As promised last week, I wanted to go into a little more detail about one of the places we went for lunch while we were in Florida. I happen to have married the research master when it comes to traveling, and when he sent me this website, I went nuts! Tons of good beer, cocktails that sound incredible, and so many healthy menu options. We didn’t have set plans during our stay, but I knew I wanted to get here.
We took a seat outside and immediately scoured the beer menu. I thought about a cocktail, but when I saw Schnebly Miami Brewing Co. Coconut Blonde, I had to try it. When I asked the server about it, she offered me a sample saying people either love it or hate it. I loved it. No, really.. I loveeeeeddddd it!
It’s brewed with coconut water so the coconut flavor is very apparent. Also, it being a blonde ale, it was perfect for the hot weather; very refreshing and slightly sweet from the coconut flavor. Nathan ordered a Cigar City Jai Alai. He’s had it before but I got a chance to try it this time. I’m not much of an IPA gal, but this has a perfect balance of hops and malt; it doesn’t leave a bitter taste in your mouth at all. Both beers are highly recommended!
With all of the wonderful choices on the menu, we asked the server for her recommendations. Nathan went for the burger.
The Drunken Goat – Lamb and Beef Blend, Tomato Jam, Arugula, Bourbon Red Onions, Goat Cheese, Dijon
This burger was a combination of lamb and beef and was full of flavor. As for the toppings, the goat cheese stole the show; it was hard to really pick out the flavor of the tomato jam or dijon. It was also rather greasy making the bottom bun a bit soggy. He ordered the fresh cut fries on the side which were great. They were nice and crisp and seasoned well.
I, on the other hand, went for the power pack bowl with chicken and a side of kimchi pasta salad.
Power Pack Bowl – Swiss Chard, Corn, Lentils, Avocado, Quinoa, Pumpkin Seeds, Broccoli, Edamame, Carrots, Grilled Potatoes in a Tomato Harissa Sauce
This was a bit different than I expected when it came out, but I dug right in. I expected more of a spicy punch from the harissa sauce; it was rather light and seemed to be more of a regular tomato sauce. I loved all of the different textures from all of the elements of the bowl.
Kimchi Orzo Pasta Salad
The pasta salad was also a bit less flavorful than I had expected. Since kimchi is a fermented cabbage, it usually has a rather notable, pungent flavor that I was hoping to experience in the pasta salad. And even though it didn’t quite hit the mark, it was still an enjoyable side. Next time I’d go for the brussels!
Overall, I would say Tap 42 has an incredible concept, but their execution is lacking. I think they could really have something special if they concentrate on perfecting their flavors. I’m still intrigued by the menu and would love to go back and try some more dishes. Maybe it was just what we ordered.. I’d be up for another trip!
Food for Thought
Which dish would you have ordered?
Would you get a beer or a cocktail?
Barr & Table 