Sarah’s Secret Spots in Tampa
These past few weeks have been heavy.
Between family health issues, changed life plans due to COVID, a recession, and a long overdue fight against systematic racism in America, my mental health has taken a wobble. Who knew this is what the world would look like halfway through 2020??
I have been continuing to educate myself, listening to friends stories, and donating/signing petitions to worthy causes. I think we all have a duty as citizens of our communities to ensure everyone feels safe & worthy no matter their skin tone. Racism is a sin, and it needs to be abolished. Some great resources so far have been the documentary 13th (netflix), John Oliver’s last week tonight episode on police (youtube), and 8cantwait.org. I personally have signed petitions and donated to causes like the NAACP and turning the no knock warrant law after Breonna Taylor was so innocently murdered in her sleep.
What I’ve learned so far: Even if you are behind in the fight, start now. Start having conversations with family and friends even if it’s uncomfortable. Recognize that white privilege is still VERY real. Pace yourself but don’t lose energy in this movement. Find ways to make a change locally by voting. And remember to show love and kindness to all.
And with that, I do have a few positives to celebrate because as of last week I have officially been living in Tampa, FL for three years and it’s the one year anniversary of the blog! I came down in the spring of 2017 to try out for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleaders. Three amazing seasons later I am living my best (retired) life! After so much time balancing a full time job and NFL schedule, it’s been fun finally exploring more of the city.
Below I want to share with you some of my favorite places/ bucket list items. Some may be a secret, others not so much. But all are amazing ways to see what Tampa has to offer! I also will be highlighting some of the black owned businesses by emphasizing them in with a * below. 🖤
Please note not all of these are currently available or open due to COVID-19. Practice social distancing, wear a mask indoors & wash your hands often.
Stay safe!
Foodies
RyGuy’s Chicken in Waffles just moved locations to Ybor in January 2020
RyGuy’s chicken & waffles*
A classic. Located now in Ybor as of January 2020, was previously named RyRy’s. There’s a RED VELVET waffle. I said what I said.
Hall on Franklin*
Indecisive? Want lot’s of choices? Look no further because this place has 5 restaurants offered in one!
Armature works
Another great space that gives you lots of options. M. Birds rooftop has the perfect sunset backdrop overlooking downtown & the riverfront.
7th & Grove*
Ava
This place is on the main street in Soho, so it’s no secret, but boy is it the spot to go! I have had brunch, lunch, dinner & even spent NYE here & nothing I’ve had has disappointed me.
On Swann
LS Organics
After all this heavy, amazing food sometimes you just need to balance it out with a good smoothie. This place is female owned and is a one stop shop for all your health & wellness needs to glow from the inside out. I suggest the rosé smoothie, the CBD water, and the teriyaki chicken meatballs. http://www.enjoylifesimplified.com/
Pop goes the waffle*
Located in St. pete, this mobile business was started in 2017 which specializes in waffle donuts & waffle pops. Insta worthy indeed! https://www.popgoesthewaffle.com/
Tebella Tea Company
Cooks
I have heard nothing but great things about this restaurant! It’s in my neighborhood and I’ve been meaning to go try it out. It is traditional British food, so if you’re looking for beans with your breakfast or a good roast, this is the place to go. http://www.theenglishcook.com/
Guthrie’s
If you love Zaxby‘s, this place is even 10 times better! Fried chicken tenders, crinkle fries, secret sauce, need I say more?? It’s also less than a mile from my house so you can imagine how dangerous this has been for me haha. http://guthrieschicken.com/
Sweet Spots
Sweet Soul
OK OK, I feel like this one is no secret. BUT, my secret tip is to get the acai bowl & add soft serve on top. Major flex. Also if you haven’t driven around the back, you are missing out on the chicken coop and tennis court. (Welcome to Tampa)
Twisty Treat
My cousin took me here my first weekend in Tampa and whenever I go there I think of the drive home and the vibrant sunset I saw. Ahh nostalgia.
Mr. Penguin
My dad was bummed this one was closed during his last visit, but it’s a twist on your class Italian Gelato. You’d literally drive right past it if you weren’t looking for it.
Revolution Ice Cream
Get the sampler. You’re welcome. https://revicecream.com/index.php
La Creperia Cafe
When your European roommate says they have authentic Crêpes, you can trust that recommendation! http://www.lacreperiacafe.com/
The Cookie Monster*
Wow. Just looking at their cookies my mouth is watering. Ordering online tonight & you deserve to get cookies you crave too. https://tcmcookie.com/
Cosmic Donuts
OK this place I recently stumbled upon during national donut day, it’s just over the bridge into St Pete. The shopping center might not look like much, but the red velvet and s’more donuts make it a place to visit. https://cosmicsavories.com/
Places
Buddhist Temple in Thailand? Nope, it’s a restaurant in Tampa! Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram
It’s crazy such a beautiful Buddhist temple is just around the corner in Tampa. You’d think you had traveled to Bangkok! Then surprise, it’s actually a Sunday Food Market!
Fun Lan Drive through
Zulu Painter’s Murals
Tampa Theatre
One of my highlights was going to the Greatest Showman Sing-a-long here. Those acoustics though!
Bungalow Ave
Right outside of Hyde Park village, this cute row of bungalow houses is a fun walk after a wonderful meal at Forbici. My dad said it reminded him of the Caribbean with all the variety of colored houses.
Stores
Lulu Studio
Canvas Fashion gallery
Located in Hyde Park, I love this local boutique which also has fun Tampa / St Pete prints like you see below. It comes in a cute mug too!
Evelyn Henson design, sold at Canvas Fashion gallery
Events
4th Friday Downtown Tampa
Museums
The Dali Museum
Dali Museum
Friendly recommendation- do NOT do their “Sunday Brunch.” You will be disappointed. But the pieces here are amazing and worth the drive out to St. Pete.
Cass Contemporary
Contemporary Art Space & Studio is constantly changing up their Gallery exhibitions.
Outdoor Activities
Treasure Island Beach
This beach is clean, less crowded, and has that true small beach town vibe. I recently spent a Sunday out here and loved how far you could walk out before the water got deep.
Redneck Marina
It is exactly what it sounds like haha. But there is something to be said for a beach that’s 10 minutes from my home.
Wine down waterfront yoga/ Curtis Hixon park free yoga
Courtney Campell Causeway
While many will boast about Bayshore Boulevard (which is wonderful & iconic don’t get me wrong), I found peace walking and rollerblading this path lately because it is less busy but still beautiful along the water.
Florida Botanical Gardens
Okay this is still top of my bucket list, and is used for engagement photos, graduation shoots and even weddings! This beautiful backdrop is actually FREE so that’s even better!
Ballast Point Pier
I live in the ballast point area, so it’s a lot of fun to rent bikes and go all the way down Bayshore to ballast point pier and back. Or just drive over with coffee to watch the sunrise over the downtown.
City of Tampa Ballast Point Pier
Bars & Breweries
Ciro’s speakeasy
I’m not gonna tell you where it is because where’s the fun in that? :)
Lowry Parcade
Want to play games with friends and drink? Look no further! From pinball to mario kart, this place has games for everyone for a fun social night.
Hotel Bar
Located downtown, it’s pretty plain from the outside. But once inside, you’ll realize why you should make this place your happy hour hot spot.
81 Bay Brewing Co.
This place has a funky feel, but best part is when they have Sunday morning yoga offered to support local charities and you get a free taster beer after!
Spookeasy Lounge
Looks super creepy, so enter at your own risk. BTW, you enter through a book shelf like in a Nancy Drew novel.
Luna Lounge
Most people go to Bulla Gastrobar for dinner, but did you know there is a roof top bar that has a beautiful view of downtown Tampa?
Hotel Bar- Downtown Tampa has happy hour every weekday from 4-6pm
What are your favorite spots in the Tampa Bay area?Sincerely,
Sarah
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