Carlos Eats Approved: St. Pete's EDGE District
The latest from food and travel writer Carlos Hernandez.
St. Pete’s EDGE District is one of the fastest growing areas in Tampa Bay. The EDGE Business District Association is an award-winning nonprofit organization that plans, promotes, and advocates to sustain an eclectic, vibrant EDGE District community while preserving the district’s unique historic character.
If you’re visiting the area and want some things in close walking distance, I have a few recommendations:
Intermezzo: Intermezzo is by far my favorite spot in the EDGE District and Downtown St. Pete. The shop is a coffee shop by day and a bar by night – but they are always packed with locals hanging out and working or socializing with friends. They also recently acquired the former location of The Independent are expanding there as well. 1111 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
Bodega: One of my favorite local spots in downtown St. Pete. Bodega has a great Cuban sandwich, not quite the same as spots in Tampa, but its own twist on it. Solid food options for a quick lunch and a hangout spot for locals as well. Staff is friendly. 1180 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
The German Knodle: This little spot reminds me of the character that downtown St. Pete had in the past and is more focused on classic European food. They offer bratwurst, currywurst, vegan sausages, schnitzel and more. 951 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.
The Sourdough Co.: A new bakery in Downtown St. Pete focusing on sourdough bread offerings. Bakeries are far and few between in Tampa Bay so its a welcome new addition. They offer breakfast, sandwiches, soups, coffee, tea, and more. They are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except some holidays. 1113 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
Ferg’s: A no frills sports bar that has fans covered during major sports game. Ferg’s is also a throwback to old St. Pete. You’ll find traditional American food and your standard bar fare. They are a dependable option if you need to see a sports game and do not want to travel too far from the area. 1320 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
Grassroots Kava House: This is my go-to spot when I need to get some work done in the area, the business has two floors and usually there is space on the second floor with plugs and Wi-Fi. They also have coffee and tea for those not interested in kava. 957 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
Brooklyn South: If you need a sandwich, this deli will not disappoint for a quick lunch sandwich. They have philly cheesesteaks, cooked subs, and more. They also have imported and domestic cheeses and charcuterie. 1437 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
TeBella Tea St. Pete: Located just outside the EDGE District on a newer development. TeBella has a great variety of white teas, green teas, and more. Their tea is quite popular in Tampa Bay and you’ll find it on menus around the city. 1445 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 10 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com)Â and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.