Brennen Taylor in Tampa, FL: 3 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Tampa

Must-try foods in Tampa

• Deviled Crab (Croqueta de Jaiba)
  Deviled Crab (Croqueta de Jaiba)A quintessential Tampa street food born in Ybor City. These are hand-rolled croquettes made with spicy blue crab meat, seasoned with a tomato-based 'chilau' sauce, breaded with stale Cuban bread crumbs, and deep-fried. Locals often enjoy them with a dash of hot sauce.
• Guava Pastry (Pastelito de Guayaba)
  Guava Pastry (Pastelito de Guayaba)Reflecting Tampa’s nickname, 'The Big Guava,' these flaky, puff-pastry turnovers are filled with sweet guava paste (and often cream cheese). They are a breakfast and snack staple found in almost every local Latin bakery.
• Scachatta
  ScachattaA unique Tampa-style 'pizza' served at room temperature. It features a thick, soft, egg-rich dough topped with a heavy, slightly sweet meat sauce (picadillo) and a dusting of grated Romano cheese. It is a nostalgic favorite at local Italian-Cuban bakeries like Alessi.
• Grouper Sandwich
  Grouper SandwichGiven its proximity to the Gulf, fresh-caught Grouper is Tampa’s premier seafood. Whether grilled, blackened, or fried, a true 'Tampa-style' grouper sandwich is served on a soft bun with tartar sauce, lettuce, and tomato, often sourced from local spots like Big Ray’s Fish Camp.
• Blue Crab Chilau
  Blue Crab ChilauA traditional Ybor City Sunday meal, this is a spicy, savory crab stew made with blue crabs simmered in a rich tomato, garlic, and bell pepper sauce. It is most commonly served over a bed of spaghetti, blending Italian and Cuban culinary traditions.
• Papa Rellena (Stuffed Potato)
  Papa Rellena (Stuffed Potato)A popular Latin snack consisting of a ball of mashed potatoes stuffed with seasoned ground beef (picadillo), breaded, and deep-fried until golden. It’s a dense, savory comfort food found in 'grab-and-go' cases throughout the city.

Trip guide

• About Tampa
  About TampaThe city’s architectural landscape also includes the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel, now the Henry B. Plant Museum, which features Moorish Revival elements including silver minarets and domes. The Tampa Theatre, constructed in 1926, is a movie palace designed in the Mediterranean Revival style with an interior that mimics a night sky. For families, the city provides several educational and recreational facilities.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Tampa is from January to April, when the weather is mild and dry with temperatures typically ranging between 70°F and 80°F. While this period marks the peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds, it avoids the extreme humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms of the June-to-September low season. For a balance of lower costs and manageable weather, consider the shoulder months of May and October.
• Getting around
  Getting around Tampa

  • Air and Rail Access Tampa International Airport (TPA) is the primary gateway, located just 6 miles from downtown. For rail, Amtrak’s Silver Star and Floridian lines serve the historic Union Station.
  • TECO Line Streetcar This free, vintage-style streetcar system provides a scenic and convenient link between Downtown Tampa, the Channel District, and the historic Ybor City. It runs daily with frequent service.
  • HART Bus and Pirate Water Taxi The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) operates extensive bus routes across the county. For a unique local experience.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Utilize the free TECO Line Streetcar for convenient travel between Downtown, the Channel District, and historic Ybor City.
  • Prepare for intense afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity by carrying a compact umbrella and staying hydrated throughout the day.
  • Expect to tip between 15% and 20% at restaurants, as this is the standard social custom for service in the United States.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Tampa

  • Lion & Hyena Ridge at Busch Gardens: A massive 35,000-square-foot habitat expansion featuring 270-degree glass viewing areas for a new pride of lions and hyenas.
  • The Tampa WOW Observation Wheel: A new 250-foot waterfront Ferris wheel opening near Sparkman Wharf, offering panoramic views of the downtown skyline and bay.
• Greater Miami & Miami Beach↗
  Greater Miami & Miami BeachThe official destination marketing organization for Greater Miami and Miami Beach, providing travel guides, hotel information, and things to do.