The Best Restaurants in Tampa

Tampa has become famous for having a diverse and vibrant dining scene that is filled with restaurants that serve cuisines from all over the world. Whether diners are in the mood for locally sourced products, tasty Italian treats, vegan options, or American comfort food, Tampa has it all. In the city, a mixture of casual cafes and fine dining establishments can be found. The multi-generational immigration to the region has allowed for a unique selection of restaurants to pop up and become local favorites. Many of these restaurants have also become popular for their drink menus, which often include craft cocktails, meaning that individuals can quench their thirst while enjoying a nice meal.

The OpenTable Team

22 Restaurants

Updated January 18, 2022

Restaurants:	Barterhouse - Ybor, Bern's Steak House, Caffe Paradiso - Tampa…
Price Range:	$$ - $$$$
Cuisines:	American, Steak, Italian…
Neighborhoods:	Tampa…

Barterhouse - Ybor

Price: Expensive

American

Tampa

4.4

512 reviews

Known for its inventive American cuisine, Barterhouse is an sophisticated yet cozy bar that was founded in 2019 by Kenneth Emery. The menu is filled with a selection of both large and small plates, including chicken wings, sea scallops, and burrata cheese. The interior is chic, with plush booth seating, stylish lighting fixtures, and a large mural that is reminiscent of old Hollywood. They also have a speakeasy-inspired bar that has become famous for its local brews, fine wines, and cocktails with a twist.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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Bern's Steak House

Price: Very Expensive

Steak

Tampa

4.8

9205 reviews

Created in 1956 by Bernard Laxer, Bern's Steak House is a beloved Tampa staple amongst locals and visitors alike. On the menu, diners will find favorites such as a shrimp cocktail, caviar, and a large range of steaks, including filet mignon, porterhouse, and T-bone. Inside, the restaurant is vibrantly decorated with dark red furniture and dim lighting, helping to give a romantic and private atmosphere. Make sure to check out the wine list, as the cellar boasts an impressive number of more than half a million bottles.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Caffe Paradiso - Tampa

Price: Moderate

Italian

Tampa

4.9

944 reviews

Popular for having some of the best Italian food in the city, Caffe Paradiso opened its doors in 1995 under the ownership of Paolo Tini. Some of the most popular dishes on the menu include items like calamari fritti, minestrone soup, and pasta primavera. Inside of the restaurant is light and airy, with a welcoming ambiance that makes diners feel right at home. The wine list is extensive and affordable, making it easy to order a tasty glass of vino while dining here.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Cena

Price: Expensive

Italian

Tampa

4.3

1326 reviews

Serving modern and fresh Italian food, Cena has been a popular restaurant ever since it first opened in the Channel District in 2013. Choose from a selection of favorite dishes which include crispy eggplant, truffle mushroom risotto, and duck confit. The interior features bright colors and large tables, making it a nice place to meet up with a group of friends or family.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Charley's Steak House-Tampa, FL

Price: Very Expensive

Steakhouse

Tampa

4.7

8553 reviews

For high quality steaks and seafood, head to Charley's Steak House, which was first opened in 1986 by Charley Shin. Some of the most popular dishes of this restaurant include items such as lobster bisque, Chilean sea bass, and Charley’s ultimate surf n turf for two. The restaurant is also popular for their handcrafted cocktails, which include choices like Pappy’s Rose Lemon Drop, Charley’s Signature Martini, and an Orange Blossom Diplomatico Mule. The inside of the restaurant is filled with rich wood and dark colors, giving it a cozy atmosphere.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Cru Cellars Palma Ceia

Price: Moderate

American

Tampa

4.5

221 reviews

A chic spot for al fresco dining in a secluded wine garden, Cru Cellars Palma Ceia was founded in 2010 by Jennifer and Torrey Bingham. Diners can choose from a selection of curated food options, such as cheese curds, wild mushroom flatbread, and tuna tartare. A trip here would also not be complete without having a glass or two from the carefully selected wine menu. The interior has dark blue velour booths, brightly painted walls, and dim lighting, helping to create a stylish and warm atmosphere.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

CW's Gin Joint

Price: Expensive

Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service

Tampa

4.7

1000 reviews

Gin lovers certainly won’t want to miss out on going to CW's Gin Joint, which has been a Tampa favorite since it was opened in 2017 by Carolyn Wilson. Food options include treats like eggplant fries, fried artichoke, and pimento grilled cheese. With its luxurious bar and classy interior, the establishment truly has a retro vibe. There is often live jazz music playing during the evenings, so make sure to check and see if there will be a performance coming up.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Dessert Room at Bern's Steak House

Price: Moderate

Dessert

Tampa

4.7

202 reviews

Those with a sweet tooth will want to make sure that they go to the Dessert Room, which is connected to Bern's Steak House. Cozily nested in a private area that is built from wine casks, this room serves a variety of decadent dessert options that are handmade from the finest ingredients available. Keep in mind that a separate reservation needs to be made for both Bern's Steak House and the Dessert Room.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Donatello

Price: Very Expensive

Italian

Tampa

4.7

2841 reviews

A high quality Italian restaurant that is placed in the heart of the city, Donatello has been impressing diners’ taste buds since it was opened in 1984 by Guido Tiozzo. On the menu, individuals will find classics like Capelli al Pomodoro, twin beef tenderloin medallions, and Calamari Amalfitana. The interior is reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria, with rich colors and sleek wooden tables. There is also a live music lounge connected to the restaurant, where jazz artists frequently play.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

edison: food+drink lab

Price: Expensive

Global, International

Tampa

4.7

3782 reviews

Known for being a charming gastropub that specializes in American plates, edison: food+drink lab has been a Tampa hotspot ever since it was opened in 2012 by chef Jeannie Pierola. Popular food options include confit pork belly wellington, seared American red snapper, and summer truffle lobster bisque. The cozy interior is filled with leather, wood tables, and modern lighting fixtures that help to make it bright and airy. edison: food+drink lab is also known for its creative cocktails, some of which are the Mule Rider, Endless Summer, and Tennessee Field.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Ella's American Folk Art Cafe

Price: Expensive

American

Tampa

4.8

960 reviews

Found in the neighborhood of Seminole Heights, Ella's American Folk Art Cafe is a cozy restaurant that specializes in American comfort food and was first opened in 2009 by Ernie Locke and Melissa Deming. Favorite items include choices such as meatloaf, smoked salmon, and mushroom steak pie. Inside has plenty of natural lighting, as well as large and comfortable booths that are great for sitting with a group of friends or loved ones. It also doubles as an art gallery and live music can usually be enjoyed on the weekends.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Forbici Modern Italian Restaurant

Price: Expensive

Unspecified

Tampa

4.7

1447 reviews

One of the most popular Italian restaurants in Tampa, Forbici Modern Italian Restaurant was founded by Jeff Gigante and has become a beloved establishment amongst locals. The menu contains a variety of classic dishes, such as eggplant lasagna, veal, and margherita pizzas. The interior is comfortable yet stylish, with a large bar and chandelier that are sure to impress diners. Make sure to check out the extensive wine list as there are numerous options to choose from.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Goody Goody Burgers

Price: Moderate

Burgers

Tampa

4.7

26 reviews

Since it was first opened in 1925, Goody Goody Burgers has become a classic establishment that is known for its American dishes, such as its famous hamburgers. On the menu, diners will also find items like pancakes, patty melts, and southern fried chicken. The interior is reminiscent of an old diner, giving individuals a nostalgic and at home feeling. They are particularly popular for their breakfast, which can be a nice alternative to dinner.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

La Casa Della Pasta

Price: Moderate

Italian

Tampa

4.8

250 reviews

Founded in 2006, La Casa Della Pasta serves a selection of fresh Italian items that are a unique twist on classic dishes. On the menu, there are options such as linguine ai frutti di mare, risotto ai funghi, and veal scaloppini. The interior decorations are warm and bright, immediately making diners feel comfortable. Check out the extensive wine menu, which also features a selection of rich and tasty dessert wines.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Luv Child

Price: Moderate

Cuban

Tampa

4.7

75 reviews

A brightly colored restaurant that serves Cuban specialties, Luv Child opened in 2019 by Luis Flores. Choose from unique items on the menu such as crispy brussels sprouts, poblano queso, and a cubano sandwich. The interior is particularly eye-catching, as it features bright floral decorations and will remind individuals of a 1970s-themed diner. For a fun experience, make sure to go to one of the drag brunches that are hosted at the restaurant on the weekends.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Michael's Grill

Price: Moderate

Seafood

Tampa

4.8

1169 reviews

Michael's Grill, which is located in the neighborhood of Carrollwood, serves traditional American cuisine and has been open since 2000. Choose from popular items such as the honey bourbon salmon, petite filet mignon, and chicken mac n cheese. The inside has large tables that are perfect for dining with groups. There is also a large granite bar which is a nice area to enjoy one of the craft cocktails that the restaurant has become so popular for.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Pane Rustica

Price: Expensive

Fusion / Eclectic

Tampa

4.8

1254 reviews

For tasty bread and Italian food, head to Pane Rustica, which was opened by Kevin Kruszewski in 1999. Featured items on the menu include pumpkin ravioli, fresh burrata, and a New York strip steak. The inside is filled with low lighting, plenty of candles, and intimate booths and tables that are ideal for both romantic dates or a group dinner with friends. Consider ordering an extra loaf of fresh bread to bring home as a snack for later.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Sacred Pepper

Price: Moderate

Contemporary American

Tampa

4.7

6099 reviews

Created by Candy DeBartolo in 2016, Sacred Pepper serves a selection of traditional American cuisine. Popular items on the menu include choices such as crab cakes, harvest peak oysters, and oak grilled Norwegian salmon. The inside is chic, with light colored furniture and modern decorations that help to give the restaurant a contemporary flair. There is also a separate wine lounge that is connected to the main restaurant, which is a convenient place to grab a glass of vino before dining.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Skipper’s Smokehouse

Price: Moderate

American

Florida

4.1

124 reviews

An iconic restaurant that serves a selection of Southern items, Skipper’s Smokehouse was first opened in 1980 by Vince McGilvra and Tom White. Menu items that are particularly popular amongst diners include choices like Skipper’s homemade chowder, the blackened grouper reuben sandwich, and the pulled pork sandwich. The interior of the restaurant is filled with decorative beach memorabilia and bright colors, giving it an upbeat ambiance. It’s particularly known for its live music, so make sure to check the establishment’s calendar to see who will be playing a show soon.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse Tampa

Price: Very Expensive

Brazilian Steakhouse

Tampa

4.8

3556 reviews

A Brazilian steakhouse that is known for its all-you-can-eat meals, Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse was opened by Alex Potrich in 2018. Diners can choose from a variety of unlimited meats, as well as chicken and seafood. There is also a bottomless salad bar that is often included in the all-you-can-eat dinners. The inside has rich red walls, dark wood furniture, and crisp white tablecloths.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Trattoria Pasquale

Price: Expensive

Italian

Tampa

4.8

920 reviews

Created by chef Luigi Cavallaro in 2012, Trattoria Pasquale has quickly become a favorite establishment amongst locals in Tampa. The menu is filled with tasty Italian classics, which include eggplant parmigiana, mozzarella caprese salad, ravioli ai funghi. Inside is similar to a traditional Italian trattoria, with a warm atmosphere that diners are sure to love. There is also an upstairs bar which is a nice place to grab a drink before sitting down to have dinner.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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Ulele

Price: Expensive

American

Tampa

4.7

12695 reviews

Located in the neighborhood of Tampa Heights, Ulele first opened in 2014 and serves a selection of Floridian food. On the menu, diners will find options such as alligator hush puppies, fresh oysters from the Gulf Coast, and seafood risotto. The inside of the restaurant has bright exposed brick, while there is a large outdoor bar that is a convenient spot to grab a cocktail. Diners will want to check out the beer list, as Ulele has its own on-site craft brewery that produces interesting beers for individuals to taste test.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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