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Okay, let’s talk about some of the best restaurants in Tampa that you need to check out! Whether you’re in the mood for some mouthwatering Japanese sushi, an epic Mexican fiesta, or a cozy night out with Italian classics, I’ve got you covered with my top picks!
These spots are not just about great food; they’ve got the vibe, the atmosphere, and the service to make any meal feel special. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds)!
Best Restaurants in Tampa
1. Bern’s Steak House
Kicking things off strong with one of Tampa’s most iconic restaurants—Bern’s Steak House! Serving top-tier steaks since 1956, this legendary spot is known for its in-house dry-aged beef and one of the largest wine collections in the world (over 6,800 labels!).
The vibe? Classic steakhouse charm with dark wood paneling and vintage furnishings. Unlike most steakhouses where everything is a la carte, Bern’s hooks you up with sides—a major win. Plus, the service is next level—servers go through extensive training, including time on the farm and in the kitchen, before hitting the floor.
And whatever you do, save room for dessert! The Harry Waugh Dessert Room is a whole experience, with over 50 decadent treats to choose from. No matter what you order, trust me—the Bern’s Cappuccino is a must!
It books up months in advance, so make sure to make a reservation ASAP!
2. Charley’s Steak House
Charley’s Steak House is another Tampa staple when it comes to top-quality steaks. One of the coolest things? They actually present the cuts of beef to you and explain the flavor profiles—such a unique and informative touch!
Remi and I have our go-to order down: we split a steak (switching it up based on our mood), get their insanely flavorful whole roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, and always save room for their butter cake—which, by the way, is my favorite dessert in all of Tampa Bay!
When I say I’d come here just for the cauliflower and butter cake, I mean it. This spot is perfect for date night—Remi and I actually celebrate our anniversary here every year!
3. Olivia
If you’re craving authentic Italian, Olivia is one of the best Italian restaurants in Tampa! Named after the owner’s daughter, this spot is a true passion project, bringing fresh, seasonal ingredients to every dish.
Everything is crafted with care, from their handmade pasta to their wood-fired pizzas with the perfect crispy crust. A couple of my faves? The mini rigatoni and grape bruschetta—such a fun and delicious combo!
The modern, elegant decor includes an open kitchen, so you can watch the magic happen. And fun fact—Olivia’s owners also run Ponte and On Swann, two more amazing restaurants in Tampa!
4. Sunda New Asian
Sunda New Asian effortlessly blends traditional and modern Asian flavors, creating a dining experience that’s both unique and ridiculously delicious.
From the first time I tried Sunda in Chicago, I knew it was special. So when they opened a Midtown Tampa location, I was beyond excited!
Their menu is stacked with incredible sushi rolls, flavorful noodle dishes, and creative fusion plates. I recently went for brunch, and wow—ube waffles, Japanese fried chicken, and tempura French toast? Every dish was better than the last. And their Sumo Mary is not just a bloody mary, it’s an entire meal in a glass—seriously, the most over-the-top, iconic brunch drink I’ve ever seen.
If I had to pick a favorite? Their crazy rice is hands-down the best fried rice I’ve ever had, with just the right amount of heat. Their sushi? So fresh. The Emerald mocktail? A masterpiece. The atmosphere? Total vibe.
I don’t say this lightly, but Sunda might just be my favorite restaurant in Tampa. If you haven’t been yet, run—you’re going to love it!
5. Oggi Italian
Tucked away on Davis Islands, Oggi Italian is a hidden gem that instantly transports you to a cozy alley in Italy. The outdoor dining area is so charming, and the food? Absolutely top-tier authentic Italian.
Their Caprese salad with sweety drop peppers is a must, and the butternut squash ravioli is pure heaven in every bite. You can tell they use fresh, high-quality ingredients and put so much love into every dish.
But wait—it gets better! Every entree comes with a house salad, garlic baguette, and espresso, giving you the full Italian dining experience. They even have gluten-free pasta and zoodles, so everyone can enjoy!
6. Rocca
If you’re looking for elevated Italian dining, Rocca is known for its handmade pasta, tableside mozzarella, and extensive wine list! This Tampa restaurant takes Italian food to the next level.
We tried the tableside mozzarella, beet salad, carne crudo, and tagliolini al ragu, and every bite was flawless. The chefs at Rocca clearly put so much care and precision into each dish. If you have room for dessert, the basil custard is an unexpected but amazing way to end your meal!
7. Predalina
Predalina is one of the dreamiest restaurants in Tampa—the ambiance alone is a whole vibe! But the food? Even better. They specialize in seafood-driven Mediterranean dishes that transport you straight to the breezy coasts of Europe.
The crudité & pita are the must-order starter, and the blue crab chitarra? Absolutely unreal. End on a sweet note with the baklava, and you’ll be in food heaven.
It’s one of the best restaurants on Water Street and has been such a great addition to the area!
8. Oystercatchers
If you’re looking for good food and epic views, Oystercatchers located at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay is one of the best waterfront restaurants in Tampa. They serve up fresh and flavorful seafood, including oysters, shrimp, and lobster.
The outdoor patio is perfect for soaking in the views, and the tuna steak is a must—seasoned beautifully and cooked just right. Their shrimp cocktail and cocktails are equally top-tier, making every bite and sip something to savor.
I’ve also heard their brunch is amazing, so I definitely need to make my way back!
9. Union
If you’re looking for your new favorite Tampa restaurant, Union is it! The chic atmosphere, creative menu, and craft cocktails make it an easy spot to love.
Let’s talk food—the milk bread sounds simple, but it’s pillowy, rich, and perfectly balanced between sweet and salty. The crispy tuna roll is another must-try, featuring the freshest seafood (sourced straight from St. Pete!).
For something heartier, the Korean BBQ bowl is a surprising but incredible mix of warm salmon, cold noodles, and tangy pickled veggies.
And of course, cocktails are a must here. The Starry Night screams summertime refreshment, and if you love espresso martinis, the biscotti version is next level!
10. Ponte
If you’re after a luxurious dining experience in midtown Tampa, Ponte is where you want to be. Known for its contemporary American cuisine, Ponte elevates the dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and tableside caviar and champagne.
Even if escargot isn’t usually your thing, Ponte’s version might just change your mind—delicate, tender, and topped with puff pastry. And don’t skip the iconic mushroom soup, it’s a must-try.
For mains, the prime steaks are incredible, and I can confidently say the steak is 10/10. Whether you’re in the mood for steak or seafood, Ponte has you covered with dishes that are carefully crafted to perfection.
11. Oxford Exchange
Oxford Exchange is a stylish brunch spot that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the stomach. With its stunning interior and delicious menu, you really can’t go wrong here. Whether you’re trying their French toast or seasonal pancakes, everything is so good!
I’m a huge fan of their Buddy Brew coffee, and if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll grab a seasonal cappuccino. If you’re not in the mood for a sit-down meal, you can also grab coffee at their Buddy Brew location and browse the bookstore.
Oxford Exchange is also perfect for special occasions, like a Tampa bachelorette party or brunch with friends. They even have a champagne bar and do a Sunday afternoon tea!
If you find yourself in St. Pete, be sure to check out Oxford Exchange’s sister location, The Library. It’s one of the best downtown St. Pete coffee shops and brunch spots around!
12. Willa’s
If you’re looking for unique, flavorful dishes, Willa’s is an amazing scratch kitchen. Everything here is made with care, and the craft cocktails—especially the Parsley Pepper Margarita with mezcal—are an experience in themselves!
The menu has a bit of everything, so don’t be afraid to try something new! Their weekend brunch is especially worth checking out, with fantastic coffee and an excellent menu to match. And if you’re after something alcohol-free, their mocktails are just as delicious as the real thing!
13. Haiku
If you’re looking for a lively downtown spot with delicious Asian cuisine, Haiku is known for its extreme quality, dedicated service, and beautiful presentation!
The menu is filled with a wide range of Asian dishes, including sushi, ramen, and yakitori. I highly recommend the volcano roll, which combines tuna, salmon, and crab in the most satisfying way. And their cocktails are definitely worth trying—they’re unique and creatively presented. It’s the perfect spot for a fun GNO!
14. Noble Rice
If you’re in Channelside and craving modern Japanese cuisine, Noble Rice has you covered! This spot serves up high-quality fish and seafood dishes alongside a full bar focused on Japanese whiskey and sake.
Although the prices may be a little higher, the freshness and quality are worth every penny. They fly their seafood in weekly from Japan, ensuring only the best for your plate. Don’t miss out on their toro tartare and the milk-bread—a truly heavenly experience. The tempura poke roll with a white shoyu is also a must-try!
15. Lona
If you’re craving Mexican cuisine with a chic twist, look no further than Lona! Enjoy dishes like lobster quesadillas that are as buttery as it sounds, to enchiladas divorciados that’ll blow your taste buds away.
For dessert, tres leches paired with an el jefe espresso martini is a must-try—even for those who aren’t usually into tequila! As a mezcal enthusiast, I can’t recommend the Passion Picante enough. The Mercado Margarita, crowned with hibiscus rosemary foam, is also a standout.
For a little fun while you sip, the TopGolf swing suites add some extra entertainment!
16. Timpano
One of my go-to restaurants in Hyde Park Village is Timpano, which is perfect for everything from special occasions to a fun night out. This classic Italian restaurant is known for its handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas, and the atmosphere near the bar is always lively.
If you’re looking for a more intimate vibe, their dining area has you covered. The parm-to-table experience, where they prepare bucatini al pesto in a parmesan wheel right at your table, is an absolute must—but their other menu items are equally amazing. And don’t even think about leaving without trying one of their espresso martinis!
Are you ready to experience the best restaurants in Tampa?!
So there you have it, my ultimate list of Tampa restaurants you’ll definitely want to try! Whether you’re planning a girls’ night out, a date night, or just looking for a new spot to vibe with friends, these places have something for everyone. Let me know which one you’re most excited to check out or what your favorite spot in Tampa is!
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