Florida’s biggest Gulf Coast city is absolutely booming as one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in Florida. And when it comes to where to eat, there are more exciting options than ever before when it comes to Tampa restaurants. Every time we turn around, there’s a new opening along Water Street Tampa, in Hyde Park Village, or in the Heights. It can be hard to keep up with the latest and greatest spot — not to mention all the longstanding favorite spots to eat in Tampa. So allow us do some of the homework for you. Read on as we take a look at seven truly great — and delicious — places to eat in and around downtown Tampa right now.
Columbia Restaurant
Just northeast of downtown, the Columbia Restaurant is in the center of Tampa’s National Historic District, Ybor City. The restaurant has a rich history as it is the oldest restaurant in Florida and the world’s largest Spanish restaurant, not to mention iconic among Tampa restaurants. It encompasses an entire block and has 15 dining rooms, each with a unique history and look. In each room, you can enjoy a view of interesting architecture and artwork.
Columbia restaurant is a fun place to enjoy Spanish-Cuban cuisine and gain an experience that reflects five generations of family ownership. The restaurant features a Flamenco dinner show with an $8 cover charge per person Monday through Saturday. They also have live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Columbia Restaurant Group runs another fun restaurant in Ybor City, Casa Santo Stefano. The Sicilian-themed restaurant was created as a salute to family, friendship and community. Both restaurants provide an enriching atmosphere, paying tribute to the Cuban, Spanish and Sicilian immigrants who helped build Tampa and Ybor City.
Eddie & Sam’s N. Y. Pizza
Eddie & Sam’s has offered the most delicious New York-style pizza since 1982, staking its claim amongst downtown Tampa restaurants for more than 40 years. The shop’s iconic crust, huge slices and interesting toppings — like lasagna, buffalo chicken and chicken parmigiana — will leave you wanting more. There’s a lively and enjoyable atmosphere that is great for spending time with family and friends, and it’s a great place for quick service if you’re on your way to a game or a show at Amalie Arena.
Ulele
On the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele features local flavors celebrating the fusion of ingredients like fruits, vegetables and seafood. Inside, the space is filled with art commissioned especially for the restaurant, as well as from the founders’ private collection. All of the furnishings, accent pieces and décor are designed by local artists and artisans.
Ulele is a great place to visit if you fancy a pre or post-meal stroll, too, as it’s right near Armature Works and just minutes from the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Enjoy great indoor dining, or grab a table outside for a great view of the Hillsborough River and Tampa Riverwalk.
American Social Bar & Kitchen
American Social Bar & Kitchen features modern American cuisine with a twist, and is a terrific place to eat in Tampa. The atmosphere is unmatched, with views of the Tampa skyline and waterfront, and indoor and outdoor seating, which is great for large groups. With food and festivities, American Social seamlessly mixes dining and nightlife with a great dining experience served up with live music. Hit up the Social Hour Monday through Friday for $6 margaritas and house wines, and $10 speciality cocktails. Saturday and Sunday brunch features flavorful mimosas and unique menu items like Fruity Pebbles Chicken and Waffles.
7th + Grove
7th + Grove, an upscale southern restaurant and lounge in Ybor City, is a one-stop shop that features lunch, dinner, social hour, late-night and weekend brunch. The culturally-immersive setting offers fantastic food and vibes in a space that’s bright and lively, with beautiful décor and art on the walls. The restaurant is divided into two parts: a traditional dining area and a lounge. The menu showcases rich flavors, and the ambiance invents a space for creating unforgettable moments. Live music plays every other Wednesday, and karaoke on select Thursdays.
Green Lemon
Located in the heart of Soho, Green Lemon is a spot for fun, modern Mexican cuisine with beautiful artwork, excellent service and a welcoming environment. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, Green Lemon is the place for a fiesta every day. The menu matches the exciting vibe, with fiesta bowls, loaded papas fritas, street tacos and more. The restaurant is also centrally located in South Tampa, just 15 minutes from Sparkman Wharf and even closer to Hyde Park Village, a great spot featuring bold art, local shops, fashion and more.
Oxford Exchange
At the edge of downtown Tampa, Oxford Exchange serves weekday breakfast and lunch, weekend brunch and afternoon tea in a space that’s part coffee shop, part bookstore and part restaurant with an art-filled dining room and Champagne bar. Among the most popular of Tampa restaurants, Oxford Exchange features vegan and gluten-free options, with various options for their guests to grab a quick bite from the café, or dine at the sit-down restaurant.
Did we miss your favorite? Let us know!
