As a food blogger, I recently had the pleasure of dining at Klas la, a Haitian restaurant located in Tampa on Bruce B Downs near Busch Gardens. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the warm and inviting atmosphere and the friendly staff.
One of the first things that caught my attention was the menu, which featured a wide variety of traditional Haitian dishes. I started with the griot, a famous Haitian dish made with marinated and fried pork. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the tangy Haitian-style dipping sauce was the perfect accompaniment.
Next, I tried the fried chicken, which was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was one of the best fried chickens I’ve ever had. I also tried the soup and salad russe, which were both hearty and comforting.
One thing to note during a visit to Klas la is the inconsistency in their patty or Pate Kode. These patties are traditionally made with ground chicken and eggs mixed with vegetables encased in flour dough. However, on some occasions, I have noticed that they use questionable meat just chopped and placed in the patty. Unfortunately, I have encountered some patty that contains chicken skin, which detracts from the overall experience. Due to this inconsistency, I cannot wholeheartedly recommend Pate Kode. It’s a shame, as the concept of the dish is delicious, but the meat quality can be hit or miss.
On the downside, I have to mention that the fish platter, though large, is quite pricey at $45. So, If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, you may want to stay away from it.
The prices at Klas la are reasonable, making it an excellent option for a casual dinner with friends or family. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for authentic Haitian cuisine in the Tampa area. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Just be mindful of the cost of the fish platter and inconsistent Pate Kode if you’re on a budget.
