To the surprise of absolutely no one, I love a classic analog photo booth. The slightly imperfect black and white photos. Being squooshed up against someone you love or hardly know and forced to take four fast photos.
Sadly, we don’t have any old school booths here in TBAY — that I’m aware of — but luckily digital ones get you that same cozy experience:
I rounded up a handful to check out across Tampa Bay:
To showcase and explore the latest in optimization and biohack research.
Look forward to three days of interactive experiences (think: cold plunges, saunas, and product demonstrations), giveaways, book signings, and deep dives into all things health and wellness.
Pro tip: Use code “TBAYtoday” to save $100 on online tickets.
The Tampa Bay Ferry is on the way. Late last week, St. Pete City Council approved the funding contract for the new service. Both the Burg and Tampa will collaborate on the new expanded rides. We’ll keep you posted on the launch date. And good news: The ticket price will drop from $12 to $10. (St. Pete Catalyst)
Opening
A new Ybor City date night-spot drops soon. Papi’s, an American restaurant with Spanish flair, opens later this year. The Ybor City-inspired spot serves Latin-insfused dishes, smashburgers, and a range of cocktails. (Tampa Bay Times)
Coming Soon
Japanese ramen, Hawaiian poke bowls, and bubble tea. That’s what you can expect at South Tampa’s latest eatery, Domoishi. Take a look at some of the dishes and more importantly, the vibes. (That’s So Tampa)
Biz
Saunas are the new happy hour — for some. Local business leaders say networking is becoming more about saunas and other wellness activities and less about happy hour. Dig into the trend. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Mansion Monday
This South Tampa estate is the stuff of dreams. Take a tour and see the checkerboard floors, intricately-tiled fireplaces, and terrace looking out onto Bayshore Boulevard for yourself.
Number
25%. That’s how much grocery prices have climbed in recent years, while dining out is up about 30%. According to a new Hims study, Tampa Bay’s still one of the US cities where cooking at home is cheaper than fast food. Pro tip: Skip the math and grab lunch under $15 locally.
Environment
Scientists have uncovered dozens of new aquatic species in the Southern Ocean, including a carnivorous “death ball” sponge that uses tiny hooks to capture its prey. You don’t need to travel that far to see local wildlife for yourself — The Florida Aquarium is full of wonder. (ABC News)
Drink
A taste of the Big Easy is gaining popularity across the country, according to the New York Times. The Obituary is a martini made with gin, vermouth, absinthe, and lemon zest, and is experiencing a renaissance. See if you can find one at a local happy hour.
Try This
We don’t make the rules — cooler weather calls for more nights cozied up on the couch. “The Golden Girls” was just named the best television series set in Florida, so it’s the perfect excuse to hit play (again). Bonus: Elevate your night in with takeout from a new local restaurant. (Screen Rant)
Sports
The Rays let closer Pete Fairbanks walk as free agency looms. Will this decision haunt their late-inning strategy next season? Get the full breakdown from local experts of the Tampa Bay Rays with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Posting on our local job board is like using a GPS for hiring. It gets you to the right talent without the scenic detours. Ready to find your dream candidate? Post your job today. It’s 100% free.
City Guide
Buy your coffee out today
Whatever your order, Tampa Bay’s coffee spots can make it. | Photo by TBAYtoday
For richer or pour over, Tampa Bay’s coffee shops are what keep us going in the morning. Tampa ranks among the top coffee cities in America thanks to factors like cafes per capita and the price of beans.
The Big Guava and the Burg have no shortage of masterful baristas, aromatic roasts, and foamy lattes. But if you’re having trouble deciding on a spot, gather some brews clues with our guide to some of the best coffee shops in Tampa Bay.
Best bites
Willa’s Provisions, Tampa | Meet the pals or your boo for a coffee and a delish lunch at this Instagrammable coffee shop. We recommend the burrito with chorizo, chipotle mayo, and eggs.
Where to write your novel
Book + Bottle, St. Petersburg | Pen the next great Tampa Bay novel at this Central Avenue spot’s long chic bar (with lots of outlets). And if you’re seeking inspiration, the bookstore + coffee/wine bar hosts a weekly writers’ retreat.
Gutter guards that make clogs physically impossible. Yes, really. Meet LeafGuard, a system with seamless construction that eliminates joints where leaks typically develop. The result? A maintenance-free solution that’s built to last. Bonus: Our readers save 75% off installation + an additional $200 off.
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.
It’s time to get out that Old Bay, spread Sunday’s newspaper across the table, and invite the fam over...
Friendly reminder that stone crab season is back through May 1. Make sure you enjoy it to the fullest by picking up a pound or two at these Gulf Coast markets. Then, invite me over.
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