Hogg Batch Coffee begins roasting in the Grand Central District

Hogg Batch Coffee begins roasting in the Grand Central District

In a town overflowing with coffee shops, Hogg Batch brings a truly unique flavor to the java scene. Located at 2327 Central Avenue, the shop quietly opened a few months ago in St. Pete’s Grand Central District. Although the shop mainly operates as a pick-up location for online orders, and not as a traditional coffee bar, the owners may host the occasional pop-up event or coffee tasting in the future.

The founders, twin brothers David and Duane Hogg, call their method of roasting coffee something of a disruption -- and fully a delight. Every last coffee bean is sourced and roasted with care; innovative and inspiring, their coffee is aged in used spirit barrels. This process infuses each cup of joe with a taste unlike anything else in the area. Some examples of what these two are brewing up in the kitchen include flavors such as: Coffee + Bourbon, Coffee + Whiskey, Coffee + Gin, and Coffee + Jamaican Rum.

The brothers originally hail from Hartford, CT. However, after finishing their BFAs at a private art school in Tampa, they decided to stick around, going on to continue their studies at USF. It was St. Pete’s spirit of community and togetherness -- as well as the continued support for local companies -- that kept them here. Growing up so close to large cities, they understand the power community support has on small businesses.

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Dal Moro’s to cook up fresh pasta to-go in downtown St. Pete

Dal Moro’s to cook up fresh pasta to-go in downtown St. Pete

When in need of a quick meal, your instinct is probably to search for the nearest drive-thru. The last thing to come to mind would be a hearty serving of pasta. But now, with Dal Moro’s coming to St. Pete in October, you can have your linguini -- and eat it, too.

Dal Moro's, which originated in Venice, took flight to Ottawa and Toronto. Now, for its American debut, it's set to land on St. Pete's doorstep, at 653 Central Ave, formerly home to Graphi-ko Decor. Thanks to Joe Esposito of KW Commercial, who represented both the tenant and landlord in the deal, you’ll soon be able to stuff your face with the carbohydrate creation of your dreams.

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A sinful speakeasy is coming to St. Pete

A sinful speakeasy is coming to St. Pete

Enter a sinner, leave a saint. There’s a new church on the block—but this one’s got booze. It’s called The Saint and will be located at 49 24th Street North in the Grand Central District.

Founder David Fischer is a seasoned business owner. A Texas native, he bounced from Orlando to Treasure Island before establishing his home decor and interior design business, ZaZoo’d, on Central Avenue in Downtown St. Pete. The shop offers a unique array of treasures and services, from weddings to design consultations. But Fischer’s ambition didn’t stop there.

With ZaZood's success and Fischer's admiration for St. Pete's creativity, the city was just right for building his dream — his very own speakeasy.

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