Lona Modern Mexican Cuisine now Open in Downtown Tampa

Tampa Bay Food Tours is sharing some great tips for visiting the newest Water Street eatery. Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval (lonatampa.com). Lona is located in the space formerly occupied by Garrison Tavern in the Water Street Marriott.

Showcasing vibrant flavors and authentic Mexican cuisine via an elevated approach award-winning Chef Richard Sandoval and Chef Pablo Salas are leading the culinary team. Warm hospitality, innovative cocktails (200 tequilas), and a menu that is driven by contemporary interpretations of traditional dishes await. Back to the tequila, if you are a big fan, you can buy and store your own in the featured tequila lockers.

In Spanish, the word lona means canvas which is an apt description for this reimaged space.

On our first visit we committed to entrees, so we had to pace ourselves allowing only one appetizer and it was an excellent choice.

Lump Crab guacamole-

lime / cilantro / jalapeño / tomato / onion / chipotle

As we work our way through the menus on two visits, we experience the elevated aspect promised. Here with the addition of crab meat to a Mexican staple guacamole (available without crab as well).

The complimentary chips and incredible salsa were noteworthy as the house made salsa featured roasted tomatoes, garlic, pepper, herbs and spices which are combined for an end result that is more a dip consistency. The depth of flavor beats a watery tomato salsa any day.

Although not on the menu on our second visit the Mahi special was well composed, and the side corn dish was a favorite of the visit.

Steak Tampiqueña

grilled skirt steak / refried beans / rajas / corn enmolada

Carne Asada refers to a wide range of grilled red meat dishes. Tampiqueña Carne Asada is a variation from the Mexican city of Tampico. It consists of skirt steak pounded thin and marinated to tender perfection! The meat is most commonly grilled with a combination of onions and poblanos, or other local seasonal produce. The accompanying corn enmoladas, fried tortillas dipped in mole sauce and then stuffed were an authentic Mexican treat.

On our second visit we set out to explore the happy hour menu. But first we can't visit without trying the queso. Chorizo and wild mushroom add in upgrades are available, but we went old school.

Queso Fundido

melted cheeses / salsas / flour or corn tortillas

The dish features the cheese melted directly on a skillet which is straight up cheese. A departure from many other queso versions with creamier textures.

On to the happy hour menu available 4-6 daily. This happy hour in the Water Street area will be sure to be very popular as drink and food specials are limited in the area. Another deterrent to the area is the cost of parking. Problem solved.

PARKING AT LONA
3 hours of complimentary valet parking available for all Lona guests. Park with the Tampa Marriott Water Street valet team and they will validate your ticket.

The happy hour menu has a great assortment of cocktails and food.

Street Corn on the Cob

mayo / queso fresco / lime / chili powder

Baja Style Fish

beer-battered mahi mahi / chipotle slaw / pico de gallo

Al Pastor

adobo pork / pineapple / cilantro / white onion

Sorry no room for dessert on this visit either. The menu is very tempting so we will have to make another trip to enjoy.

Although the Garrison Tavern space has been completely revamped the Top Golf simulator suites will still be available. The adjoining redesigned outdoor patio area is also a great option for dining al fresco. A weekend brunch menu will be launched later this year.

Visit soon and tell them www.TampaBayFoodTours.com sent you. Guided walking food tours in Tampa, St. Pete and Dunedin.