Top Restaurants in Tampa: A Mouthwatering Guide to the Best Dining Experiences

Tampa, Florida is not just home to beautiful beaches and fantastic attractions, it also boasts a diverse and thriving culinary scene. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the must-try restaurants in Tampa that you should definitely visit during your trip to this vibrant city. So, gather your food-loving friends and get ready to be amazed by these irresistible culinary destinations.

Top-notch Tampa Eateries You Don’t Want to Miss

Tampa is a melting pot of diverse cultures and cuisines, making it a food lover’s paradise. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top restaurants in Tampa that you simply must try. From historic establishments to innovative eateries, these restaurants will leave you craving for more. So buckle up, and let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Rusty Pelican

Ideal for those seeking a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic waterfront views, the Rusty Pelican offers seafood lovers a satisfying and diverse menu.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Picturesque Location: With panoramic views of the bay, the Rusty Pelican provides a serene and beautiful setting for your dining experience.
• Exquisite Seafood: Known for its superb seafood, the Rusty Pelican serves up a variety of ocean-fresh dishes prepared with great skill and attention to detail.
• Warm Atmosphere: Distinguished by its rustic-chic decor and attentive service, the Rusty Pelican exudes a warm and welcoming vibe that enhances every meal.

Don’t Miss:

• Firecracker Shrimp: A signature appetizer at the Rusty Pelican, this fiery dish starts with plump shrimp coated in a golden crispy batter, perfectly complemented by the sweet chili glaze, it offers an irresistible mix of spicy, sweet and tangy flavors that dance on your palate.
• Trinidad Tuna Poke: For those seeking a lighter, healthier option, this dish offers a fresh take on poke with a Caribbean twist. The seared Ahi tuna pairs perfectly with sweet mango, crispy taro chips, and a bright and zesty cilantro-lime aioli.
• Rusty Pelican’s Paella: Adrift in a sea of flavor, this classic Spanish dish comes to life as a symphony of saffron-infused rice brimming with shrimp, clams, mussels, and fish, transforming every bite into a celebration of coastal culinary

On Swann

A contemporary American bistro with a chic urban ambiance, On Swann offers a fresh seasonal menu that is both captivating and delicious.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Seasonally inspired menu: On Swann is committed to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, creating a menu that evolves with the seasons.
• Open kitchen: Enjoy the interactive dining experience as you watch the talented chefs create culinary magic in the open kitchen.
• Stylish interiors: Located in a beautifully restored bungalow, On Swann’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes for the perfect date-night setting.

Don’t Miss:

• Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments – perfect for sharing with friends or as a starter.
• Duck Fat Popcorn: A unique and decadent snack, tossed in duck fat and sprinkled with seasoning.
• Seared Scallops: Served with butternut squash puree, bacon, and Swiss chard, a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Oxford Exchange

Oxford Exchange is a unique dining destination in Tampa, featuring a restaurant, bookshop, and co-working space all under one roof. Housed in a beautifully restored building, this hotspot offers a warm, sophisticated atmosphere that makes it perfect for brunch, lunch, or just enjoying a coffee while flipping through your new favorite book.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Chic surroundings and stylish decor
• Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
• Unique spaces for dining and shopping

Don’t Miss:

• Avocado Toast with poached eggs
• Afternoon Tea service
• Browsing the curated selection of books and gifts

Rooster & The Till

Rooster & The Till is a local favorite for those seeking innovative, farm-to-table cuisine. As a testament to its commitment to quality, this small but mighty restaurant sources the majority of its ingredients from within a 200-mile radius. Expect a constantly evolving menu based on seasonally available items, as well as a selection of small plates that are perfect for sharing.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Farm-to-table dining: Rooster & The Till is committed to supporting local farmers, artisans, and fisheries, resulting in fresh, sustainable, and delicious dishes.
• Small plates, big flavors: Their innovative small plate menu allows you to taste a variety of dishes and share with your companions.
• Intimate setting: The cozy atmosphere and open-kitchen concept provide an engaging dining experience as you watch the culinary magic unfold.

Don’t Miss:

• Crispy Pork Belly: Tender pork belly balanced with a salsa verde and pickled apple slaw.
• Charred Octopus: Perfectly grilled octopus served on fennel puree with an herb salad and citrus vinaigrette.

Edison: Food+Drink Lab

If you’re in the mood for an inventive, out-of-the-box dining experience, look no further than Edison: Food+Drink Lab. Their passion for culinary experimentation and attention to detail is apparent in every dish they serve. The result is an unforgettable dining experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional cuisine.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Concept: This trendy gastropub combines culinary experimentation with a chic, yet casual atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a fun night out.
• Menu: The menu at Edison is constantly evolving, featuring creative dishes that showcase a fusion of flavors, textures, and techniques.
• Local and seasonal ingredients: Edison’s commitment to using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients ensures dishes that are fresh and packed with flavor.

Don’t Miss:

• Mac & Cheese Croquettes: Creamy mac and cheese coated in Panko breadcrumbs and fried, served with a smoky tomato sauce.
• Cuban Bistro Steak: A tender, marinated Flat Iron Steak paired with fantastic yuca fries and chimichurri sauce.

Whiskey Joe’s

Rounding out our list is Whiskey Joe’s, a laid-back waterfront restaurant where you can kick back, enjoy some delicious food, and catch one of Tampa’s stunning sunsets. This casual hotspot offers a diverse menu that includes seafood, tacos, burgers, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Atmosphere: Located on the waterfront, Whiskey Joe’s boasts stunning views of Tampa Bay, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
• Menu: Specializing in seafood and American bar fare, the menu has something for everyone, from fresh oysters and shrimp to mouthwatering burgers and steaks.
• Drinks: As the name suggests, Whiskey Joe’s has an extensive selection of whiskey, bourbon, and scotch, as well as creative cocktails for you to sample.

Don’t Miss:

• The famous Grouper Sandwich: Fresh, local grouper fillet fried to golden perfection, served on a soft bun with a side of crispy fries.
• Whiskey Joe’s Legendary Wings: Choose from an array of mouth-watering sauces which include Bourbon BBQ, Mango Habanero, and Garlic Parmesan.

Columbia Restaurant: A Timeless Classic with Spanish Flair

As Florida’s oldest restaurant, the Columbia Restaurant has been serving up sumptuous Spanish cuisine since 1905. This historic gem offers fine dining in an elegant and unique setting, complete with dazzling tilework and flamenco performances.

Why You’ll Love it

• Established in 1905, Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant, offering a unique taste of Spain amid a fascinating history
• Unforgettable flavors created through family recipes passed down through generations
• Elegant, Spanish-themed décor makes for a delightful dining experience

Don’t Miss

• The iconic 1905 Salad, with its zesty garlic dressing, is a must-try
• Savor the legendary Paella a la Valenciana, packed with authentic Spanish ingredients
• Indulge in the delicious flan for a sweet ending to your meal

Armature Works: A Trendy Food Hall with Endless Choices

A foodie haven situated in a beautifully restored building, the Armature Works is a public market that hosts a variety of top-notch restaurants and bars. With its industrial-chic interiors and a multitude of food choices, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.

Why You’ll Love it

• A vibrant atmosphere created by the mix of local vendors, communal seating, and fun events
• Diverse food options, from tacos to sushi, gourmet burgers to trendy poké bowls
• Located in a restored historical building with stunning architecture

Don’t Miss

• Try the mouth-watering empanadas at Inside the Box
• Grab a refreshing craft beer from Bay Cannon Beer Company
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with Astro Ice Cream Co’s nitrogen-frozen delights

Datz: A Foodie’s Dream with Creative Comfort Food

A popular gastropub, Datz offers American comfort food with a creative twist in a lively, eclectic atmosphere. Their menu has something for everyone, from loaded mac and cheese to decadent doughnuts.

Why You’ll Love it

• Innovative twists on classic comfort food dishes
• A lively, eclectic atmosphere perfect for group outings
• Impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails

Don’t Miss

• The famous Cheesy Todd burger, complete with mac n’ cheese buns
• Indulge in the Sriracha Short Rib Tacos for a spicy delight
• Finish it off with the decadent Banana Foster Waffles for dessert

Ulele: A Fresh Taste of Native-Inspired Floridian Cuisine

Located on Tampa’s River Walk, Ulele is more than just a restaurant – it’s a celebration of local culture and history. Offering Native American-inspired cuisine, Ulele’s menu features fresh ingredients and imaginative flavors.

Why You’ll Love it

• Distinctive dishes incorporating native Floridian ingredients
• Beautiful waterfront venue housed in a lovingly restored historic building
• A commitment to sustainability and supporting local producers

Don’t Miss

• Feast on the tender Grilled Wakulla Oysters starter
• Experience the flavors of the Ulele Mocama Seafood Stew
• Delight in the unique Ulele Spring Brewery craft beers

Must-Try Dining Experiences for Food Lovers 🍽️

Tampa may be known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, but the city also offers a spectacular dining scene that’s sure to impress any foodie. From modern, upscale dining options to casual beachside eateries, Tampa has it all. To make your culinary adventures a success, we’ve compiled a list of the top must-try restaurants in the city. So loosen your belt buckle, and prepare your taste buds for a delectable tour of Tampa’s finest establishments.