Soulful Eats: Discovering the Flavors of Black-Owned Restaurants in Tampa

Savor the Flavor, Support the Culture

Welcome to my latest food review, Tampa! You’ve asked for Black-owned and minority owned businesses so I decided to start with the first restaurant I tried when coming to visit Tampa. It left an impression and I hope you are able to try it one day.

I’m excited to share my experience dining at 7th and Grove, a soul food restaurant located in Ybor, Tampa, Florida. I have eaten there at least 8 times since I’ve moved downtown and the vibe keeps me coming back. If you enjoy soul food and music then this is the place for you!

First off, let me just say that the atmosphere at 7th and Grove is vibrant and lively. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted with a cozy, inviting space that just screams fun and unique. The decor is bright but warm, with exposed brick walls, modern tables and chairs, and beautiful hanging lights that create a lovely ambience. The owners really wanted to create an authentic experience and you can tell in the decor and menu items.

Now, on to the food. I have to say, I was blown away by the menu at 7th and Grove. They have all your classic soul food dishes, like mac and cheese, collard greens, fried chicken and grits.

For starters, we ordered the deviled eggs, which were filled with a delicious blend of spices and topped with crispy bacon, the bacon can be removed if you don’t eat red meat. My favorite starter was the C.R.E.A.M menu item which is jalapeno cornbread. I knew I would be saving it for my entree as a dipping option.

We also tried the Everyday People which is shrimp and cheesy grits which is also a brunch favorite, The grits were creamy and smooth, and the shrimp was cooked to perfection. I wanted more! The other main courses we opted for was the fried chicken thigh with baked mac and cheese. The chicken was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was mouth watering but my absolute favorite dish is the Rude Boi which is the oxtail. The meat falls off the bone and the gravy is so flavorful and had just the right amount of spice.

To top off our meal, we ordered the bread pudding and I have to say it was moist and the sauce was the perfect addition. If I had to describe it I’d say it was rich and decadent but we shared it and felt like we were ready to party after.

One of the other reasons, 7th and Grove is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic soul food in Tampa is because the other side turns into a lounge where you can let loose and enjoy yourself until the wee hours of the night. I can’t wait to go back and try more of their delicious dishes!

If you enjoyed reading this then please follow me here and:

Instagram: instagram.com/yourtampabestie

Blog: YourTampaBestie.com