In the middle of checking in at the Sheraton East Tampa and partying at the Hard Rock Pool Party, we had a chance to dine at one of Hard Rock’s newest restaurants, Rise Kitchen & Bakery. At first glance this place comes off as your average casual dining location to have a sandwich or salad paired with a good soda or dessert but its actually much more thoughtful. The decor is rustic and inviting just as you would expect from a restaurant thats menu is compiled with hearty homemade comfort foods. Below is a peek into the layout and decor of the restaurant.
Located in the back of the casino just behind the pool, this spot is a great place to stop and get away from the action on the casino floor, before you head out to party (as we did) or in the morning for a nice meal to start your day. This isn’t a fancy destination for a birthday party or special event because of its causal atmosphere. Alcohol is limited to beer and wine.
So why stop into Rise? Its simple, the handcrafted meals are fresh and delicious. I ordered the Smoked Turkey Breast sandwich off the signatures and favorites portion of the menu. It was stacked with fresh sliced roast turkey, provolone, avocado and finished with a mayo spread on Venetian olive bread. I love olives so that was a surprising treat for me. It actually tasted like a sandwich I would order at a New York deli so I was in heaven.
The rest of the crew ordered flatbreads and salads… all deliciously handcrafted. It is refreshing to find a restaurant in a large establishment like the Seminole Hard Rock offering dishes with daily fresh baked breads and handmade flat breads fired in brick ovens. So often you find places that stock up on canned and dry ingredients to save on budget costs. That often leads to lack luster meals filled with bland sides.
Next time you need a break from the slots or before you head out to the party scene at the Hard Rock, make it a point to stop by Rise Kitchen & Bakery. I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised by the freshness and flavorful offerings that pack the menu.
And I will end it with a, “Good Luck,” that you will need at the Black Jack table but not here at Rise!
– Ryan
NHIE Guys 