When you find yourself in Tampa, Florida, one thing is certain – you’ll never be at a loss for delicious dining options. The city’s culinary scene is as diverse as its rich cultural tapestry, boasting an impressive array of restaurants that promise to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, authentic Italian, or inventive fusion cuisine, Tampa’s top eateries are sure to deliver unforgettable dining experiences. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through the Top 10 Restaurants in Tampa, where every meal becomes a memory.
#10 Ulele
Beginning our list is Ulele, nestled on the banks of the Hillsborough River. This unique establishment takes pride in celebrating the vibrant history of Tampa and the indigenous people of the region. Ulele specializes in Native American-inspired dishes and utilizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. The restaurant boasts an in-house brewery and a menu that showcases crowd-pleasers like the char-grilled oysters and the succulent Ulele Barbacoa. The blend of cultural depth and culinary craftsmanship makes Ulele a destination worth savoring.
#9 Oxford Exchange
The Oxford Exchange is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. With its British-inspired charm, this restaurant doubles as a bookstore and a boutique, offering guests an atmosphere unmatched anywhere else in Tampa. The atrium dining space, exuding old-world elegance, serves as the perfect backdrop for enjoying a weekend brunch. The menu is a delightful mix of classic and contemporary, with signature dishes like the OE Grilled Cheese and the Super Simple Fish. The Oxford Exchange is where good food meets grand ambiance, inviting you to linger over every bite and moment spent within its walls.
#8 Bern’s Steak House
No list of Tampa’s top restaurants would be complete without mentioning the legendary Bern’s Steak House. This icon of the Tampa dining scene has been serving up some of the finest cuts of aged steaks since 1956. Each visit to Bern’s is a ritualistic experience, from the extensive wine list that boasts over 6,800 unique selections to the indulgent dessert room upstairs. Dining at Bern’s is a timeless journey where each steak is cooked to absolute perfection, and every guest is treated like royalty.
#7 Edison: Food+Drink Lab
For those who appreciate innovation on a plate, Edison: Food+Drink Lab is your culinary laboratory. Helmed by the talented chef Jeannie Pierola, Edison pushes the boundaries of traditional flavors and textures, experimenting to create new and exciting dishes. Their ever-changing menu ensures that every visit is a fresh adventure. With edgy offerings like the Korean Fried Chicken and the Foie Gras “PB&J,” Edison proves that a meal can be as thrilling as it is satisfying.
#6 Oystercatchers
Perched at the edge of Tampa Bay, Oystercatchers is a haven for seafood aficionados. This restaurant capitalizes on its picturesque waterfront setting with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views. The menu is a tribute to the treasures of the sea, with clean, sophisticated flavors lifting up the natural goodness of their high-quality ingredients. Whether you opt for their delectable raw oysters or the seared Gulf Grouper, Oystercatchers will reel you in with its fresh fare and tranquil vibe.
#5 Columbia Restaurant
Dive into the heart of Spanish cuisine at Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant and one of the largest Spanish restaurants in the world. Established in 1905, this family-owned gem in Tampa’s historic Ybor City transports you straight to old-world Spain with its enchanting mosaic-tiled floors and authentic Flamenco dance performances. The extensive menu proudly presents traditional recipes, including the famous “1905” Salad, the Jamon Iberico, and a tantalizing selection of paellas. Columbia Restaurant is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience steeped in heritage and passion.
#4 On Swann
On Swann’s approach to contemporary American cuisine is reflective of Tampa’s cosmopolitan spirit. This modern kitchen and bar embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, promising diners a meal that’s both artful and responsibly curated. The ambiance strikes a balance between sophistication and casual comfort, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. Explore the depths of their craft with dishes like the House Pasta with lamb Bolognese or the Crispy Brussels Sprouts, each bursting with creativity and flavor.
#3 Rooster & the Till
Rooster & the Till is a true trailblazer in Tampa’s culinary landscape, offering a dynamic approach to modern American food. Cozy and intimate, this restaurant prides itself on a constantly evolving menu that reflects the best local produce and avant-garde taste profiles. The small plates are perfect for sharing and are designed to take diners on an epicurean adventure. Regular standouts include the Roasted Bone Marrow and Pork Belly, both exemplary of the restaurant’s dedication to excellent composition and uncompromising quality.
#2 Mise en Place
Mise en Place is Tampa’s poster child for New American cuisine infused with global influences. With a focus on providing an immaculate gastronomic experience, the restaurant lives by the philosophy suggested by its name—a phrase that chefs use to describe the preparation and organization needed to create a dish. The innovative menu, curated by Chef Marty Blitz, features a selection of exciting items such as the signature Grouper Pumpkin Seeds and the Beet Tartare. The warm, welcoming atmosphere, paired with the meticulous attention to detail, ensures a dining experience at Mise en Place is as seamless as it is memorable.
#1 The Refinery
At the top of our list is The Refinery, a restaurant that has consistently been at the forefront of Tampa’s food revolution. Under the guidance of Chef Greg Baker, The Refinery’s mission is to make high-end dining accessible and fun. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical food sourcing, the menus change weekly, harnessing the fresh flavors of the local market’s offerings. Dishes like the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Thighs and the inventive takes on classic desserts garner widespread acclaim. The laid-back atmosphere belies the serious quality and a culinary creativity that make The Refinery not just the best restaurant in Tampa, but a destination in its own right.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tampa’s vibrant restaurant scene is a testament to the city’s passion for great food and hospitality. From the historical charm of Columbia Restaurant to the cutting-edge cuisine of The Refinery, each establishment tells its own story through its menus and ambiance. Now that you’ve been introduced to the top 10 restaurants in Tampa, all that’s left is to go out and experience them for yourself. Happy dining!