1327 E 7th Street, Ybor City, Tampa Fl 33605
Visited 18 May 2024
On the way home from dropping off a friend at the airport on this beautiful Saturday afternoon, decided to head to Ybor City for a walk about and luncheon. This historic part of Tampa; which certainly has a different look in the daylight, than the last time one was there many years ago and at night, seems to be enjoying some investment but could certainly benefit from a real effort of revitalisation to turn it into a european style city within a city that cherishes its rich history while moving forward into the future, by encouraging small businesses to hang their shingle and thrive.
The Bricks is an inspiration in the area, and falls into the genre of what I call the americanisation of the generic English pub, in other words what those here in the Colonies who have never been to a small town pub in England, think that a pub should be, not quite the American bar but most definitely not a true pub. Please do not think this is meant to be a slight to The Bricks, far from it, this corner spot at E 7th and N 14th, is a great place for lunch in Ybor City, offers a locally inspired menu with multiple vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices, which one does enjoy seeing, and some great drinks choices.
Sitting at the bar, I decided to start with, what was a well made, mojito, unfortunately not made with my usual coconut rum as they did not have any (SHAME, SHAME, SHAME), and the Bird & Pig Sandwich with the Asian slaw.
As I was sipping my mojito I was admiring the decor, which brings more of a turn of the century (1999-2000) Hell's Kitchen gay lounge than a bar in Ybor City; exposed brick, some restored original features, brass coloured tin ceiling exposed pipes and ventilation, brings a more upscale dive bar feel, though with its inspiration taken from the nearby Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT), defiantly brings together the grunge, skater, and poser feel of the 90's, which makes The Bricks feel comforting in a way.
Of course I forgot to take a picture of my plate when it arrived, but the Bird & Pig was delivered exactly as described, which can be a problem more than many realize,. The first bite was a perfect blend of well seasoned chicken, bacon, crisp green apple, brie and honey. Although one is usually not a fan of the "Hawaiian" bun, the sweetness with the slight char of being pressed complemented this particular sandwich well. The asian slaw was a bit appointing however, it seemed to need more time pickling and possibly more effort into its seasoning. The over quality of the food was very good, and nixing the slaw from the equation the sandwich was a fulfilling meal on its own, that made every region of the tongue yearn for the next bite. I finished with a cappuccino, which as I have come to learn if I am not making it or a truly well trained barista not to bother ordering any longer, no offence to the lovely bartender, whom I unfortunately cannot remember her name, intended!
I would love to go back on a busy night to see the crowd The Bricks draws, as well an opportunity to try some other menu items. Overall, The Bricks is a great place for lunch and should have been packed on this beautiful Saturday afternoon, however the apparent lack of support of local government for the area, and possibly that their regular clientele was at SPoT, I hope that they are normally standing room only. This is a place one shall custom again, to try other menu items. Hopefully others will make this their choice for locally inspired American Pub fare in the area and is definitely worthy of a detour if you have the time.
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