Tampa, Fla. (BLOOM) — My girlfriend and I dressed in blue for a memorable evening at Allelo, a renowned Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located on Beach Drive in St. Petersburg. We cruised to the restaurant in her new red Mercedes, savoring the luxurious drive as a prelude to what promised to be an extraordinary night out. Both of us starving and ready to try as much as we could.
Arrival and First Impressions
Upon arrival, Allelo’s vibrant atmosphere and inviting decor immediately captivated us. The restaurant’s Mediterranean-themed design, with its warm colors, earthy textures, and tasteful touches, set the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. From the moment we stepped inside, we knew we were in for a treat, eager to explore the menu, ambiance, and service of this gem.
Stepping through the doors, we were immediately struck by the restaurant’s warm and elegant interior. The blend of earthy textures, tasteful lighting, and Mediterranean-themed decor created a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. The inviting hues of terracotta and rich blues, coupled with rustic elements, evoked a sense of dining along the Mediterranean coast.
Our greeting was friendly and professional, and we were promptly led to our table. The seating area offered a comfortable and intimate setting, allowing us to relax and absorb the lively yet unhurried atmosphere around us. As we settled in, we took in the gentle hum of conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the aroma of delightful dishes wafting through the air.
The Menu and Drink Selection
We began our night by checking Allelo’s extensive menu, which showcased a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes and drinks. The beverage selection offered an array of cocktails, wines, and other beverages to pair perfectly with the meal.
I started with a “No Smoke Without Fire,” a sophisticated cocktail reminiscent of an Old Fashioned, featuring bourbon, coffee, amaro, and demerara. Cory, our attentive server, presented the drink with flair, using a torch and stamp to smoke the glass, infusing the beverage with a delightful smoky aroma. The large square ice cube was imprinted with a bird, adding an elegant touch. Kiana opted for her favorite wine, a fine Chardonnay.
Appetizers and Starters
Our meal kicked off with a selection of starters. I opted for 12 East Coast oysters, accompanied by mignonette, cocktail sauce, and lemon, alongside a serving of khobz and focaccia with EVOO and black garlic butter. Kiana chose beef tartare, which our server, mixed at the table, and a massive cauliflower dish topped with gremolata, za’atar, and crispy garbanzo beans. We relished these starters together, saving just enough for a take-home box.
Main Courses
After indulging in a delicious selection of appetizers, I found myself in a culinary conundrum: should I order the 24 oz. bone-in striploin or the rack of lamb? Kiana, Cory, and I deliberated the decision as though we were planning a summit meeting, ultimately opting for the rack of lamb, a dish I rarely get elsewhere.
The lamb arrived, beautifully presented, with tender, juicy cuts adorned with a savory crust of herbs and spices. Each bite offered a perfect blend of flavors, with the lamb’s natural richness complemented by its seasoning, making for a satisfying and indulgent experience.
Kiana opted for the 8 oz. bavette steak, accompanied by fingerling potatoes, sweet onion soubise, and gremolata. Her steak melted in her mouth, eliciting sounds of joy that made me smile. The fingerling potatoes and sweet onion soubise added depth to her dish, with the gremolata bringing a fresh, herby kick that balanced everything out.
We thoroughly enjoyed our meals, savoring each bite, and even playfully stealing tastes from each other’s plates, joking about whose dish reigned supreme. The hearty main courses filled us to the brim, but we couldn’t resist what lay ahead in the dessert menu.
Desserts and Final Impressions
As we looked over Allelo’s dessert menu, Kiana and I knew we had room for just one more indulgence. We decided to share a baklava cheesecake, accompanied by a cappuccino for me and an espresso martini for her.
The baklava cheesecake was a decadent masterpiece, topped with pistachio, walnut, and rosewater honey. Its rich, dense texture and complex flavors struck a perfect balance between the sweet and the nutty, providing a luxurious conclusion to our Mediterranean feast. “I feel like I’m eating the sweet version of a treasure chest,” Kiana remarked, her eyes lighting up as she took another bite.
My cappuccino was smooth and satisfying, complementing the dessert with its warm, creamy texture. Kiana’s espresso martini was equally delightful, providing a robust kick that paired well with the cheesecake. She took a sip, savoring its bold flavors, and quipped, “This is like a dessert in a glass.”
We left Allelo full and happy, grateful for the exquisite dining experience. We celebrated our relationship and Kiana’s new red Mercedes, cruising back home with satisfied smiles and leftovers to enjoy the next day. The evening’s attentive service, delicious dishes, and inviting ambiance made Allelo a Tampa Bay gem we were glad to have discovered.
Service and Atmosphere
The attentive service and inviting atmosphere at Allelo were integral to our enjoyable evening. Our server, Cory, was friendly and knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu and providing insightful recommendations. Cory’s presence was attentive but never intrusive, allowing us to savor our meal at a comfortable pace. From mixing the beef tartare tableside to skillfully torching and stamping my cocktail, Cory’s attention to detail elevated our dining experience.
The restaurant’s ambiance was lively yet relaxed, with the gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses filling the air. The Mediterranean-themed decor, with its earthy textures, warm colors, and tasteful lighting, created an inviting backdrop for our meal. The layout offered a variety of seating options, from intimate tables for two to larger communal setups, catering to different group sizes and occasions.
The vibrant Beach Drive location added to the experience, with the bustle of St. Petersburg’s nightlife visible through the restaurant’s windows, blending seamlessly with the interior’s cozy charm. This combination of ambiance, service, and setting made Allelo a delightful spot for celebrating our relationship and enjoying an unforgettable culinary journey.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Allelo offers a complete dining experience, from exquisite dishes to an inviting atmosphere and attentive service. Although pricey, at about a minimum of $100 per person for a full meal, it’s worth every penny. We look forward to trying their renowned brunch soon.
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