Located on the Interbay Peninsula on the southwest coast of Florida, South Tampa is a section of the metropolitan coastal city of Tampa. Comprising many communities including Bayshore, Port Tampa and Hyde Park, South Tampa is surrounded by Tampa Bay, Hillsborough Bay and West Tampa. A large section of South Tampa is MacDill Air Force Base. Other areas worth checking out include the beaches and marinas surrounding South Tampa on three sides and public parks such as Ballast Point and Palma Ceia Spring Park. If you're in the area and looking for a place to eat, you find everything from Irish cusine to vegetarian fare among the region's myriad restaurants.
With claims that it's Tampa's only pirate bar and restaurant, Gaspar's Grotto beckons patrons with costumed wait staff, a themed pirate decor and charm galore. Seating is available on the patio or inside at a table or sidle up to the bar. With a menu that's hard to classify but heavy on seafood, items include Mexican, Jamaican, French and Asian dishes. Those patrons who are dessert lovers, but not flan fans will be out of luck, as it's the only dessert offered at Gaspar's. Chances are, though, few patrons make it through to dessert still hungry for more.
The World Famous Gaspar's Grotto
1805 E. 7th Ave.
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 248-5900
gasparsgrotto.com
Rugby and soccer fans will want to head straight for MacDinton's Irish Pub in South Tampa. MacDinton's shows every soccer game imaginable and is the regular viewing spot of the Liverpool Football Club. Drink specials are offered most nights, and patrons can take a break from watching a soccer match to enjoy a round of darts or game of pool. The menu is filled with traditional Irish fare such as bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, and an Irish breakfast platter served every weekend.
MacDinton's Irish Pub and Restaurant
405 S. Howard Ave.
Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 251-8999
macdintons.com
Part of the Souplantation national chain, Sweet Tomatoes' focus is on fresh healthy foods in a casual-dining atmosphere. The menu easily lets patrons know which items are vegetarian, low-fat or both. Traditionally high-fat foods like buttermilk cornbread and chili have been revised to accommodate diners searching for healthier fare. Sweet Tomatoes' proximity to the Tampa International Airport makes it a fast, easy, economical option for visitors arriving in or leaving the South Tampa area.
Sweet Tomatoes
1902 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 874-6566
sweettomatoes.com
