Thai Island
210 E Davis Blvd
Tampa, FL 33606
813-251-9111
Overall: A quaint mom-and-pop Thai restaurant with a smattering of unusual (and usual) options and a quiet casual ambiance. Nothing special to look at during the day that transforms to a sidewalk cafe with romantic lights strewn through the trees overlooking the sidewalk of what seems a town forgotten in time. However, while full of character and typically positive reviews, the restaurant only delivers average flavor.
Who's Who
Around 9pm on a Saturday evening, the only other patrons were an older couple that had clearly befriended one of the Thai Island owners. As a table of four 30-somethings, we seemed to be the most action the restaurant received that night. Next door, an Italian restaurant with a similar type of ambiance seemed the more popular choice on the street for younger patrons and families. Of course, this translated in a no-wait sit-anywhere alternative to waiting for a table at a more popular chain.
Cost Factor
Average prices overall, with each of us sharing an entree and a sampler platter of seafood and chicken satay we only spent about $12 a piece. Wine appeared to be the primary alcohol option and ran between 5-7 dollars a glass.
Flirtabilty
Although the neighborhood encouraged a casual walk-about atmosphere and the restaurant offered side-walk seating, the patrons nor the walk-bys offered any 'curb appeal' for the average 30 something. I'd give this place a complete zilch for pick-up potentials for a Saturday evening.
Atmosphere
I'm a sucker for white twinkle lights and this place certainly had them in addition to some more traditional paper covered lights strewn throughout the tree-lined sidewalk. To add to the Davis Island feel and general character of the place, the ceilings were covered with a few sails that made one think of the island and nearby bay shore. Along these same lines, the restaurant struck me as somewhere that could be an intimate date or a casual evening after a day at the beach or nearby Bayshore paths. The service overall was relatively attentive and friendly - but my guess was that our server might have been one of the owners that was sharing time in the kitchen.
Tastey
A few unique options that caught my eye were a chicken-noodle-esque soup with clear/glass noodles (I looove glass noodles) and an assortment of different types of curry. Being a big fan of red curry myself, I was surprised to see 4-5 different types of curry offered. Playing it safe by ordering the red curry, I was a bit disappointed with it generally had watered down taste. I wondered if the other curry options might have been better. Also playing it safe with some crab ragoons, chicken satay, and another item on the sampler platter, I was again disappointed with a pretty average flavor. Finally, a dinner-mate that opted for some shrimp and vegetable-based soup found hers to be too spicy to be tastey.
Liquid Courage
Although we leaned towards the non-alcohol choice of Thai tea due to our day of game-day tailgating, there was a satisfactory listing of affordable wine options that fit nicely with the equally affordable and causal food pairings.
Funness
The fun in this particular restaurant is limited to whatever fun you bring to the table. With no live music or other sources of entertainment, if fun isn't walking by on the sidewalk I sure hope you brought someone with you that can hold up their side in a conversation.
Inside Scoop Tidbits
For those looking for a non-chain mom-and-pop local, this is your place. From what I can tell the owners are a husband and wife couple that plays a huge - if not exclusive - role in running the restaurant. Cheap with no wait on a Saturday night, I'd recommend this place for a new couple that's more interested in each other and conversation or a casual girl's night out to catch-up on each other's lives - but not necessarily for its lack-luster take on the traditional Thai plates.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Up for a Night of Fright?
Halloween Horror Nights
Orlando, FL
September 28, 2007 - November 3, 2007
Overall:
Once a year Universal Studios decks out their park with blood and guts galore to commemorate the holiday where candy is a must, Halloween. (Note: This is not for the weak.) This year is the Carnival of Carnage with all the classic murderous maniacs, so be prepared to meet Freddy, Jason, and Leatherface head on. Oh, and watch out for the guys with chainsaws. There are 8 haunted houses, 4 shows, and midway of the bizarre as well as all of the traditional rides offered year round.
Who's Who:
Everyone is there! This place is packed. I would say that the majority of the patrons are in their 20's and 30's. Some people are screaming their lungs out and others are cool as a cucumber. I think it all depends on how easily you scare.
Cost Factor:
The price of tickets depend upon the day of the week you go. Florida residents can get special rates. The cheapest option is to go on Thursdays and Sundays. There is also an option to buy a frequent fear pass for those days. Saturday is the priciest night to attend with Friday in the middle. Universal also offers an express pass for an additional charge where you can bypass all of the lines.
Atmosphere:
Employees are in full costume gear (no costumes for patrons allowed) ready to pounce on unsuspecting bystanders, and the smoke in the air definitely makes it easier for them to hide, so look out behind you. It is chalk full of energy even up to the very end. The music is blasting and the people are screaming! They must be havin' a good time though because most people don't head out of there until they shut the park down.
Tastey:
The food is typical theme park food. They focus all of their energy into the entertainment, so I wouldn't plan on eating anything exciting. Actually, I ate before I even got to the park. It's cheaper and tastes better. I wouldn't waste the time or the money.
Liquid Courage:
Boy oh boy! They are not stingy with the booze. There is practically a bar at every corner. A few select beers are offered at most of the stands. For select bars, there is hard liquor for those of you looking for something with a bit more kick. They even offer liquid shots as well as jell-o shots in a syringe. I recommend their signature drink in the souvenir cup. It's a bit pricey, but you can refill it at a discount. It's got flashing lights too!
Flirtability:
Although there are a lot of people there, most come in a big group of friends making one-on-one time extremely difficult. The environment isn't very conducive to flirting unless you can convince a hottie that you need to be protected. I wouldn't count on meeting anyone there. Have fun with your friends and save the romance for another night.
Funness:
If you loved to be scared or just love the props, this is definitely a place to check out. I think it's enjoyable regardless if you scare or not. The more people you can rally up the better. Theme parks always seemed more eventful with a bigger crowd. Everyone else must agree with me because this thing just seems to grow larger every year.
Insider Scoops:
Lines are long! Be prepared to wait. Most of the lines are at least 60 minutes for the haunted houses. Definitely check out Jack's Funhouse in clown-o-vision. Even if it doesn't scare you, it sure looks cool. If you're short on time, skip The Thing and Vampyr. The Thing is just plain boring and Vampyr is flat out confused (stick to one them in the same house please). If you're not willing to wait, regular rides have a wait time of less than 15 minutes. Or check out one of their four shows. I didn't have time to see one, so sorry, no recommendations here. Oh, and no smoking in line.
Orlando, FL
September 28, 2007 - November 3, 2007
Overall:
Once a year Universal Studios decks out their park with blood and guts galore to commemorate the holiday where candy is a must, Halloween. (Note: This is not for the weak.) This year is the Carnival of Carnage with all the classic murderous maniacs, so be prepared to meet Freddy, Jason, and Leatherface head on. Oh, and watch out for the guys with chainsaws. There are 8 haunted houses, 4 shows, and midway of the bizarre as well as all of the traditional rides offered year round.
Who's Who:
Everyone is there! This place is packed. I would say that the majority of the patrons are in their 20's and 30's. Some people are screaming their lungs out and others are cool as a cucumber. I think it all depends on how easily you scare.
Cost Factor:
The price of tickets depend upon the day of the week you go. Florida residents can get special rates. The cheapest option is to go on Thursdays and Sundays. There is also an option to buy a frequent fear pass for those days. Saturday is the priciest night to attend with Friday in the middle. Universal also offers an express pass for an additional charge where you can bypass all of the lines.
Atmosphere:
Employees are in full costume gear (no costumes for patrons allowed) ready to pounce on unsuspecting bystanders, and the smoke in the air definitely makes it easier for them to hide, so look out behind you. It is chalk full of energy even up to the very end. The music is blasting and the people are screaming! They must be havin' a good time though because most people don't head out of there until they shut the park down.
Tastey:
The food is typical theme park food. They focus all of their energy into the entertainment, so I wouldn't plan on eating anything exciting. Actually, I ate before I even got to the park. It's cheaper and tastes better. I wouldn't waste the time or the money.
Liquid Courage:
Boy oh boy! They are not stingy with the booze. There is practically a bar at every corner. A few select beers are offered at most of the stands. For select bars, there is hard liquor for those of you looking for something with a bit more kick. They even offer liquid shots as well as jell-o shots in a syringe. I recommend their signature drink in the souvenir cup. It's a bit pricey, but you can refill it at a discount. It's got flashing lights too!
Flirtability:
Although there are a lot of people there, most come in a big group of friends making one-on-one time extremely difficult. The environment isn't very conducive to flirting unless you can convince a hottie that you need to be protected. I wouldn't count on meeting anyone there. Have fun with your friends and save the romance for another night.
Funness:
If you loved to be scared or just love the props, this is definitely a place to check out. I think it's enjoyable regardless if you scare or not. The more people you can rally up the better. Theme parks always seemed more eventful with a bigger crowd. Everyone else must agree with me because this thing just seems to grow larger every year.
Insider Scoops:
Lines are long! Be prepared to wait. Most of the lines are at least 60 minutes for the haunted houses. Definitely check out Jack's Funhouse in clown-o-vision. Even if it doesn't scare you, it sure looks cool. If you're short on time, skip The Thing and Vampyr. The Thing is just plain boring and Vampyr is flat out confused (stick to one them in the same house please). If you're not willing to wait, regular rides have a wait time of less than 15 minutes. Or check out one of their four shows. I didn't have time to see one, so sorry, no recommendations here. Oh, and no smoking in line.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Who said Mondays can't be fun?
Cafe Tu Tu Tango
8625 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407-248-2222
Overall:
A funky joint on I-drive with brightly painted walls covered with artwork from local artists (available for purchasing if so desired). This place was buzzing with tons of energy from the patrons sharing tapas style food, live music, a painter, and a balloon guy entertaining the kids - goes over well with the young ones ;)
Who's who:
Wow! This place was busy, and it was a Monday. With a packed house, the group of people was very mixed. I saw all ages; looked like everyone was having a good time watching the entertainment, sipping on some sangria.
Cost Factor:
Items were relatively inexpensive. Dishes ranged from around $6 - $10. Because they are appetizer portions, I would recommend getting a few options and splitting them among y0ur friends to really try all of the different flavors.
Atmosphere:
It's upbeat, energetic and definitely a twist from your standard chains. The exotic flavor combinations and funky artwork give it a new and fresh feel. The waiter was a little slow and somewhat hard to hear, but I'm a sucker for a good mojitos, so I'll be coming back. Hey, maybe next time I'll see some art I want to buy. (I'm a sucker for artwork too.)
Tastey:
A tapas style restaurant. They offer a diverse selection of cold and hot items including marinated skewers, glazed ribs, and duck quesadillas. If you're looking for something a bit different try their brick oven pizzas. Some of my favorites were the beef and cheese empanadas and the potstickers. For dessert, I recommend the chocolate calzone. The best item on the menu, roasted pear on pecan crisps. Fruit never tasted so good!
Liquid Courage:
The bar was fully stocked with a long list of of wine options to choose from including award winning sangrias, and I definitely can't forget to mention the margaritas and mojitos. They're offered in both traditional flavor and several specialty flavors. I highly recommend the traditional mojito. It was definitely one of the best I've ever had.
Flirtability:
With so many people and of all different ages, I think this is a good place to mingle. This place is on international drive, so it's near a lot of the action. Besides, just looking at the walls, it's an instant conversation starter regardless if you like it or not.
Funness:
I just love this place! I think it's a blast. Live music, fun food, and cold drinks. It was the beginning of the week and the place was filled. A live painter, a guitar player, and a balloon guy - what more could there be? (and that was on a Monday) I'm sure with the weekend comes even more excitement and entertainment.
Insider Scoops:
If you're like me, check it out on a Wednesday for Mojito Madness. If you're looking for some entertainment and want something different, try Friday for a Caberet show (starts at 10:30).
8625 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407-248-2222
Overall:
A funky joint on I-drive with brightly painted walls covered with artwork from local artists (available for purchasing if so desired). This place was buzzing with tons of energy from the patrons sharing tapas style food, live music, a painter, and a balloon guy entertaining the kids - goes over well with the young ones ;)
Who's who:
Wow! This place was busy, and it was a Monday. With a packed house, the group of people was very mixed. I saw all ages; looked like everyone was having a good time watching the entertainment, sipping on some sangria.
Cost Factor:
Items were relatively inexpensive. Dishes ranged from around $6 - $10. Because they are appetizer portions, I would recommend getting a few options and splitting them among y0ur friends to really try all of the different flavors.
Atmosphere:
It's upbeat, energetic and definitely a twist from your standard chains. The exotic flavor combinations and funky artwork give it a new and fresh feel. The waiter was a little slow and somewhat hard to hear, but I'm a sucker for a good mojitos, so I'll be coming back. Hey, maybe next time I'll see some art I want to buy. (I'm a sucker for artwork too.)
Tastey:
A tapas style restaurant. They offer a diverse selection of cold and hot items including marinated skewers, glazed ribs, and duck quesadillas. If you're looking for something a bit different try their brick oven pizzas. Some of my favorites were the beef and cheese empanadas and the potstickers. For dessert, I recommend the chocolate calzone. The best item on the menu, roasted pear on pecan crisps. Fruit never tasted so good!
Liquid Courage:
The bar was fully stocked with a long list of of wine options to choose from including award winning sangrias, and I definitely can't forget to mention the margaritas and mojitos. They're offered in both traditional flavor and several specialty flavors. I highly recommend the traditional mojito. It was definitely one of the best I've ever had.
Flirtability:
With so many people and of all different ages, I think this is a good place to mingle. This place is on international drive, so it's near a lot of the action. Besides, just looking at the walls, it's an instant conversation starter regardless if you like it or not.
Funness:
I just love this place! I think it's a blast. Live music, fun food, and cold drinks. It was the beginning of the week and the place was filled. A live painter, a guitar player, and a balloon guy - what more could there be? (and that was on a Monday) I'm sure with the weekend comes even more excitement and entertainment.
Insider Scoops:
If you're like me, check it out on a Wednesday for Mojito Madness. If you're looking for some entertainment and want something different, try Friday for a Caberet show (starts at 10:30).
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