Oxford Exchange - Tampa

Have you ever walked into a new restaurant and sat there thinking, Toto we are not in Kansas anymore?

That will be your first reaction upon walking into Tampa's new Oxford Exchange in Tampa. After I walked in the doors, I found my friend Leslie (Dash of Les) waiting for me - in the Library / Book Store. I looked at her and said "Where are we?!" she replied "Not in Tampa".

Oxford Exchange is downright beautiful. After admiring the architecture of the building, Leslie and I ventured further into Oxford Exchange where we found ourselves at a coffee and tea bar.

Adjacent to the middle of Oxford Exchange was a beautiful atrium. It was glass enclosed and had gorgeous plants everywhere. If it weren't so hot and bright outside, we would have gladly ate there.

Walking towards the dining room, I found a store offering everything from candles, local honey, bath products, jewelry and household decor. I jokingly stated that it was like a high end Cracker Barrel - we window shopped while we waited for our table!

After some shopping, we seated at a little table facing the atrium so my apologies for some of my photos with crazy shading. The open dining room was nice and not too loud. Our server came over and took our order with an iPad. She also informed us that they do not carry wine  BUT she then told us you can bring in your own bottle and they do not charge a cork fee  (unless you drink more than one bottle & it will be $15). Good thing to know for our next visit

I ordered the Salted Caramel Tea Latte. It was delicious and I suggest anyone visiting Oxford Exchange to give this a try.

Salted Caramel Latte

We ordered a few different items to split. We started off with the Crispy Chick Peas. I have to admit, I was expecting Chick Pea Fries as it is all the rage. These were good - not fantastic, but good. I wish there was some sort of drizzle to go along with them. They were a little dry as to be expected with fried chick peas. A sweet and spicy drizzle would have made them amazing.

Crispy Chick Peas

We couldn't resist the Tuna Tar Tar with Crispy Potatoes. It was pretty amazing and unlike any Tuna Tar Tar I have ever had.

Tuna Tar Tar

Our server suggested we try the Chicken Burger. This is not something I would normally order at a restaurant but she said it was the best sandwich on the menu. I was sold when I saw it had Avocados, Jalapeno's and Queso Blanco. It was pretty good for a Chicken Burger.

Chicken Burger

The Grilled Cheese and Gazpacho caught my eye. You can add multiple things to your grilled cheese to "adult it up". I opted for pear and bacon. YUM.

Grilled Cheese and Gazpacho

Finally, we tried the Olive Flat Bread topped with Ceaser Salad. Both Leslie and I stared at the plate when it was sat down - I am a huge fan of Flat Bread's and I frequently order them out. I have never had one served to me that looked like this:

Olive "Flat Bread"

I ended my feast with a Buddy Brew Cappuccino  I was surprised to see a little Latte art when it arrived. It was so strong and awesome.

I am looking forward to trying Oxford Exchange again once the hype dies down a bit. Overall, this is a really cool place. Like Leslie said, it doesn't feel like you are in Downtown Tampa while inside of this gorgeous building.