Black Pearl Of Dunedin

Doesn't Recommend

tottinger

Joined 6 years ago

Lack of a friendly greening and no desire to accomidate guests requests, cast a Black Cloud over this former Pearl. My wife and I frequent the top restaurants in and around the Tampa Bay area and in fact, all over the country. We were highly disappointed in our first visit to the Black Pearl in Dunedin. After driving an hour and a half to arrive 15 minutes early for a 6:00PM reservation, we found there were only 6 other diners seated at two tables in the restaurant. After waiting 5 minutes, one of the servers finally came up and without a "good evening" or any greeting at all, just asked my name. After showing him our name on a reservation sheet, he pointed to a table, literally, right at the door. This table had another 2-top table shoved up within 2 inches of the one they had selected for us. We asked for a table where the next couple would not be seated right beside us and asked for one of the other "2-tops" which were open. The server went in the back to summons the host, but returned after nearly 5 more minutes saying the one he had selected for us at the door was all they had available. We asked to speak with the host and after waiting further and standing in the door for 10-12 minutes now, the finally host came. With no greeting of any kind by him he just looked at us as if to say "how dare you ask for another table". We explained we did not wish to sit for a romantic dinner, right next to another couple, and asked him to please seat us at one of the other "open" 2-top tables. He simply stated seating was already layed out and that they had other reservations later and we could take the one at the door. He knew that it was our first visit to his restaurant and that we had driven all the way from eastern Hillsborough County. Obviously, none of that really mattered in fact, he wasn't friendly, appreciative or care whether we stayed for dinner or left. The Black Pearl had better hope their requlars will sustain their business because they certianly do not seen interested in obtaining new lloyal customers. He left a "Black Cloud" over what might have otherwise been a Pearl!.

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achickwwit

Joined 10 years ago

The Absolute Best in Dunedin & Beyond. In our hunt for a good anniversary-dinner spot, we stumbled upon the unassuming Black Pearl of Dunedin and decided to give it a go. We could not have picked a better destination.

Once inside this intimate space, there's a mix of decor styles. You get a metropolitan vibe from the padded walls...but then you remember you're in eclectic Dunedin with the mismatched Depression-style glassware on the tables. Overall, the ambience is upscale yet warm.

The food, though. Ahh, the food.

The unexpected favorite of the evening was the ravioli. It was an extraordinary combination of sweet and savory and was simply fantastic. I couldn't stop stealing bites from my partner. My bisque was delicious -- not the best I've ever tasted, but definitely above-average with the optional addition of sherry and fresh black pepper.

The bananas foster was just shy of beating out the best of New Orleans. The tarte tatin (note: made fresh, so must be ordered at the beginning of the meal) was a LARGE round *feast*. Order it for 2-4 people instead of just one. It was made with thinly sliced apples arranged atop one another in a circle. They were baked on a light and flaky puffed pastry and drizzled with a sweet (cinnamon-based?) sauce. It was original, interesting and tasty, but it was a tad sweet for my palate.

Overall, this little gem in downtown Dunedin should be experienced by any foodie who appreciates classic service with casual elements and fine cuisine. Considering the intimate size of this restaurant, there really is no comparison that I have discovered in Tampa Bay.

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gpro

Joined 7 years ago

superior sophistication. From the elegant atmosphere to the superior craftsmanship of every tantalizing en'tree, the Black Pearl has set the bar for the way dining should be! I, as any persons that have the privailage of being embraced by the Pearl will leave with a feeling of Zest! Get lost in quality, there is truly no other fine dining establishment like it!

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live2eat

Joined 8 years ago

A sparkling gem. The restaurant is intimate. The seafood and vegitarian entrees were wold class with subtle flavors and excellent presentation. The services was prompt, friendly, and warm. I highly recommend it for special night to share.

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

One of the up-and-coming stars of the area, The Black Pearl has won numerous culinary awards for its effervescently imaginative fare.. The Scene
It's one of the favorites of local food critics because it combines a smoothly sophisticated atmosphere with topnotch cuisine.

The Food
On the outside, it doesn't look fancy, but once you're in the door, you're pampered with such items as veal paillards, veal with vanilla bean sauce and wild mushrooms flavored with Marsala wine; or lump crab bisque with sherry, garnished with edible orchids. If you live near Dunedin, this is the place you choose for a big night out.

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gwarrenpsy

Joined 11 years ago

A Rare Gem of a Restaurant. One of the most innovative, creative culinary dining experiences, Black Pearl is an incredible find. Not one but two top chefs prepare imaginative dishes combining complex, diverse flavors with the freshest ingredients. Fish, seafood and grilled meats are specialties but be sure to save room for mouth-watering desserts. An extensive wine list rounds out what is a memorable dining experience. It's a tiny, intimate restaurant so reservations are recommended.