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Tampa Brewpub Named One Of The Best In America

Author Jeff Gorra

When you think of the perfect brewpub, craft beer, handheld food, and a circle of friends typically come to mind. USA Today‘s 10Best recently named the best brewpubs around the country that exemplify these qualities, and a Tampa pub was named as one of the best.

A requirement for these establishments was they must “serve their own house beers — often alongside guest taps or cans,” and offer “a menu of tasty food options.”

Before we swing open the doors of this local watering hole, let’s further examine what differentiates a classic brewpub.

Beer and Brewing defines it by saying, “The Brewpub is a modern business model for an ancient practical concept: serving and selling beer on the premises where it is brewed.” Furthermore, a standard brewpub is essentially a hybrid between a restaurant and a brewery. These places have a hometown and local feel. Often they are named after a person or place relevant to the geographical location. Lastly, the menu pairs well with the beers they offer. Whether that’s a juicy burger, salad, or shared appetizer, the theme centers around sharing a good time. Over a pint, of course.

The Tampa restaurant that is one of the best brewpubs is themed around another city in the south.

Zydeco Brew Werks

Located at 1902 East 7th Avenue in Ybor City, Zdeco is a New Orleans-inspired brewpub. “Strangers become friends over a unique menu of globally influenced beers, like New Zealand pilsner and Russian imperial stout,” 10BEST says.

Zydeco brews in-house, with eight different creations available on tap. The first thing you see on the food menu is the category of  “sharables.” Then there are your brewpub classics like burgers, flatbreads, and sandwiches. Staying in character, there’s a complete list of NOLA-inspired dishes under the “Best of the Bayou” section.

This local Tampa establishment, recognized as one of the best brewpubs in America, is also available to host private parties. Their banquet-style layout with long tables enables the entertaining social setting you hope for in a brewpub.

3 Tampa Cigar Bars You Need To Know About

In a market overview report by Straits Research, it was reported that the cigar industry is projected to reach USD 114,355.50 million by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 11.90% during the forecast period (2022-2030). Currently, there are dozens of locations in the greater Tampa area where you can go to purchase an authentic cigar. We have put together a list of Tampa area cigar bars you need to know about.

As we roll into summer, people tend to have more time to seek out a lounge-style atmosphere. A local cigar bar can serve as a destination gathering or as your nightcap spot to wind down. Holt’s Clubhouse describes the setting as, “The best cigar bars are outfitted with a powerful air purification system, meaning your spouse or non-cigar-smoking friends won’t mind hanging out with you while you smoke. This is the ultimate environment to enjoy a cigar.”

Furthermore, it is not uncommon to find cigar bars offering more than their smokes. Whether it’s a dining experience or entertainment, there’s reason to stay at the establishment longer than the duration of a smoke.

Do Your Cigar Homework

Though many local cigar bars welcome a walk-in experience, it is best to know in advance what you are getting yourself into. With regulations, as you can imagine, there are restrictions to blowing smoke in a public space. In addition, Holt’s Clubhouse also has a great list of etiquettes to be aware of. This includes the proper way to cut your cigar, how to control your mouth, and a few other common courtesies.

Where To Go

We considered a few key attributes to compile our list of Boston area cigar bars you need to know about. We reviewed location, what the bar offers, and how it differentiates from others in the region.

  • Corona Cigar CO.

    Corona Cigar is located right next to Tampa’s best buffet. The interior is completely humidified. In fact, humidors are a large part of their business offering. Corona is a larger space than your typical cigar lounge. They now have five locations in Florida including two in Orlando. Considered a “Cigar Superstore” Corona also offers a wide array of branded gear like ash trays, cutters, and apparel.

     

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  • Casa De Montecristo

    There’s a reason why Montecristo is in the name of this SoHo establishment. Though there are other options, Casa De Montecristo primarily specializes Montecristo cigars. They host premier events such as the Tampa Cigar Bash, coming up in October. In addition, their club memberships operate off a points system that generate rewards. Casa De Montecristo consider themselves to be a “feel at home” place, with flat screen tv’s around the interior, often broadcasting a local sporting events.

  • Grand Cathedral Cigars

    Located along N. Florida Ave, Cigar World named Grand Cathedral the Best Lounge of 2022. Its name is connected to the fact that this used to be the First Congressional Church of Tampa. Grand Cathedral has it all – from a cigar museum feel, to plenty of indoor and outdoor space to be comfortable. The 6,000 square foot patio is also pet friendly. The entire inside is considered a smoke facility. There is a full service bar serving beer, wine, and craft drinks. In addition, the Sandwichi food truck is onsite. Different levels of lounge memberships are offered (but not required). Enjoy a premium hand-rolled cigar, sip a drink, eat a sandwich, and bring the dog.

Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.

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