Lisa Browder

By the name, you might get the impression that this is some sort of swap meet or, by the photo, a used bookstore (although I’ve never seen a used bookstore with quite such a fancy floor). You’d be wrong.

With inspiration from the clubs, libraries and shops of London, Oxford Exchange was built in 1891 and its purpose was to “cultivate community and conversation.” This place has two of my favorite things: books and food. Can’t go wrong.

And what’s better than eggs benedict and a frothy, hair-sizzling cappuccino for brunch? The eggs benedict at Oxford Exchange is made with chorizo sausage instead of the paper-thin Canadian bacon you usually get. It’s delicious.

Dessert consisted of a second cappuccino and a fabulous affogato (vanilla ice cream topped with espresso coffee). Why yes, I believe I was wide awake for close to two weeks but it was worth it. Choices are limited for dessert – only cookies or affogato – unless you show up for Tea Time Sunday (3:00-5:00 PM). Then they have a 3-tier dessert tray with some mouth-watering delicacies.

Top that off with a personable waitress like Molly and your brunch is complete. I found it novel (yes, pun intended) that the bill is presented inside a book. Molly had chosen School Days by Robert B. Parker. She said they use a book until the pages are full of notes from customers. It was fascinating to browse through and see the dates of peoples’ visits, where they were from and even an occasional who-loves-whom. That alone might’ve kept me there a bit longer but then I’d have needed a third cappuccino. And, of course, all those gorgeous books up front were waiting.

Oxford Exchange is located across from Henry B. Plant’s Tampa Bay Hotel at 420 West Kennedy Blvd. Reservations are recommended because they get very busy. Call 813-253-0222 or email your request to info@oxfordexchange.com. They are open Monday-Friday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM and Saturday/Sunday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.