WTR Pool & Grill, the waterfront restaurant located at The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa, has launched five redesigned menus to match its latest grand renovations. The menus include breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch, dinner, and an exclusive grill menu for WTR’s cabanas and are specially crafted by Executive Chef Joe Garcia. The inspiration for the menus is a more elevated variety of beach fare. The menu includes dishes such as Seared Scallops, Salmon Tartare, Walkerswood Shrimp & Polenta, Linguine Frutti di Mare, Black Truffle Fries and more.
Originally from Dallas, Texas, Executive Chef Joe Garcia began his culinary journey at a BBQ restaurant in Texas. He worked his way up from dishwasher to lead line cook to then Executive Kitchen Manager. After traveling and opening restaurants all over the United States, Chef Garcia settled in Tampa and worked as the Executive Chef at Grille 116 creating dishes for Tampa’s elite. Once he was introduced to the potential and direction of WTR Pool & Grill, Chef Garcia couldn’t pass up the opportunity and joined the Godfrey team.
Executive Chef Garcia has over 20 years of culinary experience with expertise in Latin and American Contemporary cuisine. He is most known for dishes like the Doughnut Burger and his Chocolate Soy Glazed Tomahawk Chop. His vision for the future of WTR is to make the restaurant the premier spot in Tampa to get an elevated casual dining experience on the water, complete with sunset views. He is constantly motivated my new challenges and continues to bring unique and flavorful fare to guests.
Q: Why did the menus change?
A: We changed the menus in order elevate the food to mirror the elevated venue. The quality of the food needed to match the ambiance of what we were trying to achieve. We needed lighter, current, and sexier menus.
Q: What’s new? What’s different?
A: The most important changes we made are in quality. We are a scratch kitchen and prepare everything fresh. We have improved the quality of our proteins or the heroes of the plate. We source as much local Florida first product we can without compromising the level of quality that we live by.
Q: What should guests expect?
A: The guests should expect more eclectic menus with options for all. We have more items and ability to cater to those who are health conscious or have dietary or allergy restrictions.
Q: What inspired the menus?
A: The inspiration was elevated beach fare, while focusing on bringing in as many fresh Florida foods as possible. We wanted a menus where people can eat and enjoy a day at the pool or bring the family and eat a full meal while watching the sunset.
GODFREY HOTEL & CABANAS: The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa’s resort-style property is nestled among the lush tropical grounds at the edge of Tampa Bay and is conveniently located in close proximity to Tampa International Airport, the Westshore office market and downtown Tampa. The expansive property boasts a heated outdoor pool, 3200 sq. ft. pier with stunning sunset views and private event space, fitness center, and 7,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space. The 276-room hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, 42’’ flat screen TVs, coffeemakers, mini-refrigerators and expansive space to relax. Every guest room also comes with a private balcony offering sweeping views of Tampa’s skyline and breathtaking sunset views. http://www.godfreyhoteltampa.com/
WTR POOL & GRILL: WTR Pool & Grill is Tampa’s ultimate seaside retreat. Overlooking Tampa Bay, WTR provides guests with a memorable experience of poolside luxury in a modern tropical setting. By day guests may relax on daybeds and chaise lounges while enjoying refreshing handcrafted cocktails and dining from our unique menu based on the bounty of ultra-fresh Florida seafood. For those seeking an even more indulgent experience, serenely furnished private cabanas featuring televisions and refrigerators, offer fitting exclusivity and seclusion. Regularly scheduled events such as a high-energy weekend brunch and pool parties add to the festive atmosphere. By night, Sunset Pool Parties and special events including sets by guest DJs, live bands and other entertainment.
EVOLVE & CO: Evolve & Co is a full-service advertising agency located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. The company is a collective of brand strategists and creatives, specializing in the lifestyle vertical. The firm is located at 475 Central Avenue Suite M7, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701. www.evolveandco.com
Editors: For details, or to schedule an interview contact Lisa Williams lisa@evolveandco.com or 727.490.9835.
