CL regularly presents focused listings of the best dining options in Tampa Bay’s neighborhoods. This week we’re giving you a guide to the spots in Tampa Bay that are best known for their tasty fare that also won't leave your wallet hurting.
AL'S FINGER LICKING GOOD BAR-B-QUE 1609 N. 18th (Angel Oliva Sr.) St., 813-956-0675. Big portions of serious barbecue and the usual sides in a casual atmosphere.
ANGIE'S CAFE 200 1st Ave N., St. Pete; 727-823-6437. Whether it's 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., Angie's is the spot in Downtown St. Pete to grab an inexpensive meal on the go. Their gyros, cheese steaks burgers aren't the healthiest fare, but hit the spot — especially after hitting the bars.
BLUE SEA FISH MARKET 7110 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 234-5085. This simple and inexpensive fish shack serves up broiled, fried and sauteed seafood ranging from Dungeness crab to Gulf grouper, all with sides of starch and veg. –-Brian Ries
BROCATO'S SANDWICH SHOP 5021 E Columbus Dr., Tampa; 813-248-9977. If you don't mind the long lines that are due to Brocato's popularity, their large sandwiches are well worth the price. Be sure to also try the devil crabs they're famous for.
CABANA CAFE 833 Douglas Ave, Dunedin, 727-712-2233, cabanacafeandgifts.com. This quaint spot serves a small but eclectic menu of paninis, soups, and salads, as well as coffee, espresso drinks and tea. But the biggest selling point is the front and side porch seating from which one can watch the passerby. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
CALIFORNIA TACOS TO GO 1450 Skipper Rd., Tampa; 813-971-8226, californiatacostogo.com. Serving tacos, burritos and the like, but specializing in San Diego-style fish tacos and freshly made pork rinds.
This article appears in Jan 20-26, 2011.