The Salty Donut is Coming to Tampa
The popular Miami-based chain specializes in chef-made, small-batch craft donuts in various fun flavors, also offering vegan and gluten-free options. Openings are planned for a retail shop in Hyde Park Village and a commissary kitchen in Seminole Heights, likely in 2023.
Selfie Studio Opens in St. Petersburg
Strike a pose. The Social Warehouse opened in September as Downtown St. Petersburg’s first selfie studio. It features interactive photo and video experiences, professionally lit rooms and themed walls that change seasonally. #BringYourFriends
Sip & Dry to Expand
St. Pete’s blow dry bar and makeup salon, Sip & Dry, offers blowouts, waxing and makeup treatments accompanied by an Instagram-worthy free drink and optional bottle service at your chair. A second location will launch in Water Street Tampa later this year.
Tampa Welcomes First Cat Cafe
Two recent University of Tampa graduates opened the city’s first cat cafe, Cats & Caffeine, this summer on Henderson Boulevard in South Tampa. All cats were rescued and are up for adoption in partnership with Cat Lover’s Inc. Beverages by Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters are for sale.
Florida Aquarium to Get $40 Million Facelift
Aquarium lovers, rejoice. As the largest capital project in the aquarium’s 27-year history, three new exhibits are on the way with one scheduled to open next year. Get excited for the additions of California sea lions, African penguins and puffins.
Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen Arrives in South Tampa
This marks the 24th location for the health-focused chain. Signature “Bols” and other healthy, gluten-free fare are now available at the Dale Mabry outpost, also the first Bolay to include a drive-through. Nearby locations opened in St. Petersburg and Brandon last year.
Dave’s Hot Chicken to open Tampa Flagship
Franchisees for the Nashville hot chicken chain will open a location near the University of South Florida in the space that currently houses Mojo Books & Records. Negotiations are underway for Bradenton and Brandon locations, with opening dates to be announced.
Good Fortune comes to Station House in St. Pete
The concept comes from Hunger Thirst Group and includes a sushi bar, an Asian-fusion menu, a creative cocktail and sake menu and a karaoke room. The restaurant boasts late hours with a late-night menu.
Bones & Burgers Brings Ribs to International Plaza
Romacorp Inc., the parent company of Tony Roma’s, has chosen the food court at Tampa’s International Plaza and Bay Street as the location for its inaugural Bones & Burgers, a fast-casual, quick-service restaurant. It will serve Tony Roma’s ribs, premium burgers and burger bowls.
Both Sides of the Bay are Recognized for Dog-Friendly Cities
St. Pete is America’s most dog-friendly city, according to a study published by SmartAsset. Also impressive, Tampa ranked third with Tucson, Arizona, coming in between them. Some of the metrics included dog parks, pet stores, veterinarian offices and dog-friendly restaurants.
