Article by: Abbagale Looney, Contributing Writer, Photos by Addison Goodwin

The Tigers Bar & Grill, a locally owned and operated restaurant, is an incredible stop for someone in search of a unique experience with beautifully crafted meals and beverages. It is evident from the first order how much care and quality are put into this restaurant. It is located on Hillcrest Road in the shopping center next to Airport Boulevard (the same parking lot as Krispy Kreme and Flour Girls).

The Tigers’ house coffee is a simple, mesmerizing beverage. As someone who prefers iced coffee most of the time, this drink surprisingly entranced me—even in the middle of the summer heat. I was surprised when the coffee came out, warm and unexpectedly khaki-colored. It almost looked like a cup of hot chocolate, with froth piled beautifully on top. I required no extra cream or sugar, only time to sip. The coffee tasted like something your grandma would hand you on a chilly day; it warms you up from the inside out, like a nice compliment on a bad hair day.

If the menu is overwhelming (so many options, so many decisions!), the Bandeja Mixta is a great place to start. As it states on the menu, this features fried arepita, fried plantains, fried yuca, and Venezuelan cream and cheese.

As a Southerner, the fried arepitas hold a special place in my heart because of how much they remind me of cornbread. They are subtle and airy and make perfect companions for the Venezuelan cream. These treats are bite-sized and brighten up any plate.

Fried plantains can be intimidating to try for the first time if you are a picky eater, but The Tigers make them an exciting experience. Sweet and savory, this appetizer could easily double as a dessert.

The fried yuca is difficult to explain, but it almost tastes like a lighter, more delicate version of a “tater log” (a Southern delicacy). Addictive at first bite, they are quick to disappear off the Bandeja Mixta platter. These are perfect for dipping in the Venezuelan cream and cheese as a flavorful combo or enjoying plain.

The Venezuelan cream is compatible with the entire selection and will leave you wanting more to take home for later (which is exactly what I did). It is delicious and could honestly be eaten with a spoon as well as on top of an appetizer.

For an entree, the arepas are a spectacular choice. I’ve only tried the Pabellón, but it was so amazing that I fully intend to go back and try some (if not all) of the other options. With a choice of grilled or fried, the Pabellón arepa had shredded beef, black beans, plantain, and shredded cheese. There are also vegetarian options, if a customer prefers a bean base instead.

There are a wide variety of other food and drink options and a world of unexplored flavors. If you want to give your palate a break from fast food, take the time to go and savor a delightful, fresh lunch with a friend or colleague at The Tigers.