Tampa Ranked One Of The Top Beer Cities In America

When you think of the term "beer scene," often a place with a wide array of breweries and friendly pubs comes to mind. USA Today's 10Best recently dove into major beer scenes across major markets. They found Tampa ranks as a top beer city in America.

"Stellar collections of established and up-and-coming breweries, beer bars, brewpubs, beer festivals, and even thriving homebrewing communities where novice brewers can get their foot in the door," is how 10Best describes the attributes of those cities that ranked in the top 10.

Not only was Tampa the only city in Florida to be named, it was one of just two in the south.

"The greater Tampa Bay region is home to a stunning selection of 103 craft breweries," according to Drink Local Florida and 1oBest.

In addition to the many local brewery options, Tampa is also a great city in terms of supporting the overall industry. Organizations like Homebrew Supply help service brewers and educate those looking to pursue it.

Tampa Beer Week publishes all relevant information in terms of events, festivals, bar crawls and more. In addition, The Tampa Bay Rays, Buccaneers, and Lightning all feature local brews on tap. They are available in draft (and occasionally cans) at all home games.

On August 26 there will be a "Celebration of Beer" in Tampa. In fact, as Tampa Beer Week points out, it "marks the midpoint to Tampa Bay Beer Week." For three hours, you will have unlimited samplings from over 50 local breweries. The event takes place at The Coliseum. Ticket prices range from $55 - $75.

Tampa being named a top beer city in the country is a badge that city takes seriously and wears with pride. Finally, 10Best recommends trying "Jai Alai IPA by Cigar City Brewing, a popular American IPA-style beer using six different hop varietals."

In a market overview report by Straits Research, it was reported that the cigar industry is projected to reach USD 114,355.50 million by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 11.90% during the forecast period (2022-2030). Currently, there are dozens of locations in the greater Tampa area where you can go to purchase an authentic cigar. We have put together a list of Tampa area cigar bars you need to know about.

As we roll into summer, people tend to have more time to seek out a lounge-style atmosphere. A local cigar bar can serve as a destination gathering or as your nightcap spot to wind down. Holt's Clubhouse describes the setting as, "The best cigar bars are outfitted with a powerful air purification system, meaning your spouse or non-cigar-smoking friends won’t mind hanging out with you while you smoke. This is the ultimate environment to enjoy a cigar."

Furthermore, it is not uncommon to find cigar bars offering more than their smokes. Whether it's a dining experience or entertainment, there's reason to stay at the establishment longer than the duration of a smoke.

Though many local cigar bars welcome a walk-in experience, it is best to know in advance what you are getting yourself into. With regulations, as you can imagine, there are restrictions to blowing smoke in a public space. In addition, Holt's Clubhouse also has a great list of etiquettes to be aware of. This includes the proper way to cut your cigar, how to control your mouth, and a few other common courtesies.

We considered a few key attributes to compile our list of Boston area cigar bars you need to know about. We reviewed location, what the bar offers, and how it differentiates from others in the region.

Corona Cigar is located right next to Tampa's best buffet. The interior is completely humidified. In fact, humidors are a large part of their business offering. Corona is a larger space than your typical cigar lounge. They now have five locations in Florida including two in Orlando. Considered a "Cigar Superstore" Corona also offers a wide array of branded gear like ash trays, cutters, and apparel.

There's a reason why Montecristo is in the name of this SoHo establishment. Though there are other options, Casa De Montecristo primarily specializes Montecristo cigars. They host premier events such as the Tampa Cigar Bash, coming up in October. In addition, their club memberships operate off a points system that generate rewards. Casa De Montecristo consider themselves to be a "feel at home" place, with flat screen tv's around the interior, often broadcasting a local sporting events.

Located along N. Florida Ave, Cigar World named Grand Cathedral the Best Lounge of 2022. Its name is connected to the fact that this used to be the First Congressional Church of Tampa. Grand Cathedral has it all - from a cigar museum feel, to plenty of indoor and outdoor space to be comfortable. The 6,000 square foot patio is also pet friendly. The entire inside is considered a smoke facility. There is a full service bar serving beer, wine, and craft drinks. In addition, the Sandwichi food truck is onsite. Different levels of lounge memberships are offered (but not required). Enjoy a premium hand-rolled cigar, sip a drink, eat a sandwich, and bring the dog.