Elevated Sandwich Restaurant, Lunch Lady, To Open At Sparkman Wharf

TAMPA, FL — A new fast-casual restaurant concept with an unlikely name is preparing to join the expanding line-up of eateries in Sparkman Wharf's dining garden this month.

The renowned Tampa-based hospitality group, The Proper House Group, led by Chef Ferrell Alvarez, restaurateur Ty Rodriguez and entrepreneur Chon Nguyen, calls Lunch Lady "an elevated sandwich restaurant."

It will offer creative alternatives to classic sandwiches and salads, featuring pressed sandwiches, salads, juices and teas, all made from scratch in-house. Lunch Lady’s bread will be supplied locally and the restaurant will offer vegan and vegetarian options. Prices will range from $8 to $14.

“Water Street Tampa has established itself as one of the region’s top culinary destinations thanks to its roster of creative restaurants and acclaimed chefs,” said Lee Schaffler, chief portfolio officer for Sparkman Wharf developer, Strategic Property Partners. “We’re thrilled to be adding compelling new dining options for our residents, office tenants and visitors.”

“The sandwiches you’ll see on Lunch Lady’s menu are inspired by my culinary travels and my love of always eating incredible sandwiches that are made with love,” said Alvarez, co-owner of Proper House Group and a 2017 James Beard Foundation semifinalist. “Don’t be fooled by the name. The menu at Lunch Lady translates well to any time of day and will offer delicious food with the same love and uniqueness that you can find at all of our concepts.”

Lunch Lady marks Proper House Group’s newest addition to Sparkman Wharf, joining Gallito Taqueria and Dang Dude.

See related stories:

• Italian-Inspired Restaurant By Top Chef Coming To Water Street Tampa
• Dang Dude, Asian-Inspired Eatery, Set To Open At Sparkman Wharf
• Water Street Tampa Signs Flurry Of New Leases At Sparkman Wharf

Proper House Group is also opening Ash in Water Street Tampa next year.

Proper House Group is behind several of Tampa Bay's most highly regarded restaurants, including Rooster & the Till (2022 Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient) and Nebraska Mini Mart in Seminole Heights.

Anchoring Water Street Tampa — the 56-acre mixed-use development transforming downtown Tampa into a dynamic, walkable neighborhood — Sparkman Wharf is a central community gathering place featuring a one-acre park surrounded by ground-level retail and loft-style office space.

The lively central park is home to an intimate dining garden featuring national and local restaurant concepts and programmed community events on the lawn.