Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Trendy Eats in Tampa

One of the most celebrated holiday destinations in America in recent times, Tampa Bay has lots to offer to its visitors in terms of activities, attractions and food. Maybe its prices have gone up a little in the past few years because people have started realizing its value as a vacation spot; however, Tampa remains affordable for all kinds of budgets. There are cheap flights to Tampa from several major airports worldwide. With many international airlines flying to the Tampa International Airport, getting cheap tickets to Tampa is quite easy; just check out deals in AirTran Airways or British Airways Flights deals to get cheap airline flights.

Tampa’s beaches, the activities they offer and its party atmosphere can work up quite an appetite; select from a wide range of beach front bistros, cafes and fine dining restaurants to sate this holiday hunger. The flavorful influence of Cuban and Spanish culture in Tampa’s cuisine helps to make sure that you get a wide range of options to select from every time you eat.

What to eat?

Being a coastal place, fresh seafood also features in most menus in Tampa. So you can expect paella and other seafood specialties like crab cake Benedict. Ybor city is the place to head to for Cuban and Spanish food. Feast on Cuban bread, black bean soup and picadillo and don’t forget your Cuban coffee.

Soho and Westshore Area are where most trendy restaurants can be found. Tampa is proud of its “institutions”, restaurants that have been accepted by all and are here to stay. Your trip to Tampa wouldn’t be complete without a trip to all these must eat places.

Where to eat?

When your flights to Tampa land at the Tampa international airport, head over to the revolving restaurant at the airport, The View at CK’s to get your first taste of Tampa. Though a little expensive, the food and view here are great.

Bern’s steakhouse with its reputation for fresh and delicious food, lovely ambiance and superb wines is a favorite in Tampa with locals as well as tourists. Enjoy the steaks as well as the handmade desserts here.

The Columbia restaurant started in 1905 is an icon of Tampa and offers tasty Spanish and Cuban food. Book in advance to enjoy the live Flamenco show.

Carmine’s in Ybor city and Hugo’s on Howard Avenue are other favorite hot spots for Spanish food.

Donatello’s, Armani’s, Bernini and The Laughing Cat are where you should go if you want authentic Italian food. For Mexican, try out Miguel’s on Kennedy Blvd or Esthella’s on Davis Island.

Of course, seafood being a Tampa specialty cannot be ignored; Oystercatchers in Hyatt Regency Westshore and Skipper’s Smokehouse are famous for their seafood dishes.

When Spanish food is there, street food can’t be far behind. Tacos compete with hot dogs, sandwiches and devil crabs. Have your fill without burning your purses and head off to where the fun is.

So before you book your flights to Tampa, chart out a plan on not only the places you wish to visit each day, but also the “institutions” where you can treat your taste buds for each meal.