Bodega - St Petersburg

Make sure to check out Bodega in St. Pete it's an awesome spot. Despite ongoing construction in the area, don't let it deter you; this place is worth a visit. Street parking along Central is available. Opt for takeout or savor your meal inside at the stylish diner bar, tables, or booths. The staff is consistently friendly and helpful. Indulge in delicious options like the Lechon Sandwich, salads, and Plato's with white rice, black beans, and maduros. Don't miss out on their refreshing Soda Frescas, juice, coffee, beer or cocktails.

Intro: I was doing a little research on restaurants in St. Pete and Bodega has the most reviews in the city. Located in downtown St. Pete, this Cuban restaurant was within walking distance from my hotel. I stopped by on a Thursday evening for dinner with my friend. Service (3/5 : Even if you're dining in, as we were doing, you have to order at the outdoor kiosk. This is a bit of an awkward setup. Ordering from outside when you're dining in inside. I understand it adds some hype for the restaurant (as a line forms outside but not the best for the customer experience. They will then bring your food to your table. The lady taking my order was friendly so at least there's that. After we ordered, we sat at the bar. Ambiance (4/5 : Bodega has a modern feel to it with several booths and tables to sit at as well as a bar area with bar stools (without back support . It's a casual spot. Food (4.5/5 : Bodega is known for its Cuban sandwiches so that's what I went with. Fun fact: The Cuban Sandwich was invented right here in the States, in Tampa, rather than Cuba. If you've ever had a Cuban Sandwich, Bodega's take on the classic sandwich is a little different. Rather than having ham and mustard in it, Bodega's version has Mojo (a Cuban sauce . The pork was tendered and the Mojo sauce made for a flavorful sandwich. The bread was crisp, which is what you want. They have two sizes for the sandwich, but the small one is large enough to fill you up. We also got a side of fries. Drinks (4.5/5 : They have soft drinks and a full bar. Naturally, I went with the Cuba Libre (basically a rum and coke with lime . Nice touch on their end: they give you the rest of the Coca-Cola bottle in addition to your alcoholic beverage. Overall: If you're looking for a quick meal, and some solid Cuban food (which you should always do when you're in Florida! , check out Bodega. Insider's tip: They have a speakeasy called Bar Chica that is attached to the restaurant. Check it out after your meal!

I am a bit torn whether this should be 4 or 5 stars, but I am going to go for 4 compared to some Cuban sandwich spots I have eaten in. No apologies, as 4 is still great. I was in Webb City (the funkatorium for Green Bus) and the bartender said I should try Bodega. Looked up the menu, gave them a call, and went over to grab my Cuban with beans rice about 10 minutes later. The storefront is conveniently located on Central and a block away from Green Bench/Webb City. It is light an airy inside, with ample seating. There is a bar should you want a drink, although I was doing beer tourism a block away, so I did not stay. The Cuban is very nicely done. Not the best I have ever had, but ranks as the best I have had in Pinellas county thus far. Black beans and rice were flavorful, but I would rate them the lowest point in the meal (this does not mean low, just lower than the sandwich). I lvoed the press on the sandwich and how it was cooked to a nice golden brown. Very nice. If you are in St Pete and seeking out a Cubano, I would put this place on your list. If you also want a beer, order to go and get a funk beer at Webb City.

Bodega is my go to casual Cuban spot in downtown st Pete! The food is always delicious and the service never disappoints. The Cuban sandwich is my favorite and I don't even typically eat pork but I will for this delectable sandwich! The pollo asado platter comes with maduros (fried plantains) that are cooked perfectly and help balance out the flavors of the whole platter, bringing a crispy sweetness. I love their cafe con leche and their agua frescas!

Right when you walk inside this place you know it's going to be good. The free smells were amazing. It's big, open, lots of light great atmosphere. I loved that they had vegetarian options! My husband got the tofu plato and I got the tempeh plato and we shared so we could try both. We both liked the tempeh more but the tofu was still excellent and seasoned amazingly. The portions were great. I loved they gave you so many rice and beans. The maduros were just as good too. Would totally recommend!! Great food for the price!