Davis Island has been hiding this European getaway. Caprice is a restaurant with so much to offer.

The outside features a courtyard with a four-tiered fountain that provides a romantic, charming setting. Inside, Caprice is very spacious. The Mediterranean vibe is inviting. European and abstract paintings are hung throughout. Booths surround the edges of the room, and tables are scattered in the center. Each seating area has a royal blue light that hangs over head. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed. Several UT students have joined the staff, and our polite UT waiter was cordial and experienced.

The Scottish owners have put together a mouth-watering menu including almost everything: pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, fish, chicken and steak. Prices range from $5.95- $19.85. They offer “oversized salads” ($5.95- $9.95), and their collection of appetizers makes decisions difficult. I went with the Thai Spiced Crab Cakes and the Butter Baked Garlic Shrimp. The portion size was suitable, and the presentation was appealing. Both were fresh and delicious.

At their Las Brisas Island Bar, Caprice offers live entertainment. Thursdays are karaoke nights, and a live band plays on Fridays and Saturdays. Caprice is holding a special Valentine’s Day dinner on Wednesday, Feb. 14th. A romantic dinner for two, a three course meal and a bottle of wine for $55.00. Sounds like a deal to me.

Caprice’s biggest event is around the corner. In March they will host an over-the-top St.Patrick’s Day celebration, starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 3 a.m. They have hired three bands and two DJs. The specials are enormous. They are offering free shots on the hour and free appetizers all day. From 12-3 $1 drafts will be available.

Did I mention this place has everything? They also have a room for gatherings that can accommodate 100, great for sorority/fraternity socials or for private parties.

While I was dining with friends, I ran into Caprice’s owner-chef, a charismatic man with a charming Scottish accent. I learned that he is one of the two master chefs in the United States. There are only 20 in the world. He also owned a five-star restaurant is Scotland for 32 years. Pretty impressive!

My first time at Caprice was a pleasant experience. The island inspired food, the relaxed European ambiance and the upbeat weekend nightlife makes Caprice a great find.

Caprice Davis Islands Bistro is located at 238 E. Davis Island Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606.

UT students receive a 10 percent discount.