We came for Beethoven’s 7th, but enjoyed the first half’s two pieces too: Trobone Trio& Mississippi Suite (1926).
Before the concert, they arranged Community Strings Project group to perform in the lobby, with Tampa Bay as the backdrop, which reminds me of Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport (btw, does anyone know what Shalin Liu is/was?)
The conductor Chelsea Gallo is well-spoken with lovely diction. Her long ponytail swings -:)
I don’t know how many of you are looking forward to the 2nd movement; I certainly do: how Bertie struggles with debilitating stammering and finally makes that confident speech, that rouses the nation. As we all immersed ourselves in it, a woman came in wearing a pair of cheap, loud heels, as if making a grand entrance. Wondering if curtsy was required -:) It was a crime!!
Having no art cells, so I’ll spare Mr. Dali the pain. Just sharing a few photos of the building.
The structure looks fantastic in the evening light. We go to Mahaffey Theater often for concerts- tonight is Beethoven’s 7th. More often than not, I see it in the best light possible.
The surrounding area, especially Tampa Bay, is enchanting.
The portions are large, hot, and delicious, as are the bread and pesto. I particularly like the pork: off the bone soft. Not too crazy about their wine glasses: thick and sturdy.
We came from the Sarasota Open (tennis) at IMG, which is about a 10-minute drive away. The surrounding area is yet to be developed. We’re happy to find this little gem. Feeling like a huge family with their daughters working the room efficiently – thanks, girls.
Diners are mostly seniors. By 6:20, the inner dining area is packed.
They’re all delicious, although the pizza and octopus are a bit salty. The pasta is al dente, and I swiped clean the sauce with the pizza bread – can’t take me anywhere.
They use Chef Sommerlier stem, and Maham Studio stoneware plates.
Our server looks like the boyfriend Scotty Landry played by Rudt Pankow in the Minders of Him (2026).
A kid comes in, goes from table to table, selling Boy Scout koozies (?). They’re a gang of three: are they staying in the hotel with their parents, or are they local? How did they get there if they’re local?
Discovering a small Korean corner, with the Korean Association in the same lot compound.
It’s an ordinary grocery store, of a decent size, with a few fresh veggies. Oddly, no price tags are available. I just ordered a jar of Kikkoman soy sauce on Weee at 2/3 price.
– Fried tofu
– Thai boat beef noodle
– bone in red snapper
No beer – they don’t have a liquor license.
The fried tofu is simple, served with garlic in a sweet syrup dip.
The noodle is tasty and flavorful; although I won’t come back, if I have to, this is the one I’d order again.
The fried fish sits in a bed of syrup, and it isn’t not fresh, but the head is solid – not good for this bone picker.
I’m not a fan of Thai food due to its sweetness.
Single bathroom, with a few neat plants. A violin by the front counter and a piano by the door: all left by the previous owner. Two young servers work the room effectively, smiling.
This is one of the chain shops scattered across Florida, offering both take-out and dine-in. You order from the machine on the left side of the counter.
The restaurant is bright and clean. The service is good: the young man asked us if we’d like some black vinegar and hot water (he said yes to me, bringing in my tea, when the restaurant had only one other couple): Thanks.
I’m wondering if the creator(s) are from northeast China: the fillings, especially the dumplings, are very solid, and the wontons are chubby.
