01/28/08

dissapointing

by lhaze

We were eager to try this restaurant and made reservations for a Sat. night (not necessary, it was half empty). The server was inexperienced, did not have a good knowledge of the wine list and recommended a wine that was not very good. (obviously a college student). My husband ordered the lobster (overcooked and tough) and I had the grouper en papillotte (all stuffing and no fish). We will probably not go back. However, it did have a cozy interior and we had a great appetizer of serrano ham, manchego cheese and apple slices - though it would be hard to mess that up.

• Pros: easy parking
• Cons: service and food

01/13/08

Really the worst service I have ever had!!!

by mauck

Was excited to try after not frequenting for a yr or so, We made a reservation for 7:00pm on a Saturday Night and was suprized to see we did not really need them. Very casual atmosphere. Meeting two other couples for dinner and service for water was great - from there it went down hill fast. Ordered a Bottle of 1989 wine from the list and 40 minutes later the wine was presented along with the waiter asking for our orders. 1st we saw him after the water and bread were supplied.

The wine was bad, at which time the Manager on duty informed us that wine was at our risk and there would be no substitute for it - he also informed us that the wine needed to breath more and it would be fine trust him. ( he also said he did not drink - after we offered him a glass to give us his opinion.) Chose another bottle off the list that was advertised as a 2000 - the bottle that was poured for us at the table was a 2005 for the same price. Not a good time needless to say. No appologies or excuses just very cold from the staff at Tio Pepe.

Those that were dining with us decided this would be the last time for Tio Pepe for our group and I have to agree. I would not recommend spending the 300-350 dollar dinner for 6 when there are so many really good choices in the Tampa Bay area.

• Pros: Reservations were easy to make
• Cons: Service and Management should have been working a drive thru!

11/11/07

Great food and service, more expensive then we expected.

by jacqueb

Tio Pepe has wonderful food, stone crab claws were excellent and the prime rib is the best I have ever had. Just so you know when you go to Tio Pepe be expecting at least $50 a head. The food and service is great, they also have wonderful desserts just be aware at the per person cost. Oh, and great martini's!

• Pros: Great food and service, wonderful tradition
• Cons: Pricey