As Tampa continues to grow, we see new coffee shops and cafés popping up everywhere. Here is a compiled list of ones that I love because of their modern and trendy environments and specialty coffees.
1. Caffeine Roasters
This burger joint turned coffee shop has become a local favorite on the corner of Armenia and Kennedy Boulevard. The switch from Drama Burger to Caffeine Roasters was completed during the end of Summer 2017. It offers a variety of signature coffees made from locally roasted beans from coffee plantations around the world. They also have an extensive food menu with options serving everyone’s needs. Caffeine Roasters serves as the perfect place to work or study in an upbeat and modern environment. Check out their website here and follow their Instagram @caffeineroasterstampa.
2. The Little Donut House
The Little Donut House recently opened in a shopping center that is conveniently located off Kennedy Boulevard. Taking pride in their miniature donuts, they serve over 20 different flavors that you can combine in a personalized pack. If you were ever a fan of SOHO Donuts while they were still in business, this will definitely fulfill your want for candy and cereal themed donuts. Additionally, they have created a coffee shop environment as they have added specialty coffee drinks and breakfast items to their menu. You can also sit and watch the workers hand make you donuts while you wait. Their website includes every menu item available, and the pictures of their mini donuts will entice you to stop on your next drive down Kennedy.
3. Buddy Brew Coffee
A local couple started Buddy Brew Coffee in 2010, and it has grown to be a well-known craft roaster throughout the Tampa Bay area. Located off Kennedy Boulevard, in Hyde Park, and now in Sarasota, Buddy Brew provides the desired environment that many coffee lovers search for. They are a community-oriented business as their website says “Coffee is only as good as the community you keep.” Ensuring that each customer has a pleasant experience, their coffee shops have tables and lounge areas that are perfect for working, studying, or meeting with friends. Their “Brew Good, Do Good” motto shows how the company takes pride in roasting and serving only the best quality coffee to their customers and spreading the goodness with each cup.
4. Indigo Social Bar
Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, Indigo is one of those coffee bars that I happened to stumble across. The specialty coffees are made quickly and are always fresh. This coffee bar also provides a great atmosphere for an after work drink as they also serve beer and wine. The occasional live music, friendly staff, and fresh coffee provides the perfect hole-in-the-wall in downtown. Follow their Facebook to stay updated on their upcoming events and drink specials.
5. Jet City Espresso
Jet City Espresso is a coffee shop that has been serving Tampa since the 90’s in Hyde Park and in Seminole Heights. They emphasize their ability to cater to certain dietary restrictions, such as gluten and dairy. Additionally, everything is made with organic and fresh ingredients to ensure that customers are getting great quality products as well as service. The Hyde Park location is set in a historic house where you can enjoy your coffee in the comfort of Jet City’s “home”. You can order to go or relax on the front porch. This relaxed environment ensures that each customer feels like family with each visit.
Allie Spurrier 