Datz Deli: Tampa, FL [Review]

We told you early in the year we would be launching our all new “bar reviews” section here at 101, and we’re starting off with a bang. We recently headed down South to Tampa and had the chance to experience a place called Datz Deli. No, you aren’t misreading that title. Datz Deli is a modern day premium GastroPub that on the outside appears to be a world class deli, but on the inside is much MUCH more.

“We are omnivores — carnivorous, chocolate-loving, bacon-hoarding, wineauxs, beer geeks, curd nerds and yes, even vegetarians. Together we are shamelessly unapologetic flavor crusaders and Datz is our playground.”

That’s to say the least! In reality Datz is many things-in-one. A high end craft beer bar, a wine bar, a foodie’s best friend featuring some of the most mouthwatering dishes you can imagine, a pasty haven (with a certified bakery extension opening next door soon), and a local ingredient shop (check out some of the hot sauces they sell). All this and would you also believe, a mixologists playground? You know if we stuck out head in there, it HAD to be worth mentioning.

A full page of some of the finest bourbon whiskies you can find is just the beginning. It actually spills over into a second page. Add that to the additional 70+ spirits ranging from the popular to the hard to find and that makes Datz Deli’s cocktail bar one of the most impressive we have seen at a place where liquor isn’t their one and only focus. You have your choice of not one, but two impressive bars to drink at, the first being “The Tap Room”, an inviting bar setting with an amazing assortment of craft beers on tap (34 in rotation)as well as an impressive collection of craft tap handles decorating the wall and corner to the right. If that doesn’t do it for you, the “Loft Bar” overlooks the room from the upstairs.

What We Had: I’m a sucker for Milk Punch, and when we looked at the cool and unique newspaper style menu’s at Datz, among all the unique cocktails the Gasparilla Milk Punch popped out at me. It was a tough choice considering at the time they’re featuring a seasonal pumpkin cocktail using pumpkin liqueur and 360 vanilla vodka and orange liqueur. You know how I love seasonal drinking right? But with so many future trips already being planned, I chose the Milk Punch and I don’t regret it one bit. Fresh ingredients make for such a difference. With an assortment of liquor including bourbon, brandy, and vanilla vodka, the drink is blended perfectly so not to be to overwhelming in any one department. Sweet, deceptively strong, and a nice creamy flavor make this one of my favorite milk punch recipes I’ve tried to date.  Don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging, we’ve got the recipe and have it listed below.

Price: The cocktail menu ranged from $8 to $12 and individual spirit prices ranged from as low as $7 and as high as $200. Remember though they offer many unique spirits including a nice Mezcal assortmant (a rarity in many bars), a 23 year old bourbon from Pappy Van Winkle ($45), a 40 year old Speyside ($100), and more.

Final Word: We were in town for a weekend, and with EVERYTHING that there is to do in Tampa/Clearwater, we managed to stop at Datz twice. Their cocktails (at least the one’s we ordered) were flawless, and even though we don’t review food here, we contemplated starting a food blog inspired by the amazing dishes we had (Try the el toro, you won’t regret it). We still don’t know whether the lunch or the breakfast was more impressive, but one thing is clear, this is a must-visit if you are in Tampa. Cheers

Gasparilla Milk Punch

• 1 C Buffalo Trace Bourbon
• 1 C 360 Vanilla Vodka
• 1/2 C brandy
• Whole Milk
• Fresh Nutmeg

Combine sugar, bourbon, brandy and vodka in a gallon container with a lid. Shake until the sugar is dissolved. Add the nutmeg, shake again. Add the milk, two cups at a time, until the jug is full, shaking well after each addition. Chill overnight, then shake and serve.

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For more infortmation on Datz Deli, including corporate parties, catering events, and their full menu selections, visit their website at www.datzdeli.com. Photos were provided courtesy of Datz Deli and Intoxicology101.