy while oyster-lovers slurp to their hearts' content.
INDIA GRILL, 320 First Ave. N. (727-894-7455). New Indian joint in the most happening section of downtown St. Petersburg has little to recommend it in the way of décor, but plenty in the way of dining. The $6.95 lunch buffet has excellent selections. Good vegetarian options. Try anything in the delicious, creamy-tomato makhani sauce, naan, biryani rice and of course, tandoori chicken.
MIDTOWN SUNDRIES, 200 First Ave. S. (727-502-0222) This eatery offers an inviting, club-like atmosphere with plenty of entertainment, including billiards, video games, TV and live music. Affordable food, like hamburgers, chicken fingers, fish and steak, made fresh in-house make this a good choice for casual dining. $-$$
SAHARA CAFÉ, 624 First Ave. S. (727-898-4455). Check out this minuscule cafe for healthy, high-quality and especially flavorful food at low-dough prices. Homemade pita breads overflow with fillings, like Makanik, a huge pita wrap made with spicy beef and lamb sausage, pine nuts, onions, tomatoes and lemon juice. Salads and vegetarian platters, like falafel, are also available. Pastries made with pistachio nuts, honey and phyllo are outstanding. $
NORTHEAST ST. PETE/GATEWAYTHE CRAB SHACK, 11400 Gandy Blvd. (727-576-7813). On the St. Pete side of the Gandy Bridge sits a rundown shack filled with crabs so fresh they'll bite your toes. Blue crab, gold crab, stone crab, soft-shell crab; if it's got claws, they'll cook it! Don't miss the skewers of honey-barbecue shrimp, or the house specialty, Snapper Corvina, a two-and-a-half pound whole snapper deep-fried. Any fresher, and this fish would still be swimming. $$
EL CAP, 3500 Fourth St. N. (727-521-1314). God bless El Cap. The finest cheap hamburgers in town, über-friendly waitresses and cheap PBR mean that El Cap is the weekday home of our laziest staff writer. Fabulous, cheap daily specials ensure you won't get bored. $
STONE SOUP CAFÉ, 4122 16th St. N. (727-526-2975). What else would you expect from a place named Stone Soup but fresh, homemade soups? How about healthy salads, fruit smoothies and tasty sandwiches packed with plenty of fresh fixings. Try the turkey breast on swirl bread, dressed with provolone cheese, avocado, red onion, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo. $
SOUTH ST. PETEBIG TIM'S BBQ, 530 34th St. S. (727-327-7388). Tiny restaurant with just a few modest tables, but Big Tim can sure grill barbecue. Order the half-slab of pork ribs, drizzle it with Tim's Secret Sauce, and prepare to overeat. It's hard to stop once you start, especially if you're also noshing on the fried corn and baked beans. $
THE CHATTAWAY, 358 22nd Ave. S. (727-823-1594). This little wooden building at different times served as a grocery store, a gas station and a trolley stop. It's since become a local historical landmark and a great place to stop for a good "Chattaburger" (burger with all the fixings) and some of the coldest draft beer in town. The ambiance of the eatery perfectly fits the image of early St. Pete. $
SKYWAY JACK'S, 2795 34th St. S. (727-866-3217 or 727-867-1907). Attracting everyone from socialites to studded punk rockers, this longtime St. Pete institution features a huge array of breakfast goodies, from scrambled pork brains all the way to pineapple-coconut pancakes and fish filets. Best dish is a rich, thick sausage gravy draped over a flaky biscuit. $
TIERRA VERDECRAZY CONCH CAFÉ, 1110 Pinellas Bayway S. (727-865-0633). A neighborhood café that boasts an accomplished kitchen and a dedicated cadre of regulars who know good food when they taste it. Start with pan-roasted oysters as an appetizer, try Sally's endive salad and as an entrée, the delightful Steven's shrimp and grits with brown gravy, which is a circle of fat, fresh shrimp seated around a mound of showy grits, slathered with a moat of expertly made gravy. Dang, it's good! Dessert changes by the day, but you can bet whatever it is, it'll be delectable. $$$
TOKYO BAY RESTAURANT, Isla Del Sol's Shopper's Village, 5901 Sun Blvd., Bayway (727-867-0770). Chef Eiji "Jose" Sonogi slices up a sushi jamboree at this casual sushi haunt a stone's throw from Pinellas' south beaches. Try California rolls, tuna and salmon. You'll catch an eyeful (and a mouthful) of exotic cargo, including nigiri tuna, uni sushi and three superb rolls. $$
TARPON SPRINGSCOSTA'S RESTAURANT, 521 Athens St. (727-938-6890). This intimate, 120-seat inexpensive gem serves broiled snapper or octopus with garlic and oregano and traditional Greek entrees like dolmades, and lamb baked with orzo pasta and you-peel-'em shrimp. $
HELLAS, 785 Dodecanese Blvd. (727-943-2400). Talk to the locals; they'll tell you this is the best food in town. Sample the Saganaki (flaming cheese) and pickled octopus. Try a Greek salad with fresh feta, a bowl of avgolemono (lemon and egg soup), one of the fresh fish dishes, then finish with a plate of just-baked Greek pastry like baklava, bougatsa and chocolate flogeres. $$
This article appears in Jul 20-26, 2005.