Local - Simple - Honest. This is Boca's tag line. Boca is all of these things and much, much more. Recently I had the honor to attending a hosted event at Boca's Tampa location. It was an adventure in history, global community, and locally sourced food that was outstanding in presentation, variety, and flavor.
Boca is located on West Platt Street in historic Hyde Park. The original garage and gas station was built in 1928, and was only the second gas station in Tampa. The original owner built the core building brick-by-brick and established a reputation for great service. Boca pays tribute to the garage by restoring many elements from the original. Boca rests solidly on cement floor that was once that garage.
When I first arrived I was greeted by a friendly and inquisitive valet attendant. He completely put my mind at ease about find a place to park and started the night off knowing that my car would be safe, close, and easy to find when the night was over. As you walk inside there is a bar area located to your left and the space opens up to a vertical garden - several different areas of bright and airy seating. The layout of the tables and seating encourages conversation as if you were sitting down at your best friend's house to catch up. There is a sense that this is a community gathering place. There is also the absolutely beautiful outside patio. The Boca patio is an ideal dining space for groups, meetings and special events. The space is semi-private space and can accommodate groups up to 55 for brunch, lunch, dinner or a cocktail reception.
They also have a local market that includes the following: (made in-house) Jams & Preserves, Peanut Butter, All Dressings, House Smoked Bacon, Brisket, House-made Pasta, Muffins, Fried Green Tomatoes, Toppings & Spreads, (Tomato Jam, Sweet Onion Jam, Green Goddess) Live lettuces & herbs ($6/plant) Red Leaf Lettuce, Basil, Bibb Lettuce, Wildfire Lettuce, and Arugula.
The food was drinks were outstanding. From the most amazing fried green tomatoes that I have ever had, to delicious and unique flatbreads, mussels in the most delicious broth that caused us to ask for more crusty bread so that we could soak up every drop, shrimp & grits, the most mouthwatering burger, and ending the night with fried cheesecake. It was worth every single bite.
Boca Tampa also has monthly themed dinners and they want to buy you dinner on your birthday! Make sure you go to their website and sign up immediately, I sure did! I truly don't know how to express what an impression Boca Tampa made on me. I mostly certainly look forward to going back very soon and checking out their happy hour. You must add Boca Tampa on your list of top restaurants in Tampa. You will not be disappointed.
Boca Tampa is located at: 901 W. Platt St. , Tampa, FL 33606
