Tampa is a city known for its diverse and delicious food scene. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak, authentic Cuban cuisine, or creative sushi rolls, Tampa has something to satisfy every taste bud.
From historic restaurants that have stood the test of time to modern foodie havens, this list highlights the 15 best places to eat in Tampa.
Each spot offers a unique experience, mouth-watering dishes, and flavors that will keep you returning for more.
Here are the top 15 must-visit restaurants in Tampa that every food lover needs to try:
1. Experience a Flavor Explosion at Bern’s Steak House
Bern’s Steak House
1208 S Howard Ave (SoHo)
(813) 251-2421
Yelp: 4 Stars
Bern’s Steak House sets the bar high for steakhouses in Tampa. It’s fancy, pricey, and worth it.
You can customize your steak to the ounce and thickness, ensuring it’s cooked exactly how you like it. Beyond the steak, you can take a behind-the-scenes kitchen and wine cellar tour.
Don’t skip dessert in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room—try the Taste of Bern’s sampler, featuring vanilla cheesecake, macadamia cake, banana cheese pie, chocolate cheese pie, and the King Midas. It’s a must-try experience.
2. Satisfy Your Cravings at Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que
Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que
1609 Angel Olivia Senior St (Ybor City)
(813) 956-0675
Yelp: 4.5 Stars
Al’s delivers authentic Tennessee-style barbecue in a cozy, laid-back setting. Their smoked meats are tender and packed with flavor.
Try the half slab of ribs with sides like baked beans, spicy collard greens, black-eyed peas, mac and cheese, and cornbread. The vibe is relaxed, and the food is finger-licking good—literally.
3. Travel Back in Time at Columbia Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant
2117 E 7th Ave (Ybor City)
(813) 248-4961
Yelp: 4 Stars
Founded in 1905, Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant, offering Spanish-Cuban cuisine in a historic setting. Their paellas are a standout, including the vegan, gluten-free paella vegetariana. Since paellas take 30 minutes to cook, order some tapas and a glass of wine while you wait. It’s a taste of old-world charm with modern flavors.
4. Try the Unique “Bomb” Burger at Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Tampa Bay Brewing Company
1600 E 8th Ave (Ybor City)
(813) 247-1422
Yelp: 4 Stars
This spot is known for craft beers and creative comfort food. The Bomb Burger is a half-pound patty wrapped in pizza dough and baked, served with horseradish ale sauce. If that’s not your style, try the meatloaf, shepherd’s pie, or beer-battered fish and chips. Finish with the apple crisp—it’s big enough to share.
5. Sip the Best Coffee in Tampa at Jet City Espresso
Jet City Espresso
318 S. Edison Ave. (Hyde Park)
(813) 541-5048
Yelp: 5 Stars
Jet City Espresso serves organic coffee with incredible flavor—try it without sugar to taste the richness. They also offer baked goods, smoothies, quiches, and salads. The cozy atmosphere and welcoming vibe make it a local favorite.
6. Enjoy Seafood and Jazz at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood and Steaks
4400 W Boy Scout Blvd (Westshore)
(813) 877-7290
Yelp: 4.5 Stars
For fresh oysters, shrimp cocktails, and lobsters, Eddie V’s is the place. The upscale atmosphere features live jazz, creating a swanky, romantic vibe. Try the lobster tacos or bisque, and finish with the Godiva chocolate cake for a rich ending.
7. Taste Authentic Mexican Flavors at Miguel’s
Miguel’s Mexican Seafood & Grill
3035 W Kennedy Blvd (West Tampa)
(813) 876-2587
Yelp: 4 Stars
Miguel’s offers home-style Mexican cuisine with a refined touch. Their USDA prime filet and Kobe skirt steak fajitas are loaded with flavor. Don’t miss the spicy pinto bean soup and ceviche. For brunch, the huevos rancheros are unbeatable.
8. Enjoy Comfort Food at Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
5119 N Nebraska Ave (Seminole Heights)
(813) 234-1000
Yelp: 4 Stars
Ella’s combines vintage charm with soulful comfort food. Sunday brunch features fried chicken and waffles with bourbon honey, southern fried catfish, and biscuits with smoked sausage gravy. Don’t skip the bacon mac and cheese—it’s unforgettable.
9. Savor a Classic Cuban Sandwich at La Teresita
La Teresita Restaurant
3248 W Columbus Dr (West Tampa)
(813) 302-7545
Yelp: 4 Stars
La Teresita is a no-frills Cuban spot with incredible food. Their Cubano sandwich is huge and packed with flavor. Try the steak, puerco asado, or arroz con pollo, and don’t forget a side of fried plantains.
10. Discover Creative Eats at Datz
Datz
2616 S MacDill Ave (Palma Ceia)
(813) 831-7000
Yelp: 4 Stars
Datz is a foodie’s paradise. The Cheesy Todd—a brisket and short rib burger between bacon-jalapeño mac and cheese buns—is legendary. Their Kentucky colonel bowl and stuffed meatloaf are also top-notch. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during brunch.
11. Treat Yourself to Desserts at Dough
Dough
2602 S MacDill Ave (Palma Ceia)
(813) 902-1979
Yelp: 4 Stars
Dough offers pastries, pies, donuts, and gelato. Their key lime pie and birthday cake donuts are fan favorites. Seasonal flavors like caramel curry and Sriracha chocolate add a creative twist.
12. Experience Unique Dishes at Mermaid Tavern
Mermaid Tavern
6719 N Nebraska Ave (Seminole Heights)
(813) 238-5618
Yelp: 4.5 Stars
Mermaid Tavern’s menu includes grass-fed burgers and creative salads. Their hand-cut truffle fries are legendary. Pair your meal with a craft beer or a glass of wine from their impressive selection.
13. Savor Authentic Thai at Thai 5 Fast Food
Thai 5 Fast Food
3424 S. Dale Mabry Hwy. (South Tampa)
(813) 374-2153
Yelp: 4.5 Stars
Thai 5 serves authentic Thai dishes made with care. Try the pad thai, drunken noodles, or duck fried rice. It’s quick service without sacrificing quality or flavor.
14. Get a Taste of New York at Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza
Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza
203 E. Twiggs St. (Downtown Tampa)
(813) 229-8500
Yelp: 4.5 Stars
Eddie & Sam’s serves authentic New York-style pizza. The slices are huge, the toppings are fresh, and the sauce is perfect. With over 15 types available by the slice, you can’t go wrong.
15. Enjoy Fresh Sushi at Soho Sushi
Soho Sushi
3218 W Kennedy Blvd (West Tampa)
(813) 873-7646
Yelp: 4.5 Stars
Soho Sushi serves fresh rolls and crispy tempura. The volcano roll—crab and cucumber wrapped with avocado and topped with baked spicy salmon and crab—is a must. Pair it with peach sake for a complete experience.
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