Tampa has swiftly become a foodie hotspot, with an unusual blend of dishes that reflect the city’s rich cultural diversity. From fresh seafood by the bay to inventive fusion cuisine, this Florida jewel offers an astounding variety of gastronomic pleasures to suit every taste.
Whether you’re looking for sophisticated dining, a casual snack, or a one-of-a-kind farm-to-table experience, Tampa’s dynamic food scene will not disappoint. In this guide, we’ll look at seven of Tampa’s greatest restaurants that have earned their reputations as must-see destinations for any foodie.
Each of these restaurants provides not only wonderful food but also a distinct atmosphere, making Tampa a true gastronomic paradise.
1. Bern’s Steakhouse
Bern’s Steak House gets this list off to a strong start. Yes, it is costly. Yes, that is fancy. Yes, it is great. Each steak is professionally prepared just how you want it. When ordering your steak, you may pick the number of ounces and thickness. There’s no better steak restaurant in Tampa.
That’s not all; you can also take a tour of the kitchen and wine cellar before enjoying dessert in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room. While all of the desserts are delicious, you should try the Taste of Bern’s: a sample-size amount of their vanilla cheesecake, macadamia decadence cake, banana cheese pie, chocolate cheese pie, and the King Midas.
Address: 1208 S Howard Ave (SoHo)
(813) 251-2421
2. Columbia Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant, regarded as “Florida’s Oldest Restaurant,” opened in 1905 and provides traditional Spanish-Cuban cuisine. You’ll feel transported back to 1920s Cuba, and it will be fantastic. While their vast, bustling menu may make it difficult to decide what to order, one of their paellas is a must-have.
They even have a vegan, gluten-free paella called paella vegetariana that is just as good as their regular ones. They do take 30 minutes to create, so get a glass or two of wine and a couple of tapas to make the wait more enjoyable.
Address: 2117 E 7th Ave (Ybor City)
(813) 248-4961
3. Tampa Bay Brewing Co.
The Tampa Bay Brewing Company serves handcrafted beers, award-winning cider wings, and a delicious burger. The “Bomb” is a half-pound burger with cheddar cheese, hickory bacon, and onion straws wrapped in pizza dough instead of a bun, baked, and served with horseradish ale sauce.
It’s incredible. It is unique. It resembles a burger calzone. If burgers aren’t your thing (we’re sorry, what?), try their extensive menu of pizzas, calzones, and entrees. The meatloaf, shepherd’s pie, and beer-battered fish and chips will blow your mind. Finish your meal with their apple crisp, which is certainly large enough for two.
Address: 1600 E 8th Ave (Ybor City)
(813) 247-1422
4. JetCity Espresso
This is not your standard coffee shop that serves premium, organic espresso coffee drinks; rather, it is a traditional coffee house with some of the best coffee you’ve ever had. Seriously, you should try it before adding the sugar or honey to get a true sense of how amazing the flavor is. You might not need any sugar.
There’s a reason they have nearly impeccable Yelp reviews (over 100). They don’t only serve coffee here. They offer baked products, smoothies, teas, quiches, salads, and more. Furthermore, the ambiance is quite welcoming, much like the owner, Jessica. Without a doubt, it is Tampa’s best neighborhood coffee shop.
Address: 318 S. Edison Ave. (Hyde Park)
(813) 541-5048
5. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood and Steak
It’s Tampa, so you’re probably thinking about fresh oysters, shrimp cocktails, and lobster everything. If this is true, Eddie V’s is the best place to spend your money. The environment is sleek, smart, and trendy, with elegant live jazz. You will undoubtedly feel like Frank Sinatra.
It’s the ideal setting for a romantic evening. The oyster bar serves superb market oysters, giant lump crab, and Hawaiian yellowtail sashimi, but the lobster is the star: lobster tails, lobster soup, lobster tacos—they’ve got it all. Finish with the luscious Godiva Chocolate Cake.
Address: 4400 W Boy Scout Blvd (Westshore)
(813) 877-7290
Conclusion
Tampa’s eclectic food scene has something for everyone’s taste, from high-end steakhouses to intimate coffee shops and seafood restaurants. These seven exceptional eateries highlight the city’s diverse culinary offerings, making it a must-see destination for any foodie.