4 Small Businesses to Support in Tampa

As we all know, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic hit everyone across the world unexpectedly. Financially, many families and businesses struggled to stay afloat during this pandemic. I think it is important we support local small businesses now more than ever. Here is a list of my favorite small businesses in Tampa:

 

Trip’s Diner

Trip’s Diner is a great restaurant located on North Florida Avenue. This place is family-owned and runs with a great atmosphere. The first Trip’s Diner opened in St. Petersburg in 2012, while the Tampa location has been open for several years. This place offers a wide variety of diner food that is perfect for any time of day. John Stevenson, the owner’s son, spoke with me about the business and how it was affected during the pandemic. 

“Back in March/April, we actually had the entire dining room closed down. We were only doing to-go food, with about three or four employees in the building at a time,” Stevenson said. “Obviously, this really impacted our sales and the viability of keeping the restaurant open.” 

With delicious food and great employees, this small business is a must on your to-do list.

 

You Do the Dishes

You Do the Dishes is a family-owned paint-your-own-pottery place located on Amberly Drive. This place offers many different options of pottery to paint, colors to use, and things to decorate. Unlike most places, this one includes a full-service café that offers all kinds of fun beverages. The owner, Cynthia Kozlowski, discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her small business. 

“It’s really affected us,” Kozlowski said. “And it’s a domino effect: I mean, two of the businesses here in my plaza have left.”

Consider reserving this fun establishment for your next physically distanced get-together!

 

Frolic Exchange

Frolic Exchange is a vintage boutique located on North Florida Avenue. This upcycled clothing store has a wide array of vintage finds currently in style. Frolic Exchange has a wide selection of different tops, pants, jackets, accessories, and more to choose from.

“We’ve been really lucky,” said Brie Denicourt, the store’s owner. “The community has been so supportive.”

If you’re looking for a new place to shop, I would definitely check this out.

 

Mojo Books & Records

Mojo Books & Records is a near-campus staple for USF students. Located on Fowler Avenue, this store sells used and new books of all genres as well as various music selections, including records, CDs, and more. The store also features its own in-house café, offering a variety of snacks and drinks to choose from while you’re searching for what you need. This small and locally run business is a place for anyone with an appreciation for reading and music. Check this place out the next time you’re shopping!

• Diner
• small business
• tampa
• thrifting
• vinyls