Spring/Summer 2020 New Food Finds
As we welcome the first day of fall, I figured I’d take a look back at the delicious eats that spring and summer allowed me to discover. Coincidentally enough, spring began just shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, and these spots offered solace in quarantine in the form of comforting, flavorful bites. I hope this list helps you discover a new favorite of your own!
Nosh Caterers
Due to COVID-19 and the cancellation of many events, Nosh Caterers transformed their catering company into a full-time bagel business, slinging the most delicious, chewy bagels I’ve ever had in the Tampa Bay area. Their everything bagels are perfectly seasoned, and their garlic chive cream cheese is the perfect pairing for ultimate savory flavor. They keep their Instagram page updated with their weekly flavors and offer pick-up in Carrollwood and South Tampa and delivery options for Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
Thee Burger Spot
Thee Burger Spot had been on my list of places to try for a looong time, but with their hours and me working in St. Pete during the week, the stars just never aligned, that is, until we started working from home, and were finally able to stop by before close. I totally get why everyone raves about their burgers being the best in Tampa. The patties are juicy and flavorful, and the hamburger buns stay put (not soggy), even with a 30-minute drive home. We ordered Thee Big Boy (triple cheeseburger with mayo, lettuce, tomato, American cheese, bacon, raw onions and Onion Thangs) and Loaded French Fries with melted cheese, bacon and ranch dressing. So good.
Augustine’s Cheesecakes
After seeing my friend Tia (@penniesinmypocket) post about these beautiful-looking, individual-sized cheesecakes, I knew I had to try them for myself. Alysia makes 24 different flavors of cheesecakes that she sells out of The Bakery Box Pop-Up in South Tampa every Thursday. She updates her menu offerings every Friday on the Augustine’s Cheesecakes Instagram page. I’ve tried a variety of flavors since my first visit, and Apple Pie, Cookies & Cream and Banana Pudding are my favorite flavors!
Mr. B’s Restaurant
Mr. B’s is another discovery inspired by one of my influencer friends, Gary (@baysbest813), when he posted on Instagram about a visit of his; I’m a big fan of soul food, especially on Sundays, and the slow-cooked oxtails listed on their menu caught my eye. I ordered the Oxtails with yellow rice, collard greens and okra & tomatoes, while pH ordered their Signature Honey Hot Fried Chicken with mac & cheese and green beans (only offered on Sundays). My goodness, everything was delicious and comforting, and we had quite the nice nap afterward!
Chef and the Baker
I was so excited to hear that Chef Rosana and Chef Ricardo were opening up Chef and the Baker at The Hall on Franklin. I greatly missed the pastry selection they offered at their former restaurant, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on my favorite Kouign-Amann pastries. After The Hall on Franklin opened back up, we stopped by to pick up some pastries to-go, and found a new favorite in their Morning Buns!
Pop Goes the Waffle
OK, so technically, Pop Goes the Waffle isn’t truly new to me, because I have the pleasure of working with Sara at our full-time jobs, and had the opportunity to taste test her liege waffles before she started her business. But, I only attended one of her pop-ups for the first time back in June, so technically, her inclusion on this list still counts! Her liege waffles are glorious. From Strawberries & Cream to Maple Bacon, she’s slinging waffles for every palate, and even offers gluten-free and vegan versions. The Instagram page is always updated with upcoming pop-ups; you don’t want to miss them!
Pasta Packs
When Chef Nic was laid off as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, he quickly pivoted and launched Pasta Packs, allowing you to enjoy fresh, handmade pasta from the comfort of your own home. Each pack is thoughtfully curated and comes with detailed instructions for preparation. I ordered his popular Aglio e Olio and the vegan Basil & Spinach Fettuccine, and both were absolutely delicious; the spaghetti has a delightfully springy texture and kick of spice, while the fettuccine offers a perfect al dente texture and nutty flavor. Each Pasta Pack generously feed two people.
Three Generations Food Truck
You know what makes food culture so amazing? Word of mouth. Sara (@popgoesthewaffle) had raved about Three Generations Food Truck to me, and after seeing the delicious fried seafood offerings all over Chef Melly’s Instagram page, I could not pass up a trip to St. Pete to check out her food truck. I ordered the Fried Lobster, Fried Shrimp and Crabby Fries, while pH got the Cajun Chicken, Fried Shrimp, Eggs and Cheese Grits. Wow wow wow. Absolutely delicious, and well-worth the drive over the bridge! Chef Melly keeps her Instagram page updated with when she’s up and running.
Sushi Ninja
Since the beginning of August, we’ve been on a weekly takeout kick from Sushi Ninja in Tampa (they also have a location in Brandon), and they have not disappointed! They are currently only open for takeout, and have perfected their curbside model for limited contact. And you can’t deny how beautiful their rolls look, even inside foam containers. They also offer traditional Korean dishes if you’re craving a hearty meal, which always come with sides of banchan, even with takeout. We love their Spicy Tuna Salad, Cancun Roll and Tempura Bagel Roll!
Tacos Las Californias
I’m so glad that Kiera (@thisbabeeats) posted about this gem of a discovery of hers, because I am hooked (as in, I’ve eaten from here four times since the beginning of this month). Tacos Las Californias offers the best quesabirria tacos I’ve tried so far in Tampa, with an incredibly flavorful consommé and a small side of fresh guacamole. Texture is everything to me, and these tacos slap; the braised beef is so tender, the cheesy is melty and stringy, and the tacos are crispy delicious! As can be expected with such a popular dish, they do sell out of their quesabirria tacos, so make sure to check their Instagram page before heading over to ensure they haven’t sold out!
Rack City Ribz
Rack City Ribz is another food truck I had on my radar for awhile, and only with being at home all the time did we finally get a chance to make the drive to Gibsonton to check it out. Better late than never, though, because their barbecue is some of the best in the Bay. I ordered the St. Louis Ribz with Greens & Cabbage and BBQ Beans, while pH got their Beef Brisket with Mac & Cheese and Cornbread Casserole. Their meats are so flavorful and tender! We both got their Carolina vinegar sauce, which is truly the best Carolina vinegar BBQ sauce we’ve tasted in Florida.
The discoveries don’t stop here. I’m still on the hunt of new, delicious eats, so if you have any suggestions, be sure to pay me a visit over on Instagram and spread the local love!
