AppleBees

Well, I was doing so good.  I had gone to several restaurants and tasted new things.  Sadly, I fell into temptation and chose something I have had before- the Quesadilla Burger with French Fries. How did it happen? Well, I was in the mood for a hamburger and I have tried most of the Applebees burgers, so I didn't feel so terrible.  While I was ordering I did feel a tinge of guilt, knowing that I had failed my mission.  The beautiful thing is that there is still plenty of time.  

So, back to the burger.  The Quesadilla Burger is really nice because it is served inside a soft, warm quesadilla.  

As far as the service goes, I was with a big group again. At first, while they were trying to get us all at the same table, was a little kind of sketchy.  But, after we were seated, things were smooth and the service was good. 

where it's always happy hour....

Carmines

Of course being Thursday, my group of friends hit the streets of Ybor and all met at Carmines. While famous for their devil crab and spanish flair, the restaurant offers a wide selection.

Our group was so large this week, we actually had our own room. The rooms are separated by a floor to ceiling Japanese screen which is very metro. The walls are exposed brick which give the restaurant an urban feel.

On the menu for me tonight was a cuban sandwich and french fries. Wow, what a great cuban! It was very tasty, had all the right meats, good bread and was pressed. With a cuban sandwich, you can tell that it is either great or mediocre in just a bite or two. If you originally intended to eat only half and take the other half home for later then after finishing the first half, you start wondering if you should go ahead and eat it after all, it is a successful cuban. If you are eating it and you think, maybe I can box this part up with the half I'm taking home, then you know that there may be a problem. The latter was not the case. I shared mine with a friend and was left feeling like I wished I never shared.... So kudos to Carmines! The fries were wilty, but.... I wasn't there for fries.

Liborio's Latin Cafe

Whenever anyone says the word Liborio's, everyone in earshot ooo's and ah's. So of course, when I heard we were getting take-out from Liborio's, I was looking forward to the experience. The dinner I ordered is one of my all-time favorite Spanish dishes; Picadillo, aroz y frijoles negros. I figured this would be a good option since I love the meal, I would be able to compare that same meal to other restaurants and my own cooking.

First of all, the amount of food I got was incredible. There was so much there, I was able to put half aside for tomorrow's lunch and I still was stuffed. The picadillo was a bit on the dry side and the color was very dark. There were a lot of fresh herbs laying on top, but that didn't do anything for the appearance. A dark mound of dry meat. I have to say that the yellow rice and the black beans made this meal. The beans were wonderfully seasoned and the rice was moist and fluffy. I have not really a fan of rice for most of my years, but now I am starting appreciate the texture and flavor more and more. This rice from Liborio's was spot-on.

Bungalow Bistro

Well, as if I haven't eaten out enough this week.... here I go again. Today, I went out with my mom to lunch back to the Bungalow Bistro. And yes, I did go the same bistro yesterday, but here is another opportunity for me to expand my horizons by ordering something different.

Today, I decided on the Angus Hamburger with Pomme Frits (which is a fancy name for french fries). The hamburger is made from 100% Angus Beef. I know that should make my taste buds thrilled, but I have never really noticed a difference between Angus beef and other beef. I guess my palette is not that advanced. I did notice, however, that it did have a wonderful grilled taste and was pretty thick. That kind of critique I can give with confidence. I would have loved some more ketchup for my fancy Pomme Frits but, I was having a bit of trouble getting the waitress' attention.

My mother had the grilled chicken sandwich which was very tasty. As a matter of fact, my mom said it was the best chicken sandwich she has ever eaten in all her years. That is quite an accolade for a little sandwich. The potatoes that come in place of the pomme frits were also quite nice. While this was not my order, you know that I had a taste! Both were really good.

With the quaint atmosphere and quality food, I will definitely be back!