Around here, we prefer to shop local.
We’re highlighting a handful of Tampa Bay’s Black-owned businesses, so you can shop consciously:
Gabby Bakes
Surely you’ve seen this Tampa baker’s stand absolutely slammed at Indie Flea markets. The local baking sensation now ices up a slew of vintage-inspired vegan cakes in her hot pink baking studio in Seminole Heights.
Check out her website to order a custom wedding cake, pick up donuts or cake batter tins, or find her selling at a local market.
Central Station Barbershop & Grooming
You might’ve seen the Barbershop Book Club on the news. Owner Antonio Brown both clips hair and encourages kids read to him while they’re in the chair.
7th + Grove
The Ybor City restaurant and bar’s motto is “Eat. Vibe. Flourish.” And that’s not hard to do with a menu packed with Southern comforts like deviled eggs, friend green tomatoes, and plenty of primp — all with lively names to boot.
Hosting a party or want to book a late-night wedding snack? The eatery offers party bus and food truck services.
Green Bench Brewing Co.
VinePair ranked this Sunshine City spot as one of the best breweries in the US in 2024. Plus, its adjacent concept, Webb’s City Cellar, was named a James Beard semifinalist last year.
We recommend grabbing a Bench Life or Sunshine City IPA and parking yourself in one of the Adirondack chairs on the lawn for the true experience.
FauxReal Flowers
Prep for your dream spring St. Pete Beach wedding or a baby shower with the help of this Brandon-based faux flower shop. Owners offer rental packages for table centerpieces, bouquets, welcome sign swags, arbors, and boutonnieres — and color scheme inspo.
Black English Bookstore
Tampa’s own City Councilwomen Gwen Henderson opened this bookshop to elevate Black authors. The Tampa Heights shop also sells art and gifts, and hosts book signings and author events.
Jerk Hut Island Grille & Beach Club
Stop in to one of the longtime Tampa restaurant’s four Cigar City locations for massive portions of Jamaican dishes. We — and everyone else — recommend the Jerk Chicken or Jerk Pork.
Make sure you don’t miss the parties, complete with family-style feasts and bumping DJ nights — they simply cannot be beat.
Hogg Batch Coffee
Located right on St. Pete Central’s Avenue, this coffee roaster specializes in barrel-aged beans. The twin owners also offer subscriptions, catering, and sell beans at local markets and events.
Sip Shop Hooray
Shop for midi dresses or new earrings with a canned cocktail in hand at the body-inclusive boutique and bar. Plus, it’s tucked in besides tons of Burg businesses like Central Cycling and Trophy Fish, so you can make a whole day of it.
House of Vegano
Vegan Philadelphia and Spicy Toona rolls? Yeah, we’re in. The St. Pete eatery also serves ramen, wonton soup, desserts, and a slew of other plant-based delights.
