The Gateway Women’s Club recently gathered for an evening of dining at Tap 42. What began as a plan for an al fresco experience on Tap 42’s beautiful patio, quickly turned into a testament to the restaurant’s incredible hospitality when Florida’s seasonal weather threw an unexpected curveball with a sudden drop in temperature. What could have been a logistical challenge for a large group became the first highlight of the night. The managers and staff at Tap 42 were incredibly gracious, seamlessly relocating our entire party from the chilly outdoors into their warm, comfortable interior. The indoor vibe was energetic and fun, providing the perfect backdrop for the evening.
As we settled in, we realized our party consisted of exactly 42 members, spouses, and guests, which coincidentally is the restaurant’s namesake! The founders of Tap 42, Sean and Blaise McMackin, named the restaurant, in part, as a nod to the sci-fi classic, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. In the novel, a supercomputer calculates that “42” is the “Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything.”
For the Gateway Women’s Club, the “answer” to a perfect night out definitely involved great company surrounded by exceptional food and drink. The culinary experience received rave reviews across the board. Our group indulged in an array of exceptional wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails while navigating a menu packed with flavor. Appetizers set a high bar, with tables sharing the crisp Chicken Lettuce Wraps and the visually impressive Calamari Tower. The main courses were equally celebrated. Members enjoyed diverse selections ranging from options like the Southern Fried Chicken Salad, the Zen Bowl, and the California Chicken Bowl, to hearty favorites including savory Chimichurri Skirt Steak, Chicken Tender Platter, and the melt-in-your-mouth BBQ Baby Back Ribs. The burger aficionados in the group were thoroughly impressed by “The Big Smash.”
MARIA BEACHAM, DOM AND DONNA
MARCHETTI, MICHAEL AND HELEN
COTNER, AND ELEANOR STUART
DEBBIE AND BILL WOOD, DEBRA ROGGOW
AND LOUIS SMITH
BOB AND DONNA THAYER,
GRACIE AND RON HRINDA
It was an evening of fellowship along with impeccable service and delicious fare. The Gateway Women’s Club extends a heartfelt thanks to the entire Tap 42 team for accommodating our large “group of 42” so graciously and ensuring our night was warm and memorable.
