Before we know it, the Class of 2012 will have their names prominently announced, walk the stage of the Tampa Bay Times Forum, shake hands and turn tassels to show that, indeed, they graduated from college.
Famous folklorist Arnold van Gennep devised the term “rite of passage” in regards to graduation, and he had it spot on. It is a transformation as a person upon entering a new world, but, hey, Mr. van Gennep, you can’t enter a new world on an empty stomach.
Moms, dads, cousins, uncles, aunts, brothers, sisters and everyone of the like will be invading Tampa on the weekend of May 6 to watch their celebrated loved one walk the stage. What else brings family members together in the most contented and ideal way than a good, hearty meal?
After polling 30 University of Tampa seniors graduating in May, there has been a consensus of the top five restaurants they and their families will be celebrating their personal rites of passage.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Bern’s is a staple to South Tampa restaurants with a repertoire, for its history is rich, and it is one of the most renowned steak houses in the area. One of the most amazing aspects about Bern’s is the opportunity guests are given to tour the restaurant. This includes the kitchen, wine cellar, dining room and dessert room. There is an incredibly authentic ambiance when walking through the kitchen; everything is done the old fashion way, from peeling the onions by hand rather than using a peeler, to self-cutting the fingerling fries rather than using a machine. The upstairs dessert section is extremely authentic. Each booth is private, and you have the opportunity to select your own music while seated. Bern’s is a one-of-a-kind experience and is sure to provide a memorable graduation dinner.
Located at 1208 S. Howard Avenue
Mon – Thurs: 5 – 10, Fri – Sat: 5 – 11
Ocean Prime
Here you will find a serious culinary fusion of a steakhouse and seafood restaurant. Their concept is based on an “American supper club,” where guests become regulars. It’s got a mom-and-pop kind of feel, and it’s a place where everybody knows your name. Ocean Prime is located at the International Plaza, which is a great place for the family to venture around and find shops that appeal to their own personal tastes.
Located at 2205 North Westshore Blvd.
Mon – Fri: 11:30 – 4, Mon – Thurs: 4 – 10, Fri – Sat: 4 – 11, Sun: 4 – 9
Malio’s Prime Steakhouse
Location is key here, folks, for Malio’s resides on the first floor of the Sykes building right across the bridge from campus. It has the most exquisitely picturesque view of Plant Hall and Plant Park. One of the most intriguing factors to persuade you to bring your family to Malio’s is the copious amount of delicacies on their menu. Although, of course, their entrée menu is just as delicious. Malio’s is also conveniently located next to the Children’s Museum and the Tampa Bay Museum of Art, two fantastic tourist sites your family may want to visit.
Located at 400 North Ashley Drive
Mon – Thurs: 11:30 – 10, Fri: 11:30 – 10:30, Sat: 5 – 10
Jackson’s Bistro
Located right on the water on Harbour Island, Jackson’s Bistro is also in a prime spot for visiting family members, since many tend to book rooms at surrounding hotels such as The Westin and the Marriott. Their menu ranges from everything including sushi, pizza, pasta and sandwiches. You are able to eat on their beautiful terrace that overlooks the harbor. Also, there’s the added perk that if you decide to dine here with your family members who are looking to have an entertaining night out in Tampa, Jackson’s turns into a night club on Fridays and Saturdays. So enjoy a lovely dinner, then save room for dancing the night away with the fam.
Located at 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd.
Lunch: 11 – 2:30, Dinner: Sun – Thurs: 5 – 10, Fri – Sat: 5 – 11
Sunday Brunch: 10:30 – 2:30
717 South
A great place to take your family before a night out on the town, 717 South is in the middle of the happening college bar scene located on SoHo, down toward Bayshore Boulevard. 717 is always full of a lively crowd, and their bar is always open. Their menu incorporates a wide variety of seafood, several chicken dishes and many appetizers and flat breads to share with your family. 717 South is a social setting that could be a great place to start off a memorable night with family members of all ages.
Located at 717 S. Howard Avenue
Mon – Fri: 11:30 – 2:30, 5 – 10 Sat – 5 – 11, Sun: 5 – 9
Jordan Schein can be reached at jschein@spartans.ut.edu.