Daily Loaf

4:30 p.m. – Yin

Driving into the parking lot of Ruth Eckerd Hall this past Friday for a late afternoon “meet & greet” with blues/rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. Admittedly, I wasn’t that familiar with his work and I felt a bit unprepared. Beyond recent media blips about his appearance at the Royal Albert Hall, and some hasty Internet research, I was pretty sure that I wouldn’t have a single intelligent thing to ask. I resigned myself to keeping my mouth shut and taking pictures.

As I waited in the Green Room at REH with about a dozen avid fans, I noticed they’d come prepared. Most had tickets, t-shirts or magazines ready for an autograph, while one guy even clutched a limited edition Joe Bonamassa Gibson Les Paul in a case that looked as though it had never been opened. I wondered if spending nearly his entire life in the public eye would make Joe one of those rock stars who take all of the attention in stride or if it had made him intolerant of rabid fans, autograph seekers and the media. Since I wasn’t sure which way it would go, I slid my camera backpack around to the front, in order to block any crazed, Britney-like attacks on the paparazzi that might be forthcoming. Read the rest of this entry »

Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. For one night only, the Roaring Twenties are back, so grab your flapper dresses and fedoras and head out for a night at the theater.  Next weekend’s event features the 1920’s silent film Souls for Sale, about an ordinary girl’s rise to Hollywood stardom. There are also vaudeville acts, a 1920’s costume contest (for those of you who didn’t get enough of dressing up at Halloween) and raffle prizes.

Come out for an night of fun and contribute to the community by making a $5 donation or bringing three nonperishable foods or dried goods to benefit RCS Food Bank. Thurs., Nov. 12, 6-9 p.m., St. Petersburg College Clearwater Campus Teaching Auditorium, 2465 Drew St. Clearwater; contact honors.college@spcollege.edu for more info. Sign Language interpreters provided.

I’ve seen the Black Crowes a few times over the years — once at Langerado in the Spring of ‘06, and again later that summer at the Ford Amp, when there were so few people showed because of it raining all day that everyone was packed into the pavilion. The security was so tight that lead singer Chris Robinson felt the need to call them out and complain about them not allowing people to come up to the front of the stage to dance, since there were all of a few thousand in the whole damn place.

At the time, I appreciated his candor and wasn’t surprised when they finally made their way back to the Bay area in 2008 and stopped at a different venue: Ruth Eckerd Hall. I wasn’t at that show, but I was there for their return to Clearwater this past Wednesday, October 7, and Robinson has some choice commentary that night, too, only this time his seeming ire was directed at the audience. [all photos by Phil Bardi]

The hall was about half-full, a scattered crowd of casual fans and die-hards mixed with the overdressed groups of season ticket holders. The smell of Nag Champa wafted through the air, a bundle of incense sticks burning in a clump at the corner of a stage bathed in saturated light. Read the rest of this entry »

Sat. Sept. 26. VIP Dungeon Party. The first ever VIP Dungeon Party is an exclusive event for 250 fetish enthusiasts. X-rated performances by StrykerVawn. In addition to the fetish equipment already set up in the Castle’s dungeon room, there will be a Roman cross, suspension spreader, padded kneeler, and a coffin cage. $15. DJ Rob Givens. The Castle 2004 N. 16th St. Ybor 33605.

Sat. Sept. 26th. Ride ‘Em Cowgirl Swingers’ Party. Come dressed in your hottest cowboy or cowgirl outfits and scoot your boots on the dance floor! Ladies, feel free to take a ride down the happy trail in the “Sybian Saddle!” There will be a hottest Badonkadonk (Smokin’ Hot Ass) contest and Sensual Swingers will be providing prizes. 9pm-?. Visit Tabooswingers.com Read the rest of this entry »

He’s been profiled in Southern Living, garnered the highest Zagat food rating in the Bay area, and owns three restaurants and a chocolate-making facility. But have you ever heard of David Miller? He is a humble culinary wunderkind still in his 20s who produces exceptionally beautiful and tasty fare at his high-end prix-fixe Savant Fine Dining and the more casual Cities Restaurant next door in Clearwater. Check him out and you’ll start singing his praises, too.

Although Lenny’s (in Clearwater) has dominated this Best of the Bay Readers’ Poll category in recent years, current vote totals peg this race as one of the closest in the Food and Drink category. Lenny’s, Frog Pond, Daily Eats, Nicko’s, Pach’s Place, Pink Flamingo, Pinky’s, Skyway Jack’s, and Village Inn are all neck-and-neck for second place, while national chain First Watch has a commanding (but beatable) lead.

Are Tampa Bay’s morning-food fans going to let a chain (albeit one that started in Florida) win this award? And where is Lenny’s notorious get-out-the-vote campaign?

There’s still two weeks to propel your favorite spot to the top in this hotly contested race (the poll ends Aug. 31).

Vote now, and tell your personal Best Breakfast restaurant to get out the vote!

(Photo from Fin Fahey/Flickr.)

Datz Deli: Salt of the Earth. Despite what some may say, Datz wants to teach you that “from fleur de sel to kosher, all salts are not created equal.” Learn how to use this humble ingredient to enhance the flavors of every bite you eat. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Z Grille: Offers 1/2 price bottles of wine every Monday, to go with its fantastic food, which you can enjoy on the cheap as well with this new happy hour food deal: Read the rest of this entry »

Aug 13-16. Fetish Con. A fetish trade show. Featured appearances by comic book artists and writer George Perez, industry speaker and legal representative Robert B. Nussbaum, the original “Michael Meyers” Tony Moran, and Tonya Kay from Season 1 of “Who Wants to be a Super Hero.” Guests of honor: Stacy Burke Spokesmodel, Paris Kennedy, Kendra James, Maxine X, Emily Addison, Rubberdoll, Jean Bardot, Jade Indica, Paige Richards, Jewell Marceau, and Anastasia Pierce. Lectures and demonstrations: how to be a successful model, the federal record keeping statue, intro to bondage photography, self-puppeteer rope bondage suspension demo, predicament bondage, the art of body plastering, the art of cupping, the first amendment and obscenity law, super heroine showdown III, creating a presence via social networks, BDSM for the disabled, pain is for pleasure not injury, beginning rope bondage suspension, rope bondage for porn, fan photo shoot, and private dungeon play space. 18+. $20-55. Fetishcon.com. Read the rest of this entry »

After debating STD rates this weekend despite the fact that I had no solid evidence, I decided to research the matter. Below is a brief overview of the STD situation in the bay area. Keep in mind that while some of these rates may seem low, they are significantly higher among sexually active demographics.

According to Avert.org, in 2007 the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater area reported 11,754 AIDS/HIV cases. For every 100,000 people, 17.2 people are living with the disease, or roughly 0.017 % of the total population. Read the rest of this entry »

What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed this last week:

St. Petersburg College’s new Natural Science, Mathematics and College of Education building is certified LEED® Gold- St. Petersburg College recently announced that for the second time in as many months, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has awarded LEED Gold certification for one of its new campus buildings.

Best of the Bay of the Day: Best organic smoothie- Believe it or not, algae and bee pollen add up to a delicious drink called the Spirulina Power Buzz. Read this to find out where to get one.

Tips to improve gas mileage (and save some green)- Do you have a lead foot or drive an inefficient automobile?  Here are a few simple tips to improve gas mileage and save a bunch of green!

Living Sustainably in Tampa Bay: Darren Brinkley, owner of REAL Building- Brinkley is the owner of REAL Building and home that he built for his family in St. Petersburg is the first home in Florida to achieve the LEED for Homes Gold Rating.
Read the rest of this entry »

St. Petersburg College recently announced that for the second time in as many months, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has awarded LEED Gold certification for one of its new campus buildings.

The Natural Science, Mathematics and College of Education building on the Clearwater campus received the certification. The other LEED Gold building is the Student Services building on the St Petersburg/Gibbs campus.

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is a nationally accepted certifier of high performance and environmentally sensitive buildings. Gold is its second highest designation. Read the rest of this entry »

Looking for something green-related to do this weekend? Look no further than our own Green Community Calendar.

Whole Foods: Destination Date Night- Fri., June 19. Comedy, plus wine and cheese tasting. Singles and couples are treated to an hour long variety adventure while enjoying a wine and cheese tasting from Whole Foods Market. Registration required- RSVP: at store lobby or to sherell.white@wholefoods.com. Whole Foods Market- 1548 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, 813-874-9435

The World Cafe: Connecting People Through Conversations That Matter- Fri., June 19. Every Fri., 7:30 pm promptly; Starbucks at 4th St. N. & 89th Ave N., St. Pete (just south of Gandy Blvd.); RSVP to Pat at 727.421.2746 or goodpat@tampabay.rr.com

Plant Some Trees with the Tampa Bay Derby Darlins- Sat., June 20. What better way to kick off the summertime then to plant a few trees with some fun, kick-ass girls? Come out to Little Bayou Park at 9am on Saturday, June 20th to help the girls out in their first full fledged green event! Planting supplies will be provided but please do not forget to bring your sunscreen, water to keep hydrated (we are in Florida in June people), and gloves! The girls have promised that they will only ruffle your feathers upon request! 9 am, Little Bayou Park- 4th Street South and 55th Avenue South in St. Petersburg.

Guided Hike at Weedon Island- Sat., June 20. Guided hikes through coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Preserve are held each Saturday of the month. Join us to learn about the coastal environment and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve. Be sure to bring water and a snack for this 2-hour hike. A hat and closed-toe shoes are also recommended. Reserve your space by 2 pm on the Friday prior to the tour of choice. This event is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required. Recommended ages: 6 and up. Call (727) 453-6500 for more information and to register. 9 a.m.-11 a.m.; Weedon Island Preserve.

Guided Hike at Brooker Creek- Sat., June 20. Take a walk through time each Saturday morning on a guided hike along the Education Center Trail. Join us for this 0.75-mile walk as we look at how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration is required by 12:00 noon on the Friday before the hike. Admission: Free. All ages welcome – children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. Call (727) 453-6800 for more information and to register. 9am-11am; Brooker Creek Preserve.

Lose Your Lawn and Go Native: Native Plant Tour and Talk- Sat., June 20. Talking about native alternatives to your lawn with a garden tour of the nursery at Twigs & Leaves Garden Center. Every Saturday, 10 am; 1013 9th Street (Dr. MLK Jr. Street) South in St. Petersburg 33705, 727.822.5400; free.

Compost Happens- Sat., June 20. Join Master Gardener John Kingsbury for this informative workshop to learn how easy composting can be. Just add your kitchen scraps to your yard clippings and compost happens! To register for this free program, visit http://www.pinellascountyextension.org/ and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call (727) 582-2100. 10 a.m.; Pinellas County Extension 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.

Environmental Justice Conference- Sat., June 20. Environmental Justice/Conservation and “We The People”. The School of Urban and Regional Planning is co-hosting an Environmental Justice Conference at the Broward County Main Library Auditorium. During the Conference we will discuss the progress that has been made with regard to the 2001 Economic and Environmental Equity Program Management Plan that was part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. In addition, we will discuss how we can make sure that the needs of low income and minority communities will be addressed in the future. For more information, please call Linda Foster at 954.762.5652. 10 am-3 pm; Broward County Main Library Auditorium, 100 South Andrews, Fort Lauderdale; free, with lunch included.

Living Foods Made Easy- Sat., June 20. A free raw foods class with Chef Joseph Custer. Feat. Southwest Chili and Avocado-Kale Salad. 11 am; Nature’s Food Patch- 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6706; free.

Whole Foods Private Label Storewide Tasting- Sat., June 20. A storewise block party featuring Whole Foods Market’s private label products- 365. Active demos in every department, valuable tips, recipes and tasty samples. 1-3 pm; Whole Foods Market- 1548 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, 813-874-9435; free event.

Whole Foods: Decorate a Cake for Dad- Sat., June 20. Kids Father’s Day Cake Decorating Event. Whole Foods will provide the cakes and decorations. Adults must accompany kids 8 and under. Class limited to 20, RSVP: at store lobby or to sherell.white@wholefoods.com. 3-4 pm.; Whole Foods Market- 1548 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, 813-874-9435

New Zealand Wine Tasting at Greenwise Market- Sat., June 20. Try these unique wines at the Greenwise Wine Shop. Free. June 20, 4-7 pm; 2403 W. Azeele St., Tampa.

Summer Solstice Party- Sat., June 20. A community celebration for all ages during the longest day of the year with activities, food, beverages, live music and a native plant sale. Sat., June 20, all day event; Twigs and Leaves- 1013 9th Street (Dr. MLK Jr. Street) South in St. Petersburg 33705, 727.822.5400; free

Looking for something green-related to do this weekend? Look no further than our own Green Community Calendar.

Guided Canoe Trip at Weedon Island Preserve- Friday, June 12. Take this opportunity to explore a portion of the south canoe trail at Weedon Island Preserve. This trail offers a rare look at some of the aquatic ecosystems that make west-central Florida so special. Trained canoe guides lead you through mangrove stands and over seagrass and oyster beds, while pointing out various flora and fauna that live here. If you have never explored the Preserve from the water, this is an exciting opportunity you don’t want to miss! The cost for this unique experience is $14.02 per person plus tax ($15 total) or $28.04 per canoe plus tax ($30 total) (maximum of 3 people per canoe). Spaces fill quickly, and pre-registration is required. Minimum age: Children must be 6 years old or older and all minors must be accompanied by an adult. Call(727) 453-6500 for more information and to register. Weedon Island Preserve- 1500 Weedon Dr NE, St Petersburg.

Dutch Approach to Climate Change: A Dialogue with Tampa Bay- Friday, June 12. To open a dialogue on knowledge exchange between the Tampa Bay region and the Dutch water sector on approaches to adapt our cities and infrastructure to potential consequences of climate change. Target audience: Water resource managers, urban planners, utility managers, municipal administrators, infrastructure engineers, members of Tampa Bay community. Gain new insight into how the integration of water management, land use planning, infrastructure engineering and hazard planning can prepare Tampa Bay for potential consequences of climate change. For questions related to workshop content, please contact Dr. Daniel Yeh (dhyeh@eng.usf.edu ) 813.974.4746. Please also see the site for the latest agenda. The event is free but registration is required due to limited seating. Please RSVP: Ms. Bessie Skoures (bskoures@cas.usf.edu ) 813-974-1256. Gibbons Alumni Center, University of South Florida, Tampa.
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Clearwater features two of the Bay area’s finest chefs — Chris Ponte of Cafe Ponte and David Miller of Savant — while the beaches and islands have some incredible seafood spots. Which restaurant is the best of the bunch? That’s for you to decide. Scroll past the list to the poll and cast your vote!

(Check out next week’s food issue — Tampa Bay’s Top 50 Restaurants — for more detailed information on each restaurant. And don’t forget to vote in the four other regional top tens.)

ABC Seafood, 2705 54th Ave. N, St. Petersburg, 727-522-1888
Cabana Del Tio, 1709 Drew St., Clearwater, 727-466-0504
Café Ponte, 13505 Icot Blvd., Clearwater, 727-538-5768 or cafeponte.com
Caretta on the Gulf, 500 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater, 727-674-4171
Floridian, 4424 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-287-6662; 230 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island, 727-367-6662; floridianrestaurant.com
Greektown Grille, 1230 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-230-6850 or greektown-grille.com
Guppy’s on the Beach, 1701 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, 727-593-2032 or 3bestchefs.com
Kelly’s For Just About Anything, 319 Main St., Dunedin, 727-736-5284 or kellyschicaboom.com
Maritana Grill, 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, 727-360-1881
Savant Fine Dining, 2551 Drew St., Clearwater, 727-421-9975 or savantfinedining.com

VOTE AFTER THE BREAK! Read the rest of this entry »

We put it to you, the readers, to help us fill out our list of Tampa Bay’s Top 50 Restaurants, and you spoke. Repeatedly.

Through the six days of voting, many people left heartfelt recommendations in support of their favorite spots, with restaurants ranging from Sarasota to Tarpon Springs. Some were neighborhood haunts, while the big names like Bern’s or Pelagia Trattoria received a few nods from the faithful. But in the end, only five restaurants could ascend to the list.

In first place — thanks to an obvious, perfectly legal, incredibly effective ballot-stuffing campaign — is Paci’s Pizza of Tampa. There were some negative comments about the profusion of Paci’s votes, but there’s no denying the volume.

Second is new (and old) cuban sandwich shop The Floridian, which recently expanded to Tampa from Treasure Island. Bin 27 in South Tampa mounted a final push to easily take the third spot, but the final two spots were much tighter. In a tie, with runner-up Green Springs Bistro a mere single vote behind, was Backfin Blue in Gulfport and Bamboozle Cafe in downtown Tampa.

The full list of Tampa Bay’s Top 50 Restaurants will appear this Wednesday at our Top 50 landing page, a full week before it hits the newstands. Why so early? We want your help, again.

We’ve split the Top 50 into five categories, and need your votes to determine the best in each. Check back this Wednesday to support your favorite restaurants and propel them to victory. Voting will end Monday, June 15, at 3 p.m.

You eat, so you make the call.

I’ve been working on CL Sarasota’s Food Issue — Summer of Pig — and one of the pieces is a rundown of local roadside barbecue stands. The Bay area is a much bigger nut to crack when it comes to tracking down these impromptu purveyors of pork, so I need your help.

Drop me a comment below to let me know which neighborhood smoke stands you frequent, and give me a hint about where to find them and what they do best. If we can assemble a rough map of Tampa Bay’s barbecue network, we’ll all benefit.

Wednesday, May 20: The Grape
Throughout the month of May, The Grape pairs interesting Italian wines not featured on the regular menu with a special chef’s tasting menu. It includes delectable selections like grilled shrimp crostini, Portobello carpaccio, paillard of chicken breast puttanesca and an artisanal Italian cheese plate. $35. 2223 N. Westshore Blvd., Tampa (813-354-9463)

Wednesday, May 20: World of Wines South Tampa
Wine-Down Wednesday. A wine tasting featuring several bottles from California, Chile and Australia along with snacks from Robert’s Catering. Free. 6- 8 p.m., 3431 South West Shore Blvd., Tampa (813-835-9463).

Thursday, May 21: Vino 100
This ladies night out features a wine tasting, appetizers from Let’s Eat and massage chairs to melt away workday worries. Free. 5-8 p.m., 5056 Fourth Street N., St. Pete (727-522-8466)

Thursday, May 21: WineMall
Sample fine wines paired with appetizers by Roy’s at this charity event that raises funds for leukemia and lymphoma research. The evening also features a raffle and a silent auction. Please RSVP to Courtney Simons at csimons@sptimesforum.com. $25. 6-8 p.m., 11246 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa (813-855-7711)

Many more upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

The first time I saw James Taylor in concert was in college.  It was the early ’90s, and I was on a date.  This was a very big-deal date because there was dinner before and the concert so I think my suitor had very high hopes about how the evening would end. James (yeah, I’m calling him James) played in a 1500-seat concert hall near Chapel Hill, NC (In my mind I’ve gone to Carolina…), which is just about the best geographic location to see him play. The second time I saw James in concert was at Tanglewood, an outdoor venue in the Berkshires.  I was doing summer stock in Stockbridge (..and so was the turnpike from Stockbridge to Boston…) and the interns all blew a paycheck on a lawn ticket and a bottle of cheap wine.  The photos from that night show a group of unwashed, unattractive, drunk 20-somethings.  We were so far back that I cannot be sure that James actually played that night.

My most recent viewing of James was not under what I would consider the ideal circumstances.  If one is an employee of Ruth Eckerd Hall (as this particular one is) then it is understood that the staff ticket policy is somewhat strict.  I didn’t even attempt to get staff tickets when James was added to the schedule.  Then, out of the blue, a loophole appeared!  I could watch part of the show if I would be willing to man a satellite soda and water station in the west lobby.  Hmmm…would I get tips?  Maybe? I’m in!  Everyone who passed though the west lobby and gave me that pitying look as I hawked water and sodas, don’t you worry about Susan, my vantage point was better than yours. Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, Apr. 22: Cork and Olive
At the Single’s Sizzle and Swirl Cooking Class, learn how to create your own dish and pair wine with your new invention. $45. 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., 10019 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa (813-868-3733)

Thursday, Apr. 23: Kuba Cigars
At this wine tasting, sample dark chocolate, snacks and an assortment of cheeses. There will also be door prizes and a fine wine giveaway. $10. 7-9 p.m., 243 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa (813-258-8191)

Thursday, Apr. 23: Toasted Pheasant Bistro
Enjoy a four-course Chilean dinner complete with wine paired for each course. $45. 7-10 p.m., 14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa (813-265-6700)

Many more after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Taylor and Brian Nosh under the influence of Roederer Estate Sparkling Wine this week, and talk about David Miller’s new Cities Restaurant, The Lodge, Tacos and Tuscany.

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I profiled David Miller of Savant Fine Dining for our $20 Menu Challenge last year and was utterly fascinated by his story: 27 years old (now 28), high school drop-out, culinary competition wiz, CIA grad, muscle car hobbyist, sugar expert and owner of two restaurants and a chocolate-making shop. Oh, wait, make that three restaurants.

Tomorrow, his Cities Restaurant (2551 Drew St., Clearwater, 727-421-9975) will open next door to his high-end, prix fixe Savant. The new restaurant (a la carte, not prix fixe) will feature a different city as its theme every month, with menus, artwork and everything else changing to match the mood of the new locale. Prices are still high-end, with entrees ranging from $22-36.

Simple concept, but Miller’s already getting playful with the idea:

Read the rest of this entry »

No matter how much I may disagree with the results, there’s no arguing with popularity. At least, that is, in a popularity contest like the Readers’ Poll. Casa Tina easily surpasses La Cabana Del Tio and moves on to the Final Four

Voting for the final match of the Edible Eight began today — El Taconazo vs. Mekenita Mexican Grill — and continues through tomorrow, so be sure to support your favorite spot! For all results check out the Tournament of Tacos Readers’ Poll info page.

Updated bracket with all the matchups after the break:

Read the rest of this entry »

Casa Tina is a perennial favorite among northern Pinellas folks, thanks the its congenial atmosphere and often incredible sauces. La Cabana del Tio is a tiny spot with a devout following amongst the Bay area’s taco cognoscenti. Will the Dunedin restaurant unseat the Clearwater taco specialist?

Which taco deserves to move on to the Final Four?

Vote after the break –

Read the rest of this entry »

La Cabana del Tio received a number one seed thanks to the recommendations of many Bay area taco experts. Turns out, it richly deserved the ranking. Taqueria El Maguey is an unknown Mexican joint with a following, but not for their tacos. Can a humble restaurant knock off a number one seed?

Which taco deserves to move on to the Edible Eight?

Vote after the break –

Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, Mar. 25: Whole Foods Market
Every Wednesday in March, stop by Whole Foods for the Wine Down Wednesday tasting. Free. 4-6 p.m., 1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435)

Wednesday, Mar. 25: Whole Foods Market
Join Elaine Robert for a lecture on Gaia herbs. Free. 6:30-7:30 p.m., 1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435)

Wednesday, Mar. 25: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
At the Northern Italian Wine Dinner, enjoy a five-course meal and wines from the Piedmont and Lombardy regions of Italy. $69. 6:30 p.m., 1575 S Ft. Harrison, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Wednesday, Mar. 25: Tampa Club Young Member Wine Dinner
Members of the club part of the under 40 crowd are invited to this wine dinner, at which Chardonnay and Pinot Noir will be paired with a filet mignon meal. $29. 6:30 p.m., 101 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa (813-229-6028)

Many more upcoming events after the break:

Read the rest of this entry »

Over a thousand people voted in the first round of CL’s Tournament of Tacos Readers’ Poll and — although I might have disagreed with a couple of your picks — most of you have shown remarkable taste. Most of the competitions were no surprise — like Taconazo, Red Mesa, Mema’s or Peg’s moving on thanks to their hordes of loyal fans — but a few dark horse taco joints managed to buck the pundits and turn out the vote.

Who made it into the Savory Sixteen? Find that and an updated bracket after the break.

Read the rest of this entry »

The second day of CL’s Tournament of Tacos featured the undisputed popular favorite — El Taconazo, the Taco Bus — up against a newcomer hawking San Diego-style fare off the beaten path. Day 2 also gave me some of the best tacos I’ve tasted so far — and they weren’t from Taconazo.

First seeded El Taconazo vs. California Tacos To Go in Tampa North and La Cabana del Tio vs. Carambas Restaurante in Pinellas North.

Who advances to the Savory Sixteen? Which taco took the popular vote?

Find out after the break:

Read the rest of this entry »

La Cabana del Tio is a locals’ favorite with classic versions of the glorious taco. Carambas has items like jalapeno poppers and “Mexican” rice. But appearances may be deceiving at both of these north Pinellas spots. So which taco deserves to move up to the Savory Sixteen?

I’ll reveal my pick tomorrow, but you still have a say. Vote below for your favorite in this taco-a-taco showdown and we’ll track the results in our readers’ poll. And if you haven’t tasted these two worthy competitors, this is a perfect excuse for an extended, taco-tasting lunch.

Check out all of CL’s Tournament of Tacos coverage here for both future matchups and daily results, until the tournament ends April 1. And you’ll find contact and location info here for all of the competitors.

So who wins: La Cabana del Tio or Carambas Restaurante? (And don’t forget to vote in today’s other matchup: El Taconazo vs. California Tacos To Go!)

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Check out the full Tournament of Tacos bracket after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Acapulco serves tacos from the back of a bodega crammed with Mexican ingredients and phone cards. Florence la Mexicana is an aged lunch counter near the docks. Neither has any atmosphere to speak of, so it’s down to the nitty gritty: Which taco deserves to move up to the Savory Sixteen?

I’ll reveal my pick tomorrow, but you still have a say. Vote below for your favorite in this taco-a-taco showdown and we’ll create a separate bracket just for readers’ picks. Who knows, maybe you guys have the refined taste and exceptional skill to match my critic’s picks. And if you haven’t tasted these two worthy competitors, this is a perfect excuse for an extended, taco-tasting lunch.

Check out all of CL’s Tournament of Tacos coverage here for both future matchups and daily results, until the tournament ends April 4.

So who wins: Acapulco or Florence la Mexicana? (And don’t forget to vote in today’s other matchup!)

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Check out the full Tournament of Tacos bracket after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Two years ago, CL challenged 64 pizzerias to enter tournament-style culinary combat, slice versus slice, the deserving winner crowned best pie in the Bay area. Last year, burgers took center-stage in our quest for gustatory greatness, one patty reigning supreme. This year, the tradition continues.

It’s Taco Time, baby!

Like pizza and burgers, the fundamentals are simple: tortilla stuffed with meat, vegetables and sauce. But, as with CL’s tournaments of years past, taco success is more elusive than that basic combination would indicate. One misstep and the entire thing can literally fall apart in your hands.

Tacos also defy easy definitions. How do you compare the fried fish tacos of Baja California with the chopped, stewed tripe of Central Mexico? Or pork pastor slathered in adobo versus simple ground beef seasoned with chili and vinegar? Not to mention the litany of meats that rarely cross American palates, like cabeza (head), lengua (tongue), buche (esophagus) and sesos (brains). Can finely chopped tongue stack up against simple carne asada? Read the rest of this entry »

CL’s Tournament of Tacos kicks off tomorrow with daily, taco-a-taco matchups between the competitors. First up, we’ll cut the thirty-two finalists down to a Savory Sixteen with two matches every day for a week. And this year, instead of just my stellar palate picking the winners, you get a chance to be heard.

How can you help determine the best taco in the Bay area, and get an opportunity to win valuable prizes? It’s simple: Read the rest of this entry »

Monday, Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23: Uncorked
This is the first of four courses at the Uncorked Wine Academy. Learn about wine making techniques, how to read wine labels, and food and wine pairings. $50 for four classes. 7-9 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Wednesday, Mar. 4: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Sample from dozens of wine selections at the Brandon store. Chat with wine experts and indulge in gourmet hors d’oeuvres. Each guest will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $5 off any purchase that night. $10. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1405 E Brandon Blvd, Brandon (813-685-4832)

Thursday, Mar. 5: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Wine tasting at the Treasure Island location. Guests will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $3 off a purchase of the night. $5. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 204 107th Ave, Treasure Island (727-360-6153)

Friday, Mar. 6: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Join Dr. Julie Gatza at the “Five Secrets to Looking and Feeling Younger” seminar and learn how to eat and live healthy. Free. 6 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Friday, Mar. 6: Andrea’s Sip for Life Wine Tasting
Sample tapas from The Columbia Restaurant and over 250 wines from Spain, California and South America at the third annual Sip For Life tasting. Proceeds from the event at the Tampa Bay History Center go to support finding a cure for pediatric sarcoma. $100 donation. 7-10 p.m., 801 Old Water Street, Tampa (813-248-3000)

Friday, Mar. 6: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Friday wine Happy Hours at Belleair continue this week. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Saturday, Mar. 7: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Chef Debby DeGraaff will host the “Wonderful Wild Rice” cooking class, featuring a wild rice and vegetable salad paired with wild rice with mushrooms and tofu. Free. 11 a.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Saturday, Mar. 7: Abilities Wine Tasting
Enjoy hundreds of wines, live entertainment and food from gourmet restaurants at Tropicana Field’s 20th annual tasting. $50 – $125. 6-9 p.m., 1 Tropicana Dr, St. Petersburg (727-538-7370 ext. 345)

Saturday, Mar. 7: Vino 100 Brandon/Valrico
Explore the effects of environment on wine with Vino 100 by sampling a slew of Australian wines. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Saturday, Mar. 7: Chez Bryce
Enjoy a three-course lunch with Tatiana Rugers, a Tampa Bay mural and decorative artist, at Chez Bryce restaurant. $15. 12-2 p.m., 238 E Davis Isle, Tampa (813-258-8100)

Sunday, Mar. 8: Tampa Rotary Pig Roast
Come see if Team “Sir Pigs A Lot” will take top honors for the fourth year in a row in this whole-pig roasting competition to benefit local charities. $25. 2-5 p.m., St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa (813-765-0707)

Sunday, Mar. 8: The Best Florida Beer Championship
The championship ends with the Brewers Ball at Skipper’s Smokehouse. Celebrate with food, music and beer – gold-medal winning beers from the championship will be featured – while the winners of the Professional and Homebrew competitions are announced. $25. 12-5 p.m., 910 Skipper Rd, Tampa (813-220-1086)

Tuesday, Mar. 10: FOODMATTERS Film Showing
This provocative film at The Long Center is back by popular demand. Whole Foods Market will provide snacks. $5. 7 p.m., 1501 N Belcher Rd, Clearwater

Wednesday, Mar. 11: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Explore ways to cope with your physical, mental or emotional challenges at Dr. Anthony Calandro’s seminar “Creating a Health Body through Cultivating a Positive Mind.” Free. 6:30 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Wednesday, Mar. 11: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Enjoy another ABC wine tasting, this time at the Wesley Chapel store. Guest will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $5 off a purchase of the night. 1845 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Wesley Chapel (813-782-1389)

Thursday, Mar. 12: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Sample wine selections from around the world and hors d’oeuvres at this Seffner wine tasting. Each guest will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $3 off a purchase of the night. $5. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 507 W MLK Blvd, Seffner (813-681-7979)

Thursday, Mar. 12: The Grape
The Tampa Alumnae Panhellenic Association hosts the 6th annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, featuring gourmet food, wine and music. $25 advanced, $35 at the door. 6-8 p.m., 2223 N. Westshore Blvd. Suite B217, Tampa (239-272-8281)

Thursday, Mar. 12: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
In the “Gut Connection” seminar, Dr. George Springer will explain how imbalances in the body’s digestive system can cause health problems. Free. 6:30 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Thursday, Mar. 12: Vino 100 St. Petersburg
Sample wines from Australia at this St. Pete wine tasting. Free. 5-8 p.m., 5056 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-522-8466)

Thursday, Mar. 12 & Friday, Mar. 13: Fleming’s Steakhouse and Wine Bar
Enjoy great music, fine wines and a three-course meal at the Vintage Rock Dinner. $55. 6:30 p.m. 2001 Siesta Dr, Sarasota (941-358-9463)

Friday, Mar. 13: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Nutritionist Barbara Lee will explain how to get all you can for your health dollar in the “Spending Money Wisely on Health” seminar. Free. 6 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Friday, Mar. 13: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Weekly Friday wine Happy Hour at Belleair. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Friday, Mar. 13: Uncorked
Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day at Uncorked with McBeer and Mead, snacks and dancing. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Friday-Sunday, Mar. 13-15: Cajun Zydeco Crawfish Festival
Cajun invasion begins with this 9th annual festival of all things Louisiana. $35 for three days. Friday 4:30-10 p.m., Saturday noon-10 p.m., Sunday noon-8 p.m., Vinoy Park, Downtown St. Pete (727-892-5798)

Saturday, Mar. 14: Vino 100 Brandon
Sippin Saturday tasting at the Brandon store. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Tuesday, Mar. 17: Vino 100 Brandon
Learn about the elegant white wines of Germany – like Riesling – at The Wines of Germany class. $20 per person, $35 per couple. 6- 7:30 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Friday, Mar. 20: Uncorked
At the Oregon Wine Tasting, sample different wines from the region – like Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris – and discover unique food pairings. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Friday, Mar. 20: Belleair Wine and Grill Bar
Weekly Friday wine Happy Hour at Belleair. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Saturday, Mar. 21: Toast Fine Wine & Cigars
Listen to some of your favorite records while drinking fabulous wines at Toast’s Vine and Vinyl event. Free. 6-9 p.m., 14921 Bruce B. Downs, Tampa (813-632-3105)

Saturday, Mar. 21: Sweetwater Organic Workshop
Listen to Sweetwater founder and director Rick Martinez discuss the most common weeds and pests in the area, and how to keep them out of your garden. $15 (or volunteer). 2-3 p.m., 6842 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa (813-887-4066)

Saturday, Mar. 21: Vino 100 Brandon
Join Vino as they take a tour of the old country, and sample wine from some of the greatest wine regions in the world: Chianti, Tuscany Piedmont, Bordeaux and Loire. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Saturday, Mar. 21: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
At “Living Foods Made Easy,” Chef Joseph Custer will teach guests how to prepare puddings and creams from raw foods. Free. 11 a.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Sunday, Mar. 22: Sweetwater Organic Workshop
This workshop covers how to handle stress and depression with herbal medicine, featuring herbalist Bob Linde. $10. 3-4 p.m., 6842 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa (813-887-4066)

Thursday, Mar. 26: Italian Club of Tampa
Join the Italian Club for the Wines of Italy, featuring 65 wines from different regions in Italy, Italian antipasta and desserts. $45 before Mar. 20. 6-9 p.m., 1731 E. 7th Ave., Tampa (813-248-3316)

Mar. 26-28: International Rum Festival
The largest rum festival in the U.S. will feature three days of tastings, dinners and festive events in Ybor.

Friday, Mar. 27: Toast Fine Wine & Cigars
Toast’s monthly wine tasting will offer 17 wine selections and appetizers. Free. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 14921 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa (813-632-3105)

Friday, Mar. 27: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Weekly Friday wine Happy Hour. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Friday, Mar. 27: Uncorked
At the Big Three Wine Tasting, sample wines from popular regions in France, Italy and Spain. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Saturday, Mar. 28: Polished Palate International Rum Festival
Come to the Ritz Ybor to sample dozens of rums from around the world and rum-infused treats. A silent auction and various seminars by rum aficionados will also take place. $50 VIP, $40 general. 7-10 p.m., 1503 E. 7th Ave., Tampa (727-947-3522)

Saturday, Mar. 28: Vino 100 Brandon
Vino’s Sippin Saturday wine tasting at the Brandon store. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Sunday, Mar. 29: Sweetwater Organic Workshop
Julie Barreda Bruyn will show kids and parents the basics of cooking, using crops fresh from Sweetwater’s fields. Ages 9 and up. $10. 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., 6842 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa (813-887-4066)

Tuesday, Mar. 31: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
In this “Health by Numbers” seminar, Susan Bucci will talk about body statistics we need to know in order to achieve optimum health. Free. 6:15 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Apr. 3-5: Cajun Cafe on the Bayou Crawfish Festival
Lots of music, lots of crawfish, lots of people saying “suck the head!” 8101 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park (727-546-6732)

Friday-Monday, Apr. 17-20: Bern’s 12th Annual Winefest Weekend
Bern’s big annual event includes tastings, dinners, seminars and more. Check the event website for full details.

Sunday, Apr. 19: B-21 Fine Wine & Spirits
Join B-21 for their annual Bordeaux vs. Cabernet wine tasting and sale. $25 before Apr. 17, $30 at the door. 2-5 p.m., 43380 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-937-5049)

Saturday, Apr. 25: Uncorked
Join Uncorked for their British Isles & Ireland Beer Event, where they will serve diverse brews from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Reservations required. $20. 7-9 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Friday-Saturday, May 15-16: Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival
This event at the Don Cesar Resort will feature wine and food tastings, seminars by celebrity chefs and live performances. $75, 1-4 p.m., 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach (813-258-5858)

Sunday, Jun. 14: B-21 Fine Wine & Spirits
B-21’s Tour of Italy tasting and sale will feature Italian wines such as Barolo, Chianti Classico and Supertuscans. $25 before Jun. 12, $30 at the door. 2-5 p.m., 43380 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-937-5049)

Saturday, Aug. 8: Vino, Java and Jazz
This event at the Florida Aquarium will feature wine samplings, special dishes, desserts, coffee and jazz music. Proceeds from a silent auction will go toward the Tampa Bay Region of the Easter Seals Florida organization. $65 in advance, $80 at the door. 7-11 p.m., 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa (813-769-5915)

Sunday, Aug. 16: B-21 Fine Wine & Spirits
Celebrate selections of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at the Best of Burgundy and Beyond tasting and Sale. $25 before Aug. 14, $30 at the door. 2-5 p.m., 43380 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-937-5049)

Thursday, Feb. 26: Mise En Place
Monthly meetings at Mise En Place include seminars, demonstrations and tastings that feature light appetizers and cocktails. This month’s cocktail is the Manhattan. $35. 6-8 p.m., 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813) 961-8388

Thursday, Feb. 26: L’Eden
Stop by L’Eden for a tasting tour through the Mediterranean, featuring food and wine from France, Italy and Spain. $25. 6-8 p.m., 500 N. Tampa St., Tampa (813-221-4795)

Thursday, Feb. 26: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
Women on Course is hosting a happy hour inspired by the golf lifestyle. The event offers networking oppurtunities, food, wine and tips on how to select the perfect wine. $25 for guests, $10 for members. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 4322 West Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa (703-268-5078)

Thursday, Feb. 26: Bern’s Fine Wines
This six-course wine dinner features Terra Valentine Winery from Napa, with winemaker Sam Baxter on hand to discuss his creations. $125. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave, Tampa (813-250-9463)

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Wednesday, Feb. 4: ABC Fine Wines and Spirits Largo
Sample from dozens of wine selections, with free hors d’oeuvres. $10. 1603 N. Missouri Ave., Largo (727-581-4642)

Thursday, Feb. 5: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
4 course Spanish wine dinner featuring importer David Bernard of Vinamericas. $49. 6:30-9 p.m., 1575 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater (727-449-2988 or belleairgrill.com)

Thursday, Feb. 5: Whole Foods
This tasting class will cover reds, whites and sparkling wines. Registration required. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., 1548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-874-9435)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Thursday, Jan. 29: All Children’s Hospital
This class is designed to teach parents and kids how to cook healthy foods. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., All Children’s Hospital Education Center, 701 4th St., St. Petersburg (allkids.org)

Thursday, Jan. 29: Cork & Olive Palm Harbor
Sip and dip night with eight red and white wines and olive oil. Free. 6-8 p.m., 4978 Ridgemoor Blvd., Palm Harbor (727-781-9463 or corkandolive.com)

Upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »