New Bistro To Open In Tampa Convention Center, Downtown Tampa

Designed to provide an oasis from the loud, congested atmosphere typically found in convention centers, a new dining option is coming to the 600,000-square-foot Tampa Convention Center.

Located on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Tampa, Bay Bistro at the Tampa Convention Center will expand opportunities for patrons taking advantage of the Riverwalk. The new 7,830-square-foot waterfront bistro promises to provide visitors an opportunity to enjoy menu items and daily chef specials while relaxing on both lounge seating or traditional cafe seating.

The restaurant will officially open to the public, serving lunch, on Wednesday, January 16th.

“Bay Bistro was added to reposition the Convention Center as a destination rather than just a venue for special events,” says Eric Blanc, director of sales and marketing at the Center. “As we continue to separate ourselves from the competition, Bay Bistro, as well as The Sail Pavilion (located on Tampa's Riverwalk), are keys to our success in providing that memorable experience we wish to provide our guests.”

A year in the making, Blanc says the Tampa Convention Center is focusing efforts on customer experience and satisfaction.

Bay Bistro is expected to feature an eclectic menu with items including Southern-Fried Green Tomatoes, Brie-L-T, Grilled Mahi Mahi, Bay Bistro Fritters, Chicken Mole Quesadillas and Portobello Steak Salad. Prices will range from $6 to $12.

“The Convention Center is not just a convention center to be used by visitors to Tampa. It is our goal to provide quality events and activities that the citizens of Tampa can participate in and enjoy,” Blanc says. “Bay Bistro is only the beginning of an exciting development that will culminate with Tampa's waterfront becoming one of the best waterfront destinations in the country.”

For Bay Bistro hours and more information, visit the Tampa Convention Center website.

Writer: Alexis Quinn Chamberlain
Source: Eric Blanc, Tampa Convention Center