My first coffee adventure of 2013 (albeit a late coffee adventure) was at Sips Specialty Coffee House, a quaint little coffee shop in Carrollwood. My friend Kristina had been suggesting I check it out since it opened last year, but being the procrastinator that I am, I didn't get around to visiting until last weekend.
My first impression upon walking in was how cozy it was, with its sage and white walls decked with little chalkboards with inspirational quotes. It's the perfect atmosphere for catching up with friends, book club meetings, and even birthday parties--a group of ladies was celebrating during my visit. The lone barista working at the time of my arrival was sweet, even while doing double-duty, manning both the drive-thru and counter. I instantly liked it before I even tasted the coffee.
As an early nod to Valentine's Day, I ordered the Chocolate Covered Cherry Latte (hot) and as a nod to hunger, a cinnamon roll. The cinnamon roll was homemade and delicious, all warm and gooey and perfect. I also loved the latte--very sweet, smooth, and creamy, like drinking a piece of high quality chocolate. However, I didn't taste the cherry, so be on the lookout for that, if you order it. But it wasn't that big of a deal for me--I'd order the drink again.
Sips is already off to a good start with its menu, an impressive smorgasbord of hot and cold coffee drinks, as well as "other" drinks like tea, hot chocolate, and smoothies. It also features a handy little guide as to what goes in the different coffee drinks--a first, from what I've seen. And if you want to bring in coffee for a workplace meeting, it also has you covered there, with its "Joe in the Box," which comes complete with cups, cream, and sugar.
I think there is a place in Tampa's coffee scene for Sips, and I look forward to watching it thrive and grow. From the quality coffee to the relaxed and quiet atmosphere, it's a definitely a place that will keep you coming back again and again.
Address, Phone, and Email
6118 Gunn Highway
Tampa, FL 33625
(813) 963-7477
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6a.m-7p.m.
Sat: 8a.m.-7p.m.
Sun: 8a.m.-5p.m.
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