TRAVEL
Small Giant A relative newcomer to the Tampa culinary scene , the flavour-packed punch of the menu here is anything but small , as , cocooned in cosy corners , diners at this modern , sophisticated yet laid-back eatery are presented with inventive menus , big flavours and bold creativity .
Small Giant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal fare , resulting in dishes that are both fresh and flavourful . Delight in creative small plates such as chicken wings with house-made blue cheese sauce and must-try cheesesteak egg rolls bursting with ribeye , provolone and spicy aioli , before delving , lip-smackingly , into a signature dish such as The OG with OG house sauce , American cheese and pickles and Kimchi Bacon Cheese with its namesake additions to the made-in-house American beef patty . Just don ’ t forget to add a side of Kung Pao Brussels sprouts and never overlook the curated cocktail menu ; the Smoked Old Fashioned ( Traveller ’ s , Orange & Ango Bitters , orange essence cube , applewood smoke ) and house Espresso Martini ( Wheatley Vodka by Buffalo Trade , Grind , King State Cold Brew , Bailey ’ s ) were insane !
www . smallgiantbar . com
Élevage Élevage , located in the Epicurean Hotel , elevates dining to an art form with its sophisticated ambience and inspired cuisine . Helmed by award-winning chef Chad Johnson , this culinary gem offers a menu that celebrates the bounty of Florida ’ s land and sea , and pairs exquisitely with its extensive and unrivalled wine list , all set to a backdrop of contemporary modern art .
© KEIR MAGOULAS
ROCCA
Guests can indulge in creative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients , accompanied by that aforementioned wine list and handcrafted cocktails , while the restaurant ’ s chic interior and impeccable service create an atmosphere of refined elegance , making it the perfect destination for special occasions or romantic evenings .
Any of the elevated offerings here will not disappoint .
Every dish we had the pleasure of devouring , from smoked chicken wings in a BBQ spice blend with Alabama sauce and pickles okra to blackened pork belly with black mole , cotija , sharp pickled green apple , hazelnut and watercress ; grass-fed smoked short rib with mascarpone grits , bacon collard greens and maple-bourbon sauce to roasted to perfection Chilean sea bass with fig , sunchoke , turnup , pearl onion and ridiculously divine apple brown butter was faultless .
Throw in some truffle fries doused in Parmesan and shavings of black truffle with fresh truffle aioli , flourless chocolate brownies and seasonal cobblers and we were practically rolled back to the car ,
148 • www . insidekent . co . uk