Foodie Does Tampa 1-New Spots

Openings!

On the Rocks (213 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach; 727-286-6224) has opened in the spot that used to be My Place. It calls its menu “casual upscale.” The people behind Bamboo Beach Bar in Madeira Beach are here.

Portofino Mediterranean (18825 U.S. Hwy 19 N., Clearwater; 727-286-6234) has opened in the spot that was recently Dogwater Café and before that, Hops. Reports are of significant renovations inside, and the menu looks pretty classic Italian.

$5 deals at Lee Roy Selmon’s

• On Nov. 8-10, you can enjoy 10 entrees for just $5 apiece to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of the restaurant started by the former Buccaneer great.

Take Inferno Soup challenge at Nitally’s Thai-Mex Cuisine — if you dare

By Tom Scherberger, Times Staff Writer
In Print: Thursday, October 28, 2010

A pint of crushed pepper, seeds and all, goes into the soup. The soup costs $15.95, but if no one wins, rises to $22.95 and the jackpot to $300.

After four months, 19 people had taken the challenge and not one had finished a bowl.

 

Foodie nirvana in St. Pete

• At last, South Pinellas has a place to buy ping-pong-sized grapes and specialty salts galore.

Saving Seltzer’s

• Harold Seltzer to reopen two Seltzer’s Steakhouses with his name on them. And there’s good news if you have an old gift card.

 

Pssst, heard about Ciro’s?

• The little speakeasy restaurant in South Tampa requires a reservation AND a password to get in most nights. But when you do, expect excellent food and atmosphere, says food critic Jim Webster.

 

A paella with punch

• The name says Tapas Garden & Wine Bar, but you’ll want to order the multifaceted rice dish at this Indian Rocks Beach restaurant. Critic Jim Webster likes many of the small plates there, too.

Dining for less

• Oscar‘s on St. Pete Beach makes dining affordable with inexpensive appetizers and most entrees at $10 or less.

This are odds and ends I snatched from the web that I thought you might like to try.  Please send me feedback if you do. Happy Eating!