Bodega on Central: A Cuban Street Food Date

Located on Central in St. Pete, Bodega is a local “hole in the wall” restaurant, dishing out mouthwatering, authentic Latin food. It is a quaint place with a little indoor juice bar and a cozy, street-side outdoor eating area. Due to its small size, it is often looked past by couples. However, the food here is a must-try, which is evident by the long lines stretching far past the order window every day of the week.

Cuban food is Bodega’s specialty.

They serve up a variety of Platos, or plates, which come with your choice of meat (coconut marinated chicken or garlic roasted pork with caramelized onions) or seasoned tofu/tempeh for the non-meat eating couples, as well as a huge portion of rice, black beans, and delicious fried plantains. For only $9, you get much more than what you pay for. These Platos sound simple, but they are some of the best meals available in the St. Pete area and will have you and your loved one coming back for more.

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In addition to the Platos, Bodega offers incredible sandwiches on fresh, flaky, buttery Cuban bread. The Cuban, of course, is a local favorite, as many consider it the best Cuban sandwich in Tampa Bay. They also offer a special each month, the monthly Frita, which is a decadent sandwich created by the chefs in the back. Every sandwich is uniquely different, diversifying Bodega’s simple menu a little more. The sandwiches go for $8, making them affordable for all couples.

Wash down this award-winning food with a fresh-squeezed juice or smoothie from the fresh, organic juice bar. If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, couples can enjoy a sparkling soda or choose from a variety of beers.

There is no other restaurant like Bodega in the Tampa Bay area. Its relaxed atmosphere is welcoming and is a huge reason for its success. Sometimes the more low-key restaurants ate the ones cooking up the best quality food. Bodega proves that oftentimes less is more.

Whether you live in St. Pete or are traveling from another part of Tampa Bay, Bodega is the perfect spot for your next date with your significant other.

As owners George and Debbie Sayegh say, “It was important to us to serve food we love. The food we serve our family. The food should speak for itself without the fluff. We invite everyone to come, relax, and enjoy.”

Hours:

Mon-Wed, Sun: 11 am-9 pm

Thurs-Sat: 11 am-11 pm

Address: 1120 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705

Looking for more good eats in St. Pete? Check out Engine No. 9: Best Burgers in The Bay or La V Vietnamese Fusion: A Taste of Vietnam.

Feature Image credit: eatbodega.com

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