The pristine latrine gives the same Old World feel as the rest of OE. | Photo via Oxford Exchange
It looks like we got the snub in this year’s Cintas America’s Best Restroom Contest, but we won’t let our city’s best bathroom contenders go to waste. Tampa Bay is flushed with great restrooms.
You’ve visited Oxford Exchange for the brunch, but how about the bathroom? This Downtown Tampa spot brings elegance with its glass atrium dining room and champagne bar — and its latrines are no different. Next time you head to the loo, ogle over the chandeliers, white washed brick walls, and the fresh orchid arrangement.
Plus, the penny-tiled floors provide a welcome reminder.
This spot is City Editor Bailey’s pick. The St. Pete steakhouse brings all of the woodsy, lodge vibes — and the water closets are equally as inspired. You’ll have to pose for a mirror pic once you see the moody black and gold space, complete with mini potted topiaries.
Let the moody light transport you in the King State facilities.
Your post-coffee bathroom break has never looked so good. The funky java joint’s facilities feature moody green lighting and tile, stylish signing, and a fake plant for ambiance. One reader suggested the latrine as one of their faves in TBAY, noting that it boasts the “best lighting and decor, powdered hand soap, [and is] clean (as bathrooms go).”
It bears repeating that TPA’s Airside C has some of the best facilities in the country. The former Cintas Award-winning latrines boast a luxe “resort-feel” with lit mirrors, sparkling clean counters and floors, and Florida-appropriate art.
Asked
Vote for your favorite bathroom
A. Oxford Exchange B. Urban StillHouse C. King State D. Tampa International Airport E. Bern’s Steak House
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers | Friday, Aug. 11 | 6 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa | $27-$458 | Watch the Bucs kick off the 2023 preseason against Pittsburgh.
The All-American Rejects | Friday, Aug. 11 | 7 p.m. | MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, 4801 US Highway 301 N., Tampa | $35-$330 | “Move along” to the outdoor amphitheater to watch the rock band’s “Wet Hot All-American Summer Tour.”
Bolts Brew Fest | Friday, Aug. 11 | 8 p.m. | Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa | $35-$120 | Sample craft beers from local craft breweries, play oversized games, and meet ThunderBug at the Tampa Bay Lightning’s sixth-annual event.
Summer in the City Concert Series | Friday, Aug. 11 | 9 p.m.-1 a.m. | American Social Bar and Kitchen, 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa | Free | The waterfront hot spot is hosting the Ed John Band for a night of tunes.
Saturday, Aug. 12
Landscape Design Basics | Saturday, Aug. 12 | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | Virtual | Free | A water conservation coordinator guides you in creating a water-efficient, low maintenance, and attractive lawn + garden.
Dog Swim Day | Saturday, Aug. 12 | 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Fossil Park Pool, 6739 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg | $5 | Now’s your chance to bring Fido to cool off in the community pool — sign up for one of two time slots.
Big Storm Silent Party | Saturday, Aug. 12 | 8 p.m.-12 a.m. | Big Storm Brewing, 12707 49th St., Clearwater | $6-$10 | This silent disco features three DJs playing a bunch of different genres — bring a debit or credit card to rent headphones.
Sunday, Aug. 13
“Titanic” (1997) | Sunday, Aug. 13 | 3 p.m. | Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa | $10 | Take a trip back to 1997 to watch young Leo and Kate fall in love on the “Titanic” and the disaster that ensues.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration just upgraded this year’s hurricane chances. The new outlook includes a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season, up from a 30% chance prediction in May. (Tampa Bay Times)
Transit
Tampa’s Fowler Avenue might be getting a makeover. The Florida Department of Transportation is looking at three plans for making a four-mile stretch of the street transit-friendly — ranging from $25 million to more than $82 million. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Announced
The Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete + Bayfront Health are giving away $2.9 million in grants to local businesses. The request for proposals is out, and leaders are looking for “bold” ideas to improve health and economic equity. Applications are due on Friday, Oct. 6. by 5 p.m. (I Love the Burg)
Ranked
No. 8. That’s where St. Pete ranked on Swyft Filings’ list of cities best fostering new business growth. The Sunshine City has the 10th most business applications per capita — about 27 per 1,000 residents — according the report. (St. Pete Catalyst)
Sports
Now’s your chance to cruise to the Bahamas with ThunderBug. The Lightning is offering a four-day “Bolts On Board” cruise Jan. 12, 2024, featuring Bolts alums Phil Esposito and Dave Andreychuk, photo ops with the Stanley Cup, and casino tournaments. (That’s So Tampa)
History
The St. Pete Black History Bike Tour is back. Sign up for a guided tour past some of the Burg’s historic spots with historian Josette Green as your guide. Register for rides throughout the fall. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Active
Running season is on the way, TBAY. Register now for the Celma Mastry Ovarian Cancer Foundation One Step Closer race on Saturday, Sept. 9. The waterfront St. Pete race loops to and from Albert Whitted Park. (I Love the Burg)
Job
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Community
Events
5 ways to celebrate 813 Day in Tampa
Find the brightly-colored signage near the Wharf’s parking lot. | Photo by TBAYtoday
Calling all Tampans, Tampanians, and Tampeños.
The Cigar City is celebrating 813 Day this Sunday, and we’ve got a bounty of ways to get in the Hillsborough County spirit.
Sparkman Wharf + Water Street
Take a photo in front of Sparkman Wharf’s iconic (and now decorated) Tampa sign + post on social media through Sunday, Aug. 13, and the Wharf will donate $5 to The Florida Aquarium.
Head over to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at Sparkman at 8:13 p.m. on, you guessed it, Sunday, Aug. 13 — the first 50 people score a free scoop.
Plus, a bevy of Water Street Tampa and Sparkman Wharf retailers and restaurants are offering $8.13 deals.
Virtual
Share your 813 story for a chance of being featured on the county’s social media channels.
Residents can also show a little 813 pride using the official #813Day profile frame on their social media accounts.
Speaking of weekend plans, here’s one more suggestion. Dwell Home Market is hosting their Big Lawn Sale Saturday, Aug. 12 + Sunday, Aug. 13 at their main location (4912 S. Lois Ave., Tampa). Stop by for deals on retired staging furniture.
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