Rick M.
Yelp
Sometimes the best nights come from a little spontaneity. I was on my way to one of my usual weekend spots when I drove through the Town and Country Square Mall and noticed a new Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar. Something about it just drew me in, so I decided to give it a try.
Even though the parking lot was massive, it was completely packed. I ended up waiting about 20 minutes for a spot to open up, which had me thinking this place must be doing something right!
As soon as I walked in, I felt the energy. The restaurant was bustling, but the three hostesses who greeted us were so friendly and welcoming that it didn't feel overwhelming. Even though the place was packed, they managed to clear a booth for us, and in about 10 minutes, we were seated.
The space itself is impressive--spacious, clean, and beautifully decorated. There's plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors, along with a massive bar area that was filled with people dining, chatting, and enjoying drinks. TVs around the bar showed NFL games and European fútbol, adding to the lively atmosphere. You could tell everyone was there to have a good time, and it was contagious.
Our waitress, Marina, came by with a smile that immediately made us feel at home. She recommended the Islamorada draft beer, which turned out to be a tropical gem with hints of coconut refreshing and unique. Erika B went for a Mexican Modelo beer, a classic choice that paired perfectly with the evening.
We started with the guacamole and charred corn appetizer, and let me tell you, it was phenomenal fresh, flavorful, and downright addictive. For our mains, I went with the Drunken Goat, a lamb burger topped with whipped goat cheese and arugula that was bursting with flavor. Erika B chose the fried chicken and waffles, which she couldn't stop raving about.
To wrap up an already amazing meal, we shared the Strawberry Tres Leches dessert. It was indulgent, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet a perfect way to end the night.
Tap 42 isn't just about the food or drinks it's about the experience. This location, which opened in 2022, is part of the Tapco Restaurant Group, and you can see why they've expanded to so many locations across South Florida. Their modern twist on American comfort food, creative cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere set them apart.
What truly made the night memorable, though, was the people. Marina's attention to detail and friendly demeanor really stood out. It's rare to find a place where everything from the food to the service to the vibe comes together so seamlessly.
If you're in the Kendall area, Tap 42 is a must-visit. I'm already looking forward to coming back, and next time, I might even bring a bigger group to share in the fun. Five stars, without a doubt!