Tampa is no stranger to a thriving restaurant scene. From waterfront bistros to lauded steakhouses, cheffy originals and homestyle sandwich shops, there’s something for everyone here.
One dish that’s a Tampa classic is the Cuban sandwich. There’s something about Florida orange juice-soaked hot shredded pork, salami, and Swiss on pressed La Segunda Bakery Cuban bread that just can’t be beat.
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1.Rome + Fig.
Rome + Fig, the latest restaurant to open in Tampa’s blossoming North Hyde Park neighborhood, is a global bistro that promotes personal connection between guests and staff. Owners Kristine Zostant and Eric Zostant, both lifelong hospitality industry professionals, have a mission to create a place where family is welcome.
They’ve crafted a menu that nods to international cuisines while sourcing where possible from local farmers and fishmongers. The eatery features coastal chic accents, a hand-curated vintage community table and an intimate view of the open kitchen.
The fig is one of the world’s oldest cultivated fruit and has left evidence of its importance in art, religion and culture since the dawn of time. They’ve been a symbol of wealth and abundance for the ancient Egyptians, an omen for the Romans and a source of inspiration for many philosophers.
In ancient Rome, figs were considered a symbol of fertility and were served with cheese or fish in sumptuous feasts but they were also appreciated by less well-off classes because of their energetic properties. Emperor Augustus even ate dried figs and Gallienus included them in his meals.
2.Spinners Rooftop Grille.
A staple of the Bellwether Hotel & Beachfront Resort since it opened in 1990, Spinners Rooftop Grille is a rotating dining wonderland that wows guests with its 360-degree views of the Gulf and Boca Ciega Bay. It’s no wonder that it has received a solid 5 star rating from OpenTable diners, and it’s a destination for Tampa Bay locals looking to impress their beach bum friends.
Located on the 12th floor of the towering building, Spinners is a must-visit when visiting St. Pete Beach. You’ll want to make sure you’ve got a reservation before you head over, and be prepared for an experience like no other.
You can’t go wrong with a drink at Spinners’s upscale rooftop lounge, Level 11, but you’ll definitely need to book a table. If you’re planning on taking in the scenery, you’ll want to grab a seat at one of the tables overlooking the water, and order a coffee liar from their menu. It’s the best way to see Spinners’s signature sunset cocktails, plus they also offer a few other beverages to keep you entertained until your meal arrives.
3.Goody Goody Burgers.
Originally opened in Tampa in 1925, Goody Goody Burgers offers diner favorites including the Original POX burger with hand-cut onion rings or fries. It is also known for its great selection of breakfast and brunch menu items at budget-friendly prices.
This diner from prolific restaurateur Richard Gonzmart is located in Hyde Park Village and has a wonderful old-style diner atmosphere. It is also a popular choice for family gatherings and parties.
The menu at this restaurant features all American diner food including burgers and pies. Its signature dish is the POX burger with pickles, onions and fabled secret sauce.
It is also known for their butterscotch pie and coconut cream pie. It is also a popular spot for chicken tenders and cheese fries.
The burgers at this restaurant are made from fresh ground beef without any filler. It also has a delicious chicken sandwich that is made from chicken breast, bacon and cheese. It has a large variety of drinks including root beer, lager and Mimosas. It also has an extensive kids’ menu.
4.Oxford Exchange.
A unique combination of dining, coffee, tea, unique retail, a gorgeous bookstore, and work space. It is a community hub unlike anything else in Tampa!
Originally built as a stable in 1891, the building had a number of transformations throughout its 122 year history. In the 1920s, an arcade of shops occupied the center of the space, a feature that was echoed in the current design.
Brothers Blake Casper and Allison Adams have sought to revitalize this building, and their efforts have resulted in a vibrant space that is both engaging and unique. Since opening its doors in 2012, Oxford Exchange has established itself as a beloved local spot.
The eatery serves a variety of meals, including breakfast, brunch and lunch. Its brunch menu is a mix of traditional and more modern items, while its lunch menu focuses on sandwiches and salads. The restaurant also features a delectable afternoon tea.
5.Zukku Sushi.
Zukku Sushi is a quick-service restaurant that offers sushi, poke bowls and sushi burritos. Customers order online and then wait for their meal to be ready. You can choose from a variety of proteins, toppings and sauces for your eats, such as spicy tuna, fresh salmon or
shrimp tempura. The menu also allows you to ‘create your own’, where you can mix and match ingredients to create your own poke bowl or sushi burrito. The prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is cozy.
6.Noble Crust.
Noble Crust is an Italian restaurant that has a Southern twist to it. Its menu is constantly changing with the seasons so that you’ll never know where Italian ends and Southern starts. This is the type of place where you’ll feel at home and be welcomed with a smile by the staff. The atmosphere is polished yet homely, making it a great choice for a date night
or a casual lunch. I’ve been to Noble Crust several times and recommend it to all of my friends. The food is outstanding and the service was top notch. I hope to visit again soon!
7.Council Oak Steaks and Seafood.
Steaks and seafood are the name of the game at this stylish steak house. Executive chef and owner Jason Hedin is at the helm of a glassed-in kitchen that gives diners a glimpse into his culinary creations as they come to life. The snazzy menu consists of tantalizing appetizers and main courses that are sure to please the most discriminating eater.
In addition to a stellar menu, Council Oak boasts an impressive beverage program. Its bar features well-known and approachable liquors, along with an exclusive list of high-end spirits. A smattering of high-tech fixtures such as a state-of-the-art J&R wood fire grill and Josper coal oven help bring out the flavors in a variety of dishes. The restaurant also has a surprisingly large wine selection, including several cool veg-forward options like ember-roasted beet and Tuscan kale salads. The restaurant also has a number of private rooms, including the impressive-looking semi-private dining room that can accommodate up to 16 guests. The red velvet banquettes make for a classy night out with a capital M.
8.Gigglewaters Social Club and Screening Room
Located in downtown Safety Harbor, Gigglewaters is a speakeasy, restaurant and mini-movie theater all rolled into one. The space has some modern industrial touches like tin ceilings and Edison lighting, but it’s not at all pretentious or overly stuffy.
The menu is a mix of classic bar food with a southern comfort twist, all served with upscale cocktails. It’s a place where the waiters are enthusiastic and attentive, which makes for an awesome experience.
If you’re looking for a new place to go for lunch or dinner in Tampa, you should check out Gigglewaters. It serves up delicious pure Wagyu beef burgers, bacon-wrapped deep fried quarter pound hot dogs and a huge cocktail list.
The bar area is a little smaller than your average neighborhood bar, but the owners have done a lot with their small space. They even have a 32-seat screening room that is set to begin screening classic and cult movies in July.
