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From Queen of Sheba website
Ask the average Tampa Bay tourist about the area's culinary offerings and they'll usually mention fried alligator tails or grouper sandwiches. While these are standard fare at most beach front grills, the ethnic and cultural diversity of the area offers many other choices. Beyond the obvious Cuban and Spanish influences, many tourists, and even some locals, are surprised to find Ethiopian, Italian, Mexican and Vietnamese food alongside the usual seafood joints. There are even some good barbecue places, if you know where to look. All it takes is a little curiosity and a hearty appetite to track down some really great food in the Tampa Bay area. Here are a couple of my favorites to help get you started.
Queen of Sheba
3636 Henderson Blvd, Tampa,
Tel. 813-872-6000
I'll be the first to admit that I am a novice when it comes to Ethiopian food. My only knowledge of Ethiopia was what I learned in school, and that wasn't much. When my friend, local artist Patty Sriram, suggested Queen of Sheba for lunch, I was a bit hesitant. Fortunately, I trust her culinary instinct and went along willingly. I'm glad I did and will take any opportunity to go back again. If you're up for a new experience, check out Queen of Sheba for lunch or dinner.
Butler's Barbecue
1100 94th Ave N, St Petersburg
Tel. 727- 577-3294
Having been born in the heart of barbecue country, I have a healthy appreciation for good barbecue and find myself constantly searching out new places to try. Although I found Butler's quite by accident, I can now find my way there in the dark with my eyes closed. The owners relocated from Rocky Mount, North Carolina, which provides enough knowledge and experience to put out some really great barbecue. This Carolina boy can even buy a Cheerwine to enjoy with his pulled pork and fried okra.
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