Tampa is still bustling with new spots (and older favs), so I’m trying to go West more often and check things out. Outside of Orlando, I get asked for Tampa recommendations the most, so here are the details from my last few trips to help you plan your visit.

COFFEE

King State Coffee

Located in Seminole Heights, King State offers more than the standard iced latte.  As a coffee roaster first, you’ll find their beans in a lot of your favorite shops around Florida.  Along with being in tune with what good coffee is resonating with the locals, they also offer more by way of a breakfast and lunch menu.  Want wine or beer? They’ve got that too!  It’s as full of an experience as you want, in a bright and thoughtful setting (lots of seating indoors and out) while it pays homage to the Sunshine State much like Riggins did with Texas. Simply put, Florida Forever.

Spaddy’s Coffee

Also located in Seminole Heights, Spaddy’s is a smaller operation that lets Floridians take advantage of good year-round weather by getting to hang in their coffee courtyard.  While the coffee percolates inside their trailer you can find a spot to sit (shaded preferably) and get some Vitamin D.

Foundation Coffee

There are other coffee spots near Foundation, so you have your choices to make, however, I’ve been a fan of their drinks and their space on several visits. If you are in the area and need a quieter place to get some work done I’d suggest Foundation. It doesn’t hurt that they have some cute walls nearby.

Commune + Co (inside Armature Works)

My first stop when I’ve got something to do at Armature Works is always Commune + Co Coffee. My favorites are the Horchata latte (I almost exclusively get that) but also their coffee cola.

TREATS

Chill Bros Scoop Shop

Over in Ybor City, this ice cream shop has huge waffle cones that I would suggest filling with a syrup of your choice and then adding in your dreamy, creamy layers with their homemade ice cream. The space, like many of the newer spots in Tampa, indulge in photo-ready colors and corners making sharing your treats that much sweeter. Oatmeal cookie and pumpkin ice cream flavors hit the spot.

Revolution Ice Cream Co.

Back in Seminole Heights (actually right next to King of the Coop) is some seriously good small-batch Artisan ice cream. They had Coquito flavored ice cream on my last visit which absolutely floored me. Go here!

Sweet Soul

If you are looking to indulge your sweet tooth in a healthier way, I’d suggest Sweet Soul. It’s a small shop but they still take advantage of their space to make it cute and fun, while serving up acai bowls, smoothies, and even Matcha soft serve.

King of the Coop

Finding Hot Chicken in Orlando isn’t exactly an easy task (for now) so my cravings could finally be satisfied over at King of the Coop. Located in Seminole Heights (are you catching a theme here) is this modest operation where you literally watch your chicken get slapped, breaded, fried, and seasoned in front of your eyes as you wait.  Heat levels are up to you and noted on the menus.  I was so happy how the heat hit the back of my throat at the end of each bite without torturing me. For reference, I got the signature Nashville Hot heat level.  Also worthy of a shout out was the perfectly crisp and well-seasoned fries and the piping hot hush puppies that I slathered pimento cheese on.  I’m ready for round two.

Bodega

The best thing Bodega ever did for me was open in Tampa (again a win for Seminole Heights). Their St. Pete location has had me hooked for years now, but I travel to Tampa more frequently than St. Pete, so this is a big win for my mouth. Their Lechon platter can’t be beaten. The pork is so tender and flavorful, and as someone who has hated black beans her entire life, I down their’s without hesitation.

Luv Child Soho

Another concept by the Ciccio Restaurant Group is the beautiful hybrid of Mexican and Cuban cuisine at Luv Child. It feels part Miami glamour and funk and part disco as party music plays and the glitter of gold disco balls fill the ceiling. The bar has great drinks with mojitos flowing quickly, and a menu that lets you chose how hard you go whether it’s shareable tapas or full entrees. I will say if either of these cuisines is near and dear to your heart and personal culture, you may not be overwhelmingly impressed right off the bat, but there are solid options like the nachos and yucca fries. Explore the menu and have fun.

Inside Armature Works

Have I eaten at every space in Armature? No. But I can tell you what I’ve had and thankfully it’s all been good.

Butcher and Barbeque - Solid BBQ here for pulled pork fans

AVA Authentic Wood Fired Pizza - I was happy with my pizza, mainly for a few basic reasons. I liked the dough, I loved the toppings options (give me arugula all day), and the sauce wasn’t sweet.

Hemingway's Cuban - OK YES to their Cuban sandwich and Yucca fries. Just yes.

Ichicoro Ramen - Full disclosure, I’ve only eaten at their restaurant in Seminole Heights, not here at the market, but it was really good, and I imagine just as good to eat here.

I have several other spots on my list to get to, so I’ll keep updating my Tampa recommendations as my stomach allows.

Non-food related fun for me includes:

• Tampa Museum of Art

• Microgroove (music shop)

• Vintage Post Marketplace

• La France Vintage

• Revolve Clothing Exchange

Support local businesses by purchasing your food, not asking for it for free. All photos are property of LemonHearted Creative and all food was purchased by me.