5 Charming Tampa Cafés
by Olivia Montora
As I’ve found to be true in many cities across the world, charming coffee shops exist, but they have an aggravating knack for being off the beaten path. Sequestered in a little nook somewhere, these can be found only after trudging around with a magnifying glass, Google Maps, and perhaps with a little help from a local. A little hyperbole maybe, but this is how it feels to me.
While I enjoy the adventure of seeking out these unique spots, sometimes a little input is just what you need to start off in the right direction. Having said that, below are 5 of my favorite Tampa Cafe’s, each having a charm of their own.
Located within the heart of Historic Ybor city, this Cuban-inspired cafe combines artsy appearances with a slow-paced atmosphere. Beautifully contemporary, it is set apart by it’s copious hanging plants, red chairs, and of course-it’s name. Café Quiquiriqui, literally translated, means “Café Cock-a-doodle-do. If that doesn’t crow “early morning cup of joe!” then I don’t know what does!
As for beverages, my favorite go-to is their classic Cafe con Leche served hot, in a bright yellow cup and saucer. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you can watch the Ybor city traffic as it slowly passes by, making for a truly relaxing experience.
If you’re an early bird looking for a new favorite spot, this rustic little coffee & tea bar has everything from strong brews, to art hung prettily on the wall, to delicious breakfast on-the-go.
Surrounded by Channelside’s sky-rise apartments and just a 5 minute walk from Tampa port, Victory coffee gets plenty of early morning traffic. If you plan on breakfast, call ahead as there can be a 30-min wait otherwise. As for recommendation, you might try their Avocado Egg Croissant-it’s amazing!
Excuse me, but did someone say “best coffee Vibes in town?” I did!
DI Coffee definitely falls into the category of being off the beaten path, both literally and figuratively. Located on Davis Island, this coffee shop + indoor wine bar makes for an interesting combination. With outdoor seating in the front and back, and a cozy indoor set-up, this is an excellent place to come for a relaxed evening of writing, reading, or meeting with a friend.
Combine cultured and classy with an upscale ambiance, add a coffeehouse, restaurant, bookstore and tiny decor shop and voila– you have Oxford Exchange. Located in this lovely European-inspired space is Tampa-born coffeehouse, Buddy Brew. From students on laptops, to groups of elegantly dressed girls on coffee-dates, to the person reading quietly in a corner chair, this place has something to quietly accommodate everyone. Although there are Eight-Tampa locations, this one is by far my favorite.
When I first came across Willa’s, sitting all cutesy on the corner, I thought, this place is too good to be true. Turns out, it wasn’t. With its interior brick walls, and french cafe-style chairs, it is a combination of rustic and charming.
I’m no “connoisseur” of coffee, but when it comes to flavor, their coffee is good. Then again, it is hard to complain when your latte has a perfectly shaped tulip on the top!
Tip: if you plan on having brunch, Willa’s has got you covered. Attached to the cafe is their restaurant, which is as delicious as it is memorable.
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