Tampa's Tastiest: 5 Places You Must Try

If I could eat out every day, you better bet I would. Too bad I'm a college student living on a budget. Mac 'n' cheese, ramen noodles, and frozen veggies consists of most of our diets with the occasional burger (yay!). I have, however, had the chance to go to a few of these amazing eateries that the Food Network suggests in their Tampa Eating Tour article.

1. Taco Bus: One of my favorites. Taco Bus is a food truck out of an actual old school bus. Cool idea, right? They serve authentic Mexican food and have grown to five locations because of their popularity and unique menu here in Tampa. 

2. Buddy Brew: Are you a coffee lover? This is the place to be. Breakfast lover? This is the place to be. Tea? You guessed it, Buddy Brew is awesome. It’s a cool, relaxing place to get some work or homework done. 

3. Oxford Exchange: Located right across from the beautiful University of Tampa, it only makes sense to have a beautiful place to eat, hang out and get some coffee or tea. I don't know anyone that's had a negative experience here. Their lunch? To die for. Their breakfast? Don't even get me started. You'll have a new favorite every time you order something different. As one of Tampa's #1 spots, the combination of the atmosphere and menu options will keep you coming back, that's for sure. 

4. Bern's Steakhouse: If you're looking for a more upscale place to dine, Bern's Steakhouse is a great option. It's located in what is supposedly a haunted mansion and is family-owned (there's no better combo). The large filets, locally grown produce, and large baked potatoes make me wish I wasn't a college student. 

5. Daily Eats Diner: Everyone in Tampa knows this place. Owner, Ciccio Restaurant Group, also owns Green Lemon, Fresh Kitchen, Lodge, and Ciccio Cali (probably my all time favorites). Daily eats, the casual and nutritious eatery, is the prefect brunch spot. But wait, you MUST remember to grab a shake on your way out. It might be the best one you've ever had. 

Once only chain restaurants, Tampa has grown to have special independently owned restaurants and food trucks bringing Florida back to life and todays times. 

Now, the only reason I know of these places is because of other students and professors around the University of Tampa. So from my experience, word of mouth plays a large role in the marketing efforts of restaurants like these around south Tampa.

What are some of your favorite places to eat around Tampa? I agree with Food Network. They list about ten, but these are some of my favorites! Comment your opinions below 'cause good food should never be kept a secret :)



Sources: http://www.foodnetwork.com/restaurants/photos/welcome-to-tampa--a-newcomers-eating-tour.html