Garrison Tavern Reopens In Downtown Tampa

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay Food Tours taste ambassador Lisa Gallant attended a preview of the reopening of Garrison Tavern located on the bottom floor of the Tampa Marriott Water Street.

Garrison Tavern is awakening from a long hibernation to find itself surrounded by new neighbors amongst a burgeoning Water Street in downtown Tampa. A secret gem of years past will likely remain a secret no longer as patrons come to discover the host of fresh finds in the area. The Tavern is located on the ground floor of Marriott Tampa Water Street: a veteran hotel with striking modern flavor.

Within a slapshot’s distance of Amalie Arena, it is the perfect place for pre-game bites and beverages. Garrison’s is built for sport-watching and with hockey season almost behind us, the ambiance is prime for keeping tabs on all the local teams on the slew of grand TV screens. Then take your own swing at the indoor simulator Topgolf Swing Suite. It’s a breeze to valet the car with validated restaurant parking or bike in from the Riverwalk entrance.

Chicken wings are often ruled out in my book due to their paltry payoff however Garrison’s boasts famous fried chicken wings and it is easy to understand why they are famous. Each bone secured an ample yield of plump, yet crunchy goodness – a unanimous favorite at the table. Interesting vegetables can sometimes prove elusive at taverns however Garrison’s bravely delivers buffalo cauliflower with the appropriate accoutrements along with vinaigrette-soaked Brussels sprouts topped with pickled red pearl onions. The always-comforting mac & cheese is served with a twist: smoked Gouda – easily devoured in moments.

The showcase of delicious options includes vegan tacos, Beyond Meat burgers, and pumpkin seed hummus with guacamole. Gluten-free options are also noted on the menu.

Garrison Tavern provides an expansive alcohol selection and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 4-11pm.

www.TampaBayFoodTours.com is closed for the summer but will resume our food tours in September.

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