"It's a little hot out on this patio... and where's that escargot we ordered?" #firstworldproblems
I had the pleasure of visiting the Refinery, winner of The James Beard Award, last week. On a Tuesday night at 5:30 (a dead time for most restaurants), The Refinery was nearly full. The Refinery's concept is simple. Good, local food for a decent price. Their website reads
"The concept that good food, prepared by professionals who are passionate
about their craft, who spend their off time learning new techniques,
who get giddy during morel season, should be made available to everyone. Whether you are thumbing through the last of your paycheck or
whether you're sitting on a million dollars, good food is a necessity,
not a right, and it is The Refinery's mission to provide just that."
I really like the idea that good food should be accessible to everyone. For less than 100 dollars, my parents and I enjoyed
escargot with wild mushrooms
pork shoulder with orzo and squash
Service was prompt and unpretentious. In a place where they very well could be food snobs, the staff here is friendly and laid back. This would be a good date spot, because the atmosphere is relaxed, the drinks are cheap, and the food is delicious and very share-able.
The Refinery is located at:
5137 N. Florida Ave. Tampa 33603
It's only about ten minutes away from USF campus. Their menu changes once a week, so you know for sure everything is fresh. Next time I'll be sure to save room for dessert!
The images of the food were very clear! I love eating, so I think it is awesome that you have created a blog about going to different restaurants (and bars) to blog about your experience. You should try Timpano Chophouse in Hyde park. They have an amazing brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11-2p.m.
ReplyDeleteI'm not too close to this place but I might have to check it out after class one night. The place looks very enticing. The food items look amazingly apealing from your pictures as well as the micro brew. Keep up the great reviews, I would've never known of this place without you. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI love Timpano! I live right down the street from there. I've never been to their brunch but I love their cocktails (like "The Gentleman's Manhattan, which is made which sweet vermouth, cherries, and Gentleman Jack bourbon) and their steaks. Ironically enough I always order the steak tartar there. ;) What are the best brunch items?? p.s. I don't know her name but the skinny blonde bartender with long blonde hair makes amazing, super strong drinks.
ReplyDeleteHa! I just made Snapper and Tatters. I caught it and was given the potatoes soooooo. Yeah. I like the write up, thanks for taking some shots of the food. I haven't had a decent escargot since Captiva. It's nice to see something that's not drown in tomato sauce. The place looks good. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteReally crisp and clean photography, I would have loved to hear some more about how all the food tasted. What was the ambience like there as well, it seems like an upper end class of food but the background made it seem a lot more casual.
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