Dempsey's Steakhouse at Saddlebrook Resort, Wesley Chapel, Florida

Dempsey's Steakhouse, which is located on the property of the luxury golf and tennis resort, Saddlebrook Resort, in Wesley Chapel, Florida is by far one of the best restaurants I have enjoyed since moving to Tampa over ten years ago. The plus side to reviewing this particular restaurant for you is that I have first hand experience as to what goes on behind the kitchen doors where, if you've ever caught an episode of Kitchen Nightmares, could keep you from eating out ever again. This is not the case at Dempsey's Steakhouse as they have one of the cleanest kitchens you could hope to find in such a busy restaurant. I know this because I worked at this resort in the banquet department and spent time in every kitchen and back hall of every food facility located here. They truly run a clean and tight ship and the quality of food and service will prove that to you during every visit.

Let's begin our quick tour arriving at the Saddlebrook Resort entrance which is located just one mile east of I-75 on State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. You can arrive here from Tampa in about 30 minutes and it is certainly worth the little drive to get one of the best meals you will ever have. The entrance to the resort has just been upgraded to include a traffic light and extra lanes for entering and exiting, but the beautiful landscaping did not suffer for this change. Keep your eyes open as you drive the long and winding road to the resort as you might catch sight of a deer, possibly a famous tennis player as this has been home to and a training facility for many over the years. The resort also offers two Arnold Palmer Signature golf courses. I recommend that you spend a weekend at the resort and try them out as you will certainly find them challenging to say the least. If you do, keep your eye out for some pretty pink Wilson balls, they are probably mine. Whether you stay at the resort for a night or two or even just drive out for dinner, though there are other choices, you must plan a meal at Dempsey's Steakhouse, especially if you're looking to dine on one of the best steaks you will ever have.

A short walk from the valet or any room at the resort will wind you around the half million gallon Superpool set among lush tropical foliage off a cobblestone path. When you enter Dempsey's Steakhouse, you actually enter TD's Sports Bar first where you can have a before dinner cocktail while you wait, if you have to, for your table. As the courteous staff leads you to your table, make sure to check out the incredible salad bar as you pass by. The salad bar alone is worth going for with its array of fine cheeses, salads, cold pastas, hummus and more at a price of $18.95 as an entree or just $7.95 when you add it to your entree.

The atmosphere at the restaurant is casual yet elegant and hopefully you'll be lucky enough grab a romantic table by the floor to ceiling curved windows. The staff here, some who have been here and serving me for the last nine years really know how to treat a customer. Mike Ingrassia, who is the Manager of Dempsey's Steakhouse, is one of the most courteous and gracious hosts I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, not to mention, having worked under him, keeps his staff happy which reflects on their service to us, the customer. Whether you choose the French Onion Soup or an appetizer of Steak Tartar, you will enjoy every savory bite. The entrees offered range from a Perdue Farms Roasted Half Chicken marinated in cilantro and lime for $21.95 to the best Prime Black Angus, Cowboy Steak you ever had which comes in a shallot merlot butter sauce for $49.95. I must tell you my favorite dish at Dempsey's Steakhouse is the Fresh Caught Gulf Snapper which is sauteed and served in a creamy lemony beurre blanc sauce that is to die for. All side dishes are for two and I would recommend the Roasted Garlic Smashed Potatoes with real large chunks of cooked garlic for $7.95. Other choices include Sauteed Green Beans, Creamed Corn, Sauteed Mushrooms and more.

The Saddlebrook Resort hosts many corporate events throughout the year which brings in hundreds of guests who , so for reservations at Dempsey's Steakhouse contact (813) 907-4574. The physical address is 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel, Florida and for information about staying at the resort you can call 800-729-8383.