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Mad Dogs and Englishmen
By ERIKA VIDAL
Published May 25, 2007
Vitals: 4115 S MacDill Ave., Tampa; (813) 832-3037; 10:30 to 5:30 p.m., Sunday; 4 to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 4 to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday; smoking on outside patio only; www.maddogs.com. Major credit cards accepted.
The spot: This sophisticated yet laid back and cozy little English pub is nestled on a quiet corner of MacDill Avenue. You could easily drive right past it even if you're looking for it - we did the first time we went. If you're looking for a great first/blind date spot, this is it. It's quiet enough that you can hear each other talk but not so quiet that there's that awkward silence. If you can, grab a seat on the shaded patio (which is kind of like a miniature MacDintons, minus the claustrophobic feeling of being smashed up against several frat boys).
The crowd: This is where South Tampa's late 20s working professionals gather for evening cocktails. Plenty of khaki-loving, collared-shirt wearing gentlemen here. Overheard conversations are more likely to involve the latest episode of The Daily Show than Britney Spears' most recent breakdown.
The grub: We've all heard the rumor: English food sucks. Well, not here. Pub grub meets fine dining at Mad Dogs. Choose from a pulled pork pizza or a steak sandwich with sweet potato fries. Throw in a little filet mignon with chili-roasted eggplant, some shepherd's pie (be sure to get it topped with cheese) and, of course, the traditional fish and chips among many other surprisingly tasty dishes. There's usually a nightly special. Only downside is it's a bit pricey.
The staff: Plenty of sass with a touch of class. If you're here for dinner, order an appetizer because service tends to be a bit slow. The staff is a small, but friendly. You won't mind the wait - just have another pint.
The juice: Excellent selection of beer and wine. Beer selections include Harp, Guinness and Hoegaarden (garnished with a slice of orange) among many other unpronounceable options. If your goal is to get "pissed, " a.k.a, schnockered, be prepared to spend some money.
The entertainment: Live acoustic entertainment outside on the weekends. On our visits we've heard covers of James Taylor and Dave Matthews tunes.
[Last modified May 25, 2007, 17:17:43]
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