by Sam Allen
Put down your Starbucks … actually no, throw it away. If you’re a coffee lover, like myself, then you might enjoy getting out of the commercialized coffee rut. I’ll take you on a coffee road trip that is sure to delight your tastebuds while you get your caffeine buzz on. Each of the following coffee shops all have a unique flare with a variety of one of a kind drinks on their menus. They are arranged in order of closeness to campus.
Ginger Beard Coffee
Coffee shop by day and bar by night,Ginger Beard Coffee is perhaps the most unique coffee shop on this list. This stop best suits coffee and beer lovers alike. Some of the cold brew coffees are brewed with dry hops, giving the coffee an unexpected twist. While the coffee will certainly give you a buzz, it contains no alcohol. If you want the best of both worlds, Ginger Beard does have a coffee flavored stout on tap.
What to try: The Nitro Cold Brew coffee paired with fresh doughnuts from Datz Dough.
Coffee comes from: Buddy Brew.
Where to find it: 1208 E Kennedy Blvd #112, Tampa, FL 33606
Victory Coffee And Tea Bar
Located in Channelside, Victory Coffee is a charming little coffee shop that provides both beer and coffee. Unlike Ginger Beard Coffee, Victory Coffee is not a bar, but they do have shelves full of craft and seasonal beers and wines. On the coffee side of the menu are over a dozen different flavored syrups for an experimental latte experience. Unique flavors include: lavender, frosted mint, peanut butter and coconut, just to name a few. Victory Coffee offers sandwich options and protein bars. This shop invites you to stay awhile with a pile boardgames on hand for your entertainment.
What to try: Vanilla Lavender Latte. Ask about the fresh baked cookies.
Coffee comes from: Kings Arm Coffee.
Where to find it: 101 N 12th St #101, Tampa, FL 33602
Blind Tiger Cafe
This Ybor cafe made what I would easily call the best latte I’ve ever had. Blind Tiger Cafe is set up in the style of a 1920’s speakeasy. Along with coffee and tea, Blind Tiger sells men’s and women’s clothing, candles and notepads. The baristas are just as warm and inviting as the inside of the cafe itself, serving delicious coffee with a smile and genuine interest in their customers. I can see myself as a regular sitting in the soft brown cushioned chairs with a good book and an excellent cup of coffee.
What to try: The Cafe Bombon latte and a warmed up guava pastry.
Coffee comes from: Blind Tiger.
Where to find it: 1901 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
The Library Coffeehouse
Coffeehouse is the perfect description for the Library Coffeehouse because customers will feel right at home in their cozy arm chairs and petite tables.Their menu features various breakfast items, sandwiches, salads and pastries. Best for the early riser, the Library Coffeehouse closes at 1 p.m.
What to try: The Coconut Mocha and a Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffin.
Coffee comes from: Buddy Brew.
Where to find it: 3201 S Dale Mabry Hwy #106, Tampa, FL 33629
Felicitous Coffee & Tea House
This coffee shop is where the word roadtrip will come in handy. It’s a bit of a hike from campus, but it’s 100 percent worth the trip. Felicitous Coffee and Tea is the perfect place to grab a friend and study for an hour or two. You’ll feel like you’re in the living room of an extremely interesting person, with plushy chairs, long tables and coffee mugs that come in every shape, size and color. Sit outside on their patio and enjoy the newfound spring breeze with a tasty cup of coffee.
What to try: Dirty Chai latte with a heated up waffle with caramel drizzle.
Coffee comes from: Naviera Coffee Mill
Where to find it: 11706 N 51st St, Tampa, FL 33617