If you had to pick the single best meal you had at a Tampa Bay restaurant in 2022, what would it be? It’s a tougher question than we assumed. We’ve eaten a lot this year. Our survival depends on it, for one, so there’s that. But we’ve also seen a healthy opening of original local businesses throughout Tampa, St. Pete and beyond. And there’s always our coveted go-tos (so please don’t yuck our Chili’s yum). Which dishes blew our minds? Which chow-downs stuck with us and kept us coming back? The Identity staff gave it some thought. And at last, some of us came to a mouthwatering conclusion. These were our favorite singular meals of 2022.
Grouper Sandwich | Jerry’s Dockside Bar, Gibsonton
Picture this: Mid-June, afternoon cruising down the Alafia River with a couple cold ones (dad is driving the boat, of course), and you’ve worked up an appetite after soaking up the sun. You pull up to Jerry’s Dockside for their iconic Grouper sandwich. There’s two filets on this thing—with the coleslaw and the classic ruffles. The combo is unmatched. The simply understated meal that encompasses the perfect day on the water in Tampa Bay. – Kaylee Glyder
Ahi Tuna Shoots, Caesar Salad w/ White Anchovies, Charcuterie Board | 10&10 Enoteca, Tampa
It could have been the storm outside. Or perhaps the far-out-of-my-league girlfriend sharing this meal with me. Or maybe great wine just sort of makes everything better But the restaurant experience I’ll remember most this year was at the bar at 10&10 Enoteca. An uncanny situation that does simple, Euro-forward fare the best way—focusing less on creativity and more on making sure the stuff on your plate is the top of its class. I could roll on, but I already have. Maybe just forget this and go read that. Then go sit at the bar at 10&10. – Thompson Brandes
Chicken Pho | Pho Hoang, Riverview
One of my favorite meals of 2022 has to be from this little Vietnamese place called Pho Hoang in the View. It’s a local mom-and-pop restaurant that has all types of pho. You want skirt and flank steak pho? They have it. Meatball pho? No problem. Don’t get me wrong, they are ALL good, but my favorite is the simple chicken pho. Throw some jalapenos, bean sprouts and some onions in, and it’s just so incredibly delicious. If you tend to take things to the next level, add some sriracha in there too. But before you add anything, be sure to taste it first. This will help you measure the right amount of herbs and spices so you don’t overpower the taste of the broth itself. – Ben Shotten
Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers and Waffles | Chili’s Grill & Bar, Tampa
My single best meal in 2022 hands-down was at Chili’s. (Don’t look at me like that.) Not just Chili’s… the Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers and Waffles. To have something so sweet and savory at that kind of value is just remarkable. The honey chipotle sauce just drips off the waffles like Russell Westbrook’s gameday outfits. And every few bites you spice up your life by adding the jalapenos on top to add a little kick to this magical dream you’re already in. Then wash it down with a blackberry lemonade. *Chefs Kiss* – Tyler Langston
Carnitas Dinner, Queso Fundido | Miguel’s Mexican Seafood & Grill, Tampa
One of my favorite meals of 2022 has to be from my beloved Miguel’s on Kennedy. You have to start with the Queso Fundido, no questions. I’ve had so many different things there, but always go back to the Carnitas Dinner. Oh, and a margarita or two doesn’t hurt! Sometimes the Tampa classics are just the best. – Alicia Armes