Best place to have dinner on the water:
My favorite without a doubt is The Rusty Pelican. The sunsets are incredible.
Favorite breakfast spot:
Samaria Café in downtown Tampa. Everything is fresh and cooked to perfection. Omelets are a must… and keep the coffee coming.
Best Bloody Mary:
This is one of my weaknesses. I actually have two, and I can’t decide. It’s between Ella’s Americana Folk Art Café and Datz, which are both equally amazing yet very different. Ella’s garnishes theirs with a rib, while Datz garnishes their Bloody Mary with a thick-cut piece of crispy bacon.
Best place to catch a live band:
Fly Bar & Restaurant. It always has a great flow of energy and eclectic music from all genres.
Favorite craft cocktail:
I have a thing for spicy drinks, so my favorite comes from Bartaco. It’s the Humo y Fuego with ingredients that consist of lime juice muddled with green tomatillo and jalapeños.
Place you take people from out of town:
When friends come into town, I like to take them out to Ybor City. Whether it’s during the day or for the nightlife, it’s culturally rich and always a great time.
Best place to grab a drink downtown after work:
If you’re going to be downtown, then you have to stop in to Anise Global Gastrobar. It’s a great place to unwind with a drink and perhaps a small plate of baked goat cheese to complement.
Favorite sushi place:
Samurai Blue in Ybor City is the best! The historic venue and grand ceilings only add to the already amazing dining experience. If you didn’t already know, you’re actually dining in the “fly loft” of an old theater.
Favorite museum or gallery:
As a USF art major, I’d have to say visiting the on-campus Contemporary Art Museum or the Oliver Gallery is a must, especially when students have their works on display. It’s a great way to connect with young aspiring artists.
Cool Tampa fact:
I really enjoy venturing into Schiller’s Architectural & Design Salvage. They’re located off West Cypress and North Rome. It’s a great place to find old reclaimed wood and hardware from salvaged buildings. Recently they were granted salvage rights to the historic Bellevue Biltmore.
