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Setting The Table Again

By Megan McDonald October 24, 2011



The new Table's location next to Philippi Creek Oyster Bar.


Here’s a scoop for fans of the original Table on Hillview. The restaurant is re-opening next to Philippi Creek Oyster Bar on Tamiami Trail--and gone will be the lounge that almost overtook the basics of what made The Table a dining destination. Back are the original partners and chefs with their original menu and a few fresh ideas. The new Table pens next week and let’s hope it learned its lessons from the St. Pete mistakes and stays focused on one restaurant and doing it just right. If they do, they will be a big hit and a new top spot within the growing list of new restaurant openings.




The interior of the new Table restaurant.


And speaking of new restaurants, an early lead for restaurant of the year is certainly Indigenous, chef/owner Steven Phelps' brainchild of  featuring seasonal American cuisine with a focus on local and sustainable foods without the pretense. The décor is simple and comforting, with a brand new outside patio and separate wine bar cottage--just adorable.




Indigenous' double burger with aged cheddar is a new contender for Burger of the Year.


What I love about Steven and his cuisine s that it is uncomplicated, the ingredients speak for themselves and his respect and restraint show in every dish. Our dinner was an A-plus. We started with a glass of champagne and Indigenous' wild mushroom bisque and house-made cheddar biscuits followed by a peanut, mint and mango appetizer--and again, a perfect balance of simple flavors in their purest forms.


I opted for the pan-seared Coho salmon--house smoked salmon on a bed of creamy Brussels sprouts and diced zucchini--simply amazing. And my guest (aka Hamburger Aficionado) could not stop raving about the grass-fed double burger oozing with aged cheddar and Indigenous sauce. I managed to steal three bites myself and it is a strong contender in the world of best burgers.

 

Their wine list is priced more than fair, and a glass of Duckhorn Decoy was $12 (I have seen it in other places for nearly $20).




The cream biscuit at Indigenous is a must.


Split the sweet-and-savory cream biscuit for dessert--trust me, worth every splendid calorie with its hints of lavender crème, honeycomb, roasted peaches and, yes, caramel.


Welcome back Steven Phelps--your talents, sincerity and respect for a true dining experience has a home in Towles Court.


For even more food bits and bites, become a fan of Chef Judi on Facebook or follow @ChefJudi on Twitter!


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