The Chart House

Let me start by saying that my expectations on this one were very high. I have had the pleasure of dining at the Chart House location in Annapolis, MD and let me say that the difference between the one in Annapolis and the one here in Tampa are more than glaring. First of all the ambiance in Annapolis is far superior. The setting is an old ship building and it is set right over the water. They also have a fantastic salad bar and great food. In all my visits to the Annapolis Chart House, I have never had a bad experience and will go back when I go home to visit family. Now that leads me to the location in Tampa, FL. Not at all up to the standards set by myself based on past experiences in Annapolis. The decor was a mix of bright "Florida" colors and art work on the wall that looked like it was trying to be expensive. Service was periodic in that we were first banished to the wall by the kitchen and then put in the middle of the floor where we were occasionally visited by a waiter. Several requests had to be made for drinks, condiments, and even napkins. The food was disappointing especially since one of our dining companions first menue selection was unavailable because they ran out of grouper. I see two problems here. First of all we are in Florida where grouper is plentiful and a mainstay at most restaurants. Secondly, we were there at 6:30 PM. How do you run out of one of your main dishes at 6:30 PM. I could understand if it was packed or if were were there late in the evening, but we arrived early and they were already out of a choice on their menu. Our friends had to order something different which, to say the least, was lackluster. Now the swordfish I ordered was alright but it came with fried rice as its side and it was not any different than the fried rice that can be found in any number of strip mall Chinese takeouts. The filet ordered by another diner was no where near the quality of Outback or the Pasadena Steakhouse. This was very disappointing in that it was more than twice the cost. My wifes NY strip tasted like it could have been found in a strip house rather than a "fine" upscale restaurant. And the day after was a nightmare. My wife and I both had stomach problems that kept us within eye sight of a restroom. In summation, I am extremely sad that one of my favorite places from my home (Maryland) has finally come to my new home (Florida) and it left me feeling homesick (literally).

http://www.chart-house.com/

The Living Room

No this is not my living room. This is "the" Living Room. It is a past discovery of ours that has since become our go to place when we want quality dining in a unique environment with great service and ambiance. Found in downtown Dunedin it is quite possibly the best little secret in Tampa Bay with eclectic decor that is reminiscent of sitting in the home of a well read artist. The quality of the food is unmatched. If they can't find it fresh and/or local, they don't serve it. The choices are always prepared with meticulous precision. Soups are unmatched in flavor and originality from the mushroom cappuccino to the chicken curry. The quality is spectacular and leaves you sad that there is no more when you take your last spoonful. Each salad is prepared with the freshest ingredients and the best combinations of vegetables, fruits, and cheeses. The list of starters leaves you with a pleasing dilemma, which great dish to begin with. I personally am a fan of the stuffed mushroom; however, all the selections are worth at least a one time indulgence. Now for the main course. It is important to mention that The Living Room is a tapas style restaurant which means that you are not going there to order a traditional meal where you get a steak with potatoes and a side item. You are ordering your herb crusted fillet (enough for two), or the Jambalaya skewers, or the Kobe beef sliders, or a slew of other items individually. Your choice of other dishes is separate but well worth the "tiny" trouble of ordering three unique items if you want to create a "meal". The last time my wife and I went we ordered the herb crusted fillet, the Au gratin potatoes, and sauteed spinach separately and were completely satisfied with our portions and the price. Our first visit was the anti pasta plate and a stuffed mushroom and we were more than satiated. In essence, any combination of plates and you will be more than happy. Now when it comes to the deserts, I am just going to leave it to the imagination. I will say that each bite is a sin for which confession is simply not enough. Visit the Living Room and feel at home while you dine on decadence, flavor, ambiance, and freshness all at once.

http://www.thelivingroomonmain.com/

Carrambas

A few weeks ago my wife and I had a taste for some good Mexican cuisine. Now in the Clearwater area there is, or was, no better restaurant for Mexican food than Carrambas. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case. The old owners sold out to another group and the food was not near the same quality. It is unfair to say it was bad, but it was not what we remembered. The chips and salsa were the best part of the meal and that is, sad to say, where we should have stopped. My wife was not too displeased with her meal as it is really difficult to not make at least a decent chimichanga; however, mine was far from stellar. I ordered the chili releno, burrito, and tamale. I must say that first the chili releno was a little to underdone and the chili itself was hard to eat. The stuffing, what little of it there was, was lackluster. Now the burrito was ok and the tamale was too, although it was small enough to feed one of the seven dwarves. And the sangria was sweeter than a sugar coated kiss. Way too sweet. All in all, I was disappointed to find out that Carrambas had changed hands. It is unfortunate that the best little Mexican restaurant in Clearwater is gone. Rest in peace Carrambas.