Former Daily Eats Managing Partner Bringing Comfort Food Haven to The Heights Public Market

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Ask anyone which three words cause a jolt of excitement with food-lovers everywhere, and they’ll answer in unison: Breakfast. All. Day.

Prayers have been answered with Graze 1910 opening this Summer in The Heights Public Market: a retro eatery serving an array of comfort food classics.

Who’s behind this delicious addition? Well you may remember Raymond “Ray” Menendez from Tampa’s popular diner Daily Eats, which he helped birth and spearhead  as a managing partner with Ciccio Restaurant Group for more than 11 years. In other words, he’s no stranger to putting his signature spin on American fare.Case in point: Graze’s menu, which will also serve lunch and dinner, will feature fresh house-made items ranging from citrus glazed waffles and classic egg dishes to artisan cheese-covered burgers.

The restaurant will also rotate a series of signature gourmet toasts. Coined “Get Toasted,” selections will include seasonal and innovative combos like berries + honey + ricotta, and salmon + dill creme + sunny-side up egg.

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“I’m really excited to bring this concept to The Heights Public Market,” said Menendez. “I have a strong tie to the Tampa community, and Graze 1910 will really represent what I’m about: quality food in a laid-back setting — I want this to be a real go-to neighborhood spot.”

Located at the South entrance of Armature Works along the Hillsborough River, Graze’s retro vibe will also be maintained through design, which is being both concepted and executed by Ray’s wife and co-owner, Lauren Menendez.

“My goal is to maintain a comfortable setting that also exudes effortless elegance — similar to the already existing look of Armature Works,” said Lauren Menendez. “The space will have white-washed wood finishes, brass accents, jade green millwork, as well as subway tiles flanking the kitchen and menu wall. We’re also bringing in a artist to create a custom mural.”

The 1,000 square foot restaurant will include both interior and exterior counter seating to allow patrons to get a front-row seat to all the kitchen action, downtown skyline and Hillsborough River views, as well as two takeout stations.

Who’s hungry already?