That means, when it comes to new eats at the Wharf, we can look forward to JoToro, Free the Cork wine bar, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, and Italian full-service restaurant Semolina.
JoToro will be stationed at the street-front corner of Sparkman's entrance loaded with 220 seats. This means you don't have to brave the crowd for new eats. According to Tampa Bay Times, the concept is the brainchild of New York City-based chef Joe Isidori, who's bringing “fine Mexican provisions” and “global inspirations” to the menu.
When it comes to booze (which is necessary to handle the Sparkman madness) guests can sip on tequila flights, specialty cocktails and margaritas.
The article says decor shoots for a rustic, industrial chic setting. So maybe a little less kitschy than Channelside's former resident Mexican concept, Hablo Taco, which featured hanging piñatas and Instagrammable backgrounds.
More details to come as construction continues and an official opening date is announced.
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This article appears in Feb 20-27, 2020.