Credits to Fun Tampa
22nd Street Coffee is a small, family-owned coffee shop located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa, Florida. The shop has been serving coffee and pastries to locals and visitors alike for over 50 years, and its rich history is an important part of the Tampa community.
The shop was founded by two Cuban immigrants, Pedro and Carmen Menendez, in 1960. At the time, Ybor City was a vibrant neighborhood filled with cigar factories and coffee shops, and 22nd Street Coffee quickly became a favorite spot for locals to gather and socialize.
Over the years, 22nd Street Coffee has remained a popular destination for coffee lovers in Tampa. The shop’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff have made it a favorite among locals, and it has also attracted visitors from all over the world who are interested in the city’s history and culture.
What sets 22nd Street Coffee apart from other coffee shops is its rich history and cultural significance. The shop is located in the heart of Ybor City, which was once the cigar capital of the world. The neighborhood was founded in the late 1800s by Vicente Martinez-Ybor, a Spanish entrepreneur who moved his cigar-making business from Cuba to Tampa.
Ybor City quickly became a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, with immigrants from Cuba, Spain, Italy, and other countries settling in the area. The neighborhood was known for its vibrant nightlife, and coffee shops like 22nd Street Coffee were an important part of the social scene.
Today, Ybor City has undergone significant changes, but 22nd Street Coffee remains a symbol of the neighborhood’s rich history and cultural heritage. The shop is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the vibrant energy and unique culture of Ybor City, and it continues to be a gathering place for locals who are proud of their city’s history.
In addition to its cultural significance, 22nd Street Coffee is also known for its delicious coffee and pastries. The shop serves a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and iced coffee, as well as a selection of pastries and snacks. The shop’s Cuban-style coffee, which is strong and sweet, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
22nd Street Coffee is a historic coffee shop that is an important part of the Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa. The shop’s rich history and cultural significance have made it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and it continues to be a gathering place for coffee lovers who appreciate the city’s unique culture and heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a great cup of coffee, 22nd Street Coffee is a must-visit destination in Tampa.
Oxford Exchange
Another historic coffee shop in Tampa is the Oxford Exchange. The building was originally built in 1891 as a stable and was later converted into a boarding house and then a car dealership. In 2012, the building was renovated and converted into the Oxford Exchange, which is now a popular destination for coffee, tea, and brunch.
The Oxford Exchange features a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The interior is designed in a classic European style, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and a stunning atrium. The shop serves a variety of coffee and tea drinks, as well as a selection of pastries and small plates.
Another historic coffee shop in Tampa is the Blind Tiger Café. The shop is located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood and is named after the speakeasies that operated during Prohibition. The Blind Tiger Café serves a variety of coffee drinks, as well as a selection of craft beers and wines. The shop’s interior is decorated with vintage posters and photographs, giving it a unique and charming atmosphere.
TeBella Tea Company is another historic tea shop in Tampa. The company was founded in 2006 by Anna Ysrael, who was inspired by her travels to Asia and Europe. TeBella Tea Company sources its tea from small farms around the world and offers a variety of high-quality loose-leaf teas. The shop also offers tea tastings and workshops for tea enthusiasts.
Another historical place to visit for food and drink in Tampa is the Columbia Restaurant. The restaurant was founded in 1905 by Casimiro Hernandez Sr., a Cuban immigrant who opened a café in Ybor City to serve the workers at the cigar factories. Today, the Columbia Restaurant is a landmark in Tampa and is recognized as Florida’s oldest restaurant.
The restaurant serves a variety of Spanish and Cuban dishes, including paella, ropa vieja, and Cuban sandwiches. The interior of the restaurant features colorful tile work, ornate light fixtures, and a beautiful courtyard. The Columbia Restaurant is also known for its flamenco shows, which are performed nightly in the restaurant’s upstairs lounge.
Another historic restaurant in Tampa is the Ulele restaurant, which is located in the historic Tampa Heights neighborhood. The building that houses Ulele was originally built in 1903 as the city’s waterworks building. The building was renovated in 2014 and converted into the Ulele restaurant, which serves a variety of Florida-inspired dishes and craft beers.
The interior of the restaurant features exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and a beautiful waterfront view. Ulele is also known for its onsite brewery, which produces a variety of unique beers that are brewed using Florida-grown ingredients.
In addition to these historic restaurants, Tampa is also home to many other unique and interesting places to eat and drink. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Cuban cuisine, craft beer, or modern fusion dishes, Tampa has something to offer everyone.
Tampa is home to many historic coffee and tea shops that reflect the city’s unique cultural heritage and offer a glimpse into its past. From the classic European style of the Oxford Exchange to the vintage charm of the Blind Tiger Café, these shops are a testament to Tampa’s rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a tea enthusiast, these historic shops are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Tampa’s unique culinary scene.
