Cook's Kitchen — Restaurant in Tampa

There are some British pubs in the Tampa area but few authentic proper English kitchens. Cooks is exceptional. It's a small unassuming place on Gandy Blvd. with about a dozen tables, low ceilings, and a definite Great Britain feel. It has memorabilia from the Royal family, and union jacks on banners and coffee cups. You can even buy a proper tea set. It is the epitome of a mom and pop shop, with owner Sally cooking on a residential stove in the open kitchen area of the one room store. For dine-in, orders are taken at the counter and delivered to tables by servers.

I had the bacon and egg sandwich ($8.95) which comes on 3 slices of untoasted multi grain bread or French baguette. The scrambled eggs are fluffy and creamy, with added Italian spices including oregano. It makes for a flavorful plate.

The saucer sized hand made pancakes (3 for $8.95) are thick and fluffy. The outside is firm enough to not absorb all the maple syrup, meaning each bite offers separation between the fluffy cake and sweet sauce. The accompanying house made fruit salad includes kiwi, blackberries, raspberries, grapes, strawberries, watermelon, and two other types of melon. The desserts are divine. Try a Rich Chocolate Tart or Sticky Toffee Pudding for a rich authentic British finish.

If you don't have time to dine in or cook a full meal, Cook's offers meal pre-made meals for around $12.00 and also offer...

I was on the way out of tampa leaving a concert and was checking nearby restaurants and happened upon Cook’s. I liked the vibe and headed that way.

I was so excited to see the British snacks they had for purchase right off the bat. I love doing taste tests with my friends and I was looking forward to trying some of the ones they offered that I don’t see anywhere else. They have corners of the store with British memorabilia which is a very lovely touch, too.

I ordered the BLT on a croissant with a side of potato salad, a cup of curry sweet potato soup, and a sweet tea. The soup was the star of the show. Curry was sooo flavorful but now overpowering. Everything else was good and seemed to be of good quality. Most of all, everything is made with care.

The prices are a little high, but with their use of imported ingredients and foods, I understand. The staff are also extremely amiable and ensuring you have the best experience. I already told my partner I was taking him here next...

After a 6 mile walk from Harbor Island to the end of Bayshore I was definitely thirsty. Walked by Kojak's which I knew was closed then...and there it was... this quaint, unassuming, charming little place. From the outside, one can think that it is not even open for business if no one has parked at the front yet. Cook's Kitchen is precisely what the name implies. You walk in and you feel like speaking with a British accent right away. A few little tables with white and blue gingham tableclothes and lots of flags. Pictures of the royal family and a kitchen! Right there! and the red headed chef, a lady, yes... cooks discreetly for you. She used to be Chef to Fergie. Imagine that... and noe she is here with her family and you are so lucky... the quiches are to die for... especially the onion and bacon one! and the salads are so colorful and fresh. The fruit is juicy. The flag coffee mugs piping hot warm you. You leave the place belly full, mind at ease, and believing you had...