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Last updated on May 15th, 2025
With new Water Street Tampa restaurants popping up all the time, this area is turning into a full-blown foodie hotspot. From upscale dining to fast-casual favorites, there’s something for every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for an elevated meal or a quick bite, here’s the ultimate guide to the best Water Street Tampa restaurants!
Best Water Street Tampa Restaurants
1. Anchor and Brine
If you’re craving fresh seafood with a view, Anchor and Brine is the place to be. Nestled inside the Marriott Water Street, this spot blends modern coastal vibes with a menu full of locally-inspired seafood dishes and handcrafted cocktails. And with its prime Tampa Riverwalk location, you’re getting some of the best waterfront views in the city!
Helmed by Chef Richard Sandoval (the mastermind behind Lona), Anchor and Brine serves up a diverse menu that satisfies both seafood lovers and land-food enthusiasts. We absolutely loved their ceviche and lobster roll!
2. Lona
For a bold taste of coastal Mexico, Lona is bringing the heat to Water Street. The decor is as lively as the menu, and trust me—you’re going to want to try everything.
Their lobster quesadilla is next-level, packed with buttery, rich lobster that melts in your mouth. And the enchiladas divorciados? A perfect balance of flavors that you’ll be thinking about long after your last bite.
Dessert is a non-negotiable here. Their tres leches cake paired with the El Jefe espresso martini is hands down the best espresso martini in Tampa Bay. Even if you’re usually a tequila skeptic, this one will convert you.
And the cocktails? Flawless. If you love mezcal, the Passion Picante is an absolute must. But if you’re in the mood for something a little different, the Mercado Margarita topped with hibiscus rosemary foam is pure mixology magic.
3. Driftlight
Located inside the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, Driftlight Steakhouse takes classic steakhouse favorites and gives them a modern twist. The space itself is sleek and contemporary, making it ideal for a polished yet comfortable dining experience.
Here, it’s all about the details. Their key lime Caesar dressing puts a fun Florida-inspired spin on a classic, and their crab cakes with passionfruit remoulade are an unexpected yet perfect pairing. They focus on the freshest ingredients, so the menu can change based on what’s in season—but that just means you’ll always have a reason to come back!
4. Predalina
Predalina has quickly become one of my absolute favorite restaurants on Water Street—and honestly, one of the best places to eat in downtown Tampa. It’s the brainchild of Blake Casper and Allison Adams, the same duo behind Oxford Exchange and The Library, so you already know the vibes (and the food) are top-tier.
With a seafood-driven Mediterranean menu, Predalina delivers fresh, bold flavors that make every dish stand out. Start with the crudité & pita—it’s the perfect light and flavorful way to kick things off. But the real showstopper? The blue crab chitarra. It’s beyond phenomenal and absolutely worth every bite.
The attentive service, dreamy aesthetic, and beautifully plated dishes all made for an unforgettable meal here.
This is definitely a place to go with a group so you can sample a little bit of everything. And whatever you do, save room for dessert—the rolled baklava is the perfect way to wrap up your meal!
5. SiX
Perched on the sixth floor of the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, SiX is where breathtaking bay views meet elevated dining. The indoor-outdoor setup is stunning, giving you the best of both worlds—a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere with chef-crafted dishes that impress. Whether you’re stopping by for drinks or settling in for a full meal, SiX is the perfect spot to unwind while soaking in the Tampa skyline.
Check out more Tampa rooftop bars!
6. Market at EDITION
The Tampa EDITION has multiple dining concepts, but if I’m being honest, most of them didn’t blow me away. The exception? Market at EDITION.
While the menu keeps things simple, the execution is flawless. Inspired by the Italian coast, they serve up authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and beautifully arranged charcuterie boards that truly shine. It’s so good that it even made it onto my list of the best pizza places in Tampa.
Before sitting down for dinner, you have to grab a Garden Margarita from the rooftop bar—it’s the perfect pre-meal refresh!
7. The Pearl
I first visited The Pearl for brunch, and after that experience, I need to go back for lunch or dinner. Their oysters are fresh and flavorful, and the huevos rancheros were hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
But The Pearl isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a tavern and oyster bar with a cozy, welcoming vibe. Everything is made from scratch, and their menu is filled with chef-driven dishes that range from comforting classics to creative, seasonal offerings.
They also take drinks seriously. Whether you’re into handcrafted cocktails, a well-curated wine list, or a rotating selection of ales, lagers, and stouts, there’s something for everyone.
8. Cava
For a fast-casual option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, CAVA is it. Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, they’ve mastered the art of making food that’s fresh, flavorful, and actually good for you.
This is hands down my favorite fast-casual spot. Every single bite is packed with bold, vibrant flavors, and I always leave feeling satisfied but not sluggish. My go-to order? The Harissa Avocado Bowl with a side of their freshly made pita chips. Once you try it, you’ll understand the hype.
Other Water Street Tampa restaurants you may want to check out:
- Naked Farmer – farm-to-table restauarant that serves locally-sourced, seasonal, farm-fresh food from farms close to home
- Chill Bros – one of the best ice cream shops in Tampa!
- 3 Corners – NY Style pizzeria
- Toastique – gourmet toast and juice bar
- Wagamama – Asian inspired dishes
Which of these Water Street Tampa restaurants are you trying first?!
With so many incredible Water Street Tampa restaurants to choose from, there’s no shortage of amazing spots to eat, drink, and soak in the vibes. Let me know which spot you’re most excited to try!
While you’re in the area be sure to check out some of the shops, or head here for their monthly Tampa market held every third Sunday!
Before you go be sure to follow @sunkissedintampa_ on Instagram and check out some other Tampa blog posts:
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