1. Ulele
Ulele, a renowned dining establishment located along the Tampa Riverwalk, has gained acclaim for its unique blend of Native American and Florida culinary traditions. At the heart of this restaurant lies a distinctive barbacoa grill, where a diverse range of dishes, from burgers to perfectly charred oysters, are expertly prepared. For an authentic Floridian experience, don't miss out on the alligator hush puppies – a delightful fusion of fresh alligator meat, country ham, corn, and jalapeño, resulting in a harmonious combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every delectable bite.
2. On Swann
On Swann is celebrated for its sophisticated American cuisine infused with a touch of Italian influence. With a menu that evolves with the seasons, diners are in for delightful surprises with ever-changing specials and novel dishes. However, classics like the steak frites and pimento cheeseburger remain steadfast favorites among the patrons. When dining with friends, consider indulging in one of their shareable boards, featuring a delectable selection of meats, cheeses, or a combination of both, accompanied by a variety of complementary condiments. The cocktail offerings at On Swann are a true highlight, boasting an extensive selection of craft creations, as well as non-alcoholic craft sodas for those seeking something refreshingly different.
3. Oak & Ola
Oak & Ola is an American eatery that caters to a wide range of culinary cravings, offering an extensive menu that includes everything from delectable pizzas and succulent steaks to crisp salads and fresh seafood. The restaurant's rooftop terrace provides a lively setting for hanging out with friends and savoring craft cocktails before settling in for a sumptuous dining experience indoors. If you enjoy communal dining, consider indulging in several rounds of appetizers, such as the Mediterranean-inspired mezze board featuring an array of delightful snacks like roasted eggplant dip and goat cheese spreads, or the pommes frites accompanied by garlic aioli for a flavorful sharing experience.
4. Rooster & The Till
Rooster & The Till has earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand award, cementing its status as a must-visit destination in Tampa. This tapas-style restaurant is renowned for its inventive small plates and a constantly evolving menu. While crispy brussels sprouts and roasted cauliflower remain cherished crowd-pleasers, the menu also features delectable options like ginger tofu dumplings and scallop crudo. One of the standout features of this establishment is its commitment to accommodating various dietary preferences, with ample choices available for those following gluten-free and vegan diets. This ensures that everyone can relish the casual yet exhilarating dining experience offered at Rooster & The Till.
5. Bern's Steak House
Bern's Steak House, a Tampa institution, has been a beloved dining destination since its establishment in 1956. Renowned for its elegant ambiance, the restaurant strictly upholds a dress code, requiring at least business casual attire from its patrons. Dining at Bern's is a refined experience, beginning with a tempting array of fresh seafood options such as shrimp and oysters on the half shell, followed by indulgent selections like caviar. The true stars of the culinary showcase are the meticulously chosen steaks, each hand-selected and dry-aged in-house for a period of up to eight weeks.
6. The Deviled Pig
At The Deviled Pig, patrons are treated to a delightful fusion of sweet and smoky BBQ flavors presented in unexpected and creative ways, including as a unique pizza topping. Yet, it's one particular sandwich that has captured the hearts of locals. Known as the Pitmaster Queban, this culinary gem puts a barbecue spin on Tampa's iconic Cuban sandwich. It features a mouthwatering combination of brisket, pulled pork, and house-made bologna, all complemented by zesty mustard sauce, Swiss cheese, and the signature Deviled Pig pickles. It's a must-try for those seeking a flavor-packed adventure in every bite.
7. The Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant, nestled in Ybor City, has a storied history dating back to 1905, making it the oldest dining establishment in Florida. Originally a local cafe catering mainly to cigar workers during Ybor City's bustling industrial era, it has since transformed into one of the world's largest Spanish restaurants. The restaurant has earned legendary status for its sangria pitchers, and no visit would be complete without savoring their iconic 1905 salad, crafted consistently for over a century. Prepared table-side, this signature dish features a delightful blend of iceberg lettuce, ham, Swiss cheese, olives, tomato, Romano cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and a house-made garlic dressing, offering a timeless taste of culinary history.
8. Rome + Fig
Rome + Fig, situated in the North Hyde Park neighborhood, offers a diverse array of globally inspired culinary creations. A prime illustration of their innovative approach, and undeniably one of their most beloved appetizers, is their Southern reinterpretation of the classic Italian Caprese salad. In this delightful twist, traditional red tomatoes are replaced with crispy fried green tomatoes, a variation so enticing that ordering it twice is entirely understandable. Anticipate similar inventive adaptations across their menu, including staple entrees like scallops and filet mignon, which are thoughtfully crafted to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients.
9. Spinners Rooftop Grille
Venture to St. Pete Beach, just a short drive away from downtown Tampa, and discover the enchanting Spinners Rooftop Grille. At this 12th-floor restaurant, everyone is treated to a window seat experience. The establishment is truly a sight to behold, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that envelop the space and provide breathtaking 360-degree views of the ocean. If you're seeking a standout dish, look no further than the fresh catch ceviche. This culinary masterpiece features the finest fish the chef can source that day, complemented by zesty local lemons, shaved jalapeños, leche de tigre, and crispy plantains. It's a dish that captures the essence of the region's flavors and offers a truly memorable dining experience.
10. Goody Goody Burgers
Nestled in Hyde Park Village, Goody Goody Burgers is a cherished local diner that offers an extensive menu with options to satisfy every craving. Renowned for its delectable breakfast offerings featuring timeless classics, it also enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a go-to burger destination, as its name implies. If you're eager to try the burger that catapulted this establishment to fame, don't hesitate to order the "Pox," a straightforward yet delightful creation featuring pickles, onions, and a secret sauce—sometimes, simplicity is the key to perfection.
11. Oxford Exchange
Oxford Exchange is a multifaceted establishment that seamlessly combines elements of a boutique, a bookstore, and a restaurant to create a truly enchanting experience. For a quintessentially English dining adventure, consider reserving a table for their Sunday brunch, which offers a delightful array of tea, sandwiches, scones, and desserts, all served in the ambiance of a traditional British manor. If you're a devoted breakfast enthusiast, you're in for a treat as well, as breakfast is available throughout the day on weekdays. This means you can indulge in their generously sized warm cinnamon rolls, generously drizzled with cream cheese glaze and adorned with fresh strawberries, even as late as 4:30pm.
12. Zukku Sushi
Undoubtedly, this laid-back eatery stands out as a prime destination for top-notch sushi in the Tampa region. The sushi counter is nestled within the Heights Public Market at Armature Works, a historical streetcar warehouse dating back to 1910, reimagined into a trendy mixed-use venue that features a variety of dining options alongside Zukku, making it an ideal spot for a culinary exploration. Don't miss the lobster volcano roll, a delectable and spicy fusion of tuna, asparagus, crab mix, and avocado, crowned with a whole tempura-fried lobster tail. It's an indulgent treat that's absolutely worth savoring. For those feeling creative, the option to craft your own poke bowl or sushi burrito awaits, allowing you to choose your preferred toppings and fillings for a personalized dining experience.
13. Council Oak Steaks and Seafood
Nestled within the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa, indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Council Oak Steaks and Seafood. This upscale restaurant elevates the art of steak preparation by dry-aging their steaks on-site in specially designed rooms featuring pink Himalayan salt walls – it's akin to a luxurious spa treatment for these premium cuts. And if you're looking to add a touch of opulence to your meal, the restaurant offers table-side caviar service. Be prepared to splurge, as this establishment is best reserved for a special and memorable night out where you can truly savor the finer things in life.
14. Noble Crust
With three locations in both Tampa and the St. Pete area, Noble Crust offers a unique fusion of traditional Italian flavors with a southern twist. Their seasonal menu captures the essence of Italian cuisine's simplicity while showcasing locally sourced ingredients. You can savor a diverse range of dishes, from fried green tomatoes topped with pimento cheese to classic ricotta gnocchi. For pizza enthusiasts, the wood-fired pizzas are a definite crowd-pleaser. Don't miss out on the Margherita 2.0, a pizza that takes things to the next level with delectable toppings like Calabrian chili, fresh mozzarella, whipped ricotta, avocado, and more.
15. Gigglewaters Social Club and Screening Room
Nestled in the Safety Harbor neighborhood, you'll discover the captivating Gigglewaters Social Club and Screening Room, a one-of-a-kind prohibition-themed restaurant. While this laid-back eatery offers a diverse menu that spans from burgers to indulgent loaded macaroni and cheese, its main attraction lies in the secret movie theater hidden at the rear of the establishment. Here, you can enjoy a classic film or catch a recent release while savoring your meal and sipping on a cocktail. Don't forget to strike up a conversation with skilled bartenders, who are more than capable of crafting the perfect bourbon cocktail to enhance your experience.
