There is nothing like it in Ybor or Tampa This is one unique place serving up some great coffee, teas and pastries all along side a clothing store highlighting quality jeans and and tops. Very different. You can stop in for a relaxing cup of coffee or tea and do some leisure shopping at you own pace or sit and enjoy a break. The interior is well decorated and as soon as you enter the establishment you feel welcomed by the inviting atmosphere and set up of the floor space. It's not crowded and has a nice cozy feel. I ordered the 16 once cafe con leche. Wow, no kidding one of the best tasting I have ever had and have had a lot of cafe con leche in my time. Only issue is that it had a lot of foam (therefore I think it may have really been 12 oz of actual coffee) and it could have been hotter. But I can look past all that since it tasted so good. Service was friendly, courteous and prompt. I had a great experience here. It's worth the trip to venture down to the East side of the 7th Avenue strip.
(5)
Paul P.
This place is terrific! I love sipping a good cup of coffee while reading, or chatting with friends or family. I love doing this in Ybor and I am adding the Blind Tiger to my rotation. The staff is pleasant, accommodating, and seem genuinely happy that you are there. The menu has a great selection of coffee to choose from. I had a scoop of vanilla ice cream doused on 2 shots of espresso. I've never had it, but I will have it again. Yum! The place is set up as a good coffee shop should be, with random type seating and trendy decorations. There aren't a lot of seats which is the only drawback of the Blind Tiger. Easy 5 stars here! Give it a try.
(5)
Chelsea B.
Really great coffee, not as great seating, but if you can find a table it's a great funky atmosphere. They're coffee purists here--as is the trend--and I'm a big fan of their product. Unfortunately, it seems impossible to get a seat when I've come (maybe I just pick busy times?) which makes it a bit of a difficult place for something like a friend meet up. I love the concept. I love the location. I love the storefront space it uses. I even love the idea of the cowork space they have (by subscription) on the side--and would probably be on that side constantly if I lived closer. But I don't love how the seating always feels like survival of the fittest, fighting for a spot and feeling like I shouldn't spend hours there--the thing I'm looking for in a coffee shop usually. I'll be back for a caffeine fix for sure, but I really wish they had more seating.
(4)
Lia M.
My iced almond milk caramel latte was fine, as was my friend's cortado and bagel. Four stars for the overall atmosphere, decor, and service, but three for the coffee. I've had better, and I've had worse. I prefer a strong coffee/espresso flavor, and my latte was missing that. It was more milky than anything, so the overall balance was off. Pastries (not bagels) looked tasty, and if I did happen to stop in again, I'd grab one.
(3)
Tiffany H.
If I had to sum up the blind tiger cafe in just a few words, it would be swanky hipster boutique and coffee. I was meeting friends here on the holiday weekend and they were one of the few places I could find that were open that interested me. Like most hipster indie coffee places, the java was a little pricy and the service was fine, though not especially friendly. I like the ambiance more than anything - there was some sort of book sale when I visited, and a group of people rented the shared workspace for what appeared to be either a photo or video shoot. The boutique sells mostly jeans, tees, and men's accessories from local designers which is pretty awesome. The coffee itself was pretty, but not spectacular. The seating area could do with a few more comfy seats, but otherwise it's nice. Totally dig all the old sewing machines they use as decor, but then again I'm a bit of a nerd about those.
(4)
Mark P.
I want to like this place more being that it's one of my neighborhood cafes but the drinks are too pricey. It's nearly $5 for a flavored iced coffee (Buddy Brew). I can get the same drink at Starbucks for about $3.50 and it would taste better. Unfortunately, whenever I go, it's never sweetened as much as I like and not as tasty as Starbucks. Aside from that, when I go to a cafe, I want to sit in a comfortable seat or sofa while enjoying my coffee. Unfortunately, I can't do that here. Their sofa is hard and uncomfortable and their other chairs aren't much better. (updated: they have a new sofa that's a little more comfortable) But at least there's a couple tables outside to take in the action on 7th Ave. On a more positive note, the staff is friendly and I like the rustic decor (aside from the chairs). I like how Blind Tiger shares the space with Black and Denim (same owner) so I can check out their apparel and accessories while sipping on my drink. It's definitely a business that I want to see succeed but I think there are some things that need to be tweaked to take it to the next level.
(4)
Tessa B.
one word: AMAZING!!! This is such a cute little coffee shop! The prices are reasonable for the great quality of the coffee. A 16 ounce of a Cafe Bombon (type of latte) is $4.75. The Blind Tiger is perfect for study dates, for it is small in size and is not obnoxiously loud, unlike Starbucks. They have many comfortable seating areas for you to work on, including a comfy couch. Along with that, the interior decorating is very home like. It involves a mixture of clean, yet vintage and rustic. (I know, cleanliness in ybor? That's a first!) The owner also allows dogs which I find very rare for most coffee shops (besides buddy brewing). I definitely plan on going again! It's right next to a pay-parking lot so you don't have to walk very far!
(5)
Kait A.
For what it is, a trendy coffee shop, it exceeds expectations. The coffee is delicious and beautifully presented, a work of art. I have only gotten a soy cappuccino and every single one has been both pretty and delicious. I've never tried the baked goods, but I'm nuts about the apparel and coffee items stocked here. They are well made, reasonably priced (the apparel, at least) and unique. I ride my bike down to Ybor from Seminole Heights and I always stop here first for a caffeine fix.
(5)
Brett N.
Why 5 stars? Because it's the trifecta of awesome. --- --- --- Great coffee. Hip apparel. And clutch co-working space. I love that Ybor has really stepped its game up to live up to the reputation to being a coffee hub. Blind Tiger has a kick ass space, and serves up some delicious joe, with a wide-varying menu. We don't have enough local clothing/apparel companies here in TB, but the stuff here totally rocks. Next time I visit, I won't leave without at least picking up a t-shirt. And I don't know of any other co-working spaces in the area, so Blind Tiger is the one and only option, as far as I'm concerned. But free WiFi and bottomless drip coffee is enough alone to make an excuse to hang out at Blind Tiger for a day. I love Ybor, and can't get enough of seeing newer businesses come in and do big things like this!
(5)
Lauren J.
A rainy Thursday night, my friend and I needed somewhere to escape the downpour. We happened upon his gem! Such a great place to hang out and grab a cup of delicious coffee, tea and dessert. I had the cafe caramel with soy milk; my friend had the cafe con leche. Both we were made with excellence -- not too bitter, not too sweet. While we waiting for it to stop raining, we sat in comfy overstuffed chairs, browsed the racks of neat stuff to buy and thought "why haven't we been here before?!" This is a beautiful addition to Ybor. We can't wait to go back. Friendly staff and latte art worthy of Instagram!
(5)
Kyle M.
Great spot to meet someone. But the wifi is no good, so don't expect to get any work done. Super slow.
(3)
Dan H.
We had just come from a terrible experience at El Molino down the street, and saw this place and decided to take a chance on them, and boy am I glad we did! Very professional and friendly, dressed to the nines (they had some sort of news team recording while we were there), these peeps know 3rd wave coffee! I had a perfect cappuccino, and delightful convo with the dapper dude at the bar. Probably the best coffee experience we had in Tampa, highly recommended!
(5)
Joel H.
A few years back Das Racist, a hip hop band, crafted a track about the beauty of being lost in a combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. I've often pondered what Das Racist would've come up with had they called the bay area their hometown. I have no doubt that if they were tracking tunes in this area during the present tense, the song would incorporate the Blind Tiger Cafe and their combination coffee shop and clothing store. I'm not sure there is a better spot in town to get lost and spend a few minutes (hours) enjoying what's around you. The Blind Tiger Cafe is the first coffee shop in the bay area that I"m completely enamored with. I love the product, the design of the space and the education opportunities the cafe offers. Product wise, The Blind Tiger Cafe offers coffee, tea, baked goods, locally brewed kombucha, a Cafe Hey style oatmeal bar and locally made apparel. I've yet to purchase anything from the apparel side, although I see a t-shirt or two in my future. For now, I've spent my cash/bitcoin/credit card on the coffee and baked goods side of the store. My drink of choice has been, to date, the Cafe Mocha with almond milk. This drink blends just the right amount of almond milk and coffee. The coffee taste, which is normally a no no in my book, is one that I've actually come to desire. That's because The Blind Tiger Cafe uses really good coffee. A cup of coffee at The Blind Tiger Cafe is by no means cheap. Adding in almond milk and a tip brings the drink to six dollars or so. But, the drink is vegan and I enjoy the flavor, so I'm ok with treating myself every so often. On one of my visits I purchased my daughter a plain bagel which came toasted. It was served alongside grape jelly. The bagel was pretty big but other than that there wasn't anything that really stood out about it. I guess that's to be expected because people don't visit coffee shops for the bagels. The design of the Blind Tiger Cafe fits right in with the rest of Ybor. It has an industrial look, with its exposed pipes and brick walls. Speaking of the walls, they are covered with graffiti style decorations. One large mural shows the process that coffee goes through before it gets into your cup. It fits with some of the other murals that are featured on the walls around Ybor. One of the unique things that The Blind Tiger Cafe offers is an educational opportunity in the form of a coffee class. This class shares some of the different types of brewing processes that the cafe uses and how those brews contribute to the taste of the coffee. I had a chance to participate in the class through a Yelp event and it was a completely fascinating class whether you were a coffee enthusiast (like some of the other Yelpers) or you just enjoy learning new things (that would be me). A Yelp check in to The Blind Tiger Cafe brings with it a coupon for money off of the class. Totally worth it if you have the time and money.
(5)
Nick S.
Definitely a cool coffee spot for purists. Great atmosphere. I also liked how the servers were stlyishly attired. The place is very comfy and also sells converse shoes, gourmet soaps and candles, and has other interesting items to look at. It's nice to see Ybor getting cool at this end of town with this place, Ybor Daily Market, the taxidermy art place, etc. :)
(4)
Ken D.
I truly like this place a lot. Grab some coffee and browse some textiles! and by textiles, I mean old military patches, some cool scarves and some super cool shirts and accessories. Its places like this that make Ybor,Ybor and I love the style of this place. check it out. You'll be glad you did! Great place!
(4)
Alisha R.
What a great little local business. I was visiting USF and was looking to kill a little time so I took a little drive to Ybor City and was pleasantly surprised to stumble into this little gem. The menu is perfectly sized with a mix of specialty coffees and teas and your classics. The place has its own personality and a real locals vibes. The prices were a bit pricey, but you are getting so much more than a quick cup of joe. The baked goods looked heavenly and a friend had a cookie that she scarfed down, so yea. On top of tasty baked goods and incredible coffees the atmosphere is perfect. This place is everything you want in a coffee shop. It's eclectic, warm, cozy and inviting, but most of all I could easily see myself spending hours here. So if this is what they mean by "keep Ybor Weird" then I'm all for it.
(4)
Melissa M.
The coffee is insanely good here. It's pricy, but for me a worthy treat as it cannot be a regular stop (too far from home and work). This is a spot that is needed in Ybor. Very cool to see something like this pop up as BW3, 7/11 and another chain bar were added recently.
(5)
Faizal E.
I really like this place. The good: - The baristas are very talented and the coffee drinks are on point - They have kombucha - They let dogs in (which is convenient for be, because my wife won't let me tie them outside to a garbage can) - Service is very friendly - I absolutely love how they embrace the Ybor community. Nothing is bad, but here are the "could-be-betters:" - Food selection could be better. Some bigger scones or bagels - Kombucha seems over-priced, but maybe not, since I bought some and no one else is selling it. A welcome addition to Ybor City!
(4)
Khaldoon A.
This place has everything I want in a coffee shop and then some. Beyond the usual coffee and espresso drinks, they offer a few unique options. The nitro coffee was not my favorite, but the cafe bombon is a must try!
(5)
Deidre A.
A nice break from Starbucks while on vacation! Specialty coffees in a funky setting, some cool retail items for sale- some coffee & teas related, some clothing. Fun mural on the wall, and cozy seating at tables, couches or bar stools. Separate area for members only that looked like a quiet work room.
(4)
Emily B.
Excellent coffee! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Cute and cozy atmosphere. I ordered a cafe con leche ($4.25) and it is tasty, perfectly made and enormous. I'm not sure why there is a mini clothing store at the back, but it wouldn't deter me from coming back. It would be nice if they were open before 9am on Sunday but I'm really just nitpicking now.
(5)
Allison N.
I like Blind Tiger and foresee it becoming a go-to coffee spot for those in the Ybor area. The service is friendly, the coffee is strong and the vibe of the place itself is really hip and unique. Blind Tiger is located further down 7th Avenue closer to Columbia so it's a little out of the "busy" part of the street. I think this is a good thing since it means the shop can be a little getaway from the craziness of Ybor. The coffee itself is really good. I generally don't tend to like Buddy Brew all that much, but I have had several lattes here and they are pretty well-made. The girls usually working here are always very friendly and seem like they're having a good time. The inside of the shop also has a clothing/store area which is really cool! It's not too commercialized though so it's all local stuff and really has this Americana vibe that almost reminds me of being in Nashville again (which has lots of hip coffee spots). Definitely a good little addition to the Tampa coffee scene.
(5)
Nancy T.
First of all the store/ shop is cool as hell which is why they get two stars. Unfortunately the staff were assholes. Me and another customer entered around 925 am when they opened the doors. No greeting or even an acknowledgement from the staff. We then both waited in line while they were less than 2 feet away and they refused to acknowledge us again to even tell us why we were not being served. They just put pastries up in containers and at exactly 930 they said "we can help you now." Seriously people! Get decent and friendly staff especially if you have a coffee place! I'm so disappointed because I really wanted to love this.
(2)
Elizabeth G.
Me and my friend came here today and the location was perfect. The atmosphere when you walk in is cool because its different then any other coffee shop I have been to, and I go to a lot. Unfortunately, the staff is not so welcoming, and they seemed like they could care less about trying to make us feel welcomed. This was our first time trying this coffee shop, so we asked the barista for suggestions. She was not too helpful, and gossiped the entire time to the point where it felt uncomfortable. It could have been more professional so overall it was disappointing.
(2)
Rach S.
I love this new coffee shop. I stop here a couple times a week (sometimes a day) to get my pick me up to make it through the day at work. The staff is extremely attentive, knowledgeable and willing to help you and make suggestions. Absolutely recommend.
(5)
Jordan V.
This shop is 5 minutes away from my office and I come here all the time. The atmosphere is a mixture of chic and hipstery vibe but very welcoming. If you are going to try the Nitro please be advised that it's very strong! Overall great coffee and coffee craftsmen.
(5)
Jacob R.
I want to love this place, but I can't. It's hipsterific, with kombucha, decent snacks, great teas, and a quiet chill place to work. However, they have the worst WiFi. In fact just consider that this place does not offer Wifi.
(3)
Farin F.
What a cool little cafe! Their baristas know coffee - they made me a beautiful latte.
(4)
Tony M.
The hippest coffee in Ybor, maybe even Tampa! We stopped in here for a coffee treat before heading to The Improv in Centro Ybor! And we were NOT disappointed. Walking in you are greeted by an unbelievably hip vibe! It is like industrial meets back porch. They have coffee decor about as well as their merchandise for sale. It is a very warm welcome indeed. We were also greeted by the baristas as soon as we entered, they were unbelievably friendly and made us want to be there! The menu was very simple and to the point, but they were willing to do slight variations on their coffee. For example, I wanted a cafe con leche, but it was a little hot out so they iced it for me and suggested that I add sugar etc. It turned out O.K! It was a bit milky, but I appreciate the willingness to adapt! My lady ordered the Caramel iced coffee and that was absolutely delicious! Highly recommended to anyone needing a coffee treat in Ybor!!
(4)
Vanessa M.
Love love this place! Great chill spot for sure! Even though prices might be kind of pricy, they have the best! I don't care much for the coffee, but the tea they use is superb and I have loved all the flavors I've tried, cold or hot! I was excited when they got locally made vegan pastries (as I can not have cow's milk) and so far I have loved everything I've tried (the apple dutch cheesecake probably being my favorite.) The atmosphere is chill, the decorations are eclectic, music is always on point and the staff is not only friendly but very helpful when trying to decide on new things to try! Also love the fact that they have a textiles shop section with great gift items!
(5)
Daniel B.
Charming place, nice staff, great tea, hip men's boutique and a co-working space!!! But...... Cons: weak 4G internet from a mifi device for entire cafe, seriously? Couldn't even watch a you tube video.... Terrible!, no decafe coffee... They want you to pay $12 to use the co-working space next door, for "functional Internet" which includes unlimited free drip.
(3)
Shane R.
This is truly a new, hidden gem in the area. A west coast style coffee & tea house with plenty of seating on the historic streets of Ybor. Delightful, knowledgable baristas craft a drink that is too good to just grab and go. Pick up a pastry, sourced from Piquant in Hyde Park, and enjoy a rich cup of coffee for no more than the combo would cost at a Starbucks, but with more ambiance and made with more skill and care.
(5)
Will K.
Ybor houses this hipster coffee wonder. I believe that when it comes to coffee, at least, being qualified as "hipster" is a bonus. Really though, it's just coffee done with great care and varied techniques. Pour overs and vacuum pot coffee are found here, as well as lattes and cafe con leche. Staff are classily dressed and friendly, not at all how I imagine blind tigers to behave. Plan on paying more for the high quality and service. The Tiger was a very busy morning stop when I was here on business, so also plan on taking your time.
(4)
piero r.
The Great: Terrific atmosphere made up of cozy tables, chairs and sofas surrounded by a beautiful mural, a mix of high quality t-shirts and leather cases add to the mix. Orange flavoured water and a selection of french press, chemex, espresso and vacuum press coffee options are available. The bad: The young staff unfortunately aren't adept at making the best use of the excellent equipment and locally roasted buddy brew coffee. My very expensive $7.00 french press ($4-5 in most other big cities with a much higher cost of living) was over-steeped and the grind was way too fine. A fine grind in a french press should be steeped for no more than a minute and then filtered or it should be filled with a coarse grind and steeped 2-3 minutes. What resulted was a ton of sediment and a harsh flavor for a normally floral and citrus Ethiopian bean. 5 stars for the cafe 2 stars for the French Press coffee due to lack of barista knowledge of french press brewing
(3)
Shane A.
Driving around and saw this place and wanted to checking out. Great coffee and I love the place great music and atmosphere. The double espresso to see was awesome not bitter and really smooth. Had a slice of carrot cake and the spouse had a perfect latte!
(4)
Renee M.
Great spot! Jessica makes the best Espresso Bon-Bon!!! Everyone is so friendly, and the atmosphere is so laid back !! My new Ybor Coffee House!!!
(5)
Idalis M.
I order a Cortadito with soy milk. It is just perfect. Best coffee in Ybor City. And it is open at 7 am. You can smell the coffee a block away.
so when you read the reviews prior to mine about the staff, this will just be confirmation. super friendly atmosphere great as soon as you walk in inside. Great brew as well. recommended
(5)
Xiying W.
Like this place so much! People are so friendly at the Blind Tiger Cafe, and the coffee are exceptionally well made. Ask for a cappuccino and you can see the beautiful levels of it. Or try the Cafe Miel with a hint of honey in a latte :)
(5)
A S.
This is an awesome place in a great location! So nice to be able to walk from work for a good coffee. The decor and vibe of the place is very enjoyable, they also have outside seating that is perfect for bringing your dog. The Barista named Jessica is the best, and very passionate about helping you choose from the menu!
(5)
Adam L.
This coffee shop does everything perfectly. Staff was amazingly friendly.
There are restaurants, bars, and cafes in some cities that you go to because they are unique enough to stand out from anything in their category, Tampa now has its own, The Blind Tiger. To say this is just a Coffee Shop is like saying Amazon is just a book purveyor. The coffee here is made by some craftsmen baristas that bring their expertise in forging each cup of coffee. If you have the chance take the hour long coffee crafting class that it's occasionally offered. After you get your cup walk around the store and get yourself an American made, Tampa designed high quality shirt or accessory sold there. By now it should start clicking in your head why do you see so many antque sewing machines decorating the store. See if you can spot all of them. If you are the entrepreneurial type or work from home consider getting a membership at the Cafe's Cowork space behind the barn door. There you will have access to a mini fridge, printer/copier, erase boards and a meeting room. I think you might get free coffee and discount on pastries. Almost forgot about the pastries, they are all vegan. Wait, don't roll your eyes, they are really good. So good I could never give that cheesecake up during lent. With their convenient trading hours I'll be back tomorrow just like I've been all week long. Enjoy.
(5)
Drew C.
My favorite coffee shop in Ybor. Really friendly baristas help you find a coffee or tea that you'll enjoy. The environment is great, too, with a speakeasy vibe that fits in very well with Ybor's aesthetic. The space is also home to a small clothing store and a coworking space across the way, which are both worth checking out. Try the Cafe Bombon -- you won't regret it.
(5)
Avery T.
This cafe is hidden but deserves to be in the spotlight. The staff is knowledgeable and friendlier than most coffee shops. They happily answered my questions while also providing me with a simple explanation on how they made the drink, the differences between them, etc. The selection is also large enough to accommodate any customer that walks into their door, experienced or not. Oh, and the interior is gorgeous. We need more shops like this to make the Ybor/Downtown Tampa area a lot more prosperous. Here's to great coffee shops
(5)
Justin R.
Great coffee, and they have legit Eiskaffee, served in the German tradition. Really awesome interior, service was great. All-around great experience. They also have a pretty cool collaborative work space. Support small business and buck the bucks when possible.
(5)
Malcolm B.
I wandered in here for a coffee and stayed for an hour and a half. Really great coffee, people who are happy to have a conversation, and very welcoming, relaxed surroundings. Why is this place different than most other coffee places I've been to? Because the guys in here are genuine, friendly and not in a rush. Neat!
(5)
Michael B.
went here for the wifi, and was disappointed that their "karma" setup did not work. the drinks were ok but im going to try someplace else next time im in the area
(2)
Omar H.
Really good coffee and an awsome space! Well decorated beautiful cafe. It really nice to have a place to go in ybor for a good cup of coffee. Well done blind tiger.
(5)
Thomas A.
Good coffees. Plan on $3.50 per cup. Good atmosphere. Thought the cute barristers had had too much caffine. They were fun.
(4)
Bob G.
Ybor needed a coffee shop on 7th, and now the community has a great one. Amazing coffee and staff. Well done.
Chad L.
There is nothing like it in Ybor or Tampa This is one unique place serving up some great coffee, teas and pastries all along side a clothing store highlighting quality jeans and and tops. Very different. You can stop in for a relaxing cup of coffee or tea and do some leisure shopping at you own pace or sit and enjoy a break. The interior is well decorated and as soon as you enter the establishment you feel welcomed by the inviting atmosphere and set up of the floor space. It's not crowded and has a nice cozy feel. I ordered the 16 once cafe con leche. Wow, no kidding one of the best tasting I have ever had and have had a lot of cafe con leche in my time. Only issue is that it had a lot of foam (therefore I think it may have really been 12 oz of actual coffee) and it could have been hotter. But I can look past all that since it tasted so good. Service was friendly, courteous and prompt. I had a great experience here. It's worth the trip to venture down to the East side of the 7th Avenue strip.
(5)Paul P.
This place is terrific! I love sipping a good cup of coffee while reading, or chatting with friends or family. I love doing this in Ybor and I am adding the Blind Tiger to my rotation. The staff is pleasant, accommodating, and seem genuinely happy that you are there. The menu has a great selection of coffee to choose from. I had a scoop of vanilla ice cream doused on 2 shots of espresso. I've never had it, but I will have it again. Yum! The place is set up as a good coffee shop should be, with random type seating and trendy decorations. There aren't a lot of seats which is the only drawback of the Blind Tiger. Easy 5 stars here! Give it a try.
(5)Chelsea B.
Really great coffee, not as great seating, but if you can find a table it's a great funky atmosphere. They're coffee purists here--as is the trend--and I'm a big fan of their product. Unfortunately, it seems impossible to get a seat when I've come (maybe I just pick busy times?) which makes it a bit of a difficult place for something like a friend meet up. I love the concept. I love the location. I love the storefront space it uses. I even love the idea of the cowork space they have (by subscription) on the side--and would probably be on that side constantly if I lived closer. But I don't love how the seating always feels like survival of the fittest, fighting for a spot and feeling like I shouldn't spend hours there--the thing I'm looking for in a coffee shop usually. I'll be back for a caffeine fix for sure, but I really wish they had more seating.
(4)Lia M.
My iced almond milk caramel latte was fine, as was my friend's cortado and bagel. Four stars for the overall atmosphere, decor, and service, but three for the coffee. I've had better, and I've had worse. I prefer a strong coffee/espresso flavor, and my latte was missing that. It was more milky than anything, so the overall balance was off. Pastries (not bagels) looked tasty, and if I did happen to stop in again, I'd grab one.
(3)Tiffany H.
If I had to sum up the blind tiger cafe in just a few words, it would be swanky hipster boutique and coffee. I was meeting friends here on the holiday weekend and they were one of the few places I could find that were open that interested me. Like most hipster indie coffee places, the java was a little pricy and the service was fine, though not especially friendly. I like the ambiance more than anything - there was some sort of book sale when I visited, and a group of people rented the shared workspace for what appeared to be either a photo or video shoot. The boutique sells mostly jeans, tees, and men's accessories from local designers which is pretty awesome. The coffee itself was pretty, but not spectacular. The seating area could do with a few more comfy seats, but otherwise it's nice. Totally dig all the old sewing machines they use as decor, but then again I'm a bit of a nerd about those.
(4)Mark P.
I want to like this place more being that it's one of my neighborhood cafes but the drinks are too pricey. It's nearly $5 for a flavored iced coffee (Buddy Brew). I can get the same drink at Starbucks for about $3.50 and it would taste better. Unfortunately, whenever I go, it's never sweetened as much as I like and not as tasty as Starbucks. Aside from that, when I go to a cafe, I want to sit in a comfortable seat or sofa while enjoying my coffee. Unfortunately, I can't do that here. Their sofa is hard and uncomfortable and their other chairs aren't much better. (updated: they have a new sofa that's a little more comfortable) But at least there's a couple tables outside to take in the action on 7th Ave. On a more positive note, the staff is friendly and I like the rustic decor (aside from the chairs). I like how Blind Tiger shares the space with Black and Denim (same owner) so I can check out their apparel and accessories while sipping on my drink. It's definitely a business that I want to see succeed but I think there are some things that need to be tweaked to take it to the next level.
(4)Tessa B.
one word: AMAZING!!! This is such a cute little coffee shop! The prices are reasonable for the great quality of the coffee. A 16 ounce of a Cafe Bombon (type of latte) is $4.75. The Blind Tiger is perfect for study dates, for it is small in size and is not obnoxiously loud, unlike Starbucks. They have many comfortable seating areas for you to work on, including a comfy couch. Along with that, the interior decorating is very home like. It involves a mixture of clean, yet vintage and rustic. (I know, cleanliness in ybor? That's a first!) The owner also allows dogs which I find very rare for most coffee shops (besides buddy brewing). I definitely plan on going again! It's right next to a pay-parking lot so you don't have to walk very far!
(5)Kait A.
For what it is, a trendy coffee shop, it exceeds expectations. The coffee is delicious and beautifully presented, a work of art. I have only gotten a soy cappuccino and every single one has been both pretty and delicious. I've never tried the baked goods, but I'm nuts about the apparel and coffee items stocked here. They are well made, reasonably priced (the apparel, at least) and unique. I ride my bike down to Ybor from Seminole Heights and I always stop here first for a caffeine fix.
(5)Brett N.
Why 5 stars? Because it's the trifecta of awesome. --- --- --- Great coffee. Hip apparel. And clutch co-working space. I love that Ybor has really stepped its game up to live up to the reputation to being a coffee hub. Blind Tiger has a kick ass space, and serves up some delicious joe, with a wide-varying menu. We don't have enough local clothing/apparel companies here in TB, but the stuff here totally rocks. Next time I visit, I won't leave without at least picking up a t-shirt. And I don't know of any other co-working spaces in the area, so Blind Tiger is the one and only option, as far as I'm concerned. But free WiFi and bottomless drip coffee is enough alone to make an excuse to hang out at Blind Tiger for a day. I love Ybor, and can't get enough of seeing newer businesses come in and do big things like this!
(5)Lauren J.
A rainy Thursday night, my friend and I needed somewhere to escape the downpour. We happened upon his gem! Such a great place to hang out and grab a cup of delicious coffee, tea and dessert. I had the cafe caramel with soy milk; my friend had the cafe con leche. Both we were made with excellence -- not too bitter, not too sweet. While we waiting for it to stop raining, we sat in comfy overstuffed chairs, browsed the racks of neat stuff to buy and thought "why haven't we been here before?!" This is a beautiful addition to Ybor. We can't wait to go back. Friendly staff and latte art worthy of Instagram!
(5)Kyle M.
Great spot to meet someone. But the wifi is no good, so don't expect to get any work done. Super slow.
(3)Dan H.
We had just come from a terrible experience at El Molino down the street, and saw this place and decided to take a chance on them, and boy am I glad we did! Very professional and friendly, dressed to the nines (they had some sort of news team recording while we were there), these peeps know 3rd wave coffee! I had a perfect cappuccino, and delightful convo with the dapper dude at the bar. Probably the best coffee experience we had in Tampa, highly recommended!
(5)Joel H.
A few years back Das Racist, a hip hop band, crafted a track about the beauty of being lost in a combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. I've often pondered what Das Racist would've come up with had they called the bay area their hometown. I have no doubt that if they were tracking tunes in this area during the present tense, the song would incorporate the Blind Tiger Cafe and their combination coffee shop and clothing store. I'm not sure there is a better spot in town to get lost and spend a few minutes (hours) enjoying what's around you. The Blind Tiger Cafe is the first coffee shop in the bay area that I"m completely enamored with. I love the product, the design of the space and the education opportunities the cafe offers. Product wise, The Blind Tiger Cafe offers coffee, tea, baked goods, locally brewed kombucha, a Cafe Hey style oatmeal bar and locally made apparel. I've yet to purchase anything from the apparel side, although I see a t-shirt or two in my future. For now, I've spent my cash/bitcoin/credit card on the coffee and baked goods side of the store. My drink of choice has been, to date, the Cafe Mocha with almond milk. This drink blends just the right amount of almond milk and coffee. The coffee taste, which is normally a no no in my book, is one that I've actually come to desire. That's because The Blind Tiger Cafe uses really good coffee. A cup of coffee at The Blind Tiger Cafe is by no means cheap. Adding in almond milk and a tip brings the drink to six dollars or so. But, the drink is vegan and I enjoy the flavor, so I'm ok with treating myself every so often. On one of my visits I purchased my daughter a plain bagel which came toasted. It was served alongside grape jelly. The bagel was pretty big but other than that there wasn't anything that really stood out about it. I guess that's to be expected because people don't visit coffee shops for the bagels. The design of the Blind Tiger Cafe fits right in with the rest of Ybor. It has an industrial look, with its exposed pipes and brick walls. Speaking of the walls, they are covered with graffiti style decorations. One large mural shows the process that coffee goes through before it gets into your cup. It fits with some of the other murals that are featured on the walls around Ybor. One of the unique things that The Blind Tiger Cafe offers is an educational opportunity in the form of a coffee class. This class shares some of the different types of brewing processes that the cafe uses and how those brews contribute to the taste of the coffee. I had a chance to participate in the class through a Yelp event and it was a completely fascinating class whether you were a coffee enthusiast (like some of the other Yelpers) or you just enjoy learning new things (that would be me). A Yelp check in to The Blind Tiger Cafe brings with it a coupon for money off of the class. Totally worth it if you have the time and money.
(5)Nick S.
Definitely a cool coffee spot for purists. Great atmosphere. I also liked how the servers were stlyishly attired. The place is very comfy and also sells converse shoes, gourmet soaps and candles, and has other interesting items to look at. It's nice to see Ybor getting cool at this end of town with this place, Ybor Daily Market, the taxidermy art place, etc. :)
(4)Ken D.
I truly like this place a lot. Grab some coffee and browse some textiles! and by textiles, I mean old military patches, some cool scarves and some super cool shirts and accessories. Its places like this that make Ybor,Ybor and I love the style of this place. check it out. You'll be glad you did! Great place!
(4)Alisha R.
What a great little local business. I was visiting USF and was looking to kill a little time so I took a little drive to Ybor City and was pleasantly surprised to stumble into this little gem. The menu is perfectly sized with a mix of specialty coffees and teas and your classics. The place has its own personality and a real locals vibes. The prices were a bit pricey, but you are getting so much more than a quick cup of joe. The baked goods looked heavenly and a friend had a cookie that she scarfed down, so yea. On top of tasty baked goods and incredible coffees the atmosphere is perfect. This place is everything you want in a coffee shop. It's eclectic, warm, cozy and inviting, but most of all I could easily see myself spending hours here. So if this is what they mean by "keep Ybor Weird" then I'm all for it.
(4)Melissa M.
The coffee is insanely good here. It's pricy, but for me a worthy treat as it cannot be a regular stop (too far from home and work). This is a spot that is needed in Ybor. Very cool to see something like this pop up as BW3, 7/11 and another chain bar were added recently.
(5)Faizal E.
I really like this place. The good: - The baristas are very talented and the coffee drinks are on point - They have kombucha - They let dogs in (which is convenient for be, because my wife won't let me tie them outside to a garbage can) - Service is very friendly - I absolutely love how they embrace the Ybor community. Nothing is bad, but here are the "could-be-betters:" - Food selection could be better. Some bigger scones or bagels - Kombucha seems over-priced, but maybe not, since I bought some and no one else is selling it. A welcome addition to Ybor City!
(4)Khaldoon A.
This place has everything I want in a coffee shop and then some. Beyond the usual coffee and espresso drinks, they offer a few unique options. The nitro coffee was not my favorite, but the cafe bombon is a must try!
(5)Deidre A.
A nice break from Starbucks while on vacation! Specialty coffees in a funky setting, some cool retail items for sale- some coffee & teas related, some clothing. Fun mural on the wall, and cozy seating at tables, couches or bar stools. Separate area for members only that looked like a quiet work room.
(4)Emily B.
Excellent coffee! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Cute and cozy atmosphere. I ordered a cafe con leche ($4.25) and it is tasty, perfectly made and enormous. I'm not sure why there is a mini clothing store at the back, but it wouldn't deter me from coming back. It would be nice if they were open before 9am on Sunday but I'm really just nitpicking now.
(5)Allison N.
I like Blind Tiger and foresee it becoming a go-to coffee spot for those in the Ybor area. The service is friendly, the coffee is strong and the vibe of the place itself is really hip and unique. Blind Tiger is located further down 7th Avenue closer to Columbia so it's a little out of the "busy" part of the street. I think this is a good thing since it means the shop can be a little getaway from the craziness of Ybor. The coffee itself is really good. I generally don't tend to like Buddy Brew all that much, but I have had several lattes here and they are pretty well-made. The girls usually working here are always very friendly and seem like they're having a good time. The inside of the shop also has a clothing/store area which is really cool! It's not too commercialized though so it's all local stuff and really has this Americana vibe that almost reminds me of being in Nashville again (which has lots of hip coffee spots). Definitely a good little addition to the Tampa coffee scene.
(5)Nancy T.
First of all the store/ shop is cool as hell which is why they get two stars. Unfortunately the staff were assholes. Me and another customer entered around 925 am when they opened the doors. No greeting or even an acknowledgement from the staff. We then both waited in line while they were less than 2 feet away and they refused to acknowledge us again to even tell us why we were not being served. They just put pastries up in containers and at exactly 930 they said "we can help you now." Seriously people! Get decent and friendly staff especially if you have a coffee place! I'm so disappointed because I really wanted to love this.
(2)Elizabeth G.
Me and my friend came here today and the location was perfect. The atmosphere when you walk in is cool because its different then any other coffee shop I have been to, and I go to a lot. Unfortunately, the staff is not so welcoming, and they seemed like they could care less about trying to make us feel welcomed. This was our first time trying this coffee shop, so we asked the barista for suggestions. She was not too helpful, and gossiped the entire time to the point where it felt uncomfortable. It could have been more professional so overall it was disappointing.
(2)Rach S.
I love this new coffee shop. I stop here a couple times a week (sometimes a day) to get my pick me up to make it through the day at work. The staff is extremely attentive, knowledgeable and willing to help you and make suggestions. Absolutely recommend.
(5)Jordan V.
This shop is 5 minutes away from my office and I come here all the time. The atmosphere is a mixture of chic and hipstery vibe but very welcoming. If you are going to try the Nitro please be advised that it's very strong! Overall great coffee and coffee craftsmen.
(5)Jacob R.
I want to love this place, but I can't. It's hipsterific, with kombucha, decent snacks, great teas, and a quiet chill place to work. However, they have the worst WiFi. In fact just consider that this place does not offer Wifi.
(3)Farin F.
What a cool little cafe! Their baristas know coffee - they made me a beautiful latte.
(4)Tony M.
The hippest coffee in Ybor, maybe even Tampa! We stopped in here for a coffee treat before heading to The Improv in Centro Ybor! And we were NOT disappointed. Walking in you are greeted by an unbelievably hip vibe! It is like industrial meets back porch. They have coffee decor about as well as their merchandise for sale. It is a very warm welcome indeed. We were also greeted by the baristas as soon as we entered, they were unbelievably friendly and made us want to be there! The menu was very simple and to the point, but they were willing to do slight variations on their coffee. For example, I wanted a cafe con leche, but it was a little hot out so they iced it for me and suggested that I add sugar etc. It turned out O.K! It was a bit milky, but I appreciate the willingness to adapt! My lady ordered the Caramel iced coffee and that was absolutely delicious! Highly recommended to anyone needing a coffee treat in Ybor!!
(4)Vanessa M.
Love love this place! Great chill spot for sure! Even though prices might be kind of pricy, they have the best! I don't care much for the coffee, but the tea they use is superb and I have loved all the flavors I've tried, cold or hot! I was excited when they got locally made vegan pastries (as I can not have cow's milk) and so far I have loved everything I've tried (the apple dutch cheesecake probably being my favorite.) The atmosphere is chill, the decorations are eclectic, music is always on point and the staff is not only friendly but very helpful when trying to decide on new things to try! Also love the fact that they have a textiles shop section with great gift items!
(5)Daniel B.
Charming place, nice staff, great tea, hip men's boutique and a co-working space!!! But...... Cons: weak 4G internet from a mifi device for entire cafe, seriously? Couldn't even watch a you tube video.... Terrible!, no decafe coffee... They want you to pay $12 to use the co-working space next door, for "functional Internet" which includes unlimited free drip.
(3)Shane R.
This is truly a new, hidden gem in the area. A west coast style coffee & tea house with plenty of seating on the historic streets of Ybor. Delightful, knowledgable baristas craft a drink that is too good to just grab and go. Pick up a pastry, sourced from Piquant in Hyde Park, and enjoy a rich cup of coffee for no more than the combo would cost at a Starbucks, but with more ambiance and made with more skill and care.
(5)Will K.
Ybor houses this hipster coffee wonder. I believe that when it comes to coffee, at least, being qualified as "hipster" is a bonus. Really though, it's just coffee done with great care and varied techniques. Pour overs and vacuum pot coffee are found here, as well as lattes and cafe con leche. Staff are classily dressed and friendly, not at all how I imagine blind tigers to behave. Plan on paying more for the high quality and service. The Tiger was a very busy morning stop when I was here on business, so also plan on taking your time.
(4)piero r.
The Great: Terrific atmosphere made up of cozy tables, chairs and sofas surrounded by a beautiful mural, a mix of high quality t-shirts and leather cases add to the mix. Orange flavoured water and a selection of french press, chemex, espresso and vacuum press coffee options are available. The bad: The young staff unfortunately aren't adept at making the best use of the excellent equipment and locally roasted buddy brew coffee. My very expensive $7.00 french press ($4-5 in most other big cities with a much higher cost of living) was over-steeped and the grind was way too fine. A fine grind in a french press should be steeped for no more than a minute and then filtered or it should be filled with a coarse grind and steeped 2-3 minutes. What resulted was a ton of sediment and a harsh flavor for a normally floral and citrus Ethiopian bean. 5 stars for the cafe 2 stars for the French Press coffee due to lack of barista knowledge of french press brewing
(3)Shane A.
Driving around and saw this place and wanted to checking out. Great coffee and I love the place great music and atmosphere. The double espresso to see was awesome not bitter and really smooth. Had a slice of carrot cake and the spouse had a perfect latte!
(4)Renee M.
Great spot! Jessica makes the best Espresso Bon-Bon!!! Everyone is so friendly, and the atmosphere is so laid back !! My new Ybor Coffee House!!!
(5)Idalis M.
I order a Cortadito with soy milk. It is just perfect. Best coffee in Ybor City. And it is open at 7 am. You can smell the coffee a block away.
(5)Lapis L.
Coffee was fine, as with any of the many Buddy Brew-serving cafés in town. Service was meh. Baked goods were small and bagels came plain or with marmalade, no cream cheese. The free wi-fi is a pain to log on to and doesn't work anyway; for the 'good' wifi you have to pay $12. More of a pick-up-and-go spot than a sit-down café.
(3)Yelper N.
so when you read the reviews prior to mine about the staff, this will just be confirmation. super friendly atmosphere great as soon as you walk in inside. Great brew as well. recommended
(5)Xiying W.
Like this place so much! People are so friendly at the Blind Tiger Cafe, and the coffee are exceptionally well made. Ask for a cappuccino and you can see the beautiful levels of it. Or try the Cafe Miel with a hint of honey in a latte :)
(5)A S.
This is an awesome place in a great location! So nice to be able to walk from work for a good coffee. The decor and vibe of the place is very enjoyable, they also have outside seating that is perfect for bringing your dog. The Barista named Jessica is the best, and very passionate about helping you choose from the menu!
(5)Adam L.
This coffee shop does everything perfectly. Staff was amazingly friendly.
(5)Christoph S.
We went on a Sunday morning. The product they serve is good quality and tasty. The Mrs. had some coffee which she savored. I myself had the Florida Orange Blossom Tea. The tea was very fresh and light. As ordered it was iced and lightly sweetened just enough to highlight the natural aromatic taste. The ladies serving us were very nice and from the sound of things quite knowledgeable. Of course our toddler came along and ordered an apple from the small array of fresh fruit, sweets, and pastries available. No one seemed to mind him hanging out with us, eating his apple, and making the random babble. The shop does have an artistic/industrial/older feel to the inside design which was fairly comfortable and included some other merchandise for sale such as t-shirts. As a side note the café seems to be animal friendly with dogs and their "humans" at the outside tables along 7th Ave, helping to serve both some water while they wait.
(4)Moises H.
There are restaurants, bars, and cafes in some cities that you go to because they are unique enough to stand out from anything in their category, Tampa now has its own, The Blind Tiger. To say this is just a Coffee Shop is like saying Amazon is just a book purveyor. The coffee here is made by some craftsmen baristas that bring their expertise in forging each cup of coffee. If you have the chance take the hour long coffee crafting class that it's occasionally offered. After you get your cup walk around the store and get yourself an American made, Tampa designed high quality shirt or accessory sold there. By now it should start clicking in your head why do you see so many antque sewing machines decorating the store. See if you can spot all of them. If you are the entrepreneurial type or work from home consider getting a membership at the Cafe's Cowork space behind the barn door. There you will have access to a mini fridge, printer/copier, erase boards and a meeting room. I think you might get free coffee and discount on pastries. Almost forgot about the pastries, they are all vegan. Wait, don't roll your eyes, they are really good. So good I could never give that cheesecake up during lent. With their convenient trading hours I'll be back tomorrow just like I've been all week long. Enjoy.
(5)Drew C.
My favorite coffee shop in Ybor. Really friendly baristas help you find a coffee or tea that you'll enjoy. The environment is great, too, with a speakeasy vibe that fits in very well with Ybor's aesthetic. The space is also home to a small clothing store and a coworking space across the way, which are both worth checking out. Try the Cafe Bombon -- you won't regret it.
(5)Avery T.
This cafe is hidden but deserves to be in the spotlight. The staff is knowledgeable and friendlier than most coffee shops. They happily answered my questions while also providing me with a simple explanation on how they made the drink, the differences between them, etc. The selection is also large enough to accommodate any customer that walks into their door, experienced or not. Oh, and the interior is gorgeous. We need more shops like this to make the Ybor/Downtown Tampa area a lot more prosperous. Here's to great coffee shops
(5)Justin R.
Great coffee, and they have legit Eiskaffee, served in the German tradition. Really awesome interior, service was great. All-around great experience. They also have a pretty cool collaborative work space. Support small business and buck the bucks when possible.
(5)Malcolm B.
I wandered in here for a coffee and stayed for an hour and a half. Really great coffee, people who are happy to have a conversation, and very welcoming, relaxed surroundings. Why is this place different than most other coffee places I've been to? Because the guys in here are genuine, friendly and not in a rush. Neat!
(5)Michael B.
went here for the wifi, and was disappointed that their "karma" setup did not work. the drinks were ok but im going to try someplace else next time im in the area
(2)Omar H.
Really good coffee and an awsome space! Well decorated beautiful cafe. It really nice to have a place to go in ybor for a good cup of coffee. Well done blind tiger.
(5)Thomas A.
Good coffees. Plan on $3.50 per cup. Good atmosphere. Thought the cute barristers had had too much caffine. They were fun.
(4)Bob G.
Ybor needed a coffee shop on 7th, and now the community has a great one. Amazing coffee and staff. Well done.
(5)