- (Newswire.net — October 1, 2013) Tampa, Florida —
- South Hyde Park, affectionately referred to as SoHo in Tampa, is the toney neighborhood marked by the city’s waterfront and chic restaurants that are located throughout the region. 717 South is one of those such places that has become a destination unto itself. What is it that has shaped this allure for such places like 717 South? The confluence of all of the details that go into the makeup of a successful eatery is perhaps more art than it is science. A talented executive chef, consistent in their delivery, reliable and friendly service, and a décor and dining room that “feels good” all contribute to this formula.
There is however a component of sex appeal that drives a lot of traffic by itself. Does the food taste better in such a feel good environment? Eating out is not a blind taste testing, but rather an experience that strikes all of the senses of sight, smell, sound, and taste. That hormonal sense is an intangible that gives people that sense of being in a cool place where its patrons are dressed nicely and look good. Do models and Hollywood drive customer traffic? One could argue this point but people are attracted to that aesthetic sense however it might be defined.
Certain restaurants are notable for their “watering hole” reputation for superstars or celebrity clientele. So what attracts these people to be regulars? It is to some extent a self-fulfilling prophecy. Joe Madden, Manager of the Tampa Rays, is a fixture at 717 South and good buddy with it’s owner, Michael Stewart, who together are building a new restaurant across the street on South Howard. People like this feel because not only is Madden a media star in professional baseball, but he is also well spoken and liked by many.
South Beach in Miami, Madison Avenue in New York City, and Rodeo Drive in L.A. all sport that thing that hints of where people just want to be. There is an affiliation with that crowd that seems to be in the know and just hang out where it is more than any one thing that can be the “it” factor. Without a hook in culinary excellence and an ambiance that soothes the soul, it probably will not happen for the ideological restaurant owners who lead with their passion and ignore their eyes.
717 South has that very sex appeal that has shaped South Tampa to be what it is today. Contact them at: 717 S Howard Ave Tampa, FL 33606 www.717south.com (813) 250-1661