High school sweethearts Nicholas Catania and his hubby Ryan Sullivan keep Tampa visitors in-the-know by highlighting the newest hot spots with their blog, NHIE Guys.
The 10-year South Tampa residents, both 30, share with GayCities the best tips for a good time at Tampa Pride this weekend. Catch our Tampa Pride tour guides Saturday morning at the Pride & Passion booth on 7th Avenue in Ybor City.
Here’s 12 things you need to know about Tampa Pride 2018…
1. Gay bars/clubs in Tampa?
2. Place to see-and-be-seen
Armature Works, a brand new spot that has tons of amazing food vendors in their Heights Public Market, great cocktails at Fine & Dandy, and beautiful views of the river and Tampa
3. Best beach for people watching
Not that we’re looking (haha), but St. Pete Beach is definitely great for that
4. The place eat when you’re feeling fancy
On Swann. Begin with a glass of Rose and anything after that is fair game.
5. Favorite place to grab a quick bite
Hall on Franklin for sure. We always grab a few Stinky Buns from Northstar Eatery and finish it with anything from our favorite bakery, Bake N’ Babes. We highly recommend the Sleazy Brownies or Liege Waffle.
6. Pride party that’s an absolute must
The Balcony Party at Honey Pot on Saturday during the parade
7. Official Pride you’re most excited about
Saturday Night party at Southern Nights with an appearance by Detox from Rupaul’s Drag Race
8. The place to be during Pride Sunday
Our Pride Parade actually takes place on Saturday, but Sunday Recovery Brunch is a MUST!
9. Sunday brunch?
Ava in SoHo is a hidden brunch gem. We recommend the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with a refreshing Aperol Spritz.
10. Hotels you recommend for Pride visitors
- to be right in on the action: Hampton Inn and Suites
- a bit more upscale: Le Meridien Tampa is an Uber away from the action
- a really great pool and spa: Epicurean Hotel in South Tampa, a bit further away, but the restaurant and rooftop bar are great
11. Anything else about we should know?
We recommend downloading the Tampa Pride App to stay in the know.
12. Where to hangout off the gay radar
DJ sets at The Ritz in Ybor. Or Franklin Manor for tacos and cocktails
Check out our full guide of Tampa Pride events and follow the NHIE Guys on Instagram for all the Tampa Pride happenings.
Photos courtesy of NHIE Guys
