Chef Jeannie Pierola Returns to Tampa Dining Scene in Trendsetting PopUp Dining Series

Leave it to the former Executive Chef of Bern’s and SideBern’s to pick up on the hottest culinary trend in the country and bring it home: Pop•Up Dining. The brainchild of L.A.•based Chef Ludovic Lefebvre who appeared on “Top Chef Masters,” Pop•Up Dining is a guerilla restaurant that, as its name implies, literally pops up at a selected space for a limited time. “When I read about LudoBites I was immediately curious and excited,” states Pierola. “Here’s a highly regarded chef who’s frustrated that the economy is stalling his own efforts to open a restaurant. So he finds a breakfast and lunch only place, borrows it in the evenings for a few months, and cooks his most recent creations. And because of the limited overhead, guests can enjoy fine dining at casual dining prices. It’s the ideal restaurant for these times.” Now Pierola is ready to bring her creative talents to the pop•up dining trend with a limited engagement at Pinky’s Diner for 10 nights in November (09•13 and 16•20). Called KitchenBar, it will continue her exploration of world cuisine and mark her return to the local dining scene since leaving Bern’s in 2007. “KitchenBar is the natural evolvement of my culinary journey, “ adds Pierola. “After Bern’s and SideBern’s, I dined my way across the country, Mexico and Europe and consulted with a number of restaurant groups.” KitchenBar is the culmination of Pierola’s travels and experiences, and will offer the thrill of amazing products, precise execution and her unique creativity to everyone. “Breaking bread should be an affordable, daily expression,” explains Pierola. “KitchenBar will be a dining democracy; exceptional food, exceptionally priced. Come eat what’s next.” Guests can pre•purchase wines from uber•wine merchant Bob Sprentall of B•21 which will then be delivered to Pinky’s. Or, they can choose to bring their own. And after November? “This is an ongoing series, so stay tuned,” sums up Pierola. “Click ‘like’ on KitchenBar’s Facebook page to find out where we’ll pop up next.” Pinky’s Diner is located at 3203 W. Bay to Bay Blvd. For reservations 813•374•4537.