A good coffee shop is an ideal spot to socialize, study, and enjoy your daily dose of caffeine. As a Tampa local, I’ve been to many of the coffee shops the Tampa Bay Area has to offer, and so I’ve pieced together just a few my favorites for you to enjoy!
Tampa:
Buddy Brew Coffee at Oxford Exchange
You can’t go wrong with Buddy Brew—especially in such an iconic location at Oxford Exchange. This location is one of my favorites because it’s a real two-for-one, you are able to enjoy the atmosphere and grandeur of Oxford Exchange as well as the aesthetic appeal of Buddy Brew. Their menu is broad and customizable, I usually stick to an iced mocha but their selection of hot coffee is their specialty. Located just across from the University of Tampa and a short walk from River Walk, it’s in a stunning location that’s easily accessible on foot. Parking wasn’t easy in the past, but OE has recently added more spots and an extra lot for their customers and it’s made parking much smoother. If you’re seeking a coffee experience unique to Tampa, Buddy Brew at Oxford exchange is the location for you.
–Honorable mentions: Buddy Brew at Hyde Park and Park Tower. Both of these captures the uniqueness and personality of Buddy Brew, however, their Oxford Exchange location is a personal favorite.
Foundation Coffee Co.
This coffee shop is quirky as it is cozy. With an outdoor area and a unique presence located near Ybor, this coffee shop is just as interesting on the inside as it is on the outside. An indoor waterfall-like sculpture isn’t a feature you often see in a coffee shop, but it’s just another thing that sets Foundation Coffee apart from the others. Not only is their coffee stellar and rich with flavor, but the atmosphere of this shop also leaves you feeling happy and motivated to get work done. I’d be lying if I said I haven’t written a few papers in the quiet outdoor space.
Along with some really great coffee and pastries, this coffee shop is an open area that’s perfect for meeting new people, or focusing and enjoying the atmosphere. On occasion, an Indie Flea Market or other events will take place just outside Foundation’s doors, making this coffee shop the perfect spot to sit and stay awhile or grab and go to explore the events. You can also find a storefront location at the new Sparkman Wharf near Channelside.
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Gorgeous flowers, coffee, and doing what I love. What more could I ask for?
St. Petersburg:
Black Crow Coffee Grand Central
Out of all the coffee shops I’ve been to, I’ve concluded that Black Crow is my absolute favorite. Its local charm is unmatched, and you won’t find another coffee shop like it in the Tampa Bay Area. Of the two Black Crows in St. Pete, the brand new Grand Central location is my personal go-to spot for homework, socializing, and generally enjoying all of the art and personality that makes up the beautiful city of St. Pete. If you’re a fan of all things vintage and unique, Black Crow is home to typewriters, records, and even a selection of local art for sale.
This coffee shop is about all things local, including events, so there’s never a dull moment. If you’ve never been to Black Crow, I’d recommend starting out with an iced Purple Haze, it’s one of their specialty drinks and it does not disappoint. Don’t forget to pair it with their delicious coffee cake muffin! My favorite aspect of this coffee shop is how green it is. I haven’t seen a business strive towards zero waste like Black Crow, in fact, it’s the first zero-waste coffee shop in St. Petersburg. On behalf of the earth and myself, you should definitely see what Black Crow Coffee has to offer!
Bandit Coffee Co.
Modern, minimal, and perfect for photos, Bandit Coffee has it all. Each season is an opportunity for Bandit to add new flair to their coffee, one of which includes the Bouquet Latte which features little flowers that make your cup a work of art. Have you ever had a cup of coffee that’s too pretty to drink? If yes, you’ve probably been to Bandit. The seasonal selections are garnished with photogenic decorations and fitting flavors that are hard to come by. With a selection of coffee and pastries that are hard to pass up, Bandit is the perfect coffee shop for any coffee connoisseurs.
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