Tampa, Florida’s culinary scene is often overlooked but offers a rich array of dining options. From fine dining establishments to catering to diverse tastes and preferences, the city has much to offer discerning diners, standing out among its more famous neighbors.
Tampa’s vibrant local food culture blends diverse influences from Latin American, Caribbean, and Southern cuisines. With high standards of quality and creativity, these 15 exceptional restaurants in Tampa offer patrons nothing short of gastronomic excellence.
In this article, readers will find a curated selection of Tampa’s finest dining options. These top-notch eateries feature innovative chefs who showcase their talents through artfully prepared dishes made with fresh, locally and globally sourced ingredients. Partaking in these exquisite meals elevates any journey from enjoyable to truly memorable.
Whether seeking seafood delicacies masterfully presented or savory cuts of steak cooked to perfection, one will find inspiration for indulging in unparalleled dining experiences within the heart of this Floridian gem.
The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille, a premier fine dining establishment located in Tampa, Florida, offers its patrons an atmosphere of comfortable elegance.
Located within the International Plaza and Bay Street shopping center at 2223 NW Shore Blvd, this esteemed restaurant is easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike.
The interior design features African mahogany paneling and Art Deco chandeliers which create a warm and stately ambiance that complements the exquisite menu offerings.
Renowned for its dry-aged steaks, The Capital Grille also provides an impressive selection of fresh seafood dishes as well as an extensive wine list boasting world-class varieties.
Patrons can expect nothing less than exceptional service from knowledgeable staff who are attentive to each guest’s needs while maintaining a level of graciousness befitting such an establishment.
Operating hours cater to lunch and dinner services throughout the week with special hours on Sundays to accommodate those seeking a refined weekend brunch experience.
The Capital Grille stands out among other fine dining options in Tampa due to its combination of high-quality cuisine, sophisticated atmosphere, and impeccable service.
It is no surprise that this restaurant has garnered national acclaim for its dedication to providing guests with an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether visiting for business or pleasure, it is evident that choosing The Capital Grille will leave patrons feeling delightfully impressed by all aspects of their visit.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Located in the bustling Westshore district of Tampa, Florida, lies a culinary gem known as Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
This upscale establishment has earned its reputation for providing patrons with an exceptional dining experience that features prime cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and poultry dishes, alongside bountiful salads and side orders.
With an impressive selection of 100 fine wines available by the glass, discerning diners can effortlessly pair their meal with the perfect accompaniment to suit their palate.
The sophisticated ambiance at Fleming’s is complemented by impeccable service delivered by highly trained staff who are dedicated to ensuring every detail contributes to a memorable evening.
For those seeking a more intimate setting or hosting larger gatherings, three private dining rooms offer both seclusion and ample space for special occasions.
Patrons visiting on Saturdays or Sundays will also be delighted to find extended hours from 11:00 am onwards, allowing for leisurely afternoon feasts or early supper indulgences.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Tampa stands out for its delectable cuisine, extensive wine offerings, and commitment to exceptional guest experiences. It is a standout among other fine dining establishments in the city.
The combination of exquisite food, attentive service, and an inviting atmosphere make this restaurant an ideal choice for celebrations, business dinners, or simply savoring life’s pleasures over a sumptuous meal.
For those seeking premium steakhouse fare in Tampa, Fleming’s is a must-visit. It promises to be an exceptional stop on a gastronomic journey through the city’s diverse culinary scene.
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood in Tampa, Florida offers an unforgettable dining experience. Renowned for its delectable seafood dishes and top-quality meats, this esteemed establishment takes patrons on a culinary journey through a variety of flavors and textures, all within a luxuriously elegant ambiance.
Located at 4400 W Boy Scout Blvd, it offers a relaxing and sophisticated dining experience. The interior design blends sultry earth tones, vibrant artwork, and mixed wood finishes, creating a warm atmosphere that perfectly complements the exquisite cuisine.
Known for its enticing oyster bar selections, which are a highlight of their extensive menu. Alongside remarkable food quality and presentation, guests can enjoy daily Happy Hour specials starting at 4 PM, enhancing the fine-dining experience even further.
During Happy Hour, guests can enjoy specially priced signature cocktails and indulge in fresh seafood appetizers, creating a memorable dining experience in Tampa’s renowned gastronomic scene. Adding Eddie V’s to your itinerary is highly recommended for those seeking an extraordinary dining adventure.
Bern’s Steak House
Bern’s Steak House, located at 1208 S Howard Ave in Tampa, Florida, has been a prominent fine dining establishment since its inception in 1956. Renowned for providing guests with an unparalleled gastronomic experience rather than merely a meal, this esteemed restaurant boasts a rich history and exceptional culinary offerings.
At Bern’s Steak House, prime steaks are cut to order, guaranteeing freshness and quality. The restaurant also prioritizes locally sourced ingredients, including vegetables grown on their farm or obtained from trusted suppliers.
Offers an ambiance of elegance and sophistication, providing a welcoming atmosphere for all. Open during evenings from Tuesday to Sunday, this renowned establishment serves delectable cuisine. Given its popularity, reservations are highly recommended to secure a memorable dining experience.
In addition to its celebrated steaks, Bern’s Steak House offers an extensive menu with seafood and vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. This commitment to excellence ensures a delightful dining experience for all guests, regardless of their personal tastes or dietary restrictions.
For an unforgettable fine dining experience in Tampa, Bern’s Steak House is the ultimate destination, offering a gastronomic journey unlike any other.
Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime, located at the gateway to International Plaza in Tampa, Florida, offers an unparalleled fine dining experience that effortlessly combines exceptional cuisine with a sophisticated atmosphere.
This upscale restaurant is renowned for its exquisite seafood and steaks, attracting both locals and visitors seeking an unforgettable dining experience. With its contemporary design and vibrant ambiance, it offers a stylish setting for indulging in culinary delights.
The establishment offers a range of seating options to cater to different preferences, including elegant main dining areas, private rooms for special occasions, and a partially-enclosed outdoor terrace with stunning views of West Shore Boulevard, making it a versatile choice for various dining experiences.
To complete this luxurious experience, diners are treated to impeccable service by attentive staff members who strive to make each visit memorable.
Ocean Prime offers a comprehensive menu of fresh seafood, perfectly aged steaks, delectable appetizers, and irresistible desserts prepared by skilled chefs. Their extensive wine list provides excellent pairing options, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all guests.
It offers a chic lounge with live music and expertly crafted cocktails, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a sumptuous dining experience in Tampa. With its stylish ambiance and top-notch food and drinks, Ocean Prime stands out in the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Charley’s Steak House
Charley’s Steak House in Tampa, Florida is an iconic fine dining destination known for its exceptional quality and unparalleled taste. Established by the Woodsby family, who found success with Red Lobster, a visit to this renowned steakhouse is a must for any discerning diner in Tampa.
It stands out for its commitment to excellence in steak preparation. With a focus on sourcing the finest Midwest grain-fed USDA Prime & Choice beef and utilizing a unique open pit cooking method, each steak is expertly aged and flame-grilled to perfection, resulting in exceptional tenderness and flavor that sets Charley’s apart from other steakhouses.
It offers more than just exceptional steaks. With a focus on impeccable service and a sophisticated ambiance, guests are treated to a memorable dining experience that goes beyond the delicious food.
Located at 4444 W Cypress St in Tampa, it offers a remarkable dining experience with its culinary excellence, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere. Open from 5 PM to 9:30 PM (Sunday-Thursday) and until 10:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, it remains a preferred destination for discerning diners seeking an unforgettable meal in Tampa.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House, situated at 1700 N Westshore Blvd in Tampa, Florida, offers patrons the quintessential fine dining experience.
This esteemed establishment is renowned for its signature 500° sizzling plates and an award-winning wine list that caters to a diverse array of occasions.
Guests can expect superior service and an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Whether for a romantic dinner, business meeting, private party, or drinks at the bar, this premier steak house caters to various occasions with excellence.
This upscale eatery operates from Thursday to Wednesday with varying hours for lunch and dinner services.
With specific timings dedicated to different days of the week such as Friday evenings extending until 10:30 PM while Sunday brunch begins at 11 AM, Ruth’s Chris ensures it caters effectively to every patron’s schedule preferences.
The restaurant’s prime location within close proximity to major attractions adds further appeal for tourists and locals alike.
The unparalleled quality of steaks served at Ruth’s Chris Steak House demonstrates their unwavering commitment to providing guests with only the finest cuts of USDA Prime beef.
Diners can also indulge in mouth-watering seafood dishes, appetizing starters, delectable sides, and decadent desserts.
To enhance one’s meal even further, expert sommeliers are on hand offering personalized recommendations from their extensive wine collection which has garnered accolades over the years.
It is evident that an evening spent at Ruth’s Chris Steak House promises nothing short of culinary excellence combined with impeccable hospitality in Tampa, Florida.
Mise En Place
Mise en Place in Tampa offers a distinct and exciting Modern American culinary experience, showcasing a dynamic culinary landscape inspired by Chef’s passion for food.
Diners can expect to find flavors that celebrate the global community along Florida’s West Coast. Located at 442 W Grand Central Ave in Tampa, Mise en Place is independently owned and operated.
Mise en Place, an independently owned restaurant in Tampa, offers an exceptional dining experience with attentive service, high-quality dishes, and a diverse menu. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it provides a memorable experience for both lunch and dinner.
It offers a sophisticated and approachable dining experience with expertly crafted dishes that showcase regional and international flavors. Guests can expect top-notch service in an elegant atmosphere.
Those looking for an upscale dining option in Tampa should not miss experiencing Mise en Place’s unparalleled offerings within Florida’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
Rooster & The Till
Rooster & the Till in Tampa, Florida, is a contemporary fine dining restaurant located in Seminole Heights. It offers a captivating blend of Asian, Latin American, and Levantine flavors that excite and satisfy food enthusiasts.
It features a relaxed atmosphere with a central bar encircling an open kitchen. The ever-changing menu offers shareable plates with bold flavors and exquisite textures, creating a tantalizing gastronomic experience.
Rooster & the Till’s signature dish features sumac-flecked cauliflower with whipped goat’s milk feta and falafel-spiced dukkah, showcasing a fusion of cultural flavors. Seafood lovers enjoy the fried cobia collar with nuoc cham sauce, delivering robust and irresistible tastes.
Its tasting menu takes diners on an unforgettable culinary journey, featuring meticulously crafted courses that transport them through different cultures. Highlights include black sesame ice cream with pineapple-cashew jam and Thai tea caramel, creating a memorable dining experience.
With opening hours from Wednesday to Saturday evenings only, reservations are highly recommended for those seeking to embark on this extraordinary adventure at one of Tampa’s finest dining destinations.
Oak & Ola
Located at 1910 N Ola Ave in downtown Tampa, Oak & Ola provides a comfortable and timeless atmosphere for guests to enjoy thoughtfully sourced food and handcrafted beverages with friends and family.
Open for lunch and dinner throughout the week as well as brunch on Sundays, Oak & Ola presents its guests with an ever-changing menu that reflects seasonal ingredients and inspirations.
Oak & Ola’s dedicated chefs create dishes with bold flavors and a cohesive culinary experience. From charred octopus to pan-seared scallops and braised short ribs, their menu offers something for every taste.
Its commitment to excellence extends to its carefully curated selection of libations, perfectly complementing its savory cuisine.
Diners can choose from an extensive list of classic and original cocktails, as well as a carefully curated wine program, ensuring the perfect beverage pairing for their meal.
Those who embark on a gastronomic journey through Tampa would be remiss not to include Oak & Ola among their destinations.
Donatello Italian Restaurant
Donatello Italian Restaurant, located at 232 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, Florida, is a renowned establishment offering its patrons an authentic Northern Italian dining experience.
Emphasizing the use of fresh ingredients and homemade pasta, Donatello’s menu boasts a range of delectable dishes that cater to various palates.
Offering a diverse and enticing menu featuring dishes like baked oysters, linguine with clams, veal shank with saffron risotto, and sirloin steak with sweet peppers and olives, providing a wide range of delicious options for diners to enjoy.
The ambiance within Donatello Italian Restaurant exudes elegance and sophistication, providing guests with a refined environment to indulge in the exquisite cuisine.
The interior design showcases classic European aesthetics characterized by chandeliers, ornate mirrors, and plush velvet seating arrangements.
This setting contributes to creating an atmosphere conducive to celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a leisurely meal amidst opulent surroundings.
A testament to its commitment to quality food preparation and service excellence, Donatello has garnered numerous accolades over the years.
This renowned fine-dining venue sets the standard for culinary excellence, captivating discerning gourmands with its impeccable attention to detail and exceptional culinary execution.
Donatello Italian Restaurant not only excels in its main courses but also delights dessert enthusiasts with a delectable selection of treats, including chocolate mousse cake, tiramisu, and ricotta cheesecake, prepared fresh daily by talented pastry chefs.
Cw’s Gin Joint
CW’s Gin Joint, located in the heart of downtown Tampa, offers an authentic experience reminiscent of a bygone era when spirits were savored and conversations flourished.
This establishment aims to provide patrons with a sense of warmth and refinement while maintaining an atmosphere devoid of pretentiousness. The carefully preserved urban space sets the stage for guests to indulge in exquisite libations paired with delectable dishes crafted by expert culinary professionals.
Under the guidance of proprietor and designer Carolyn Wilson, CW’s Gin Joint in Tampa embodies her commitment to quality and elegance. Wilson’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the venue, ensuring a remarkable and refined experience for every guest.
From its décor inspired by times past to its extensive menu featuring both classic favorites and innovative concoctions, CW’s Gin Joint provides visitors with a truly memorable experience.
CW’s Gin Joint offers patrons a remarkable experience with an impressive liquor selection and a thoughtfully curated menu. From the beginning to the end of the evening, this establishment creates cherished moments reminiscent of savoring something rare and extraordinary.
The Gourmet Room
The Gourmet Room in Tampa, Florida offers an unparalleled gastronomic experience that satisfies discerning palates.
Offering a refined ambiance and exceptional service, this fine dining establishment has earned its reputation as one of the premier destinations for gourmet cuisine in the city.
The Gourmet Room showcases innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing seasonality and sustainability to celebrate the bounty of Tampa Bay’s fresh produce.
From delicate seafood creations to succulent meats prepared with precision, each dish is designed to tantalize taste buds while demonstrating artful presentation skills honed by skilled chefs.
At The Gourmet Room, patrons can indulge in delectable fare while enjoying an extensive wine list curated by expert sommeliers for perfect pairings with each course.
Experience a memorable evening of exquisite flavors and engaging conversation at The Gourmet Room in elegant surroundings, located in Tampa, Florida.
Élevage Soho Kitchen & Bar
Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar in Tampa, Florida offers a modern twist on classic dishes, utilizing locally sourced ingredients and refined techniques to create an upscale dining experience.
Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar offers an innovative menu crafted by talented chefs, appealing to locals and visitors. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (Mon-Fri: 7 am-3 pm, 5 pm-10 pm; Sat-Sun: 10 am-3 pm, 5 pm-10 pm), with diverse options for different tastes and diets.
Guests can enjoy exceptional customer service and attention to detail while savoring creatively prepared plates. The stylish and sophisticated ambiance makes it an ideal choice for special occasions, casual get-togethers, and business meetings, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Those seeking a remarkable gastronomic adventure amidst Tampa’s bustling food scene should certainly consider a visit to this esteemed establishment.
Rome + Fig
Step into Rome + Fig and immerse yourself in a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The coastal chic décor, complemented by carefully chosen vintage elements, creates a relaxing ambiance that sets the stage for savoring exquisite culinary delights.
An intimate view of the open kitchen allows diners a glimpse into the heart of this fine dining establishment, where experienced chefs artfully craft dishes inspired by global flavors.
At Rome + Fig, dining is more than a meal; it’s a chance to connect with loved ones and fellow food enthusiasts. Gather around the hand-selected community table, where innovative twists on classic favorites are enjoyed amidst shared stories and lively conversations.
Here, personal connections flourish among like-minded individuals who appreciate not only excellent food but also the intrinsic value of genuine human interaction.
The dedication to quality at Rome + Fig extends far beyond its cuisine. With owner-driven leadership informed by decades of industry expertise, patrons can expect attentive service from staff members eager to share their passion for all things gastronomic.
This commitment to creating unforgettable experiences ensures that each time one dines at Rome + Fig – be it for a leisurely weekend brunch or an elegant evening soiree – memories are made that will last long after the final morsel has been savored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food is Tampa best known for?
Tampa is best known for its delicious seafood dishes, particularly the iconic “stone crab” which is a local delicacy. Other popular foods in Tampa include Cuban sandwiches and key lime pie.
Why is fine dining expensive?
Fine dining is often expensive due to several factors. It involves high-quality ingredients, skilled chefs, meticulous preparation, attentive service, and the overall experience of dining in an upscale establishment.
What is so special about fine dining?
Fine dining offers a luxurious and memorable culinary experience with impeccable service, attention to detail, creative and artfully presented dishes, and an emphasis on high-quality ingredients. It is often associated with special occasions and celebrations.
Does Tampa have a good food scene?
Yes, Tampa has a thriving food scene with a diverse range of culinary options. From upscale fine dining establishments to casual eateries and food trucks, Tampa offers a wide variety of cuisines including seafood, Latin American, Cuban, and international flavors.