15th Annual Taste of South Tampa Returns to the Bay!
By Valentina Russian - February 26, 2020
6 Rooftop Bars Around South Tampa Sure To Bring Your Happy Hour to New Heights
By Valentina Russian - June 05, 2019
What better way to start the weekend off right in South Tampa than to enjoy a delightful cocktail al fresco? Take your happy hour to new heights by exploring some great rooftop bars around South Tampa!
Here Are Six Rooftop Bars to check out around South Tampa:
Located at the Epicurean Hotel in South Tampa's SoHo district, Edge Rooftop Bar is an ideal perch for enjoying the sunset while indulging in expertly crafted cocktails, a variety craft beers, and an elegantly delicious wine list. The venue also offers small plates prepared and served with the Epicurean's signature flourish. Paired with a vibrant mood mingled with the night sky, this scene makes a picture-perfect setting to start the evening.
Details:
1207 S Howard Ave
Tampa, FL 33606
epicureanhotel.com/
Take in the dazzling view of Tampa's skyline from this rooftop social drinkery, located above Bulla Gastrobar, also located in South Tampa's SoHo district. Savor handcrafted cocktails, made-to-order sangrias and newly added "fros̩", alongside elevated bites to complement the ambiance of the outdoor space and nightlife. Luna Lounge is open Monday РThursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m, Friday РSaturday from 4:30 p.m. to 1 a.m and Sunday from 4:30 p.m to 10 p.m.
Details:
930 S Howard Ave
Tampa, FL 33606
bullagastrobar.com/locations/tampa/
Celebrate chill rooftop vibes and breezy weather while enjoying stunning views of Downtown Tampa's glittering Riverwalk at the WXYZ Lounge located at the ALoft Hotel in Downtown Tampa. This high-tech hotel in Tampa is an ideal setting for urban travelers who are looking to mix, meet, and mingle over cocktails, pinot noirs and pints, while munching on locally-influenced appetizers.The lobby bar offers an upscale martini bar and lounge featuring live music on various nights as well as light fare.
Details:
100 W Kennedy Blvd
Tampa, FL 33606
alofttampadowntown.com/tampa-bar
Perched high above the historic Armature Works in Tampa Heights, this sumptuous, delightfully art deco-inspired lounge offers dazzling waterfront views of Tampa’s ever-growing cityscape. M.Bird is the perfect setting to indulge in tropical curated cocktails and shareable small plates.
Details:
1903 Market Street
Tampa, FL 33602
mbirdtampa.com
Enjoy fire pits, soft lounge chairs and sofas and sip on your beverage of choice while taking in stunning views of Old Tampa Bay at Armani's. High atop the 14th floor of the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, Armani's offers Tampa Bay views in an elegant setting. Start off at the Antipasto Misto Bar and grab some light fare and a cocktail or two, and delight in a multi-sensory experience that will prove to be truly unforgettable.
Details:
2900 Bayport Dr
Tampa, FL 33607
www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/florida/grand-hyatt-tampa-bay/tparw/dining
Mole y Abuela has opened its doors at the former Fly Bar location in Downtown Tampa. A complete renovation has converted the former space into a cozy, intimate space, complete with warm earth tones and terra cotta flooring inside. For an outdoor dining experience, the eatery features some tables outside its storefront, but the real treat is in its inviting rooftop bar. Reminiscent of Fly Bar days, the full menu is served up on the roof deck; on Fridays and Saturdays food service concludes at 11 p.m. but the rooftop party keeps going at the rooftop bar until 3 a.m.
Details:
1202 N Franklin Street
Tampa, FL 33602
https://moleyabuelatampa.com/
6 Fun Memorial Day 2019 Weekend Parties in South Tampa
By Valentina Russian - May 23, 2019
Memorial Day is one of the hottest weekends of the year, and South Tampa offers plenty of things to do, including pool parties, after-parties, and of course the annual Sunset Music Festival! So if you’re not among those who like to chill and grill with family and friends, and instead prefer to get out of the house, you’ll definitely be able to find something of interest here.
Here Are 6 Fun Memorial Weekend Parties in South Tampa:
Buckle your seatbelts, boys and girls: the 2019 festival edition of Sunset Music Festival at Raymond James Stadium is going to be a wild ride! The electronic music festival will be going on Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, May 26th at Raymond James Stadium. The lineup will feature a host of major EDM DJs after dark, including: Zedd, Kaskade, Zeds Dead, Illenium, Alison Wonderland, Flux Pavilion and Skrillex and Boys Noize (performing as Dog Blood). For more information and available tickets, visit: www.smftampa.com
Saturday, May 25, 2019: Australian producer Wax Motif, who is not on this year's Sunset lineup, has a show at The Kennedy, 2408 W Kennedy Blvd, starting at 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 and up. Click here.
Saturday, May 25th, 2019: The Tampa Bay Margarita & Music Festival (formerly known as Tampa Bay Margarita Festival, held at Curtis Hixon Park) is moving across the river to Julian B Lane Riverfront Park in Downtown Tampa. Join in for the biggest celebration of Margaritas and Music, Featuring: NELLY, Cold War Kids,Soul Asylum and among other music artists, plus sounds by DJ FRESH. Taste 60+ Margaritas, see Fireworks, Food Market, Tequila Tasting, Arts & Crafts Vendors, & More! Details & Tickets available at www.TampaMargaritaFest.com
Sunday, May 26, 2019: VNSSA returns with fellow Dirtybirder Hunter Reid in this "Sunday Service" event at NYKL, 4606 W Boy Scout Blvd. Free before 11:30 p.m., $15 after-hours. Click here for more details.
Sunday, May 26, 2019: This brand new event to be held Sun, May 26, 2019, 9:00PM–2:00AM at Ducky's (1719 W Kennedy Blvd) promises to deliver a sexy vibe, and a crowd that is guaranteed to impress. The event welcomes the mature sophisticates, the nightlife vixens, the connoisseurs of cool, the fashionistas & progressive thinkers, the movers & the shakers, the trendsetters & the tastemakers. This event has no cover but proceeds are going to the local Boys & Girls Club and Metropolitan Ministries so if you can bring clothes and/or canned foods or make a donation. For more information, click here.
Monday, May 27, 2019: Cool down from a wild weekend with Sunset's first Memorial Day Pool Party with Gabriel and Dresden and Matt Zo and more. It runs noon to 9 p.m. at WTR at the Godfrey, 7700 W Courtney Campbell Causeway. Tickets are $35 and up. For tickets, Click Here.
For some folks (like me, for instance!) bigger gyms tend to be seen as overrated, uncomfortable and annoyingly over-crowded. Luckily, South Tampa is home to some stellar boutique fitness studios and small gyms that offer the comfort and privacy of having your own at-home gym!
Without any further ado, here is our list of Top 5 Small Boutique Gyms in South Tampa:
Located on the corner of W Kennedy Blvd and Gomez Ave in Palori Plaza, this 6,000 square foot facility is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year! This fitness studio offers members plenty of machines and cardio equipment, personal training programs, a free consultation with a certified nutritionist, individual or group TRX classes, infrared sauna, hydromassage, LED Light Therapy, Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) and more.
Location:
3020 W Kennedy Blvd, Ste B
Tampa, Florida 33609
https://www.optimumtampa.com/
At Bayshore Fit, members have over 9,000 square feet of the latest state of the art gym equipment at their disposal. With amenities like full towel service and private locker rooms, Bayshore Fit aims to provide an atmosphere where the neighborhood gym meets a five star spa. Members are offered an array of options ranging from personal training sessions to group classes.
Location:
2907 W Bay to Bay Blvd, #103
Tampa, Florida 33629
https://bayshorefit.com
A state of the art, fully equipped training facility for members of all ages and all levels, Tampa Sports Academy has the feel of a big-name gym without the crowds, and with the privacy of a local boutique fitness studio. In addition to weights and cardiovascular equipment, this 16,000 square foot training facility also features 10x35 yards of indoor turf, two 55-yard indoor sprint lanes, 4 outdoor workout stations, yoga classes, an on-site cafe, and more.
Location:
4539 S. Dale Mabry Highway, Suite 100
Tampa, FL 33611
https://tampasportsacademy.com/
Located right at the entrance of Ballast Point Park and one of South Tampa's best kept secrets, just $15/month gives you access to a large array of fitness equipment including treadmills and elliptical machines, weights, cardio room, unlimited classes, and showers.
5212 Interbay Blvd
Tampa, Florida 33611
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Joe-Abrahams-Fitness-Wellness-Center
Originally launched in 2009, Elite Strength & Conditioning is a hybrid strength and conditioning facility located in the South Tampa/Downtown Tampa area. Pulling from the disciplines of powerlifting, strongman, metabolic conditioning, and prehab/rehab techniques, this fitness studio is fully equipped with a multitude of strength and conditioning equipment, including lifting bars, power racks, breaker benches, Olympic weights, resistance bands, monster tires, kettlebells, and more.
Location:
1622 North Franklin Street
Tampa, FL 33602
https://www.elitestrong.com/
So what are the best places to celebrate Taco Tuesday in South Tampa? Well, amigo, we’ve got you covered:
Location:
808 S Dale Mabry Hwy
Tampa, FL 33609
https://calitacoshop.com/
If you’re looking to get your drink on and "see-and-be-seen" on a Tuesday, Green Lemon is definitely more up your alley. Green Lemon,
owned by Tampa’s infamous Ciccio Group, offers a more modern, edgy twist on Mexican fare, and is an ideal, high-energy option for those that have a thirst for the social scene. Local art, live DJs, and house-made
margaritas give this contemporary hangout a cool, trendy vibe. Parking can be tough, and you'll definitely not want to miss those margaritas, so definitely consider taking a Lyft or Uber.
Location:
915 S Howard Ave
Tampa, FL 33606
http://www.eatgreenlemon.com/
In business since 1992, Miguel's is South Tampa's original family-owned Mexican restaurant. The locale offers a more traditional restaurant experience, with excellent service and a slightly more upscale vibe than other more casual taco spots, making it an ideal choice for a family outing or a more intimate date night. The restaurant offers top-shelf margaritas and serves up traditional family recipes handed down through generations.
Location:
3035 W Kennedy Blvd
Tampa, FL 33609
http://www.miguelscafe.com/
Located in Hyde Park Village, this trendy venue makes for some great people-watching and is the perfect spot for a night out with friends. Inspired by a healthy, outdoor lifestyle, Bartaco combines fresh, Mexican street food with a coastal vibe and a relaxed environment. The venue offers specialty cocktails crafted with fresh-squeezed juices, beer by the bottle, and hand-held foods delivered on metal trays. The rustic design complements the spirited bold and bright flavors of Bartaco’s eclectic tapas-style menu. The stylish ambience, cocktails, and freshly prepared tacos and “not tacos” create a memorable dining experience.
Location:
1601 W Snow Ave
Tampa, FL 33606
https://bartaco.com/
The newest innovation from Tampa's Ciccio Group, Taco Dirty marries the format and philosophy of Fresh Kitchen with the flavors of Green Lemon. The fast-casual, grab-and-go eatery focuses on health-conscious Mexican fare and offers a more convenient option for those that don't want to wait for a table at Green Lemon down the street.
Location:
2221 W Platt St
Tampa, FL 33606
https://www.facebook.com/tacodirty
Tampa has been a rising star in the fashion world since breaking out into the world of fashion in 2008, when it hosted its very first Tampa Bay Fashion Week. If you're a fashionista living in South Tampa, you know you are competing with some other fierce ladies out there, and a true budding fashion icon always needs to stay on top of the latest trends.
Here are our Top 5 Fabulous Women's Boutiques In South Tampa:
Don Me Now is a high-end Women's Fashion Boutique with its very own Champagne Bar located inside the store! What could be better than that? The boutique strives to bring the latest trends mixed with some great staple pieces to South Tampa's fashionistas. The boutique prides itself in not only seeking unique & original pieces, but also offers specialized one-on-one personal wardrobe styling.
Location:
1211 E Kennedy Blvd
Tampa, FL 33602
http://donmenow.com/
This unique specialty boutique features chic, contemporary apparel, accessories, and gifts. Featuring all the latest trends and styles, the charming staff lives out its name by offering true southern hospitality to shoppers!
Location:
4219 W Bay to Bay Blvd
Tampa, FL 33629
https://www.facebook.com/sschictb
Nestled in the quiet shop district of downtown South Tampa, The Look Boutique houses a fabulous array of modern styles and intricate designer jewelry. Shoppers can find exactly what they're looking for in the store's large selection of purses, handbags, belts and accessories. A unique blend of chic and trendy dresses, tops and bottoms will fill the creative gap in any personal wardrobe.
Location:
2507 S MacDill Ave
Tampa, FL 33629
http://thelooktampa.com/
2507 S MacDill Ave
Tampa, FL 33629
http://thelooktampa.com/
LMB Boutique is a trendy boutique carrying the latest fashions from New York, Miami and Los Angeles. Prices range from below $28.00 to $200.00+, so there are options for any kind of budget. Shop the latest styles of tops, bottoms, footwear, dresses and accessories. Service is attentive and personalized, and the in-store style concierge is always there to help you with all of your shopping needs.
Location:
815 S Howard Ave
Tampa, FL 33606
https://www.facebook.com/LizMurtaghBoutique
Poppy is a locally-owned and operated boutique, with a mission to provide every customer with the perfect item, whether it’s a date night dress, an amazing bikini for your vacation, or just the right gift for a special someone. The boutique offers an entire shopping experience including apparel, accessories, and gifts. If you need that perfect romper for brunch, jeans that fit you just right, or a dress that elevates your evening, Poppy's got you covered.
Location:
1730 S Dale Mabry Hwy
Tampa, FL 33629
https://shoppoppyboutique.com/
Here are 15 spots that are great bets for finding available singles over 40 in Tampa:
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| 1. Cooking classes. Local cooking classes are a great place to meet recently-divorced singles who might need some help with brushing up their culinary skills. Sidle up to an eligible cooking partner and see just what else might "cook up". |
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| 2. The dog park. Borrow a dog from a friend if you have to. Dog people are really friendly, and it's really easy to strike up a conversation while your pups are playing! Ask for a vet recommendation or compliment their pup - you may just get a "play-date" out of it! |
Where To Go:
Davis Island Dog Beach
864 Severn Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Laid-back, waterfront dog park with grassy areas, sand beach, water fountain and a wash station. There is also a smaller fenced in dog beach area on the other side of the main beach.
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| 3. The local bookstore. Look up from your book and check out who might be a potential suitor. Smile at them and ask what they're reading! |
The Oxford Exchange
420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
European-inspired space featuring a restaurant, bookstore featuring a surprising selection of books for a local place, plus a coffeehouse & gift shop. Tip: The used bookstore downstairs always has good stuff - so don't miss it!
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| 4. Restaurants. Go out with your wing man/woman and ask the hottie at the table next to you what's good to order. Sitting at the bar is a great way to do this, even if you’re alone! |
Where To Go:
Ocean Prime (Tip: for meeting singles, get a table or place at the bar in the lounge area!)
2205 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607
Upscale eatery known for its sophisticated decor, long wine list & classic steak & seafood menu.
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| 5. The local grocery store. Singles have to eat, and busy singles usually buy food around dinnertime. Sidle up to a cutie wandering through the produce aisles and get a recommendation on how to pick out a ripe tomato/avocado/banana whatever! A bonus... you might find a sweetheart who will cook for you, too! |
Where To Go:
Rollin' Oats
1021 N Macdill Ave, Tampa, FL 33607
A great local grocery store, focusing on the healthy way of life. The store has a full Nutrition Center, a Cafe, an exceptional beer and wine section, large fresh produce section, and all the brands that you normally can't find it other places like Whole Foods or Sprouts.
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| 6. Wine Tastings. Sip some wine as you refine your palate and possibly find love at the same time. Ask the single next to you what their favorite wine and cheese pairing is and see where the night leads! |
Where To Go:
Cheese Please
3225 South MacDill Ave, Suite 103, Tampa, FL 33629
A locally-owned bistro with the best selection of gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, condiments, wine, and beer in Tampa. Unique cheeses like the Dutch Potato Chip Goat Gouda, Aged Italian Pecorino with Truffles, triple crème French Delice d’Bourgogne, Cheddar with Jamaican Jerk flavors, or the British Sticky Toffee Cheddar. Check out the wine tasting schedules online: https://cheesepleasetampa.com/
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| 7. The Local coffee shop. Strike up a conversation about what the best coffee creation to try is. |
Where To Go:
Foundation Coffee Co.
1607 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
Foundation Coffee is a “specialty coffee” shop dedicated to the art of craft coffee. Foundation is committed to serving only the highest quality ingredients, paired with outstanding customer service and dedication to the craft.
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| 8. Meetup.com has all kinds of local activities going on every day. Here you can meet men and women interested in the same types of activities you like to do, so start a conversation about the sport or hobby you’ve met up to do. |
https://www.meetup.com/topics/singles-over-40/us/fl/tampa
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| 9. Local health spa. You might just find love in a hopeful place, like in the meditation garden of your local massage studio. |
Locally-owned massage studio using only the finest products to promote your well-being. Hypo-allergenic, organic products now include massage cream, sugar scrub and candles.
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| 10. Fitness Classes. What better way to scope out a potential workout partner than at a local fitness class? Catch up with the classmate that sparks your interest after class, let them know you noticed them, and ask if they want to grab a wheat grass shot or a smoothie! |
South Tampa's newest boutique fitness studio offering cycle, yoga, and circuit classes. Join now and your first class is free!: https://booking.camptampa.com/reserve/index.cfm?action=Reserve.chooseClass&site=1
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| 11. Festivals or outdoor events. With live music playing, the sun shining, and love in the air, ask the gorgeous person next to you which local vendor he/she recommends. |
Where To Go:
Hyde Park Village Fresh Market
Hyde Park Village, 742 South Village Circle, Tampa, FL 33604
Held on every first Sunday of each month, year round.
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| 12. The casino. Hang out near the roulette table and be someone's lucky charm, or sit at the bar with a friend and chat it up with some eligible singles about hitting it big... who knows, you might just get "lucky"! |
Only about 15 minutes away from South Tampa, the Seminole Hard Rock Casino Tampa is one of the largest casinos in the world, with more than 4,000 slot machines 125 table games, and multiple bars and restaurants to offer.
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| 13. Local sports leagues or sporting events. They say "couples who play together, stay together"! Join a local league and spin your game! |
New leagues and location are added all the time and leagues are played year round - usually 4-5 seasons a year. Tampa Bay Club Sport's goal is to get you playing and to get out, get active, & MEET NEW PEOPLE! Check out their League List Here!
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| 14. Places that have live music on the weekends. Singles will often go have a drink at the bar while listening to the group that is playing. Best music bets are jazz, blues and good ole’ rock and roll. Put on your dancing shoes and ask a sexy someone to dance! |
Visit Timpano's Starlight lounge for live music, libations, and late-night bites. Hear the latest melodies from local jazz musicians and singers, while enjoying house-infused cocktails and curated appetizers. Live Music: Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., Thursday - Saturday at 7 p.m., or Saturday & Sunday at Noon: https://timpanochophouse.net/tampa/live-music/
15. Local Matchmaking Agency. Wading through the dating pool to find your perfect match is sometimes like finding a needle in a haystack. Perhaps you’re at a point in life where dating has exhausted you, and you’re ready to find the one. Let a professional matchmaker match you with suitable mate that is tailor-matched for you! Matchmakers will make the effort to find out what you look for in a partner, and make it their mission to find your perfect match. You’re a catch, and you deserve to find the one. You deserve to find someone loyal who treats you the way you deserve to be treated. Your matchmaker will be in your corner, and they’ll be dedicated to helping you find the one. This is the type of support a catch like you deserves.
Where To Go:
Elite Connections International Matchmaking Agency based in Los Angeles, and with offices all over the world, Elite Connections has been and in business for over 25 years, has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Network, Fox News, Marie Claire, Playboy, and Bravo Network! Their executive dating services have a proven track record of lasting matches, with thousands of happy clients and an A+ business rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Elite Connections is now launching their new Tampa Bay location! Click Here for your free trial, and meet with a professional matchmaker in your area to see what custom matches are available for you in Tampa Bay today!
Now it’s your turn. Start writing a list of places in your area to meet singles over 40 in Tampa and a few things to say to start the conversation flowing. I think once you focus on it, you’ll find available singles are everywhere.
Elite Connections is now launching their new Tampa Bay location! Click Here for your free trial, and meet with a professional matchmaker in your area to see what custom matches are available for you in Tampa Bay today!
Now it’s your turn. Start writing a list of places in your area to meet singles over 40 in Tampa and a few things to say to start the conversation flowing. I think once you focus on it, you’ll find available singles are everywhere.
