Imagine holing up at this coffee bar with the regulars.
Photo by TBAYtoday
Technically, I’m Catholic, but my unofficial religion is Italian markets. Specifically, Mazzaro’s Italian Market: St. Pete’s massive old school deli-cafe-specialty grocer.
The market opened in the existing space in 1996 and dishes out coffee, baked goods, deli meats, Italian dishes, handmade pastas, specialty cheeses, and way, way more. Wandering through the fragrant labyrinth is one of my favorite Saturday morning activities — but beware, it’s always packed + closed on Sundays.
If you go, here’s my advice on what you should do ... and buy:
Hole up at Mazzaro’s coffee bar with all the regulars.
Stop in after work to grab some homemade vodka sauces and the special tortellini of the week for a midweek dinner moment (le duh, I’m still French).
Pick up a Mazzaro’s Salad, hot Italian sandwich, or imported snacks and enjoy your haul on the patio.
Order the chocolate-iced eclairs and really any of the desserts and fresh bread.
St. Pete leaders are still dreaming up a Center for the Arts. But the plans have changed. The new vision for a waterfront center includes turning the Saturday Morning Market parking lot into an outdoor events space + tearing down the Dali/Mahaffey’s parking garage and building one at a new location. (WUSF News)
Announced
The Palladium closes its curtains for a $13 million transformation next summer. What’s on the docket? Workers swap out seats, beef up the sound system, and tweak the theater’s technology. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Try This
Take that lunch early tomorrow, Dec. 9, to stop by Skin Pharm’s Holiday Open House — it’s worth eating at your desk. The new South Tampa med spa is offering deals like free Botox/Dysport when you book on-site + free products with clinic package purchases, coffee from Delightful Bean, and custom embroidery.
Watch
“Raise the Flags,” a new 10-part Amazon Prime series documenting our beloved Bucs, debuts Thursday, Dec. 11. The show digs into 50 years of juicy history + pulls from archival footage and 100+ interviews with players, coaches, and other folks in the know. (That’s So Tampa)
Asked
Philadelphia’s cheesesteak scene recently entered the Michelin Guide for the first time, and was met with controversy. As with all cities, locals have their favorites when it comes to regional classics. That got us thinking: Which Tampa Bay Cuban sandwich spots should make the Michelin guide? Let us know. (New York Times)
Mansion Monday
The Sunshine City’s newest tower, The Residences at 400 Central, is nearly done. Residents — like you — can start moving into their new units by the end of the year. Peep the pricetag on this 3-bed pad with an expansive terrace, 12-ft ceilings, and insane amenities.
Travel
$45. That’s the fee you’ll owe at TSA checkpoints starting in February if you show up without a REAL ID and still want to fly. Save yourself the cash (and the hassle) by securing your REAL ID in Tampa ahead of travel time.
Try This
The 2026 Winter Olympics begin in just 60 days. Soon, athletes from across the globe will head to the picturesque slopes of Northern Italy to compete for the highest accolades in Alpine athletics. Here in TBAY, a visit to Snowcat Ridge will help get you in the spirit of the Games.
Sports
The Bolts were denied a dramatic comeback by a controversial hand pass call — was this the worst NHL officiating of the season? These Tampa Bay Lightning experts break it down.
Number
$0. That’s how much 94% of patients pay to see a licensed dietitian with Nourish. Find a dietitian covered by insurance and build a personalized nutrition plan — a structured, supportive way to map out your 2026 wellness goals now.*
Edu
There’s still time to register for Spring 2026 online classes at Southeastern University. Register to be a more educated version of yourself in the new year, whether you’re starting out or starting over.*
Number
27,400+. That’s how many active job listings you can find on our Job Board. Explore openings in manufacturing, sales, marketing, and beyond. Roles for all experience levels are hiring now. Find a new gig for 2026.
City Guide
Need an excuse to buy your coffee out?
Nothing beats an iced coffee and a stroll around Hyde Park Village. | Photo by TBAYtoday
One of Editor Bailey’s favorite winter activities is getting coffee out. So many of Tampa Bay’s java joints are outfitted in lights, funky Gulf Coast decorations, and filled with smiley patrons this time of year.
Check out these spots for specialty brews and cozy vibes:
Daycation, St. Pete | Whimsical window masterpieces + gingerbread plushies greet you at this standout coffee shop.
Chocolate Pi, Tampa | Feast on a Vintage Christmas Afternoon Tea or pick up a little afternoon treat at this Tampa spot.
Willa’s Provisions, Tampa | Grab a burrito with chorizo, chipotle mayo, and eggs and oggle the massive hanging ornaments.
Paradeco Coffee Roasters, Multiple locations, St. Pete | Sip on an espresso flight in the Art Deco paradise — complete with colorful holiday decorations. Bandit Coffee Co., St. Pete | We’re deeply obsessed with Bandit’s holiday menu this year, particularly the Winter in Florida latte.
Book + Bottle, St. Pete | The Central Avenue spot’s long chic bar (with lots of outlets) is a festive spot to get some work done this month.
Oxford Exchange, Tampa | The Old World-esque institution is decked out for the season with twinkly lights, trees, giant nutcrackers, and present ideas.
Google’s 2025 Year in Search is out, and its local search function provides an interesting peek into our area’s queries. It’s no surprise that Tampa Bay residents searched for Bucs jerseys more than any other sports team. But it is interesting that folks searched for Drake Maye and Jeff Teague jerseys more than Baker Mayfield ones. We won’t ask.
}})
