An entrance to Midtown Tampa development in 2022.[ ARIELLE BADER | Special to the Times ]
After undergoing years of development, Midtown Tampa initiated the unveiling of its storefronts in 2021 and is actively introducing new establishments. Situated at the southeastern intersection of N Dale Mabry Highway and Interstate 275, this complex resembles a self-contained city, boasting an array of stores, a hotel, office edifices, and a plethora of dining options.
For those planning a visit to Midtown Tampa, here's a concise guide to enhance your experience:
DINING DESTINATIONS
Midtown is home to a diverse selection of eateries, including Shake Shack, a prominent establishment that generated considerable excitement upon its summer 2021 debut. Here are several other noteworthy dining spots:
True Food Kitchen: Founded by Dr. Andrew Weil and endorsed by Oprah Winfrey, this health-conscious eatery marks its Tampa Bay debut. Nestled in The Commons, an open grassy expanse hosting various monthly events, True Food Kitchen offers both indoor and outdoor dining. Their menu features an abundance of vegetable-focused dishes and bowls.
True Food Kitchen, a health-focused restaurant chain.
[ ARIELLE BADER | Special to the Times ]
BellaBrava: The second location of this 2B Hospitality restaurant, following its downtown St. Petersburg flagship, presents Italian cuisine and an extensive drink menu. The chic, compact interior boasts a spacious bar that draws a lively crowd. Happy hour is an opportune time to visit, offering $6 glasses of wine and sangria, along with $4 well drinks.
Ponte Modern American: Chef Chris Ponte's latest creation offers a refined fine-dining experience, complete with an exquisite bar and dining area. The menu showcases an impressive selection of culinary and cocktail delights, including a trio of wagyu steaks and a noteworthy $39 martini. Read our food critic Helen Freund’s review to know what else is in store.
The exterior of Chef Ponte’s Ponte Modern American
restaurant.[ ANGELICA EDWARDS | Times ]
Sunda New Asian: Launched in June, this restaurant takes inspiration from owner Billy Dec's journeys through Southeast Asia. Its diverse menu spans from a sushi assortment to enticing entrees featuring Asian flavors. The trendy ambiance is adorned with bamboo and lush greenery, creating an ideal backdrop for the menu's Asian-infused cocktails and desserts.
Sal Y Mar: Perched atop the dual-branded Aloft and Element hotel, this rooftop bar boasts Latin-inspired snacks and an array of cocktails. The venue offers a 360-degree view and serves up Latin and Caribbean-influenced small plates.
Oxtail potstickers and cauliflower at Sunda, in Midtown
Tampa.[ MICHELLE STARK | Times ]
RETAIL THERAPY
Midtown Tampa offers an engaging atmosphere with murals created by local artists scattered across the plaza. Monthly events encompass activities such as trivia, yoga, music bingo, and markets. The development places a strong emphasis on public art, featuring notable sculptures by artists like Okuda San Miguel and PunkMeTender.
Whole Foods: The relocated Whole Foods from the nearby plaza, previously situated across Interstate 275, now finds its home in Midtown Tampa.
William Dean Chocolates: Satisfy your sweet cravings at this chocolate shop, the second location of the esteemed Belleair Bluffs establishment. The shop showcases an array of intricately adorned specialty chocolates, as well as coffee and gelato.
REI: Serving outdoor enthusiasts, this REI store is a haven for essential gear, catering to hiking, camping, and biking needs. Read more about the store here.
Joffrey’s: Midtown's coffee destination is Joffrey’s, a Florida-based coffee company with a 30-year legacy. This flagship location offers an assortment of espresso beverages, smoothies, Elaborately decorated chocolates fill the case at William and a variety of bagged coffees, complemented
Dean Chocolates at Midtown Tampa. by indoor and outdoor seating.
[ MICHELLE STARK | Times ]
The REI store at Midtown Tampa.[ DOUGLAS R. CLIFFORD | Times ]
PARKING MADE SIMPLE
The view from a parking garage at Midtown Tampa.[ MICHELLE STARK | Times ]
Midtown Tampa distinguishes itself from other developments by providing ample complimentary parking options. Visitors can easily locate parking spaces, including the expansive Waterview Parking Garage near N Himes Avenue, as well as a sizable free parking lot close to the Cypress Street entrance. Additionally, select restaurants offer valet parking services.
Source: Tampa Bay Times, by Michelle Stark
(assistant editor overseeing the life and culture reporting team)
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