Inside: The Nest

Photos:

Ybor City used to be quiet during the day, save for the beer delivery trucks, clean-up crews for the clubs lining 7^th and HCC students groggily making their way to class.  But thanks to the redevelopment over the past few years (with complete overhauls like Centro Ybor) and the quiet openings of independent restaurants like Acropolis, La Creperia and Streetcar Charlie’s) the most historic and liveliest part of town is becoming a destination – before the sun goes down.  The Nest, a new dining spot on the corner of 7^th and 15^th, is the newest addition to the club, highlighting simple, sophisticated dishes and an easygoing vibe.

The digs: The room is long and narrow, offering 2 and 4 top tables as well as a couple of round tables.  There is also a bar, and several lunchtime patrons could be found perched on the stools, chowing down on a sandwich or two.  There is a bright, open feeling – high ceilings, big windows and open doors let in light and give the space an urban vibrancy.

The grub: The lunch menu is brief and the prices are much more agreeable than dinner fare.  There are assorted tapas dishes and appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts.  A full bar and a comprehensive wine list await those wishing partake. 

Wanting to keep it light, I opted for the Grilled Vegetable Plate ($13) and my guest chose the Angus Burger ($8) with some fries on the side

My veggies were grilled perfectly and dressed with a savory balsamic reduction.  There was zucchini and yellow squash, green peppers and tomatoes laid atop a healthy dollop of mashed potatoes.  So what was the only problem?  My dish, though nicely plated on a lovely rectangular dish was scant for an entrée portion. I left thinking to myself, “All right.  What’s for lunch?”

The burger was great – how can you go wrong with Angus Beef and perfectly seasoned fries.  The portions were much heartier.  Maybe if the prices of our entrees had been switched it would’ve been a more agreeable experience.

Two other (minor) complaints: our sodas were flat, and once we polished off the last few bites of our meal we waited quite some time for the check.

The bottom line: The Nest is a charming spot in a great location.  I would go back.  But next time I’ll order something a little more robust.

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The Nest
1430 7th ave
Tampa, FL
813-247-7500
http://www.thenesttampa.com

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