Epicurean Belletrist
Google
After much research, I selected The Sacred Pepper to celebrate 3 milestone family birthdays. We had never been before, but the menu seemed to cater to each of our particular tastes.
We were happily surprised by the elegant exterior, and upon entering, we were absolutely enamored by the swanky, sophisticated, warm, well-appointed, but super comfortable dining room. We were seated at a prime table that felt both central but private and immediately began vibing to the perfectly pitched ambient jazz.
We began our meal with deliciously smooth glasses of Bonanza Cabernet by Caymus and the Mediterranean Goat Cheese and Shishito Pepper appetizers. The goat cheese was perfectly creamy and tart, balanced by a rich tomato sauce studded by olives and onions and served with warm, fresh flatbread. The Shishito Peppers were fried tempura-style and accompanied by a sweet teriyaki sauce that complimented the heat of the peppers. They were light, crispy, flavorful and yummily addictive!!!
For our entrees, we ordered the Sea Bass, Ribeye, Grouper Piccata and Sicilian Chicken.
I will not detail each (pics pf each included) but can attest to each having truly delighted us!!
I will focus my review on the Sea Bass which is the dish I ordered. The fish was delicate, flaky, subtly seasoned but perfectly cooked. I was particularly delighted by the seared rice cake, as a Puerto Rican person it reminded me of the best kind of 'pegao'..toasty outside and grainy soft middle. The dish was satisfying and delicious...a bit more seasoning on the fish would have suited my personal taste but I can see it being perfect to others.
The evening was capped by the sweetest complementary chocolate lava cakes and fresh whip for our birthday crew. Our attendants were delightful, so attentive and did all they could to make our birthday crew feel special!
The Sacred Pepper is an absolute Tampa gem!!!! I highly recommend this beautiful experience for any and all occasions!!