Daily Loaf

The Florida Aquarium’s  ‘Brews by the Bay’ event made quite a splash Saturday night. Creative Loafing was the media sponsor of the festivities, which started at 8 p.m. with a line that wrapped around the building (tickets having sold out before the event even started), full of partygoers who were eager to sample the many brews offered and the appetizing food from local restaurants.

The party went on throughout the aquarium, with Four Star Riot playing downstairs, a DJ outside on the deck, and an acoustic musician playing inside the Coral Reef Gallery room, as well as scuba divers who interacted with the onlookers by writing messages on Etch-a-Sketch boards and performing acrobatics. Visitors were greeted by two live mermaids who offered photo opportunities (although it looked like most people were more interested in getting inside and downing their first beer). Guests had the chance to roam around the building to find all the food and drink spots while admiring the aquatic scenery.
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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 »

Tuesday, August 11: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Hispanic Techniques. Learn to inject Latin flavor into your cooking in this four-part series of cooking classes. The course menu borrows from many Hispanic traditions, and includes: rellenos de papas; rice and beans with calabaza; salted codfish stewed in tomatoes and olives; coconut ice cream;  cucumber soup; hearts of palm salad; pupusas; Honduras torrijas (ladyfingers in syrup); empanada de pino (meat turnover); bistec a lo pobre (traditional beefsteak); pastel de choclo (corn and meat pie); turron de vino (wine meringue); ceviche de pescado; aji (Andean-style Cchile paste); lomo saltado (steak with red wine); aji de gallina (spicy chicken); papas a la arequipena. $200 for all four classes. 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Aug. 11-Sept. 1., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Wednesday, August 12: The Lobster Pot
Z Fest. The Zodiac Club, a Salvador Dali Museum support group, hosts this evening of culinary delight and arty conversation, offering half price entrees like lobster bisque, oysters Rockefeller, lobster tail, filet mignon and more.  The Lobster Pot offers Zodiac Club members the same “surreal deal” through the end of August. RSVP to victor.g.santiago@me.com. 6:30 p.m., 17814 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores (727-291-8532)

Wednesday, August 12: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is duck confit cannelloni, with roasted hazelnuts, arugula and caramelized onion. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463) Read the rest of this entry »

The Think + Drink Cinema Series focuses on cultural, social and scientific topics. This week’s selection is I’m Your Man, which explores the life and times of Leonard Cohen (pictured, photo by MJ Kim), the prolific musician and poet whose tunes inspired covers by everyone from Rufus Wainwright to Beth Orton, Jarvis Cocker, Nick Cave, Kate and Anna McGarrigle and U2. Cohen’s also slated to visit the St. Pete Times Forum in October. The American Music Series prior to each movie explores the history and icons of the music that have shaped America, and features a live performance by a new local musician each week. Tonight’s live guest musician is Dennis Brock. Music begins at 6 p.m. and films begin at 7 p.m. every Thursday through Aug. 27 unless otherwise noted. Visit southfloridamuseum.org for more info. Thurs., Aug. 6, 6 p.m., Bishop Planetarium, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton, $8, $6 students, $5 museum members.

Dalí in New York is a documentary of the artist during the 1965 opening of his exhibit at Huntington Hartford’s Gallery of Modern Art. Dalí devoted himself to making the film as interesting as his art; he staged several avant garde scenes utilizing props like a plaster cast, a thousand ants, and a million dollars in cash. Then, see the psychedelic BBC documentary Hello Dalí, featuring montages of the artist’s paintings and videos, scenes with Salvador and Gala Dalí, and images of Teatro Museo Dalí during its construction. Thu., Aug. 6, 6 p.m., Salvador Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg, free with $5 museum admission, salvadordalimuseum.org.

The 18th annual Gourmet Feastival benefits the Tampa Centre for Women, and includes a mouthwatering array of decadent cuisine. Participating restaurants include wine devotees Bin 27, scrumptious sandwich shop Datz Deli, fancy fare from Chez Bryce, fondue from the Melting Pot, and more food and wine purveyors than you can shake a fondue fork at, along with live music and door prizes. Visit centreforwomen.org for more info. Thu., Aug. 6, 6-9 p.m., Tampa Hyatt Hotel, 211 N. Tampa St., Tampa, $50 in advance, $60 at the door.

Nearly every week, Datz Deli — an increasingly-popular post-work spot for a glass of vino or brew and a foodie-approved sandwich — offers an intriguing cooking or wine class. This week’s topic is DatzEDU: Va Va Vinegar, and attendees learn how to make this humble condiment the star of summer cooking with a few simple (and simply delicious) vinaigrettes. 6 p.m. Weds., July 29, Datz Deli, 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa, free; reservations suggested, 813-831-7000, datzdeli.com.

Barber of Seville

See The Barber of Seville broadcast live from The Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Gioachino Rossini’sclassic opera tells the tale of Count Almaviva, who wants to be loved for his virtue, not his money; the beautiful, clever Rosina, his beloved; and the scheming Dr. Bartolo, who intends to woo Rosina for himself. Visit fathomevents.com for tickets and info. 7 p.m. Weds., July 29, Citrus Park Stadium 20, 7999 Citrus Park Town Center Mall, Tampa.

Carson Daly has been pretty hands-on when it comes to getting good, up-and-coming musical acts on his show. Last Call with Carson Daly is currently cycling through a series of reruns from the past year, but the ones that are re-aired offer a glimpse of 2009’s highlights, those performers you should have checked out if you missed them. Tonight’s episode features Swedish indie pop singer Lykke Li, who released her full-length debut in 2008 and reached No. 24 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Best Songs of 2008 with that album’s single “I’m Good, I’m Gone.” She performs the song along with “Little Bit” and sits down to have a chat with Daly on the Wednesday night show. I suggest you tune in. Wed., July 29, 1:30 a.m., NBC. — Leilani Polk

Tuesday, July 28: Put A Cork In It
Toasty Tuesday. Relax at this tasting of 10-15 different wines and appetizers while chatting with industry experts and dancing to live music. $15. 7-9 p.m., 28347 Paseo Dr., Tampa (407-654-2188)

Tuesday, July 28: Wings Gone Wild
Specialty Beer Tasting. Sample craft beers from the Cigar City Brewery, Dunedin Brewery and Yuengling. Among the tempting selections are Red Head Red Ale, Mad Piper’s IPA, Maduro, Jai Alai IPA and more. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 6 p.m., 3114 W. Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa (813-944-9792)

Tuesday, July 28: Datz Deli
Beer Club: Red, White and Brew. Seems like it’s been summer all year long, but we Floridians know that the dog days of summer are right around the corner. Be prepared by finding the perfect temperature-dousing brew at this beer class and tasting. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Wednesday, July 29: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is eggplant parmesan, with farm eggplant, rustic tomato sauce and white truffle ricotta cheese. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

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Wednesday, July 22: The NoHo Bistro
Wine Wednesdays. Every week this summer, enjoy a relaxing end to each “hump day” with this tapas and wine tasting. Each Wednesday has a new theme, so don’t miss out on any of these palate-pleasing pairings. This week’s theme is “The Italian Way.” $15. 6-7 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, July 22: Parkshore Grill
Murphy Goode Wine Dinner. Chef Tyson presents an organic five-course menu using sustainable meats and fresh, local produce from Gateway Organic Farm, which receives proceeds from the event. $75. 6:30-8:30, 300 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727-896-9463)

Wednesday, July 22: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is a Tuscan take on the BLT, with pancetta, heirloom tomatoes, grilled romaine and rosemary mayonnaise. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, July 22: Datz Deli
Rethink Pink. Get a glimpse into the often misunderstood flavor profile of Rose wines, the perfect, cooling pick-me-up for hot summers. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

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Tuesday, July 14: Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
Enjoy a seven-course French meal paired with professionally-selected wines in honor of Bastille Day. The menu includes Franco favorites like escargot, a Beurre Blanc salmon and shrimp skewer, ratatouille, a variety of artisanal cheeses and more. Proceeds benefit the Abilities foundation, which helps locals with disabilities to find work. $75. 6:30 p.m., 105 N. Bayshore Dr., Safety Harbor (727-726-1161)

Tuesday, July 14: Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Tenuta Arceno Winemaker Tasting. Lawrence Cronin, winemaker at the revered Tuscan winemaking estate, is on hand for this complimentary wine tasting and bottle signing featuring Arceno’s Chianti Classico, Primavoce, Arcanum I and Arcanum II. Free. 2209 22nd Ave. N. St. Petersburg (727-321-2400)

Wednesday, July 15: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one pot wonder is shellfish bouillabaisse with green beans, tomato and saffron broth. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, July 15: The NoHo Bistro
Wine Wednesdays. Every week this summer, enjoy a relaxing end to each “hump day” with this tapas and wine tasting. Each Wednesday has a new theme, so don’t miss out on any of these palate-pleasing pairings. This week’s theme is “A Rose is a Rosé.” $15. 6-7 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

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Tuesday, June 30: A Taste for Wine
Wine doesn’t have to bear a hefty price tag to please your palate. Sample a tasty selection of quality wines that only taste like a splurge. $10. 6 p.m., 241 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-895-1623)

Wednesday, July 1: CL Wine Club Happy Hour at Datz Deli
BBQ Wines. Need wine for July 4th? We got you covered. Try six, tasty, specially selected wines by the glass for only $6 each. Paired with complementary appetizers. Free. 7-9 p.m., Datz Deli, 2616 S MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000). RSVP here!

Wednesday, July 1: Cafe Dufrain
Summer Series Wine Tasting. Try a new variety of wines every Wednesday. Free. 6-7:30 p.m., 707 Harbour Post Dr., Tampa (813-275-9701)

Wednesday, July 1: ABC Fine Wine and Spirits
Sample more than 50 wine selections accompanied by appetizers and an outdoor cigar sampler. $10. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 3535 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-894-4875)

Wednesday, July 1: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Basic Knife Skills. A menu designed to teach you slicing, dicing, julienne, and chiffonade knife techniques. Includes: gazpacho; miso glazed carrots; szechuan ratatouille; tomato salsa; warm vichyssoise. $50. 6 p.m., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

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May 22 – Free craft beer tasting at Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Petersburg. Craft brew specialists will be sampling beers from upstart sensation Cigar City Brewery, as well as the new Levitation (a sessionable brew) from Stone Brewing, and a selection of beers by Southampton Publick House. Event runs from 1-5pm. Free Southampton glassware with purchase.

May 23 – Spring Beer Fest at Tank’s Tap Room. Free tasting featuring yummy brews from Tampa’s own Cigar City Brewing, Gordon Biersch, Bell’s, and many, many others. They’ll also be unveiling a new food menu, raffling gear for The Little Patrick Foundation, doing giveaways, and hosting games. Live music performances and Romel from the Havana Cigar Factory offering live cigar rolling demonstrations and specials. Festivities kick off at 2pm and continue to close. Call (813) 961-BEER (2337) for more information. Read the rest of this entry »

Break out your calendars, beer fans. Here’s the scoop on this week’s brew agenda –

Thursday, April 30th : Oldsmar Tap House welcomes Dan Gordon, co-founder and original brewmaster of Gordon Biersch Brewery. Come out for an evening of mingling – and drinking, of course. A variety of Gordon Biersch brews will be available on draught. 300 State Street East, Oldsmar

More after the break:

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Tomorrow (Saturday the 11th) at Datz Deli — All Hail the Ale — a celebration of the world’s best beers matched with fine cheeses. $25 per person includes 5 ounce pours and commemorative glassware. 4 pm- 7pm. 2616 MacDill Ave. Call (813) 831-7000 or email dixon@datzdeli to reserve your spot. Here’s the pairing lineup :

Westmalle Trappist Tripel : Belgium : 9.5%
This Belgian offering hails from one of the world’s seven Trappist monasteries, where brewing is conducted or overseen by monks. The cloudy, golden brew sports fruity, floral aromas. A strong malt component results in toasty flavors; the slight honey citrus sweetness is balanced by a mild alcohol warmth and a dry finish. The sharp, smoky flavors of Grafton Village Smoked Cheddar compliment the maltiness of Westmalle Tripel.

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

This week’s free beer sampling is set for Thursday the 9th from 11am until 2pm. Stop by Datz Deli for lunch and enjoy free samples of Samuel Smith’s Organic Cider, Southampton India Pale Ale, and a variety of brews from Green’s Gluten Free Beer.

And don’t forget, this Saturday, Datz presents All Hail the Ale, a sampling featuring 8 of the world’s finest beers paried with cheese and charcuterie. $25 per person includes commemorative glassware. Starts at 7 pm. Reservations required. Call 813-831-7000 or contact dixon@datzdeli.com to reserve your spot.

The excellent folks at Datz Deli in Tampa have invited me to conduct weekday beer tastings and special beer and food pairing events. So here’s the agenda:

March 30th : 11am-2pm. Free samples of Lindeman’s Framboise and Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, with plenty of beer available to go. This is the first time Datz will be open on Monday.

April 1st : 6pm-7:30pm. Free beer and food samples hosted by Tampa Bay Metro.
Featuring Southampton Brewing’s Double White, Altbier, and IPA.

April 9th : 11am-2pm. Free beer samples. Specific brands coming soon.

April 11th : 4pm-7pm. Datz presents All Hail the Ale. Featuring 8 of the world’s best beers paired with gourmet food: Ayinger Dunkel Weiss, Westmalle Trappist Dubbel, Orval Trappist, Brooklyn Local 1, Brooklyn Local 2, Dogfish Head Fort, Stone Oaked Arrogant Bastard, Lindemans Gueuze Cuvee Rene. $35 per person includes beer, food, and commemorative glassware. Reservations required. (813) 831- 7000

This week, Taylor and Brian discuss the top 5 stories of the week (Pepsi Throwback, Fat Tire, Bill Niman, Paula Deen, Strawberry Festival); tempranillo — the noble grape of Spain; review Kilo Kai Rum; and interview sommelier Patti Kuhl of Datz Deli.

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about my ideal wine bar, a place I could call home and nuzzle with everyday. At the time, it didn’t exist yet in Tampa, but today, I found a pretty damn close example. It’s not the warm, cozy, fluffy-couch place of my dreams, but the wine list… sa-weet! The only bad thing? It’s in a deli and I don’t eat much bread. Read the rest of this entry »

We were busy this week. Check out what the CL food and wine blogs served up.

James raved about BJ’s Alabama Barbecue.

Taylor’s got the goods on a prix-fixe deal at Gallagher’s Steakhouse and how to win dinner for two at Toasted Pheasant, reveals the demise on A&L Fine Wines in Palm Harbor, and talks about how the recession is affecting the wine business.

Brian writes about designer eggs from Disney, Target winning best coffeemaker from Consumer Reports, gives a sneak peak of Datz’s Deli, provides a discourse on vanilla beans, talks about how much stimulus money goes towards food, and where Chef Domenica Macchia has landed. Read the rest of this entry »

In episode 3, Brian and Taylor give a sneak peek of the new Datz Deli, talk about Brian’s review of Tampa’s Bin 27 Bistro, rant about wine bars, and rundown the top five food stories of the week: Domenica Macchia, Burger King Body Spray, Hook Atsavinh, Hamburger Cake, and “Dear Richard Branson“.

Download.

With cool, high-end joints like Ocean Prime and Aquaknox opening in recent weeks, it seems a little strange that a place like Datz Deli (2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa, 813-831-7000) is consuming the attention of many Bay area foodies. Actually, considering the economy — and Tampa’s distinct lack of big-time New York-style delis — maybe that’s not so surprising after all.

By all accounts, Datz’s opening last week was madhouse. Yesterday, though, they started doing table service, so I popped in for a look (and a couple overstuffed sandwiches, of course). Read the rest of this entry »

Datz Deli
2616 MacDill Ave., Tampa, 813-831-7000 or datzdeli.com
People seem obsessed with the idea of a new deli in town providing giant sandwiches over-stuffed with pastrami or corned beef.  Opening day this week was mobbed at this two-story space, maybe because along with the sammies there’s fairly decent wine and beer selection.

Fatdogs
1200 19th St., Ybor
Apparently, this hot dog stand in Ybor is owned by James Devito of Taps in downtown Tampa. Nathan’s dogs and a whole lot of toppings are the draw.

More openings after the break:

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