Bahama Breeze   

A night out or daytime get-together at Bahama Breeze is not unlike a Caribbean cruise. It's got the sleek, clean, hardwood decor of a Bahamian resort, and the tropical theme is reinforced by a strict attention to obtaining herbs, spices and alcohols popular in island cultures. The casually upscale, prefab restaurant-lounge owned by Darden Restaurants, Inc. (Olive Garden, Red Lobster and Smokey Bones Barbecue) provides Caribbean flavors aplenty by way of specialty cocktails and surf-and-turf menu options. Nosh on coconut prawns and other seafood specialties while drinking a zingy Mojito Cubano, a concoction of crushed spearmint, fresh lime, fresh squeezed sugar cane and Bacardi Light Rum. There's a fine range of of imported beers, too. The clientele comprises a curious mix of families, tourists, out-of-town business men and women and Tampa professional singles. The location off Tampa Bay provides for ample fresh air and sunset viewing from the outdoor deck. Happy hours and weekend evenings tend toward the meet-market, adult-partying side of the leisure spectrum, so those wanting a more subdued dining and drinking experience may want to visit during off-peak hours. Much care is given to the presentation of food and beverages. And if tropical cocktails are your thing, you'll love the libations list - everything from martinis and tropical daiquiris to Mai Tais and more...all dressed up and pretty with mini umbrellas and slices of fruit. If it weren't for work tomorrow it would sure feel like vacation.