Here are a few of my favorite things in Tampa. Please tell them that Suzanne, the Realtor, sent you!

EATING

Acropolis Greek Taverna
1833 E. Seventh Ave.
Tampa,  FL  
813 242-4545

This wonderful restaurant, in the heart of Ybor City, delights the eye as well as the palate. Surrounded by hand painted murals, you are transported to Greece to feast under a Mediterranean sky full of fluffy faux clouds.

The first time I wandered in was a Sunday afternoon and a duo of handsome boys was playing Greek tunes on guitar and keyboard while their proud, beautiful mother sat at the bar beaming and clapping.

Having experienced wonderful Greek food in many major cities across the United States, I was prepared to be enchanted by the fine talent and happy to just to have a full tummy. I severely underestimated the chef and have been more than pleased the several times I have returned. The service is always prompt, intelligent and warm, a reflection of the owner, Costa Waez.

Antojitos Latin Cravings
2302 W. Columbus Dr.
Tampa, FL
813- 251-9688

“We are strong because we eat soup,” I was informed by a patron of this Columbian restaurant as he was happily devouring a chunky mixture of meat and vegetables which looked both nourishing and delicious. Mario Cardona, proud owner of Antojitos explained to me that soups are a staple of this cuisine. Resembling more a thick stew than a soup, they are either beef, chicken or seafood based and every day’s menu features at least two choices.

I noticed several fish dishes on the menu and was told that the restaurant serves a creamy seafood soup on the weekends. Sounds intriguing.

Although the restaurant features Columbian fare, my choice was a Cuban sandwich. (Heck, what do I know?) It was the best have ever eaten, probably due to the addition of juicy tomato slices. The vanilla, coconut and cheese flans looked yummy and rich. Too rich to put on top of a Cuban sandwich. Next time!

HOME DECORATING

Bali Bay Trading Company
www.balibaystores.com
4222 N. Florida Ave.
Tampa, FL

Looking for a dining table which would complement the Asian antiques in my new Tampa bungalow, I wandered into Bali Bay’s 8,000 square foot warehouse, brimming with exotic furniture, decorative items and art. Though they were short on dining tables, I did find some fabulous pieces, my favorite of which is a painting of a monk walking into a radiant sunset. I was told that this particular artist paints only monks, departing. I guess that view makes sense for men on the path to enlightenment.

They have a great selection of whimsical garden ornaments, as well as armoires, teak benches and handmade jewelry. I’ll be back to check out their next shipment for a dining table.