Tampa’s Bern’s Steak House has half a million bottles of wine. This is in a city known more for beaches than wine. It shows Tampa’s dining scene is a mix of old and new.
This guide explores Tampa’s dining scene. It includes famous spots like Bern’s and Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. It also highlights places like Rocca and Armature Works.
From Ulele’s Riverwalk views to Noble Rice’s imports, Tampa’s restaurants are unique. They offer a mix of tradition and innovation.
Looking for a place to celebrate or just grab a bite? This guide has you covered. It includes local favorites and hidden gems. It helps you find the best spots in Tampa.
Planning a weekend or a special night out? This guide is your go-to. It offers tips, classic spots, and new places. It’s your shortcut to Tampa’s best restaurants.
Why Tampa’s Food Scene Is Having a Moment
Tampa is a unique blend of tradition and new energy. At Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, you can feel history come alive. Bern’s Steak House, with its vast wine collection, is another highlight. These spots are key to Tampa’s top restaurants and attract visitors from all over.
New places like Rocca are making waves with their Italian dishes and Basque cheesecake. Yummy House China Bistro is famous for its Peking duck and dim sum. This mix of old and new makes Tampa Bay a top food destination.
The growth of waterfront areas boosts demand for Tampa’s food scene. The Riverwalk connects places like Ulele’s and Armature Works. It also links to Harbour Island, where Anchor & Brine and Watervue Grille offer stunning views and great food.
Neighborhoods like Hyde Park and Water Street are becoming food hubs. Oxford Exchange is a favorite for brunch. On Swann offers modern American dishes. Boulon Brasserie & Bakery and Sunda New Asian add to the city’s culinary diversity.
Tampa’s food scene offers something for everyone. Goody Goody Burgers serves classic burgers. Willa’s focuses on homemade cooking. Ponte and Driftlight are perfect for a romantic evening. This variety makes Tampa Bay’s restaurants appealing for any occasion.
From historic dining rooms to riverside spots, Tampa’s food scene is always evolving. And diners keep coming back for more.
Iconic Tampa Institutions Worth the Hype
These spots are key to Tampa’s restaurant scene. They have a long history and are loved by locals. For more on Tampa’s top restaurants, check out this editorial roundup.
Bern’s Steak House: Dry-aged steaks, legendary wine cellar, and the Harry Waugh Dessert Room
Bern’s Steak House has been a Tampa favorite for over 60 years. They dry-age steaks on site, including Japanese wagyu and cowboy ribeye. Each steak comes with sides like French onion soup and baked potato.
Their wine cellar is huge, with over 600,000 bottles. The Harry Waugh Dessert Room is famous for its Baked Alaska and after-dinner drinks. It’s a top choice for a special meal in Tampa.
Columbia Restaurant: Florida’s oldest restaurant in Ybor City with the Original Cuban Sandwich and “1905” Salad
Columbia Restaurant is Tampa’s oldest, dating back to 1905. It’s in Ybor City and famous for its Cuban Sandwich and “1905” Salad. The building is huge and family recipes are kept alive.
They serve classic dishes like Ropa Vieja and seafood paella. Flamenco shows add to the experience, making it a must-visit in Tampa.
Goody Goody Burgers: Retro diner comeback with nostalgic burgers and pies
Goody Goody Burgers opened in 1925 as Tampa’s first drive-in. It’s back with its old charm and tasty burgers and pies. It’s a favorite for weekend brunch.
It’s a place where families gather, enjoying a taste of Tampa’s past. It’s perfect for those who love a classic diner experience.
Michelin Stars and Recommended Tampa Restaurants
Michelin’s spotlight makes it easier to pick from the best restaurants in Tampa FL. These top rated Tampa restaurants show how fine dining Tampa blends craft, comfort, and flavor. For diners mapping out restaurants in Tampa FL, this curated list offers clear standouts among the best Tampa restaurants and beloved tampa restraunts.
Rocca: Michelin-starred handmade pastas, mozzarella cart, and Basque cheesecake
Rocca in Riverside Heights earned a Michelin star, led by chef Bryce Bonsack. The team crafts handmade pastas like gnocchi with brown butter or spaghetti al limone with blue crab. A tableside mozzarella cart pairs fresh cheese with heirloom tomatoes and 10-year balsamic.
Guests enjoy caviar service, dry-aged Rohan duck, and a 28-ounce prime bone-in ribeye. The silky Basque cheesecake is a highlight. It is a hallmark of fine dining Tampa and ranks among the best restaurants in Tampa FL.
Bern’s Steak House: Michelin-recommended with one of the world’s largest wine collections
Bern’s Steak House is Michelin-recommended and iconic among restaurants in Tampa Bay. Its cellar holds more than 600,000 bottles and 6,800 labels. It matches dry-aged steaks with rare vintages.
After dinner, the Harry Waugh Dessert Room keeps the evening going with private booths and classics. For travelers seeking top rated Tampa restaurants and best Tampa restaurants, Bern’s sets a high bar within restaurants in Tampa FL.
Yummy House China Bistro: Peking duck and dim sum lunch favorite
Yummy House China Bistro earns a Michelin nod for crisp Peking duck served with green onions, Hoisin, and pancakes. The daily dim sum lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. draws regulars for baskets of dumplings and sizzling plates.
Clay pots, seafood, and wok-fried staples make it a savvy pick among tampa restraunts. It is one of the best restaurants in Tampa FL for group dining.
Steelbach and Oak & Ola at Armature Works: Michelin-recommended market hall standouts
Inside Armature Works, Steelbach and Oak & Ola elevate the repurposed streetcar warehouse with polished plates and riverfront energy. Steelbach leans Southern with wood-fired meats, while Oak & Ola riffs on European flavors.
Surrounded by favorites like Ava, Astro Craft Ice Cream, Buddy Brew Coffee, and Cru Cellars, these kitchens anchor restaurants in Tampa FL. They help define top rated Tampa restaurants across restaurants in Tampa Bay and the best Tampa restaurants scene.
Waterfront Dining and Riverwalk Favorites
Tampa’s shoreline offers relaxed meals and stunning views. With the bay’s breeze and easy Riverwalk access, these spots serve top-notch food. Whether you’re looking for restaurants near Tampa or planning a dinner in Tampa, you’ll find something special.
Ulele
Ulele is in the restored Water Works building along the Tampa Riverwalk. It focuses on Florida and Native flavors. Try the chili-marinated alligator tail, hush puppies, Gulf oysters, and a big Duroc pork shank.
Enjoy shrimp po’boys, grouper sandwiches, and desserts like Pineapple Upside-Down Bread Pudding. The Ulele Spring Brewery adds fresh beers to the mix, making it a top spot in Tampa Bay.
Anchor & Brine
At Tampa Marriott Water Street, Anchor & Brine has a terrace with great views. Seafood lovers will enjoy oysters, ceviche, seafood towers, and more. Try the grouper sandwich with jalapeño aioli and cilantro slaw.
A praline old fashioned is perfect with sunset. It’s a great place for people-watching on the Riverwalk, making it a top choice in Tampa Bay.
Watervue Grille
On Harbour Island, Watervue Grille offers calm water views and fresh dishes. Start with beef carpaccio, then try the red chili–rubbed mahi mahi or slow-braised lamb shank.
The Watervue G&T cocktail is a highlight. It’s a polished choice for date nights near the water, making it a favorite in Tampa Florida.
Sparkman Wharf
Sparkman Wharf in Channelside has container kitchens and lawn seating. Enjoy Asian street food, tacos, fruit bowls, and ice cream. Shortwave Coffee fuels your walks; sit-down spots like JOTORO Kitchen & Tequila Bar add to the scene.
This hub offers craft drinks and casual bites. It’s perfect for trying the best food in Tampa. It’s a top spot for variety and views, keeping food lovers coming back.
Best Italian Restaurants in Tampa
In Tampa, Italian food lovers find their haven. Restaurants here serve pasta made by hand and pizzas baked all night. From Hyde Park to Davis Islands, there are cozy spots that mix tradition with modern flair. These places are favorites for both casual dates and big gatherings.
Olivia: Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and seasonal Italian plates
Olivia offers a stylish setting and an open kitchen. It’s known for its handmade pasta, crispy pizzas, and fresh dishes. The mini rigatoni and grape bruschetta are must-try dishes.
It’s perfect for a laid-back evening or a fancy dinner. This makes it a top choice in Tampa. Its mix of elegance and warmth keeps it popular.
Rocca: Elevated, seasonal Italian with caviar service and handmade pastas
Rocca is Tampa’s Michelin-starred Italian gem. It serves tableside mozzarella and refined pasta. The caviar service and dishes like bluefin tuna carpaccio add a touch of class.
It’s a favorite for those looking for the best in Tampa. For those exploring Tampa’s food scene, Rocca is a must-visit.
Casa Santo Stefano: Sicilian classics, open kitchen, and house-made desserts
Casa Santo Stefano brings Sicily to Tampa in a former pasta factory. It’s known for its lasagna, spaghetti with meatballs, and lobster linguine. The homemade sweets are a highlight.
It’s a beloved spot among Tampa’s Italian restaurants. It’s a go-to for those seeking authentic flavors.
Oggi Italian: Davis Islands charmer with authentic pastas and cozy patio
Oggi Italian on Davis Islands offers a cozy patio and personal touches. Start with Caprese and then try the butternut squash ravioli. They also offer gluten-free options.
Every meal comes with extras like salad, bread, and espresso. For more recommendations, check out this guide to the best Italian restaurants in Tampa.
Sushi, Japanese, and New Asian Standouts
Tampa’s modern Asian scene is all about sharp skills, bright tastes, and real craftsmanship. Food lovers will find top-notch sushi bars and trendy spots. These places are among the best in Tampa and help visitors find great restaurants in Tampa Bay.
Sunda New Asian: Creative sushi, fusion plates, and an over-the-top brunch
In Midtown, Sunda New Asian brings a big-city vibe with fun sushi and bold dishes. The “crazy rice” is a hit, and ube waffles and tempura French toast make brunch special. Japanese fried chicken and the Sumo Mary are favorites among locals.
The cocktails are bright and citrusy, and the Emerald mocktail is a standout. Sunda is known for its flair and consistency, making it a top choice for groups and dates.
Noble Rice: Premium seafood flown in weekly from Japan, Japanese whiskey and sake
In Channelside, Noble Rice focuses on top-quality fish. Their sushi and maki feature fresh imports, and dishes like toro tartare and tempura poke roll show their skill. The bar offers a wide selection of Japanese whiskey and sake.
Noble Rice is known for its precision and quiet elegance. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate fine dining and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tori Bar: Lively gastropub with hand rolls, skewers, and a stellar happy hour
Tori Bar has a lively vibe like Tokyo’s side streets. They serve crisp hand rolls, yakitori-style skewers, and fresh tuna quickly. Their happy hour from 4–6 p.m. offers great deals on food and drinks.
It’s a casual yet precise spot for those seeking energy and variety. With its bold flavors and affordable prices, it’s perfect for after-work or late-night meals.
Brunch and Daytime Darlings
Late mornings in Tampa are inviting with their bright rooms and bold flavors. These spots are top picks for daytime dining. They also offer great options for sweet or savory cravings. Visitors looking for food near Tampa or the best restaurants will find excellent choices.
Oxford Exchange is a highlight near downtown. It has a sunlit conservatory and a stylish dining room. There’s also a Buddy Brew coffee bar. Brunch options include blueberry buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict with braised short ribs.
Sunda New Asian offers playful dishes and colorful drinks. Try the ube waffles and Japanese fried chicken. The Sumo Mary is a hit with groups. It’s a vibrant spot for those seeking flavor and fun.
Willa’s focuses on scratch cooking and warm service. They serve great coffee and craft cocktails. Their zero-proof drinks are just as good. It’s a cozy spot for weekend gatherings.
These daytime spots are why Tampa’s restaurants are so popular. They offer variety, comfort, and style. Brunch becomes a special event at these places.
Steakhouses and Date-Night Spots
For a special night, these Tampa dinner spots offer polished service and deep wine lists. They serve dishes that create lasting memories. From legendary cellars to modern dining rooms, they are among the top Tampa restaurants for couples looking for fine dining without hassle.
Each spot combines romance with craftsmanship. They stand out among Tampa’s fancy restaurants, providing thoughtful touches that make the splurge worth it.
Bern’s Steak House: Tableside dessert experience and inclusive steak sides
Bern’s Steak House is a must-visit. It offers in-house dry-aged cuts with inclusive sides. The Harry Waugh Dessert Room turns the meal into a show, with dishes like baked Alaska and custards. Rare wines by the glass, from a vast cellar, highlight why Bern’s is a top choice for classic romance.
Charley’s Steak House: Presented steak cuts, whole roasted cauliflower, and butter cake
At Charley’s Steak House, servers present the steaks and explain the flavors and marbling. Whole roasted cauliflower and sautéed mushrooms are favorites. The warm butter cake is often the highlight of anniversaries. It’s a place where tradition meets comfort, making it a favorite among Tampa’s restaurants.
Ponte: Prime steaks, tableside caviar and champagne, modern American luxe
Ponte brings Midtown elegance with prime steaks that get rave reviews. Escargot under puff pastry and rich mushroom soup set the mood. Tableside caviar and champagne add to the ambiance. The sleek room and smooth service make Ponte a top choice for a fancy evening.
Driftlight Steakhouse: Wagyu, scallops, and craft cocktails in downtown Tampa
Driftlight Steakhouse in downtown Tampa offers a modern twist. It features Japanese Wagyu, delicate scallops, and jumbo lump crab cakes with passionfruit remoulade. The Farmer’s Margarita keeps flavors bright, making it a top choice for a sleek city date.
| Restaurant | Signature Highlights | Why It’s Date-Worthy | Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bern’s Steak House | Dry-aged steaks, inclusive sides, Harry Waugh Dessert Room, rare wines by the glass | Classic romance, cellar depth, iconic service | South Howard Avenue |
| Charley’s Steak House | Presented steak cuts, whole roasted cauliflower, butter cake | Personalized guidance, celebratory desserts | Dale Mabry Highway |
| Ponte | Prime steaks, escargot under puff pastry, mushroom soup, caviar and champagne | Modern luxury, polished pacing | Midtown Tampa |
| Driftlight Steakhouse | Japanese Wagyu, scallops, crab cakes with passionfruit remoulade, Farmer’s Margarita | Downtown energy, inventive cocktails | Water Street |
Whether it’s proposals or celebrating wins, these Tampa restaurants are perfect for lingering. They offer both fancy and casual dining, proving fine dining in Tampa can be warm and personal.
Food Halls, Markets, and Casual Eats
Tampa’s food halls turn grazing into an art form. They offer quick bites, craft drinks, and river views. This makes it easy for groups to try different places and find the best restaurants in Tampa.
These spots let visitors taste a variety of foods in one place. From coffee to cocktails, they offer a quick taste of Tampa’s culinary scene.
Armature Works: Heights Public Market with diverse vendors and local wine/coffee bars
Armature Works is in a repurposed streetcar warehouse by the Hillsborough River. It’s a lively spot for Tampa’s restaurants. With everything from ice cream to wood-fired pizzas, it offers something for everyone.
Steelbach and Oak & Ola have Michelin recommendations. This shows Armature Works has both casual and fine dining options for any visit.
The Hall on Franklin: Multi-vendor dining with full-service ordering
The Hall on Franklin is a short walk away. It was the first to offer full-service dining from multiple vendors. Guests can order from various places like Poké Rose and Bake’n Babes.
Staff deliver the food, and there are great cocktails like the Kentucky Champagne. It’s a great way to try different places without waiting.
Sparkman Wharf: Asian street food, tacos, ice cream, and specialty coffee in containers
Sparkman Wharf is in Channelside and has container kitchens and a riverside lawn. Dang Dude offers Asian street food, and Gallito Taqueria has tacos. Fit Bowl Co has bright fruit bowls, and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream has bold flavors.
Shortwave Coffee serves seasonal lattes, and JOTORO and Battery are sit-down spots. It shows the variety of Tampa’s restaurants.
Ulele-adjacent Riverwalk: Easy access to snacks, brews, and outdoor bites
The Riverwalk by Ulele is perfect for strolling. It has patios, breweries, and food carts with great views. It’s a scenic path from Armature Works to downtown.
It’s great for trying different foods while exploring Tampa. The mix of quick bites and shaded spots makes it welcoming for visitors.
Downtown, Hyde Park, and Midtown Hotspots
These city hubs are alive with energy. They offer the best of both worlds: style and substance. Hyde Park’s green lanes and Midtown’s modern towers are home to top-notch dining. It’s a quick trip for those looking to compare Tampa and St. Pete’s best spots.
On Swann in Hyde Park Village is a hit for its modern American dishes. Their fig tart is a must-try, with mascarpone, gorgonzola, caramelized onion, and prosciutto. They also serve a hearty short-rib ragu and a bourbon-caramel bread pudding that seals the deal.
Oxford Exchange is known for its beautiful setting and easy daytime vibe. Guests enjoy the Conservatory, browse the bookshop, and sip Buddy Brew at the coffee counter. They offer weekday breakfast and lunch, and a weekend brunch with blueberry buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict.
Union is perfect for a lively lunch or dinner with friends. They offer creative sushi rolls, steaks, and a sharp cocktail list. Fresh seafood from St. Pete makes it a great choice when comparing Tampa and St. Pete’s lunch spots.
Élevage at the Epicurean Hotel is all about seasonal creativity. They serve grilled octopus, the Epicurean Salad with lavender-hibiscus vinaigrette, and a refined Homage to Bern’s. It’s a standout in a city known for its culinary excellence.
For those planning a trip across the bay, these spots are great. They offer a mix that makes comparing Tampa and St. Pete’s restaurants easy. It’s simple to plan a quick drive west for the best St. Pete has to offer.
| Spot | Neighborhood | Can’t-Miss Dish or Drink | Best For | Nearby Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On Swann | Hyde Park Village | Fig tart; short-rib ragu; bourbon-caramel bread pudding | Date nights and small-group dinners | Walkable shops and leafy streets |
| Oxford Exchange | South Downtown | Buddy Brew coffee; eggs Benedict; blueberry pancakes | Daytime meetups and working brunch | Bookstore browsing and a Champagne bar |
| Union | Midtown | Crispy tuna roll; steaks; signature cocktails | Social lunches and lively dinners | Modern lounges and rooftop energy |
| Élevage | SoHo/Epicurean Hotel | Grilled octopus; Epicurean Salad; Homage to Bern’s | Seasonal tasting and special occasions | Hotel dining with a culinary pedigree |
Travelers looking to compare Tampa and St. Pete’s restaurants will find this area a great starting point. It showcases Tampa’s best, with easy access to St. Pete’s favorites and the wider Tampa Bay area.
Conclusion
Tampa’s dining scene is full of flavors and variety. Classics like Bern’s Steak House and Columbia Restaurant meet modern chefs at Rocca. Asian spots like Sunda New Asian and Noble Rice add a fresh twist.
Waterfront spots like Ulele and Anchor & Brine offer stunning views. Sparkman Wharf is another must-visit. Together, they make Tampa a top dining destination in the Southeast.
Italian food lovers will enjoy Olivia and Casa Santo Stefano. For a special night out, try Bern’s or Charley’s Steak House. Armature Works and The Hall on Franklin are great for casual meals.
Swann offers modern American dishes, while Oxford Exchange is perfect for brunch. Union combines sushi and steaks, and Élevage serves seasonal dishes at the Epicurean Hotel. These spots highlight Tampa’s diverse dining scene.
Book reservations early for places like Bern’s and Oxford Exchange. Explore restaurants near Tampa for every occasion. This guide helps you find the best spots in Tampa, from fine dining to casual eats.
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