Water + Flour: SoHo’s Culinary Crossroads Where Sushi, Pizza, Pasta, and Cali Bowls Converge

Tampa, FL – May 15, 2025 – In the heart of South Tampa’s vibrant SoHo district, a culinary destination stands out for its ambitious scope and flavorful execution: Water + Flour. Located at 1015 S Howard Avenue, this isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience that artfully blends a laid-back "Cali-Miami vibe" with a sophisticated local SoHo twist. More than just a popular eatery, Water + Flour holds a significant place in Tampa's dining history as the evolution of Ciccio & Tony's, the very place where the esteemed Ciccio Restaurant Group (CRG) first planted its culinary roots. Today, it delights patrons with a diverse and dynamic menu featuring everything from fresh sushi and brick oven pizzas to house-made pastas and their iconic Cali bowls, all underpinned by a commitment to healthier, flavor-packed cuisine.  

The CRG Foundation: A Legacy of Freshness and Innovation

Understanding Water + Flour means appreciating the ethos of the Ciccio Restaurant Group. For over two decades, CRG has been a pioneering force in the Tampa Bay food scene, consistently launching concepts that resonate with contemporary diners. Their philosophy centers on fresh, high-quality ingredients, culinary innovation, and creating memorable guest experiences. This commitment is palpable at Water + Flour, where the legacy of Ciccio & Tony's is honored through a continued dedication to quality, while embracing modern tastes and a broader culinary palette. The emphasis on healthier options, including plentiful gluten-free and plant-based choices, reflects CRG’s attunement to evolving dietary preferences and their passion for food that both nourishes and excites.

A Culinary Chameleon: The "Cali-Miami Vibe" in SoHo

Water + Flour exudes a chic yet relaxed atmosphere that captures the breezy sophistication of Californian and Miami dining cultures, all while feeling perfectly at home in SoHo. The restaurant’s design, likely featuring an inviting outdoor patio with both lounge and dining settings, encourages a social and convivial experience. Inside, one can expect a stylish ambiance that balances modern aesthetics with a welcoming warmth. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a lively weekend gathering with friends, or a special occasion. Reviews often highlight the energetic vibe, which can sometimes be bustling and loud – a testament to its popularity – and the consistently friendly and attentive service that makes diners feel well-cared for.

The Art of the Dough: Brick Oven Pizzas with a Sourdough Soul

Pizza at Water + Flour is a serious affair, crafted with passion and premium ingredients. Their brick oven pizzas are distinguished by a naturally fermented sourdough crust, sourced locally from Gulfcoast Sourdough. This foundation lends a unique depth of flavor and a delightful texture that sets their pies apart.

The menu offers a range of creative and classic options. The "Hot & Sweet Pizza" is a crowd-pleaser, artfully balancing the spice of charred pepperoni with the sweetness of Mike's Hot Honey. For a richer, more savory experience, the "Marsala Pizza" features sliced chicken and a delectable marsala wine-mushroom sauce. Traditionalists can savor the "Simple Pizza," a nod to classic Margherita principles with pomodoro sauce, basil, olive oil, and a choice of mozzarella or plant-based mozzarella, showcasing their commitment to inclusivity. Other intriguing options like the "Tomato Vodka Pizza" with whipped ricotta and chili flakes, or the "Tuscan Pizza" laden with pepperoni, sausage, and basil, ensure there’s a slice to satisfy every craving.  

Pasta Perfection: Fresh and Flavorful Creations

The "Flour" in Water + Flour certainly shines in their pasta offerings. Guests can expect fresh, house-made pasta dishes that range from comforting classics to more contemporary culinary creations. The emphasis, true to the CRG spirit, is on quality ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Popular choices often include the "Basil Pomodoro Pasta," a fresh and aromatic dish that can also be prepared plant-based with the addition of vegan ricotta. The "Bolognese Pasta" offers a hearty, slow-braised sirloin ragu, while the "Cacio Pepe Pasta" delivers the beloved Roman simplicity of cheese and black pepper with a satisfying crunch from seasoned bread crumbs. For those seeking creamy indulgence, the "Truffle Three Cheese Pasta" with parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, and truffle oil is a luxurious treat. The "Mushroom Marsala Pasta" and "Vodka Tomato Pasta" further exemplify their ability to execute rich, satisfying sauces. Each dish is a testament to the comforting power of well-made pasta.  

Sushi Reimagined: Freshness Meets SoHo Flair

Adding a distinct and exciting dimension to its menu, Water + Flour presents a sophisticated sushi program. This isn't an afterthought; it's a carefully curated selection that highlights fresh seafood and creative combinations. Diners can choose from a variety of expertly crafted rolls, such as the popular "Spicy Ahi Tuna + Avocado + Cucumber Roll," the zesty "Salmon + Jalapeño + Lemon Roll," or the classic "Crab + Avocado + Cucumber Roll." For those who prefer simplicity, an "Avocado Roll" is also available.  

Beyond rolls, the sushi menu extends to delicate nigiri and fresh sashimi, featuring high-quality fish like ahi tuna and yellowtail hamachi. One of the standout signature items is the "Crispy Rice with Ahi Tuna," a delightful textural contrast of crunchy rice and smooth, spicy tuna, often adorned with sriracha aioli and pickled red onion. The inclusion of a full sushi bar allows Water + Flour to cater to a wide range of palates, making it a versatile destination where one diner can enjoy a pizza while another savors fresh sushi.  

The Famous Cali Bowls & More: Wholesome and Customizable

A hallmark of many CRG restaurants, the "Cali Bowls" at Water + Flour are a vibrant and healthy centerpiece of the menu. These bowls are renowned for their fresh ingredients, customizable nature, and globally inspired flavor profiles, making them a perfect choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

The "Fitness" bowl is a popular option, typically featuring roasted broccoli and cauliflower, a lime vinaigrette, fiesta pico de gallo, and often paired with blackened natural chicken. Seafood lovers gravitate towards the "Hot & Crunchy Tuna" bowl, with cucumber-jicama mix, scallion, avocado, and seared yellowfin tuna drizzled with sriracha aioli, or "The Original Poke" bowl, offering sushi-grade ahi tuna or hamachi with a medley of fresh vegetables and a choice of flavorful sauce mix-ins.  

Other globally inspired bowls include the "Mexican" bowl (warm black beans, cheddar, avocado), the "Thai" bowl (with a curry peanut sauce and crisp wontons), and the "Take Me to Terri Town" bowl, often recommended with teriyaki-marinated steak and warm udon noodles. The ability to often choose your base and protein allows for a personalized dining experience that caters to individual tastes and dietary needs, including numerous dairy-free (DF) and gluten-free (GF) options.  

Beyond the Main Course: Appetizers, Drinks, and Specials

Water + Flour ensures that the entire dining experience is delightful, from start to finish. Their selection of small plates and appetizers offers something for everyone. The "Uptown Parmesan Truffle Fries" have earned a reputation as a must-try item, frequently praised in reviews for their crispy texture and rich truffle flavor. Other enticing starters include "Asian Water Guacamole," steamed or garlic edamame, "Jimmy's Traditional Meatballs" in pomodoro sauce, and house-made "Sourdough Flatbread."  

To complement the diverse food menu, Water + Flour offers a full bar, though specific drink menus would need to be consulted for current selections of wine, beer, and cocktails. Given its SoHo location and CRG’s knack for creating appealing social environments, it’s also a place known for its specials. While specific, ongoing happy hour details can fluctuate, Water + Flour has been associated with attractive promotions like a "$5 Happy Hour" and even "$2 Taco Tuesdays and $7 Slamgrias" in the past, indicating a lively approach to value and daily deals. Guests are always encouraged to inquire about current offerings.

Conclusion: A SoHo Staple for Every Palate

Water + Flour stands as a unique and compelling fixture in Tampa's SoHo dining scene. Its ability to successfully execute such a diverse menu – from the delicate art of sushi to the rustic charm of brick oven pizza, the comforting allure of fresh pasta, and the vibrant healthfulness of Cali bowls – is a testament to the culinary expertise of the Ciccio Restaurant Group. By honoring its roots as the original Ciccio & Tony's while embracing a fresh, modern "Cali-Miami" identity, Water + Flour offers a welcoming and stylish atmosphere where guests can explore a world of flavors. It's a versatile destination, perfect for a casual lunch, an energetic dinner with friends, or any occasion that calls for delicious food, attentive service, and a touch of SoHo chic.