CL regularly presents focused listings of the best dining options in Tampa Bay’s neighborhoods. With a little help from some of our Food and Drink section contributors, we’re giving you a guide to dining and drinking in the Carrollwood area of Tampa.
ALEX'S SOUTHERN STYLE BAR-B-Q 5362 West Village Dr., Tampa; 813-269-0050
Nothing fancy here, but who needs a decked out dining room to serve good barbecue? Alex's has made a name for themselves, namely for their ribs and pork, garnering faithful customers and becoming a Carrollwood staple.
BAN THAI 5374 West Village Dr. Tampa; 813-968-7668. banthaitampa.com
"Family owned and operated and a lovely oasis in suburbia. The typical Thai dishes are represented and are always tasty: pad thai, massaman curry, crab rangoon. And they truly serve their neighborhood: I once called them for takeout 20 minutes after they had closed and the owner accommodated me in spite of it." —Erica Miller
BLU FIGS GOURMET LOUNGE 15463 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa; 813-963-3447. blufigs.com
"Med-Rim inspired cuisine" in an upscale setting, hidden away in a small strip center off Dale Mabry. The portions are small but the dishes are flavorful, unique and artfully prepared. A great spot for a romantic date night.
BURGER MONGER 10412 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa; 813-968-6860. burgermonger.com
Taking a stab at gourmet fast food with their “upscale burgers”. Made with Akaushi Wagyu beef, their burgers and hot dogs are “several grades above USDA Prime” with price tags to match the pricey meat. Burger Monger also offers chicken burgers, hand cut fries from Winnemucca Farms in Nevada and add-ons like imported Brie and cherry wood smoked bacon.
