On Friday, the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck comes to town, and CL's Meet the Brewers goes down Saturday. But in case you're a monster who has zero interest in the cutest cafe-on-wheels (or beer), follow this quick guide that bestows you with five more ways to spend the weekend — with food and drink in tow.
The second annual Chinese New Year celebration from the snazzy Mandarin Hide, which kicks off at 4:30 p.m. Friday, spotlights Chinese-inspired specialty cocktails and beer, alongside live tunes. Free, money for beer. 231 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-231-4007.
There's no better way to see what Brick Street Farms has growin' on than by attending The Market. Hosted every Saturday, this farmers' market features table-ready lettuces, kales, rainbow chard, mixed herbs and shoots (when available) that've vertically sprouted within the high-tech indoor hydroponic farm's upcycled freight containers — without the use of pesticides or any other weird shit. Raw, local wildflower honey is also available for purchase from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come early. Free, money for food. 2001 Second Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 727-310-5775.
Starting at noon Saturday, Jamison B. Breadhouse Bakes opens its doors during the Grain Room Open House to eaters seeking fresh breads and other artisan treats till the goods are gone. The bakery's overstock this week includes limited amounts of French and pretzel baguettes, large sourdough boules, Italian ciabatta, fresh saltines, individual focaccia pizzas, and linzer cookies. Parking is available on-site as well as in spots along 36th Street. Free, money for food. 3615 E. Seventh Ave., Tampa, 813-424-8576.
Newly revamped, the weekly Corey Avenue Sunday Market showcases around 50 to 80 vendors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The lineup of goods includes fresh produce, gourmet and ready-to-eat grub, potted plants and handcrafted art. Live music is also featured. Free, money for goodies. Corey Avenue (between Boca Ciega Avenue and Gulf Boulevard), St. Pete Beach.
Another groovy beer-paired brunch from LOKO Cuisine is Sunday's Eggs & Kegs #57: Pucker Up. Hosted at Cigar City Brewing from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the four-course, Italian-inspired spread is matched with a lineup a sour beers, while Ginger Beard Coffee provides the nitro-infused cold brew. Get tickets online. $32.10. 3924 W. Spruce St., Tampa, 813-348-6363.
This article appears in Feb 15-22, 2018.