Vol. 04, Issue 11, November 15th - December 15th 2018
® Your community. Your magazine. ™ Dedicated to a community passionate about where they live and the small businesses who serve them
This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To:
Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Soho, Beach Park, Culbreath Isles, Bayshore, Westshore
Gio’s Cuban Cafe Authentic Cuban Food at Affordable Prices
By Matt Selby
Gio’s Cuban Cafe, originally known as Pipo’s Cafe until earlier this year, is everything you could want and more from a Cuban restaurant. It’s important to note, that although the owner Gio Pena, has decided to part ways with the Pipo’s brand, nothing has changed; from the cooks in the back all the way through ownership. “It’s important for me that our guests know that although our name has changed, the restaurant they have come to know and love for all these years hasn’t changed hands. It’s still me and my team and we will continue to provide our South Tampa community with excellent authentic and fusion Cuban cuisine,” says Gio. Since day one, this fast casual restaurant has been more than just a great place to enjoy
delicious cuban fare. It’s an emotional experience designed to create a family atmosphere and turn first time customers into longtime friends. Local food guide David C. gives Gio’s a 5 star review and says, “Awesome food. The breakfast was terrific. The food was so fresh. The service was excellent too. Their bread is tough to beat. You can enjoy it on its own or past of their many terrific sandwiches. Decor is simple, but the atmosphere is cozy and comfortable. Must try in Tampa.” Miami Native Rocco V. says, “I am from Miami and I have to say they knocked it our of the park. Best Cuban food I have had in a while. Rice was well cooked. Plantains were perfectly crispy yet soft and sweet. Nice portions. Friendly staff.” Continue reading “Gio’s Cuban Cafe” on page 4
Gio’s Famous Cuban Sandwich
“I’m from Cuba but I’ve lived in Tampa for 26 years now. I stopped at Gio’s for lunch and tried the Cuban... It was one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had! I love that they add lettuce and tomatoes, it gives it a nice twist!” - Maria G.
SOUTH TAMPA TAMPA BAY NEWS & LIFESTYLES
FROM THE PUBLISHER
VISIT US ONLINE AT:
MATT SELBY
TBNEWSANDLIFESTYLES.COM
220 S. SAFFORD AVE. TARPON SPRINGS, FL 34689 MAIN OFFICE: 727-943-0551 FAX: 727-942-2432 ADVERTISING E-MAIL: INFO@NNLFLORIDA.COM
Publisher Timothy Selby
Art Director Tony Sica
Editor Carla Dubis
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Photography by Mike Bird (c) 2018 Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles. All Rights Reserved. Westchase / Citrus Park Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles is published monthly and distributed by the U.S. Postal Service to over 15,000 Homes in Citrus Park, Westchase and surrounding areas.. Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles is not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Nothing that appears in this publication may be reproduced in any way without consent of the publisher.
It’s not often I write the editorial. My Wife Carla is our Editor and does an amazing job engaging with our readers in all seven of our Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles editions peppered across Tampa Bay. It seems like everywhere we go, a reader recognizes her and compliments her on the job she’s doing. Her editorials tend to go deep. They resonate with the people of our community in ways I never imagined. Many of our readers even share a similar life story with Carla. I’m very thankful for her, and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, November’s most notable holiday, I wanted to use this space to talk a little about her. I don’t think very many of us actually spend Thanksgiving day giving thanks for the blessing of last years’ harvest like the holiday originally started out signifying. Although, if you’re like my Mom and have a live hydroponic garden growing in your house, you might. Anyway, back to Carla. We’re talking about a young woman who immigrated to this country with limited knowledge of the English Language at the age of 15. Many of you may share a similar background, and even if it wasn’t you personally who immigrated here, your parents, or grandparents most likely did. Probably not knowing the English language too well. Carla grew up in Venezuela; a country once known for being the richest democracy in all of South America, now on the brink of collapse due to
an economic crisis under a disastrous dictatorship. As a young girl she learned to speak Spanish, then Italian, and finally English. I know what you’re thinking and you’re right; I can’t win an argument in three languages, lucky me! To be honest, in almost 3 years we’ve hardly had a disagreement. I’ll admit, she is right most of the time. “Happy wife, happy life” and all that. I’m picking up the Spanish language slowly, but after 30 years of only hearing and speaking English in my household, it’s not easy. I have a newfound respect for everyone who came to this country and learned our native language at any age, but especially in adulthood. Carla didn’t just learn the English language. She earned an impressive education. She first graduated with her Bachelors in Graphic Design with a double minor in Marketing and Art History from the University of Tampa, and later a Masters in Education with a concentration in Instructional Technology and a minor in web design. This may be why she’s always right. I’ll be the first to tell you, she’s smarter
than I’ll ever be, and I’m okay with that. Sometimes her “accent” comes through in her editorial pieces, and that’s by design. I don’t try and fix it. Her true voice comes out in so much of her writing, hitting our readers “right in the feels” as some would say. We receive countless E-mails from readers on a weekly basis and Carla loves to interact with everyone. They become fun pen-pals I guess you could say. Both Carla and I are very thankful for the constructive criticism and support we’ve received through the years. I can’t tell you enough how thankful we are for all of our readers. It’s because of your support we’re able to do what we love. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes each and every month and for supporting the great local businesses we feature. Carla truly enjoys keeping you up to date with what’s going on in the community. We really appreciate when you take the time to send us feedback and content as well. Keep a lookout for Carla’s next editorial in December! I know she will have something good for you!
Matt Selby
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
November 2018 3
TRUCHA A LA RUSA / RUSSIAN TROUT ”Gio’s Cuban Cafe” Continued from page 1
I had the opportunity to sit down with Gio himself, and we explored some of their wonderful menu options together. Of course, we started with their iconic Cuban Sandwich. I’ll be honest, growing up in Tampa,
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I’ve had my fair share of Cuban Sandwiches and what makes the Gio’s Cuban so special isn’t summed up by just one ingredient. From “La Segunda Bakery” Cuban bread, to the perfectly executed blend of mayo and mustard, to the perfect portion of mouth watering baked ham, roasted pork, genoa salami, mortadella and swiss cheese.
GIO’S PICADILLO This classic and iconic sandwich is definitely one of the customer’s favorite. Frequent customer Brooke S. says, “Gio’s is a great little hole in the wall gem! A friend brought me here for lunch and being a Miami native I am very judgmental when it comes to Cuban food. The Cuban Sandwich was delish, they add a
twist with lettuce and tomato. It was a generous portion and very good.” “We are really proud of our Cuban Sandwich,” says Gio. “It is one of the most popular lunch options and one of the reasons why so many people come to visit us. We also have a Cuban Breakfast Sandwich option that’s also a favorite with our customers.”
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
Cuban breakfast sandwich with chorizo
Pollo Tropical The Cuban Breakfast Sandwich includes a three egg omelet on toasty cuban bread, with your choice of bacon, sausage, chorizo, or ham, and topped with melted Swiss or American cheese. My wife Carla got to try this delicious creation, and she chose chorizo as her meat of choice. She says it was one of the best breakfast sandwiches she’s ever had. She also recommends to enjoy any breakfast sandwich with a delicious Cafe con Leche. My wife is not the only one raving about Gio’s Cubans. Hundreds of satisfied customers give Gio’s Cuban Cafe 5 star reviews online and mention the Cuban Sandwich as one of the best they have ever had.Mrs. Berthoty, a recent customer says, “Gio’s has the best Cuban in town!” While Dan H., another recent customer and self-proclaimed Cuban Sandwich connoisseur says, “Possibly the best Cuban sandwich I’ve ever tasted!” Next, we sampled an absolute Cuban classic called “Picadillo.” If you haven’t tried it before, I highly recommend it. It’s perfectly seasoned ground beef, prepared with onions, peppers, olives and capers. It was as delicious as it was authentic. Just look at the photo, enough said! If you’re a fan of roast pork, you’d want to try their famous Roast Pork sandwich, which was labeled as “The Best of The Bay” by the weekly planet. Or if you prefer you can also order it as an entree. This family recipe dates back to 1979 and is still the best in Tampa Bay. Joseph S. says, “Best Cuban food I have found in the area. They have the best Cuban bread and the best mojo pork hands down... it is perfectly cooked every time. When in doubts on what to other, try the pork, you will not regret it.” Believe it or not, I tried even more fantastic dishes. Next, I enjoyed a delicious “Cuban Tamale.” I’ve never had one before, and it was fantastic! The taste is totally different than the Mexican tamale, which is made from cooked dried hominy corn. This Cuban Tamale was somewhat sweet but savory, with pieces of cooked pork, onions, garlic and other spices Another must try dish is the “Trucha a la Rusa / Russian Trout.”
This dish consists of a generous breaded trout filet topped with onions, pimientos, chopped eggs, parsley and peas in a butter and wine sauce. This house special and all others are served with your two choices of any soups, rices, or veggies and toasty Cuban bread & butter. Plus FREE Iced tea. If you live in the area and you’re looking for a casual cozy spot with delicious and authentic Cuban options at affordable prices, look no further. They offer succulent and affordable daily specials and many incredible options for under $10. They also offer fantastic desserts, like the traditional Flan “Cuban Custard,” and Arroz con Leche “Rice Pudding,” amongst others. They also cater, so if you’re planning a special party or event and want to wow your guests with some authentic Cuban food, give Gio a call. “We offer a catering menu for any occasion. From office luncheons to receptions, from family dinners to holiday celebrations, allow us to do the cooking. Enjoy the party and let us take care of the details,” says Gio.
Gio’s Cuban Cafe is located at 411 S. MacDill, Tampa, FL 33609. They are open M-F 7am-8pm. Saturday 7:00am - 3:00pm and Sunday 8am - 2pm.
Delivery to your home, office, or event site is available on any order over $100 for a minimal charge. For catering please contact: 813-871-5252 or 813963-7476.
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
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November 2018
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decided to roll his sleeves up and write his own story. Tint By Masters has been going strong since that day with many successes, and as one may imagine, setbacks along the way. “Complete customer satisfaction is our main goal, and we believe that we’re able to solve many of the issues our costumers bring our way,” says Ryan.
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For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
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Over 150 Homes Sold In The Tampa Bay Area
Tamara Dubis, Realtor Yo hablo espaĂąol
813-408-9307
Starting now until January 31st , 2019 receive a $500 giftcard at closing. My way t o say t hank you and Happy Holidays!
tamaradubis@gmail.com www.tamara.thegriffingroup.net 1208 E Kennedy Blvd #231, Tampa Fl 33602 Certified Distressed Property Expert