Trying to keep up with what’s new on the restaurant scene in Tampa Bay is fun! So let’s get up to speed with the latest for Florida foodies like yours truly.

- Central Avenue in St Petersburg will welcome Cava to the ‘Burg soon. We’re still waiting for an official opening date, but look forward to the chance to enjoy a fast-casual approach with a Mediterranean flair where you can build your own bowl. Follow along on Facebook for more.

-Another new addition to Water Street will be Ash, scheduled to open in the spring. Chef Ferrell Alvarez is behind this new restaurant that will have a sculpted Ash tree as part of the deco. Chef Alvarez is well-know to us here in the Bay as the creative mind behind Rooster & The Till and more.

-Closer to me here on Gandy Blvd is Patrona Coastal Cafe and Roastery. Have a seat, enjoy the view and a cup of their Guatemalan signature roast, along with a beautiful mural by local St. Pete artist David Rothman.

-Add a champagne bar to Ybor City when Geo’s opens at 1730 E 7th Avenue. Add one of their signature charcuterie boards to your order when the open - another one to follow on Facebook for that date.

-National recognition for the Columbia Restaurant, named to the LoveFood.com list of the “The Most Stunning Historic Restaurants In The U.S.” Check out that full list and see how many you’ve been at.

Don’t you love living here! Keep an eye out for more opening and events in Ann Kelly’s Kitchen!

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM ANN KELLY’S KITCHEN

“Two things Florida can teach the other 49 states: how to make a good margarita and how to deal with the aftermath of a hurricane.” — Tom Feeney

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