As a Tampa native, I've been to a lot of restaurants in the area. These are my favorites and favorite menu items. Enjoy!
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For a luxurious dining experience, consider a high-end steakhouse. The must-try dishes include the Chateaubriand and Bern's French Onion Soup. For a drink, Bern's Manhattan is highly recommended.
Bern's Steak House
A Tampa Bay classic since 1905, this restaurant boasts several locations. My favorite is the one at Clearwater Beach. The must-try items on the menu are the 1905 Salad, the Cuban Sandwich, and the Paella a la Valenciana. When it comes to drinks, the ...
Columbia Restaurant Sand Key
For an authentic Floridian dining experience, essential menu items to try include Native Chili, Crackling Pork Shanks, and Alligator Hush Puppies. For a drink, the Water Works Punch is a must.
Ulele
This distinctive European-inspired venue features a restaurant, bookstore, coffeehouse, and a shop filled with decor and gifts. The menu highlights not-to-be-missed items such as Avocado Toast, Lobster Grilled Cheese, and Truffle Parmesan Fries. The ...
Oxford Exchange
The open-concept kitchen specializes in seasonal New American cuisine. Recommended dishes include Duck Confit, Charred Octopus, and Bucatini Carbonara. For cocktails, try The Swann Sour.
On Swann
The best spot for a romantic dinner is one with an unbeatable view. Highly recommended dishes include the "Smoking" Shellfish Tower, Sea Scallops, and Chilean Sea Bass. For a cocktail, try the Berries and Bubbles.
OCEAN PRIME, Tampa - Menu, Prices, Restaurant Reviews ...
Champagne, Charcuterie, Cheesecake. A modern, fresh venue offering American cuisine. Recommendations include: the Charcuterie Board, Chicken Confit, and the Citrus-Lemon Cheesecake with Blueberry Compote. Featured cocktail: Curtsy on Cue.
THE C HOUSE, Tampa - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews
A creative, locally-sourced New American dinner spot is a must-visit. Highly recommended dishes include the Charred Spanish Octopus, Lamb Belly, and Mushroom Risotto. For a cocktail, Rooster’s Negroni is the top choice.
Rooster & the Till
The ramen is outstanding! Highly recommended dishes include the Tonkotsu Ramen, Yasai Ramen, and Pork Buns. For a drink, the Ichicoro Mule is a must-try.
Absolutely delicious ramen - Review of Ichicoro Ramen, Tampa, FL
Savor live music and folk art at this eclectic, contemporary eatery. The menu highlights not to be missed are Chicken & Waffles, BBQ Ribs, and Meatloaf. As for drinks, the Ella’s Hummingbird cocktail is a must-try.
Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
For an elegant dining experience, this New American menu is a must-try. Highlighted dishes include the Lobster Bisque, Foie Gras, and Duck Breast. Don't miss out on the signature cocktail, the Mise Margarita.
MISE EN PLACE, Tampa - Photos & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor
This industrial gastropub offers innovative American cuisine. Highly recommended dishes include Bacon Fat Popcorn, Pork Belly, and Smoked Duck Breast. As for drinks, The Edison Elixir cocktail is a must-try.
Edison: Food+Drink Lab
This downtown St. Petersburg eatery boasts an array of craft beers and diverse comfort food options. Key menu highlights are the Nashville Chicken, MacDill Dog, and the Cheesy Todd Burger. For beverages, the Datz-a-Rita cocktail is a top recommendati...
Datz - St. Pete
Modern Mexican cuisine and artisanal cocktails are offered in a vibrant setting featuring an outdoor patio. Recommended dishes include Carne Asada Tacos, Cochinita Pibil, and Tuna Ceviche. For cocktails, the Watermelon Margarita is a must-try.
Red Mesa Cantina
Tampa boasts this unique -5 degree Tequila tap. As a tapas enthusiast, I highly recommend trying the Crab Cake Trio, Blackened Shrimp Nachos, and Langosta Brochettes.