A few weeks ago, Michael and I visited Tampa, Florida, for a quick overnight trip to treat his sisters to Bern’s Steakhouse as a belated Christmas gift. Shortly before heading home the following day, we decided to check out Oxford Exchange, a multi-use space near the University of Tampa that was originally built in 1891 and reimagined as a modern mixed-use space.
As a native Floridian, I’ve visited Tampa many times before, but this was my first time setting foot in this part of town. On the drive over to Oxford Exchange, we noted plenty of great-looking restaurants for our next trek to The Big Guava (did you know Tampa was called that? Me neither!) – but our meal plans were already solidified for the day.
This post is not affiliated with Oxford Exchange but contains commissionable links
Parking in car-dependent large cities is rarely easy, but there is plenty of street parking in the area surrounding Oxford Exchange. If street parking is unavailable, you’ll find a designated parking lot off W. Grand Central Avenue and plenty of clear signage.
We entered through the Grand Central Ave. entrance (where you’ll find the Warby Parker Showroom now closed) and ventured through the space. Hungry and ready for afternoon tea, we made a beeline for the restaurant, which has two entrances for guests to use (one through the OE shop/Aesop store now closed and one near TeBella Tea Company).
We turned to each other, confused about how to get seated at the restaurant – and admittedly, if what we were standing in even was the restaurant (so embarrassing!). We managed to follow two people who did know what they were doing and miraculously ended up with a table in the light-filled courtyard without a reservation.
The Champagne Tea felt like a must, as it included several finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, an assortment of pastries, and a pot of tea from TeBella. The food and tea selections were quite good – fresh, and perfectly executed. Although to be honest, I may not be the most accurate critic in this instance, as I was famished when we ordered (it was 3:00 p.m., and this was the first food I encountered after a night of excess the prior evening).
My only complaint? The “champagne” served was actually a sweet American sparkling wine. For $10 a glass, you would expect something from France at the very least, no?
Bellies full of tea and tiny treats, we wandered the space and did a little shopping – well, mostly window shopping. The OE shop carries some neat gifts and local items; I selected a delicious-sounding maple honey to bring home. If you’re visiting the area from out of town, this would be a great spot to pick up souvenirs!
Despite recently enjoying pots of heavily caffeinated tea, we both felt it was wise to order an espresso beverage from Buddy Brew (now closed) to fuel us on the drive back to Gainesville. My regret? Not picking up a bag of their beans for the next day!
FINAL THOUGHTS ON EXPLORING OXFORD EXCHANGE
I’m looking forward to visiting this area of Tampa again, and would readily make another stop at Oxford Exchange if I happen to be in the neighborhood. The building has been beautifully restored, and I would love to see the space as it’s arranged for a special event or a wedding. You can read more about the history of the building and find current menus on Oxford Exchange’s website. Reservations for Afternoon Tea are recommended, but as we found, not always necessary.
Tell me: what is your favorite part of afternoon tea?
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The Oxford Exchange is amazing! Next time you are in Tampa you should check out Hattrick’s! It’s in downtown Tampa and they have the most incredible wings!