Or, you could go for a classic Portillo’s moment. | Photo provided by Portillo’s Hot Dogs, LLC
We’ve got a burning question about hot dogs. No, not whether they are sandwiches, tacos, or neither, but rather — why doesn’t Tampa Bay have its own signature frankfurter? Sure, we’ve got spots around town known for specialty dogs, but we’re looking for one that truly screams “TBAY.”
So without further ado, TBAYtoday presents our Tampa Bay-style hot dog, aka “The Big Guava Glizzy”
Ingredients
La Segunda Cuban bread bun
Pork hot dog, grilled
Mustard
Deviled crab topping
Guava-infused hot sauce
Methodology
We start our hyperlocal hot dog with a freshly made Cuban bread bun from La Segunda in honor of Tampa’s Cuban heritage. Coupled with a grilled pork hot dog, it’s pretty darn close to everyone’s favorite TBAY delicacy: the Cuban sandwich.
But the real star of the show here? The toppings. Our TBAY hot dog wouldn’t be complete without mustard (a proper hit dog condiment and also Cuban sandwich-approved), deviled crab topping in honor of our standout seafood scene, and guava-infused hot sauce as an ode to the Big Guava.
Asked
Asked
Which item would you take off?
A. The Guava-infused hot sauce B. Mustard C. Deviled crab for sure D. I’d make it veggie — so the pork
Bienvenido a BSP - Hispanic Heritage Celebration | Friday, Sept. 26-Saturday, Sept. 27 | Times vary | Bonnet Springs Park, Lakeland | Free | This event is expanding to two days of family activities and live entertainment with headliner Cortadito, plus new $10 preferred parking inside the park.*
Money.com’s car insurance comparison tool could save you up to 19%. | Photo via Shutterstock
There’s a lot we don’t know. But we do know that “15 minutes could save you 15% or more” by switching car insurance providers.
Why? This marketing campaign works because the numbers speak for themselves — and the claim is true.
Comparing car insurance really can save you 10% to 19% more money. And Money.com has an easy-to-use (and free) car insurance tool to help you find providers in Tampa. Check it out.
Did you make storm repairs to your home sans permit? Pinellas County is waving waiving penalty fees for after-the-fact building permits through Dec. 31. Once you apply, you can qualify for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding + the National Flood Insurance Program, and be compliant with county regulations. (St. Pete Catalyst)
Drink
Calling all Blind Tiger fans. The Tampa coffee joint is now slinging drinks at a massive new Seminole Heights location. And that’s not all. Stop in the old formerly c.1949 location for 40+ beers on tap and plenty of eats. (That’s So Tampa)
Travel
Aruba, Jamaica... Okay, now that we’ve got that one out. Breeze Airways is launching a new flight from TPA to Montego Bay, Jamaica. Starting Feb. 11, 2026 the low-cost airline will take you somewhere even warmer on Wednesdays and Saturdays. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Announced
The Science Center of Pinellas County just scored $800,000 in state funding. Leaders plan to use the money to restore + reopen the now-shuttered center. The plans include renovating the rotunda and restoring the Historic Mosaic Trail, building a new facility, and adding a new Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence. (St. Pete Catalyst)
Outdoors
Another Sunshine City project received $800,000 in state funding. This time it’s the Williams Park revitalization. Where’s the money going? Leaders hope to ensure “the future of the park is safe and secure” and set up up longterm programming. (St. Pete Catalyst)
Opening
Hail Mary Social Club is opening up in Tampa Heights this winter. Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival-winner David Reyes’ new Franklin Street hub will serve ~200 people in a roomy space with plenty of TVs for watching our Champa Bay sports. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Try This
Like big boats? How ‘bout fast ones? The Offshore Nationals takes over the Clearwater waterfront this weekend. Head to Sand Key Park to watch 90 race boats speed up to150 miles per hour in pursuit of the crown. (I Love Burg)
Festival
Central Florida Food Fest is coming to Bonnet Springs Park on Saturday, Oct. 18, 5-9 p.m. Grab tickets for this 21+ event to indulge in sublime flavors from savory to sweet to spicy.*
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art has two new must-see limited time exhibits this season: “Shrouded in Mystery: Photographs by Steven Althouse,” on display now through Jan. 18, 2026, and “Medici Dynasty: Renaissance in Florence” coming Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. Get all the details.*
Sports
The Rays just defeated the Baltimore Orioles. Let your local Tampa Bay Rays give you the skinny.
Shop
At Warby Parker, every pair of glasses starts at $95. Pick your perfect pair and experience eye care that’s simple, convenient, and delightful.*
The Buy
Swap this summer’s top trending beaded bags for something a little more seasonally appropriate: rich hues of leather + luxurious suede. These are our top five bags for fall:
👜 We’re calling it now: This softly-brushed, chocolate-hued suede purse will be the bag of the season.
👜 Lucky Brand’s full-grain leather mini tote features top handles and a removable crossbody strap for added versatility.
👜 Level up any autumn outfit with this elegant satchel bag that’s on sale for under $40.
👜 This stadium-approved clear handbag is the perfect game day accessory.
👜 Luxuriously soft handfeel and rugged durability are two standout features of this fun heart-shaped leather purse.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Here’s your sign to buy yourself an iced latte out this morning. C’mon, I’m giving you permission.
But on Monday, Sept. 29, it’s on the house — Buddy Brew’s house, that is. In honor of National Coffee Day, stop by Buddy Brew Coffee for one free brewed coffee per guest, all day long.
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