Food & Drink
A Taste of Tampa’s Culinary Scene
What sets Tampa apart from other cities is its unique culinary identity, shaped by a mix of Spanish, Cuban, Italian, and Southern influences. The city’s food culture is a testament to its rich history, with each dish telling a story of the people who have called Tampa home. From the hearty flavors of Ybor City’s Cuban sandwiches to the fresh seafood of the Gulf Coast, Tampa’s culinary offerings are as diverse as they are delicious.
Historical and Cultural Influences
Tampa’s culinary scene has been shaped by waves of immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them. The city’s famous Cuban sandwich, for example, is a product of Ybor City’s Cuban, Spanish, and Italian communities. The blend of ingredients—Cuban bread, ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard—creates a sandwich that’s as much a part of Tampa’s identity as its historic cigar factories.
The influence of Southern cooking is also evident in many Tampa dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, fried foods, and hearty stews. Over the years, Tampa’s culinary scene has evolved to include modern American cuisine, innovative fusion dishes, and a growing farm-to-table movement.
Local Delicacies: A Feast for the Senses
Cuban Sandwich: A Tampa classic, the Cuban sandwich is a must-try. Made with crusty Cuban bread and layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, this sandwich is pressed and toasted to perfection.
Devil Crab: Another local favorite, the devil crab is a deep-fried delicacy made with spiced crab meat, breaded and fried to a golden brown. It’s a perfect snack for seafood lovers.
Stone Crab Claws: Harvested from the nearby Gulf waters, stone crab claws are a seasonal delicacy. Served cold with a tangy mustard sauce, they’re a true taste of Florida.
Spanish Bean Soup: This hearty soup, made with garbanzo beans, chorizo, and potatoes, is a nod to Tampa’s Spanish heritage. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for cooler days.
Craft Beer: Tampa’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with local breweries offering a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Don’t miss trying a pint from one of the city’s many craft breweries.
Top Dining Destinations in Tampa
Columbia Restaurant
- Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
- Specialty: The Original Cuban Sandwich, 1905 Salad
- Overview: Established in 1905, Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant and a Tampa institution. This historic Spanish-Cuban restaurant offers a menu filled with traditional dishes, served in an opulent setting that reflects the city’s rich history.
Bern’s Steak House
- Address: 1208 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialty: Aged Steaks, Dessert Room
- Overview: Bern’s is famous for its extensive wine list and perfectly aged steaks. The Dessert Room is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, offering a separate, intimate space to enjoy decadent desserts.
Ulele
- Address: 1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
- Specialty: Native-inspired dishes, Craft Beer
- Overview: Ulele is known for its innovative menu inspired by Native American ingredients and flavors. Located along the Hillsborough River, the restaurant offers a stunning waterfront dining experience.
Oxford Exchange
- Address: 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialty: Brunch, Afternoon Tea
- Overview: A stylish mix of bookstore, café, and restaurant, Oxford Exchange is the perfect spot for brunch or afternoon tea. The menu features a blend of American and British-inspired dishes in a chic, airy setting.
Armature Works
- Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
- Specialty: Food Hall with Diverse Cuisines
- Overview: Armature Works is a culinary hub featuring a wide range of eateries under one roof. From sushi to pizza, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The vibrant atmosphere and communal seating make it a great spot for group dining.
Datz
- Address: 2616 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
- Specialty: Comfort Food with a Twist
- Overview: Datz is known for its creative takes on classic comfort food. The menu features indulgent dishes like the Cheesy Todd (a burger with mac and cheese buns) and Chicken N’ Waffle Benedict. A fun, lively atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals.
Edison: Food + Drink Lab
- Address: 912 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialty: Experimental Cuisine
- Overview: Edison is a place where food and science meet. The menu changes frequently, featuring inventive dishes that push culinary boundaries. It’s the perfect spot for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Haven
- Address: 2208 W Morrison Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialty: Charcuterie, Artisan Cheese
- Overview: Haven offers a modern take on a classic bistro, with a focus on charcuterie and artisan cheese. The extensive wine and whiskey lists complement the sophisticated yet approachable menu.
Osteria Natalina
- Address: 3215 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
- Specialties: Homemade pastas like Pappardelle Bolognese, Fresh Seafood
- Description: A cozy, family-run Italian eatery known for its authentic, homemade pasta dishes and warm, intimate atmosphere.
- Directions: Head south on Bayshore Blvd and turn right onto S MacDill Ave.
Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que
- Address: 2302 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
- Specialties: Ribs, Pulled Pork, Mac and Cheese
- Description: A beloved BBQ joint in Ybor City, Al’s is famous for its tender ribs and hearty sides, served with a side of Southern hospitality.
- Directions: From downtown, take I-4 E and exit onto E 7th Ave towards Ybor City.
Mise en Place
- Address: 442 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialties: New American cuisine with dishes like Lamb Lollipops, Tuna Tartare
- Description: A pioneering force in Tampa’s culinary scene, Mise en Place offers an innovative menu that changes with the seasons.
- Directions: Located near downtown, head west on Kennedy Blvd.
The Refinery
- Address: 5910 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
- Specialties: Farm-to-table dishes like Pork Belly, Locally Sourced Vegetables
- Description: The Refinery’s menu is a tribute to local, sustainable ingredients, with a focus on farm-to-table dining.
- Directions: Drive north on Florida Ave from downtown.
Ella’s Americana Folk Art Café
- Address: 5119 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33603
- Specialties: Americana cuisine like BBQ, Vegetarian Dishes, Funky Décor
- Description: Known for its eclectic menu and funky atmosphere, Ella’s serves up comfort food with an artistic twist.
- Directions: Head north on Nebraska Ave from the city center.
Wright’s Gourmet House
- Address: 1200 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33629
- Specialties: Signature Sandwiches like Beef Martini, Fresh Baked Cakes
- Description: A Tampa institution since 1963, Wright’s is famous for its hearty sandwiches and decadent desserts.
- Directions: Drive south on Dale Mabry Hwy from downtown.
La Teresita
- Address: 3246 W Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL 33607
- Specialties: Cuban classics like Ropa Vieja, Cuban Sandwiches
- Description: La Teresita is a no-frills Cuban restaurant that has been serving authentic dishes to Tampa’s community for decades.
- Directions: West of downtown, follow W Columbus Dr.
The Bricks of Ybor
- Address: 1327 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
- Specialties: Creative sandwiches, Craft beers, Coffee
- Description: A laid-back café and bar in the heart of Ybor City, The Bricks offers a menu of inventive sandwiches and a great selection of craft beers.
- Directions: Located in Ybor City, follow E 7th Ave from downtown.
Datz
- Address: 2616 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
- Specialties: Comfort food with a twist, including the Cheesy Todd burger
- Description: Datz is a trendy spot known for its indulgent takes on classic American comfort food, with a menu that’s as playful as it is delicious.
- Directions: South of downtown, head down Bayshore Blvd and turn right on S MacDill Ave.
Rooster & the Till
- Address: 6500 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
- Specialties: Modern American cuisine, Small plates, Craft cocktails
- Description: A critically acclaimed eatery in Seminole Heights, Rooster & the Till offers a seasonal menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients.
- Directions: Drive north on Florida Ave from downtown.
Café Dufrain
- Address: 707 Harbour Post Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
- Specialties: Waterside dining, Sustainable seafood, Seasonal dishes
- Description: Located on Harbour Island, Café Dufrain offers waterfront dining with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
- Directions: From downtown, cross the bridge to Harbour Island and follow Harbour Post Dr.
Cena
- Address: 1120 E Kennedy Blvd #112, Tampa, FL 33602
- Specialties: Contemporary Italian, House-made pastas, Elegant atmosphere
- Description: Cena is a modern Italian restaurant in the heart of the Channel District, known for its sophisticated takes on classic Italian dishes.
- Directions: Just east of downtown, located on E Kennedy Blvd.
Oxford Exchange
- Address: 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialties: Brunch, Coffee, Tea, Bookstore and gift shop
- Description: Oxford Exchange is a beautifully designed space that combines a restaurant, coffeehouse, and bookstore, offering an upscale yet cozy dining experience.
- Directions: Located near downtown on W Kennedy Blvd.
Armani’s
- Address: 2900 Bayport Dr, Tampa, FL 33607
- Specialties: Italian fine dining, Rooftop views, Risotto
- Description: Set atop the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, Armani’s offers Italian fine dining with panoramic views of the bay.
- Directions: Northwest of downtown, take W Cypress St to Bayport Dr.
Yard of Ale Gastro Pub
- Address: 406 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialties: Craft beers, Pub fare, Lively atmosphere
- Description: A popular spot for craft beer lovers, Yard of Ale combines a relaxed pub atmosphere with a creative menu of elevated bar food.
- Directions: Head southwest on W Kennedy Blvd and turn left onto S Howard Ave.
Élevage
- Address: 1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialties: Contemporary American cuisine, Stylish atmosphere, Seasonal menu
- Description: Part of the Epicurean Hotel, Élevage offers a menu that celebrates American cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting.
- Directions: Located on S Howard Ave, just south of Kennedy Blvd.
Ciro’s Speakeasy and Supper Club
- Address: 2109 Bayshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Specialties: Craft cocktails, Classic American dishes, Hidden speakeasy vibe
- Description: Ciro’s is a hidden gem, offering expertly crafted cocktails and a menu of classic American dishes in a cozy, speakeasy-style setting.
- Directions: From downtown, take Bayshore Blvd south.
The Rusty Pelican
- Address: 2425 N Rocky Point Dr, Tampa, FL 33607
- Specialties: Waterfront dining, Seafood, Sunset views
- Description: A Tampa favorite for waterfront dining, The Rusty Pelican offers a menu of fresh seafood with stunning views of Tampa Bay.
- Directions: West of downtown, take W Courtney Campbell Causeway to Rocky Point Dr.
Donatello
- Address: 232 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33609
- Specialties: Classic Italian, Romantic atmosphere, Fine dining
- Description: Donatello offers an elegant Italian dining experience, with a focus on traditional dishes and an intimate, romantic setting.
- Directions: From downtown, head north on N Dale Mabry Hwy.
Immersive Culinary Experiences
Beyond dining, Tampa offers a range of culinary experiences that allow visitors to dive deeper into its food culture:
- Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Tampa’s signature dishes with hands-on classes at the Epicurean Hotel or Sur La Table.
- Food Tours: Join a guided food tour through Ybor City or downtown Tampa to sample the city’s best bites and learn about its culinary history.
- Farmers Markets: Visit the Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market or the Ybor City Saturday Market to explore fresh, local produce and artisanal foods.
- Wine and Beer Tastings: Tampa is home to a growing number of craft breweries and wineries, offering tours and tastings, including Cigar City Brewing and Florida Cane Distillery.
Practical Information
Best Times to Visit
Tampa’s culinary scene is vibrant year-round, but the best times to visit are during the fall and spring, when the weather is mild and outdoor dining is at its best. Many restaurants offer seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients during these times.
Price Ranges
- Casual Dining: $10-$30 per person
- Mid-Range Restaurants: $30-$60 per person
- Fine Dining: $60+ per person
Dress Codes
While most of Tampa’s dining establishments are casual, some upscale restaurants like Bern’s Steak House and Armani’s have dress codes that require business casual or formal attire.
Reservations
It’s recommended to make reservations for fine dining and popular spots, especially on weekends. Many restaurants offer online booking through platforms like OpenTable.
Dietary Preferences
Tampa’s diverse culinary scene accommodates a wide range of dietary preferences. Most restaurants are accustomed to catering to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. When dining at traditional or casual spots, it’s best to inform your server of any dietary restrictions when ordering.
Sustainable Dining
Tampa is home to a growing number of sustainable dining options, where restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients and ethical practices:
- Ulele: Known for using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.
- The Refinery: Focuses on farm-to-table cuisine with a commitment to supporting local farmers.
- FarmTable Cucina: Located within Locale Market, this restaurant emphasizes seasonal, farm-to-table dining.
Ethical Dining Tips
To dine ethically in Tampa, consider choosing restaurants that support local farmers, avoid single-use plastics, and offer sustainably sourced seafood. Many Tampa restaurants also participate in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs and farm-to-table initiatives.
Recap and Encouragement
Tampa’s culinary scene is a dynamic reflection of its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. Whether you’re indulging in a historic Cuban sandwich at La Teresita or savoring a gourmet meal at Bern’s Steak House, the city offers a wealth of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From immersive food tours to sustainable dining options, Tampa invites you to explore its vibrant food culture and create unforgettable culinary memories. So, pack your appetite and embark on a gastronomic journey through Tampa’s top dining destinations—you won’t be disappointed!