Favorite place for a girl’s night out:
The girls enjoy going to Fly Bar & Restaurant downtown for great food and drinks along with live music and a relaxing atmosphere on the rooftop deck.
Favorite date-night spot:
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner with stunning views and a downtown experience, Café Dufrain is the place to be. You can’t beat the view of Tampa’s waterways along with the sunset before or after dinner.
Favorite spot to take out-of-town guests:
I personally love taking friends and guests to Seminole Heights. It offers relaxed and mellow options for food, drinks and shopping. My favorite places include Fodder & Shine, The Refinery, Angry Chair Brewing and YesterDaze Vintage Clothing & Antiques.
Favorite place for a power lunch:
SoFresh is always my go-to for lunch. They have multiple locations, and I’m excited that they’re opening up a downtown location. They offer a delicious and healthy solution for lunch on the run or visiting with friends and colleagues.
Favorite local store:
I’m a fan of Dark Cycle Clothing in Hyde Park Village. The company consists of a local husband and wife team that design, print and pack their own items including shirts, pillows, coffee mugs, hats and more. They are genuine and creative.
Favorite waterfront restaurant:
Ricks on the River has live music, casual food and a great view of Tampa’s Hillsborough River.
Favorite weekday breakfast spot:
The Independent Bar and Café serves up a delicious breakfast that you can order to go or relax and enjoy for a few minutes.
Favorite place to sit with a cup of coffee and coffee drink of choice:
Jet City Espresso is one of my favorite places to grab a specially made Café Borgia topped with orange zest. It’s an authentic coffee experience, and the owner Jessica is a pleasure to visit with.
Favorite thing to do on the water:
I recommend stand-up paddleboarding [at Urban Kai] near the Tampa Convention Center. Bring friends and family!
Favorite exercise class or gym:
I really enjoy The Hip Room Dance Studio. They tailor dance instruction to the individual student and offer individual and group classes, including ballet, hip-hop, ballroom and more. You don’t have to be a professional to attend, and the studio itself is breathtaking.
Favorite park:
I enjoy the Flatwoods Wilderness Park in New Tampa. It’s a great place to take your dog for a long walk or bike ride and is generally not too crowded.
Favorite local attraction:
The Tampa Riverwalk is a must-do experience that links downtown destinations. Bring your dogs, friends and enjoy the scenery.