Rez Grill
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>

Today is Tuesday but I’m still thinking about the amazing dinner I experienced Friday at The Rez Grill. The spread, atmosphere, and service were all top notch!

Located at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the restaurant offers unique tastes in an atmosphere that is comfortable yet sophisticated. Modern but rustic details make the atmosphere as laid back or dressed up, as you want it to be. The restaurant features an open kitchen as well as a direct connection to the casino. Being able to see the slot machines from my table made me feel involved in the excitement of The Hard Rock. The bar acts as a buffer between the dining area and casino so it functions as the perfect spot for players to grab a cocktail in between games.

The open kitchen also lends to The Rez Grill ’s atmosphere. The sounds, the smells, and the sights really help you work up an appetite and in this setting, the open kitchen lends to the “show” of dining out.

And now to the main event: the menu. The approachable nature of the atmosphere was particularly genius because I thought it acted as the perfect metaphor for the menu. The items felt familiar but were exciting and different thanks to Creative Culinary Director, Frank Anderson. The Benton’s Country Ham appetizer with homemade biscuits and the perfectly cooked Fried Chicken and waffles are an example of the elevated comfort food you’ll experience at the Rez Grill. Dishes like the Chicken Liver Pate and Veal Chop Milanese provide more sophisticated bites. The ability to balance comfort classics with elevated twists speaks to Anderson’s pedigree as the head chef of James Beard awarded kitchens. The menu, which features other classics like St. Louis Ribs and Linguine and Clams, provides diverse flavors so that any guest might find a dish that appeals to them.

There is an obvious dedication to the quality of food served at The Rez Grill. Pasta is made in house and seafood dishes celebrate the Florida locale. With a 100 bottle wine list, microbreweries on tap, and craft cocktails both familiar and new, the beverage selection is also memorable.  The Rez Grill is a definite spot for foodie couples that want good food in an elegant atmosphere.

 

Dos and Don’ts

 

Don’t wait last minute to park. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is a popular destination for tourists and locals. Park in the Lucky Street Garage for easiest access to the restaurant.

Do order dessert. This is probably one of the most exciting parts of the menu. Try the Espresso Crème Brulee or Lemon Curd.

Do ask your wait staff for wine pairings. With an excellent selection of wine both exotic and familiar, you can really elevate your meal. Ask about beer pairings too!

Don’t be afraid to try something different. Something unique might become your new favorite. Try the Composed Oysters or Pimiento Toast.

Do be as dressy or dressed down as you want. The atmosphere is rustic but modern so you’ll feel comfortable casual to casual elegant.

Do stop in for any occasion. This spot is perfect for cocktails or coffee and dessert too!

 

Need another foodie fix? Check out Dates for Foodies: Food Tours in Tampa Bay and Mobile Canteens Packing a Punch: Five Fabulous Tampa Food Trucks.