Willa’s is named in honor of William “Willie” Lowry, a 19th-century pioneer in Tampa whose dedication to her hometown and civic activity can still be heard today throughout the city. Merrin Jenkins, a co-founder of Willa’s, was descended from Willie through her great-great-grandmother.

Willa’s is a neighborhood restaurant that serves rotisserie chicken, vegetable sides, and salads. The heart of the kitchen is the rotisserie oven, where Amish-raised free-range birds are slow-roasted on a spit all day long. Willa’s menu contains some vegan and around 70% vegetarian options. Children can choose from a different menu of well-known snacks, sandwiches, and desserts. Meanwhile, zero-proof options are available for non-alcoholic drinkers. These include the Lil Parsley Pepper (Seedlip Garden, jalapeño, lava salt, lime) and the Soft Sangria (pomegranate, cinnamon, tonic). Ginger beer and Untitled Art N/A are also available.

Willa’s parking lot has over 70 spaces that patrons can occupy for free! It also has a 24-hour cafe called Willa’s Provisions. They offer freshly baked pastries and locally roasted King State brew. Breakfast items include fresh bagels, pastries, breakfast tacos, and breakfast sandwiches, all of which may be ordered online or while you wait. You can also shop their hand-picked collection of the best cookbooks, pantry essentials, and home décor.