This week was anything but typical. What started as a work trip to Charlotte quickly turned into an impromptu visit to St. Pete due to a family situation. In the middle of airport terminals, hotel mornings, and quick city jumps, I managed to squeeze in a few truly memorable meals—some simple, some indulgent, but all comforting in one way or another. From coffee shops and steakhouse classics to Italian deli sandwiches and beach bites, here’s a look at what fueled the journey.
On the Road – Airport Eats and Travel Staples
You never expect much from airport food, but this week had a few surprises. At LaGuardia’s Terminal B, the renovated space was a showstopper on its own (great documentary about the rebuild)—bright, modern, and almost too nice to be an airport. I grabbed a solid grilled chicken sandwich with avocado and bacon at Hunt Fish & Grill, proving that you can eat well between security and boarding.
Later in the week, I hit up Midwood Smokehouse in Charlotte Douglas (CLT) and had an outstanding smoked turkey club on Texas toast—smoky, juicy, with a crunch that hit just right. It may not have been fine dining, but it sure felt like a reward after a hectic travel day.
Midwood Smokehouse ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hunt Fish & Grill ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Queen City Bites – Charlotte Highlights
Charlotte gave me just enough time to enjoy some of its low-key gems. Breakfast at First Watch is always a go-to: scrambled eggs, bacon, potatoes, toast, and a big cup of coffee to fuel a full day of meetings.
For dinner, I met up with a friend at Lake Norman Tavern, a relaxed local joint. The chicken nachos were generous and satisfying but a bit cold and the guac tasted a bit too “out of the bag,” but paired with a local IPA and good conversation, I wasn’t complaining.
One standout from Charlotte was Summit Coffee near Birkdale Village. The Americano and blueberry muffin were both on point. This is the kind of coffee shop I wish existed in every city—great vibe, excellent quality, and easy to linger in.
First Watch ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lake Norman Tavern ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Summit Coffee ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Italian Soul – From Colony Pizza to Mazzaro’s
By Thursday, my plans took a sharp turn. I hopped a flight to Tampa and made my way to Colony Pizza in St. Pete, where I got my go-to: pizza with sausage and peppers and a cold Guinness. Sometimes all you need is familiarity and a warm slice of something nostalgic.
I happened to drive past Golden Isles Brewing and couldn’t resist popping in. They don’t do flights, but I appreciated the option for 10 oz pours to sample a few beers. The Dog Haze of Summer IPA was smooth and flavorful, and then I switched things up with the Drunkel, a dark lager that was surprisingly rich and easy to drink. The bartender—who was also the brewmaster—was great at offering suggestions, and I left knowing I’d be back. The Amore Life indeed.
The next day, I carved out time to visit Mazzaro’s Italian Market—a must if you’re anywhere near St. Pete. This place feels like Arthur Avenue dropped into Florida. My pick? A classic Italian combo sandwich, piled high with all the right meats, cheeses, and that perfect bread. Authentic, filling, and just what I needed.
Colony Pizza ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Mazzaro’s Italian Market ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Golden Isles Brewing Co ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steakhouse Luxury – A Night at Malio’s
To top off the week, I took my daughter to Malio’s in Tampa, one of my favorite spots. It’s got that old-school steakhouse feel without feeling dated—like Joseph’s in Bridgeport but on Florida time.
We started with beef carpaccio and a French onion soup cup—a wise choice that was small but mighty. I went with the dry-aged New York strip cooked medium rare, and it came out perfect. Top that with warm service and a smooth glass of wine and you’ve got a five-star experience.
Malio’s ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Joseph’s ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beach Vibes & Ballpark Classics
Saturday was all about Pass-a-Grille Beach—coffee in hand, Mazzaro’s biscotti in the other. Pure bliss.
That night, we took in a Tampa Bay Rays game, because what’s summer without a hot dog and fries at a ballpark? I kept it classic and added a Jai Alai IPA from Cigar City Brewing to keep the Florida flavor strong.
Pass-a-Grille Beach ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tampa Bay Rays – Steinbrenner Stadium ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cigar City Brewing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sunday Wind Down – All’ Aperto Dining by the Marina
Sunday afternoon was calm and breezy—perfect for a late meal at Tiki Docks Skyway Bar. Sitting by the marina, I started with huge, fresh oysters, followed by fish & chips that were light and flaky. A frozen Piña Colada hit the spot even if it was light on the rum, and I paired it with another Jai Alai IPA for balance.
Tiki Docks ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer. Great food, great view, and no rush.