Here they are, the 10 most memorable meals I’ve eaten in Tampa Bay this year (and would gladly go back and order again):
Blu Figs Gourmet Lounge in Carrollwood serves a red wine braised short rib which I enjoyed earlier this year. It was a small, fairly simple dish in theory, but executed perfectly and was further complemented by the shallot jus. 15463 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, 813-963-3447.
Mr. Dunderbak’s Red Reuben contains sweet red cabbage used in place of sauerkraut, which pairs well with the tangy Thousand Island dressing and melty Swiss cheese. It’s perfectly toasted and just a hint on the greasy side (a good thing). I do feel guilty often neglecting the rest of Dunderbak’s menu of homemade German fare, but the Red Reuben’s call is too loud. 14929 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, 813-977-4104.
Formerly in Carrollwood, Down Under Pizza’s kangaroo-topped pizza was a very memorable meal because it was the first time I had eaten kangaroo! The crust had a pleasantly chewy texture, its soy-lime sauce added a hint of tanginess and the strips of kangaroo meat were spicy and a tad gamey. Sadly, Down Under Pizza is now closed and they took with them my beloved ’roo pie.
SideBern’s creative cocktail list holds a special place in my heart. Manager Dean Hurst creates seasonal cocktail creations and the autumn High Road, with añejo tequila, muddled apple, agave nectar and oak aged bitters, hit the jackpot with this tequila-loving gal. (Okay, it wasn’t a meal, but a very memorable drink nonetheless.) 2208 W. Morrison Ave., Tampa, 813-258-2233.
