This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.
Looking for the perfect Tampa date night restaurant? You’re in the right place! Since moving to Tampa in 2017, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring countless restaurants and keeping up with the latest on the dining scene. Whether you’re a Tampa local looking for new date night ideas or visiting the city for a romantic getaway, I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for the best Tampa date night restaurants that are sure to impress your special someone. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic candlelit dinner, waterfront views, or an innovative culinary experience, these restaurants are sure to elevate your date night!
Tampa date night restaurants
Bern’s Steak House
Bern’s Steak House is a timeless classic; a Tampa Bay institution if you will. They are renowned for their mastery of dry-aged beef. They age their steaks on-site for an impressive five weeks. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and an explosion of flavors.
This date night restaurant in Tampa won’t just impress your date with their steaks, but also their awe-inspiring wine collection with an astonishing selection of over 6,800 labels. Bern’s proudly holds one of the world’s largest private wine collections.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit their legendary dessert room. They have an extensive selection (over 50 options!) of sweet treats await! The Bern’s cappuccino will accompany any dessert you choose perfectly, and I highly recommend it!
From the moment you step foot inside, you’ll be greeted with impeccable service and a warm atmosphere that sets the stage for a romantic evening. Every aspect of your visit, from the ambiance to the presentation of the food, has been carefully curated to ensure your date night is nothing short of extraordinary.
Reservations will need to be made MONTHS in advance for this date night spot!
Meat Market
Meat Market is another great Tampa date night restaurant that has a focus on prime cuts of meat and innovative flavors. This trendy steakhouse is one of the best restaurants in Hyde Park. It has a vibrant atmosphere and seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with a touch of glamour.
They have expertly prepared steaks accompanied by creative sides and craft cocktails that perfectly complement the flavors.
The menu is brimming with prime steaks and specialty cuts, including the coveted Japanese Wagyu. For my couples who are seafood enthusiasts, you’re going to love the selection of fresh seafood and shellfish offerings! If you’re seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, I highly recommend experiencing their Tomahawk steak for two. It’s a true showstopper that promises to leave a lasting impression!
Ponte
Ponte Modern American is one of the top restaurants in Midtown and one of my favorite spots for special occasions! This Tampa date night restaurant has garnered a reputation for its contemporary American cuisine, expertly crafted using locally sourced ingredients.
Even if you’ve never considered yourself a fan of escargot, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by Ponte’s rendition. And don’t overlook the iconic mushroom soup and calamari.
They make it hard not to want to fill up on apps, but the main courses are so good you have to save room! Their prime and aged steaks are cooked to perfection.
Gin Joint
Gin Joint is the epitome of an intimate setting, with a sultry vibe that’ll wrap you and your date in a veil of mystique. Their drinks are amazing. With a name like Gin Joint, expectations run high, but they deliver!
And the food! The octopus is the star of the show, sous-vide to perfection until it reaches a tenderness that might just make you believe in love at first bite. The steak was thoughtfully prepared and had great flavor.
Adding to the vibe and the ambiance, this Tampa date night spot even offers live music in the evenings.
Noble Rice
Noble Rice has a contemporary Japanese menu that showcases high-quality fish and seafood dishes (among other dishes). They have innovative and delicious creations. Complementing the exceptional cuisine is a full bar that offers a selection of Japanese whiskey and sake.
While the price points at Noble Rice may lean towards the higher end compared to your typical sushi spot, it’s due to the fact that they spare no effort in ensuring the highest quality and freshness of their seafood. Flying in their catch from Japan weekly, their commitment to excellence is unwavering.
The menu often changes, but if you have the opportunity to try their milk bread their tempura poke roll.
Predalina
Nestled among the most beautiful restaurants in Tampa, Predalina is a true gem! This enchanting spot specializes in seafood-driven Mediterranean delicacies. Starting your meal with the perfectly paired crudité & pita is not just a choice— it’s a necessity.
And when you dig into the blue crab chitarra, prepare to be left speechless. Don’t forget to end your evening with the baklava, the perfect sweet and satisfying conclusion to your date night.
Timpano
Nestled in Hyde Park, Timpano whips up amazing handmade pasta alongside juicy steaks. Adding to its allure, the restaurant hosts live music on weekends.
The bar area has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, but as you venture further into the dining area, a cozy and intimate ambiance takes over, providing the perfect setting for a romantic date night in Tampa.
Whatever you do, start with an espresso martini! And when it comes to dinner, it’s an absolute must to order their parm-to-table experience featuring bucatini al pesto prepared tableside in a wheel of parmesan which serves two!
Oggi Italian
Oggi Italian is a must-visit restaurant on Davis Islands and takes pride in serving nothing short of authentic and top-quality Italian fare. Start with their must-try Caprese salad adorned with sweety drop peppers—a refreshing dish that flawlessly captures the essence of Italy.
Their butternut squash ravioli was a culinary masterpiece. It’s evident that Oggi Italian sources fresh ingredients and meticulously prepares its dishes with a profound commitment to craftsmanship.
Undoubtedly, this restaurant is a true hidden gem and a charming date night restaurant!
Charley’s Steak House
Not only is Charley’s Steak House one of the best date night restaurants in Tampa, but it’s one of my go-to spots for my and Remi’s anniversary. With over 70 years of history, Charley’s has perfected the art of delivering mouthwatering steaks that will leave you craving more!
Their commitment to excellence is evident in every bite, as they specialize in offering only the finest cuts of beef. What sets Charley’s apart is their unique presentation— prepare to be wowed as they present the cuts to you, describing the distinct flavor profiles of each.
While the menu is filled with tempting appetizers, I couldn’t resist saving myself for one of their menu highlights— a whole roasted head of cauliflower that can accompany your entree. Please please please leave room for dessert, because their butter cake is heavenly. It’s one of my all-time favorite desserts in the entire Tampa Bay area!
Oystercatchers
If your date is a seafood lover, Oystercatchers is sure to impress. Known for its amazing selection of fresh oysters and seafood delicacies, this waterfront restaurant combines stunning views with a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere.
You’ll fall in love with the expertly seasoned tuna steak, and their plump shrimp cocktail are not to be left behind. Go for sunset for an even more memorable dinner.
Union
If you find yourself on a quest to discover your new favorite Tampa restaurant, your search ends at Union! This hot spot has captivated the hearts (including mine!) with its trendy ambiance, innovative menu, and masterfully crafted cocktails.
I loved the sleek decor and sophisticated atmosphere. For food, the seemingly humble milk bread takes on a whole new level of enchantment— it’s soft, and indulgent, with just the perfect balance of sweetness and salt.
The crispy tuna roll serves as a testament to the freshest seafood. And the Korean BBQ bowl exceeded my expectations! The combination of warm salmon and cool noodles achieves a flawless equilibrium, enhanced by the tangy, invigorating addition of pickled veggies. Is anyone else getting hungry, or is it just me?
Be sure to end date night with a nightcap, the biscotti espresso martini!
Olivia
Olivia seamlessly blends modern twists with traditional Italian flavors. Named after the owner’s beloved daughter, this restaurant serves as a testament to the family’s profound passion for authentic Italian cuisine.
They focus on using only the freshest ingredients and embrace the changing seasons, resulting in a menu that evolves to capture the essence of each time of year. From the handmade pasta to the thoughtfully curated wine selection, every element of the dining experience at Olivia is meticulously crafted to create a truly unforgettable meal and date night!
I found myself falling in love with their mini rigatoni and grape bruschetta. Each bite was bursting with harmonious flavors. They also offer artisanal pizzas—cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
Rocca
For a spot that is considered by most one of the best Italian restaurants in Tampa, head to Rocca. This extraordinary establishment centers its focus on pasta, while also earning praise for its captivating tableside mozzarella presentations and an extensive selection of wines.
Although the allure of the tableside mozzarella at Rocca is irresistible, the generous proportions are a lot for two. But if you don’t mind having leftovers, send it!
The beet salad and carne crudo were adventurous choices for me, but I really enjoyed them! For the main course, I don’t think there’s a wrong answer, but the tagliolini al ragu exceeded all expectations. If you can, save room for dessert! The basil custard is a unique and satisfying finish.
Which of these Tampa date night restaurants are you checking out first?
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect Tampa date night restaurant! Whether you’re seeking a cozy ambiance, delicious cuisine, or breathtaking views, these romantic restaurants are sure to set the stage for a memorable evening. Cheers!
Before you go be sure to follow @sunkissedintampa_ on Instagram and check out some other Tampa blog posts:
Awesome Tampa Riverwalk restaurants
Best Water Street Tampa restaurants
Leave a Reply