The Tampa Bay food scene is buzzing this week. Two major stories converge on the same night: Wicked Oak Barbecue will be featured on the Food Network, and a city-wide fundraiser will rally dozens of local eateries to support the rebirth of Rene’s Mexican Kitchen after a devastating fire.
Wicked Oak’s Food Network debut
Located at 6607 N Florida Ave. in Seminole Heights, Wicked Oak Barbecue announced via social media that it will appear on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives next Friday, Nov. 6, at 9 p.m. on the Food Network. Founder Felix “Bubba” Flores shared the news, saying, “We’ve been keeping a bit of a secret y’all. Wicked Oak is going to be featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives!” The episode promises a menu showcase that includes loaded mac and cheese, BBQ fries, nachos, and pulled chicken and pork sandwiches.
Since opening in 2020, Wicked Oak has amassed a loyal following, earning the 2021 Best of the Bay Reader’s Choice award for “Best Ribs,” launching a food truck in 2023, and securing a vendor spot at Benchmark International Arena. The upcoming TV exposure is expected to amplify those achievements, drawing new diners from across the region.
Community fundraiser lifts Rene’s Mexican Kitchen
On Friday, Nov. 6, Spaddy’s Coffee Co. in Seminole Heights will host a massive fundraiser for Rene’s Mexican Kitchen. The venue, situated at 6607 N Florida Ave., will open its doors at 6 p.m. for a night of complimentary food and drinks offered by a roster of beloved local businesses. Highlights include sliders from Burger Spot, Italian sausages from Boozy Pig, donuts from Supernatural, and craft brews from Magnanimous Brewing. Additional participants such as Mise en Place and Streetlight Tacos will also contribute, turning the event into a street-food celebration.
The fundraiser responds to a fire that damaged Rene’s on Oct. 29, traced to a faulty circuit breaker. Owner Rene Valenzuela has received an outpouring of support from the community, and the Nov. 6 event aims to raise funds for equipment replacement, staff wages, and marketing to relaunch the beloved taco shop.
Other local food news
St. Pete’s historic Coney Island Sandwich Shop—originally opened in 1926—has been listed for lease. The 2,080-square-foot space at 250 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N carries an asking price of $40 per square foot per year, roughly $6,933 a month. The Barlas family has invested about $150,000 in upgrades, including new ADA-compliant restrooms, flooring, plumbing, and electrical work.
Weekend food lovers also have a packed calendar. Highlights include a Venezuelan pairing dinner at Sal Y Mar Rooftop Bar on Oct. 29, a “Night Out Cooking Class – Italiano Moderno” at Foodie Labs on the same evening, a “Beer 101” session at Savoir on Central on Oct. 30, a Food Truck Block Party at Chapel By The Sea in Clearwater Beach, and a “Science After Dark – Chemistry Uncorked” event at MOSI on Nov. 5. Each event showcases the region’s diverse culinary talent and growing appetite for experiential dining.
