Pete’s Bagels - Ybor
Apologies for the slight hiatus. Work and life got in the way for a bit, as they often do, but I’m ready to get things back on track. What better way then with this little gem that I found during one of my commutes to work.
Pete’s Bagels is located in Tampa’s historic Ybor city district and shares a space with the conveniently located 4th and Angel dog park. You can enjoy a coffee and delicious bagel with your furry friends, just make sure to get there early, as the few times we’ve been there we were shocked to see a line that wrapped from inside to the surrounding house.
The Experience
Can’t say better things about the vibe I get when visiting this coffee shop. With it’s close proximity to cute four-legged friends, abundance of natural lighting and indoor/outdoor feel, It makes for the perfect spot to start your Sunday morning. I personally get the feeling of walking into an inviting home when going through the front door (I mean what else should I expect walking into what is obviously a house) which is perfect for anyone looking to hunker down and get some work done. There is certainly no shortage of seating options.
The staff was also extremely friendly and helpful, although, on one occasion the barista was not familiar on how to make a Cortado but I’ll chalk this up as possibly a training day.
They also have plenty of merchandise offerings for those looking to get some swag items while visiting. I saw everything from shirts and stickers to tote bags.
The Coffee
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Pete’s Bagels used King State’s coffee as an offering for their drinks which if you haven’t read my review on them, please do yourself a favor and check it out!
With that being said, the coffee was very enjoyable, and outside of the small issue I mentioned above, has always delivered what I would hope to get when needing my morning/afternoon pick-me-up. So far I’ve had a chance to try their cold brew and ice-latte and both have been on par with what you can come to expect from a good coffee shop. I still want to come back and try a flat-white or cappuccino and test their latte art skills 😏, I’m always a sucker for good latte art.
And while it’s not coffee, I feel that I should mention arguably their most important menu item which is of course their bagels. Now I should warn you I’m a very simple man so my go-to is alway a plain ol’ beacon, egg and cheese bagel. I like to say I’m a bit adventurous since I opt for the everything bagel but I know I’m only kidding myself. With that being said, that bagel was as good as it looked and I had hoped. It’s honestly dangerous though being that now I have a place where I can have a good cup of coffee and bagel in the same place. Man what have I done.
Conclusion
Pete’s Bagels is the perfect alternative for those looking to get out of the normal routine and venture over to Ybor for the day. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy the quirkiness of Ybor while visiting this hidden secret and possibly discover other great things about this amazing city.
