Tampa Ranked One Of The Top Beer Cities In America
When you think of the term “beer scene,” often a place with a wide array of breweries and friendly pubs comes to mind. USA Today‘s 10Best recently dove into major beer scenes across major markets. They found Tampa ranks as a top beer city in America.
“Stellar collections of established and up-and-coming breweries, beer bars, brewpubs, beer festivals, and even thriving homebrewing communities where novice brewers can get their foot in the door,” is how 10Best describes the attributes of those cities that ranked in the top 10.
Not only was Tampa the only city in Florida to be named, it was one of just two in the south.
Tampa Ranks #7
“The greater Tampa Bay region is home to a stunning selection of 103 craft breweries,” according to Drink Local Florida and 1oBest.
In addition to the many local brewery options, Tampa is also a great city in terms of supporting the overall industry. Organizations like Homebrew Supply help service brewers and educate those looking to pursue it.
Tampa Beer Week publishes all relevant information in terms of events, festivals, bar crawls and more. In addition, The Tampa Bay Rays, Buccaneers, and Lightning all feature local brews on tap. They are available in draft (and occasionally cans) at all home games.
On August 26 there will be a “Celebration of Beer” in Tampa. In fact, as Tampa Beer Week points out, it “marks the midpoint to Tampa Bay Beer Week.” For three hours, you will have unlimited samplings from over 50 local breweries. The event takes place at The Coliseum. Ticket prices range from $55 – $75.
Tampa being named a top beer city in the country is a badge that city takes seriously and wears with pride. Finally, 10Best recommends trying “Jai Alai IPA by Cigar City Brewing, a popular American IPA-style beer using six different hop varietals.”
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.
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.
