Best Restaurants in Tampa

Discover your inner foodie with Caribbean-inspired dishes, creative seafood menus and handcrafted cocktails. Every day of the week, the city's renowned chefs are preparing something special. Make your trip that much more memorable by dining at these restaurants favored by locals and tourists alike when you stay in Tampa.

Legendary Eateries

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary dance. The elegant arches, Spanish tiles and arboretum of Ybor City's historic Columbia Restaurant raise your expectations the minute you enter. The Cuban and Spanish-inspired fare won't disappoint, especially the Cuban bread and signature salad that's been winning fans since 1905. Experience a classic roadside eatery batting 1000 when it comes to casual meals. The baseball-themed Danny’s All-American Diner & Dairy Bar serves an array of burgers named for Hall of Famers. Being Tampa, they mix it up with Jamaican and Cuban-style options. Soak up the Tampa sunshine with Danny’s outdoor seating and top off your meal with a handmade cigar. The local-made ice cream will make a hit with your home team.

Family-Friendly Fare

If you see a cheery red wiener-mobile, you've found Mel's Hot Dogs. You don't need to worry about dress codes or a few spills here. The neighborhood hot dog joint serves everything from classic chili dogs to veggie versions, but Chicago style is what it's noted for. Check out the menu for kid-size servings of dogs, burgers and chicken nuggets. Give your picky eaters the familiar choices they crave—chicken fingers, grilled cheese and corn dogs—and crayons to make the wait time fun at GrillSmith. Masters of grilled meat and fish, GrillSmith has four area locations. Speed your grown-up wait time with a handcrafted margarita or martini. In a rush? Order to go.

Waterfront Hotspots

Feast your eyes on natural beauty and pair it with the Rusty Pelican's Caribbean-inspired menu. Calming ocean breezes, palms and willows put you in the mood for the Pelican's seafood specialties and handcrafted drinks—like coconut mojitos. If you're a fan of oysters and shrimp, try the Sunday Champagne brunch. Get your weekend cooking at Jackson's Bistro Bar & Sushi. Every Saturday night, three rooms of dancing, VIP tables and cabanas make it a Tampa hot spot. Explore the sake selections to pair with your favorite sushi or choose from the diverse dining menu and world wines.

Sophisticated Dining

Pamper yourself with a dining adventure at the chic Mise en Place. Chef Marty Blitz serves up an exciting menu of dynamic fare here that reflects his passion for food. Enjoy regional dishes and indulge in the flavors of Florida's west coast. Be sure to call ahead for the reservations. The romantic in you will swoon when you walk into Donatello. Stucco arches, tapestries and roses at your table are just the beginning of the elegant experience. Italian waiters in tuxedos serve classic centuries-old dishes from Italy's major regions. Plan to linger after dinner and enjoy live music at the jazz and piano bar.