Water + Flour: The Evolution of a SoHo Icon Where Four Cuisines Collide

 

In the heart of South Tampa's bustling SoHo district, a culinary evolution has taken place. Where the story of the Ciccio Restaurant Group first began with the iconic Ciccio & Tony’s, a new concept now thrives, capturing the essence of modern dining while honoring its pioneering roots. This is Water + Flour, a restaurant that defies easy categorization by masterfully executing four distinct culinary concepts under one roof. With a laid-back "Cali-Miami vibe" infused with a local SoHo twist, it has become a go-to destination for diners seeking variety, quality, and a menu that effortlessly caters to every possible craving.

Water + Flour is built on a foundation of diversity, offering fresh pasta, brick oven pizza made with naturally fermented sourdough, vibrant California-style bowls, and some of the freshest sushi in the area. This ambitious quadruple-threat menu is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing a unique and inclusive dining experience. It's a place where a group of friends can gather, and one can indulge in a classic Italian comfort dish while another enjoys a light, nutrient-packed poke bowl, and a third dives into an artisanal pizza.

A Menu That Travels from Italy to California and Japan

The genius of Water + Flour lies in its ability to give equal, expert attention to each of its culinary pillars.

Flour: Pasta and Pizza Reimagined The "Flour" side of the menu pays homage to the restaurant's Italian heritage, but with a contemporary flair. The fresh pasta selection features comforting classics and inventive new dishes, all showcasing house-made quality. Diners can find everything from a rich, savory Bolognese to a creamy, luscious Vodka Tomato Pasta, each prepared with a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic flavor.

The brick oven pizza is a standout, distinguished by its use of a naturally fermented sourdough crust. This time-honored technique results in a crust that is not only complex and flavorful but also lighter and easier to digest. The pizzas range from the simple elegance of a Margherita to more creative combinations, all fired to perfection in the intense heat of the brick oven, giving them a signature crispy-chewy texture.

Water: Fresh Sushi and Vibrant Bowls The "Water" element of the menu brings a bright, coastal energy to the table. The sushi offerings are extensive, featuring a wide array of fresh rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. From classic tuna and salmon rolls to more elaborate creations, the sushi bar is celebrated for its quality and artistry, providing a fresh, light counterpoint to the heartier Italian dishes.

Perhaps the most famous offerings are the Cali bowls, a signature of the Ciccio Restaurant Group. These bowls are a vibrant mosaic of flavors and textures, built on bases like quinoa or mixed greens and loaded with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and house-made sauces. They are the epitome of the restaurant's promise of "healthier, flavor-packed cuisine," with options that cater to every dietary need, including a wealth of gluten-free and plant-based choices. Whether it's a zesty poke bowl with fresh tuna or a "Fitness" bowl packed with roasted vegetables, these dishes are designed to be both delicious and nourishing.

More Than a Meal: Specials and a Vibe

Water + Flour is more than just its menu; it's a social hub with an atmosphere to match. The restaurant is known for its lively specials, which draw in crowds throughout the week. A popular happy hour offers deals on drinks and appetizers, making it an ideal spot for after-work gatherings. Weekend brunch is another major attraction, often featuring live music and bottomless mimosas, transforming the space into one of SoHo's most sought-after daytime destinations.

The restaurant's design, with its "Cali-Miami vibe," is open, airy, and stylishly casual, encouraging guests to relax and linger. An outdoor patio provides a perfect setting for enjoying the vibrant SoHo atmosphere.

In essence, Water + Flour has successfully evolved from its legendary origins into a concept that perfectly captures the spirit of modern Tampa. It's a place where quality, variety, and a commitment to fresh, flavorful food are paramount. By seamlessly integrating the comforting allure of Italian cooking with the bright, healthy appeal of California and Japanese cuisine, Water + Flour has created a truly unique dining experience that honors its past while looking confidently toward the future.

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