Tampa Bay Techs (And Dines) Out!

Usually when you head out to eat, the star of the show is the cuisine in front of you. But for the Yelp Elite Squad, Carmel Cafe and Wine Bar gave them more than just delicious dining. It wasn't just the amazing meatball lollipops or the creme brulee that was to die for; it was being able to get in touch with your inner nerd, as at Carmel your menu is an iPad! And yes, this means you can play Connect Four or check your email while awaiting some fantastic "Mod Med" (Carmel's very own term for Modern Mediterranean) cuisine. And you might not believe this… but merging sumptuous food with terrific technology is kind of a yelpers dream.

"From the moment I walked in the staff was extremely attentive, and the bartender even tweeted to me that I couldn't leave without saying 'hi.' Friendly and tech savvy!" cooed Cara B. "I would be doing a disservice not highlighting Carmel's most unique feature. I LOVE ordering off iPads (who doesn't want to see what they're about to order?) and am confident this trend will catch on soon. Way to be early adopters Carmel. Yes, that's the social media geek in me coming out."

"The food samples and Pinot Noir that I experienced almost immediately upon arrival were scrumptious," stated Brad S. "The extra meaty lamb skewers were especially tasty, as were the buttery crab cakes and the rib and portabello mushroom flat-breads. I also enjoyed the meatball lollipops, basically exactly a red-sauced meatball on a stick. In fact, nothing disappointed in any way. I'm not a big dessert fan, but the creme brulee and the chocolate-covered somethings on a stick were a huge hit with the female contingent."

"The entire staff made a consistent effort to showcase a large portion of their menu and they did so in a way that conveyed that they appreciated having us there and wanted to put their best foot forward," moaned Michael Z. "Despite my lack of a sweet tooth, both the truffles and creme brûlée were irresistible.

It was a night to remember, and one we'll all laugh at 50 years from now when we're taking our hoverboards to eat and ordering by letting the waiter read our minds. But until Marty McFly puts us in the DeLorean, we'll have to suffice with Carmel's fabulous food in a fun and friendly environment. Those that were there can share their experiences on the Event Page, or chat about the future you experienced this past Wednesday on the Talk thread.

Until next time, SYOY!!

Collin S.

Tampa Bay Community Manager