The Art of Brunching: Tampa Style
The Art of Brunching: Tampa Style
Ah brunch. Is there anything better? Choosing between French toast and a Cuban sandwich is easily the best part of the weekend. Every Sunday, Tampanians roll out of their beds and hit the pavement in search of the best brunch spot that Tampa Bay has to offer. Whether you are curing a hangover or seeking the hair of the dog, this is THE list of the best brunch spots in the bay.
1. Datz
Bet you saw that coming. It’s no surprise that Datz has earned the #1 spot on our list. Home to one hell of a bloody mary complete with bacon in the mix. Alcohol and bacon? Yes please. Datz is a foodies paradise. Chicken and waffles benedict to a cheddar cheese burger served on buns made of glazed donuts, so much yes. Don’t forget to go to their bakery next door, Dough. Doughnut ice cream cones. Enough said. Text ahead to reserve a table during the weekend or you will be waiting for 2 hours.
2. Daily Eats
This reasonably priced, soho favorite is a laid back brunch destination that every tampanian must try. For all you quinoa crazed health nuts there are a plethora of bowls to choose from. And for all you sane people there are plenty of calorie ridden dishes to choose from, specifically their famous cap’n crunch crusted French toast (wow that’s a mouthful). They don’t take reservations, so head there early on the weekend. Avoid the crowds all together and enjoy during the week.
3. Gaspar’s Grotto
This pirate themed restaurant and bar located in the heart of Ybor City has one hell of a brunch. This “Booze Cruise” and buffet is from 10:30 to 3:00 every Sunday. For $38 a person you can eat and drink as much as your brunchn’ heart desires. While it is more on the expensive side, it’s well worth it. All you can drink mimosa and bloody mary’s, live music, seafood and raw bar buffet ensure bang for your buck (or 38). But hey, what’s better than pirates, endless vodka, and oysters? Yeah, I can’t think of anything either.
4. Pinky's
Ah,Pinkys. Don’t be fooled by its small size, Pinky’s is a big freaking deal. For five years in a row, it has been awarded the title of Best Breakfast according to Creative Loafing’s Best of The Bay. While the location (directly on the side of the road) is not ideal, the eggs benedict and Frittatas are. They have their own twist on the typical breakfast menu. Catering to the Tampanians taste buds with breakfast Cubans and chorizo. You have to brunch here more than once because the menu is quite massive.
5. Jacksons
Take advantage of the bay and enjoy the view at Jacksons. This brunch spot is a cheaper version of Gaspar’s with a better view. For $21.95 a plate this buffet includes a sushi bar, the traditional breakfast food, and pasta. Alcohol is not included in the buffet (boooo) but the view and atmosphere is worth having to pay a la cart for drinks. Jacksons is more upscale, so dress accordingly. After your brunch, enjoy a walk along the water.
