Water + Flour: SoHo's Eclectic Eatery Where Every Craving Finds its Perfect Match

 

Tampa, FL – In the heart of South Tampa’s ever-evolving and always buzzing SoHo district, Water + Flour stands as a singular culinary destination, a place where the most diverse of cravings can converge and find delicious satisfaction under one stylish roof. Located at 1015 S Howard Avenue, this Ciccio Restaurant Group (CRG) cornerstone is more than just a restaurant; it's a vibrant testament to culinary versatility, masterfully weaving together fresh sushi, artisanal brick oven pizzas, house-made pastas, and their famously fresh Cali bowls. Carrying the legacy of its predecessor, Ciccio & Tony's – the very spot where CRG’s expansive culinary journey began – Water + Flour continues to innovate, offering a "Cali-Miami vibe" with a distinct local SoHo twist.

The Genesis of a SoHo Staple: From Ciccio & Tony's to Water + Flour

Water + Flour is steeped in history, originally opening as Ciccio & Tony's and serving as the foundational establishment for what would become the prolific Ciccio Restaurant Group. This heritage brings a depth of experience and a long-standing commitment to the Tampa Bay community. The evolution into Water + Flour marked a deliberate embrace of a broader, more contemporary culinary vision. The current "Cali-Miami vibe" speaks to a fresh, sun-kissed approach to dining, where a relaxed yet chic atmosphere meets a menu that prioritizes vibrant flavors and healthier, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. This transformation has allowed Water + Flour to remain a relevant and beloved fixture in the competitive SoHo dining scene.

A Menu Without Borders: Navigating the Diverse Delights

What truly sets Water + Flour apart is its ambitious and successfully executed multi-cuisine menu. It’s a culinary crossroads where guests can embark on a global flavor journey without ever leaving their table. This eclectic approach is underpinned by a steadfast commitment to freshness and quality. Across all its diverse offerings, there's a clear emphasis on high-quality ingredients, options for healthier preparations, and a commendable dedication to accommodating various dietary needs, including a good selection of gluten-free and plant-based choices. This ensures that groups with diverse palates and preferences can all dine together harmoniously.

The Art of Raw & Rolled: Water + Flour's Sushi Scene

Defying the traditional Italian-American roots of its predecessor, Water + Flour boasts an impressive and genuinely fresh sushi program. This isn't a token offering; it’s a well-considered selection that caters to sushi aficionados. Diners can expect a variety of expertly crafted rolls, from classics like Spicy Ahi Tuna with avocado and cucumber to more unique creations, alongside pristine nigiri and sashimi for those who appreciate the pure taste of quality seafood. A standout often mentioned is the Crispy Rice with Ahi Tuna, offering a delightful textural contrast and a burst of flavor. The presence of a dedicated sushi offering alongside Italian and Californian-inspired dishes makes Water + Flour a truly unique proposition in Tampa.

Fired to Perfection: The Sourdough Pizzas of Water + Flour

Staying true to comforting culinary traditions while innovating, Water + Flour’s brick oven pizzas are a significant draw. A key to their deliciousness is the naturally fermented sourdough crust, sourced from local artisan bakers at Gulfcoast Sourdough. This provides a distinctive tangy flavor and a wonderfully light yet chewy texture. The pizza menu features a range of appealing options, from the creative "Hot & Sweet Pizza," which tantalizes with charred pepperoni and a drizzle of Mike's Hot Honey, to the sophisticated "Marsala Pizza" with sliced chicken and a rich marsala wine-mushroom sauce. For those seeking classic simplicity or plant-based options, the "Simple Pizza" can be tailored with traditional mozzarella or a plant-based alternative, showcasing their commitment to versatile offerings.

Italian Comforts: Fresh Pasta and Heartfelt Flavors

The "Flour" in Water + Flour is well represented by its selection of fresh, house-made pasta dishes. These offerings provide a comforting nod to Italian culinary traditions, prepared with care and quality ingredients. Guests can indulge in satisfying classics and contemporary interpretations alike. Popular choices often include a vibrant "Basil Pomodoro Pasta," which can also be adapted for plant-based diners, the rich and decadent "Truffle Three Cheese Pasta," or a perfectly executed "Cacio Pepe." These dishes demonstrate that even within its diverse menu, Water + Flour maintains a high standard for authentic Italian flavors, ensuring each pasta dish is both hearty and delicious.

The Iconic Cali Bowls: A Taste of Sunshine State Wellness

A signature offering that firmly plants Water + Flour in the "Cali-Miami" vibe is its range of famous Cali Bowls. These bowls are a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients, vibrant colors, and customizable combinations, making them a go-to for health-conscious diners and those seeking a lighter yet substantial meal. Popular creations include the "Fitness" bowl, often featuring roasted broccoli and cauliflower paired with a lean protein like blackened chicken; the "Hot & Crunchy Tuna" bowl, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a bit of spice and texture; and the "Take Me to Terri Town" bowl, which often comes recommended with teriyaki-marinated steak and udon noodles. The ability to choose bases, proteins, and a variety of fresh toppings allows guests to tailor their bowl to their exact preferences, embodying the fresh, customizable ethos of CRG.

The Social Hub: Atmosphere, Appetizers, and Aperitifs

Water + Flour isn't just about the diverse main courses; it’s also about the overall dining experience. The SoHo location buzzes with a chic, energetic atmosphere that makes it a popular spot for social gatherings. The outdoor patio provides an excellent option for enjoying Tampa's pleasant weather, whether for a sun-drenched lunch or an evening under the stars. Inside, the decor reflects the modern, stylish "Cali-Miami" influence.

To kick off the meal or to share amongst a group, the appetizer menu features tempting options. The "Uptown Parmesan Truffle Fries" are a frequently lauded favorite, known for their crispy perfection and addictive truffle aroma. Other shareables like "Asian Water Guacamole" or "Jimmy's Traditional Meatballs" offer diverse flavors to start the culinary journey. The bar at Water + Flour complements the food with a full range of beverages, and while specific happy hour deals and daily specials are always best confirmed directly with the restaurant, they are known to offer appealing promotions, making it a great spot to unwind with a drink and some delicious bites.

Conclusion: SoHo's Culinary Melting Pot for the Modern Diner

Water + Flour has successfully carved out a unique and compelling identity in Tampa's competitive SoHo dining scene. By honoring its CRG roots as the former Ciccio & Tony's and boldly embracing a multi-cuisine concept, it offers an unparalleled variety without sacrificing quality. Whether you're in the mood for the delicate artistry of fresh sushi, the rustic comfort of a sourdough pizza, the satisfying richness of house-made pasta, or the vibrant healthfulness of a Cali bowl, Water + Flour delivers. It's a testament to the idea that a restaurant can indeed be many things to many people, especially when a commitment to fresh ingredients, flavorful cooking, and a welcoming, stylish atmosphere is at its core. For a dining experience that is as diverse and dynamic as Tampa itself, Water + Flour remains an essential SoHo destination.