As you’ve probably noticed by now, our Tampa Bay area food scene is among the nation’s best, with WalletHub ranking Tampa No. 6 on its Best Foodie Cities in America list + the Burg cracking the top 50 as well. But it’s not only our restaurants which shine — we’ve got top-notch foodie festivals, too.
Here are six happenings to put on your radar:
Taste of South Tampa
Sunday, March 3 | 1-4 p.m. | Tampa Garden Club, 2629 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa | $50
Dozens of local restaurants take over the Bayshore venue for the 18th annual event, including 7th + Grove, Ava, Bulla Gastrobar, Streetlight Taco, and The Dan.
Tampa Bay Empanada Festival
Saturday, April 6 | Perry Harvey Sr. Park, 1000 E. Harrison St., Tampa | $5+
Feast on empanadas in the heart of the Cigar City, and enjoy cocktails, live music, games, and other entertainment.
Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival
Tuesday, April 9-Saturday, April 13 | Locations + prices vary
With events spread across Tampa Bay, there are culinary delights awaiting, featuring a VIP Chef Showdown, and a Grand Tasting finale at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.
I’ll take one of those, thank you.
Photo by @southtampataste
Bern’s Winefest
Saturday, April 13-Sunday, April 21 | Locations + prices vary
Now in its 27th year, nine days of lavish food + wine events will take place at spots like Haven, the Epicurean Hotel, and Bern’s Steak House.
St. Pete Italian Fest
Saturday, April 27 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | St. Pete Pier, 600 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg | Free with reservation
Mangia, mangia as the Burg hosts a celebration of all things Italy — featuring the classics like pizza, pasta, gelato, and other authentic dishes.
International Cuban Sandwich Festival
Sunday, May 26 | 12-6 p.m. | Centennial Park, 1800 E. 8th Ave., Tampa | Free with reservation
Head to the home of the Cuban sandwich for the 13th annual event, where there will be no shortage of hot pressed Cuban bread filled with pork, ham, salami, swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard — the right way to do it.