As Instagram has become the social media platform of choice for people of all ages, bars and restaurants have responded by adding colorful murals, over-the-top drinks and witty signage to provide the perfect backdrop for your next post. Here are some of the most #instaworthy food and drink spots around Tampa’s urban core.
Mole y Abuela
@moleyabuelatampa
1202 N. Franklin St.
A rooftop bar plus neon that reminds us all that tequila is tops (in front of a trendy grassy wall, no less) has quickly made this new spot a hit online.
Editor’s note, Mole y Abuela is no longer operating as of 2021
M.Bird
@m.bird_tampa
Armature Works
(1910 N. Ola Ave.)
It’s all about the views of the Tampa skyline (plus the permanent throwback ‘60s vibes from the Mod Deco theme and tropical cocktails) on Armature Works’ new rooftop bar.
Osteria
@osterianatalina
903 N. Franklin St.
Humor plays well on Instagram, so snag a photo in front of the neon sign next to Osteria’s brick pizza oven and watch the likes roll in.
Cry Baby Café
@crybabycafe
710 Harbour Post Drive
New artwork and a fresh color scheme make the Harbour Island breakfast and lunch spot a great place to show your followers where you’re getting down to business for the day.
Bake’n Babes
@bakenbabes
The Hall on Franklin
(1701 N. Franklin St.)
Two words: Freak Shake. Each month pastry chef Julie Curry and her team create a new over-the-top milkshake topped with full-sized pastries that are made to be Instagrammed.
Café Hey
@cafehey
1540 N. Franklin St.
Get to Café Hey early to snap some shots in front of the murals by local artists on the shutters of the businesses surrounding the restaurant.
Mandarin Heights
@mandarinheights
5901 N. Florida Ave.
Between the flock of flamingos, the birdcages and the bathtub sitting next to the outdoor patio (yes, you can get in it), Mandarin Heights was designed with Instagram in mind.
Ichicoro
@ichicoroya
5229 N. Florida Ave.
Look closely and you’ll notice that the “random” squiggles and shapes on this mural by Jujmo are actually the noodles, eggs and other ingredients you’ll find in Ichicoro’s ramen bowls.
First Chance Last Chance
@firstchancelastchance
1707 N. 16th St.
I mean, why not? It’s hard to get more authentically Tampa than the red bricks of Ybor City, and a photo in front of this mural is a perfect way to mark your stop in the neighborhood.
Gen X Tavern
@genxtampa
103 E. Jackson St.
This bar and restaurant is like a second chance to live your childhood, only this time you also have alcohol and a camera phone. What could go wrong?
Whatever Pops & Bowls
@whateverpops
5127 N. Florida Ave.
Between the colorful pops (like the one on our cover), the new mural on the side of the building and their funky truck parked out front, Whatever Pops is the place for a summertime Insta story.
