Happy Spring!
Tara here, and I have an amazing pit stop if you’re in the Tampa Bay area — and if you love tropical vibes and coffee.
As the author of the Coffee Lover’s Mystery series, I’m always on the lookout for new coffee experiences. I researched many of my books’ details by taking a coffee tour, read about brewing techniques, and follow baristas on Instagram.
I’m also fortunate to live in St. Petersburg, which has a thriving coffeehouse scene. There are cafes that have a bohemian feel, sleek modernist shops, cozy, out of the way nooks, and places that cater to gluten free vegans.
But there hasn’t been a café that fully speaks to my soul. Until now.
Patrona Coffee is the newest addition to the Tampa Bay coffee scene, and I think I’m in love.
Located in St. Petersburg, but on the city’s northern tip along Tampa Bay, it looks more like a beach bar — but with coffee.
Not only do they roast all of their own beans, but they make drinks from a pale blue trailer that’s flanked by palm trees. All of the seating is outdoors, and overlooks the water. A paddleboard rental shop sits nearby, seagulls soar overhead, and colorful canopies strung between the palms shade you from the intense Florida sun.
Fresh tropical flowers grace long wooden tables, and instead of asphalt or concrete, there’s sand underfoot.
It’s like an instant vacation. I’ve already been twice and have made plans to return in a few days.
The coffee itself is delicious — I tried a coconut concoction and bought a bag of freshly roasted beans. They also have a small menu of sweet treats, empanadas, and avocado toast.
I’d highly recommend this place if you’re in the area! You might just see me at a table with my laptop, because the entire place has inspired a plot in my next Coffee Lover’s Mystery series…
Check out Patrona Coffee online or in-person at 13090 Gandy Blvd N, St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
