A Perfect Pairing of Taste and Technology

I consider myself to be fairly tech-savy.  I have a smart phone; I know how to use it.  I even know the first two trouble-shooting steps when I have an issue with my computer so I don't immediately need to bug my husband.  That said, I am always interested in new developments.  Recently, I joined Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for a special media tasting where they debuted their new "WiNEPAD." I was extremely impressed with how easy-to-use and helpful the app was.  You can review the entire winelist, receive personal recommendations from the restaurant's Director of Wine, see recommended pairings based on your menu selection, and they even had a "Spin the Bottle" section.  The WiNEPAD even had a beautiful cover with Thomas Arvid artwork.  

We were treated to the Fleming's Burrata Cheese (charred grape tomatoes, wild arugula, served with toasted garlic crostinis).  The combination of the tomatoes and the cheese set this dish apart from any other dish I've tried. The restaurant recently launched Small Plates, Big Pours - match any of their seven Small Plates with an oversized wine pour for $24.95 through June 30.  I selected the Sliced Filet Mignon with the Merlot (Esk Valley, Gimblett Gravels, New Zealand).  The Filet was perfect (I always order mine medium) and it was served over shiitake risotto.  Chef uses a special chili oil and porcini butter drizzle that was so good, I wanted to sneak into the kitchen for the recipe.  And although I did thoroughly enjoy my dinner, I did have some food envy of my neighbor who ordered the Braised Short Ribs.  They looked heavenly!

Dessert was an indulgent piece of Carrot Cake - three layers with cream cheese frosting topped with a drizzle of dark rum caramel.  The slice was enormous and I was able to eat half before packing it up to bring home for later (that night).

Delicious technology with amazing food truly made the evening memorable.  Check out Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar's new Small Plates, Big Pours menu for 24.95 through June 30.  Also be sure to check out the WiNEPAD and try a slice of carrot cake.  The restaurant is located at 4322 West Boy Scout Boulevard in Tampa.  For reservations, call 813/874-9463.