8 Unique Restaurants in Tampa (Ultimate Foodie Spots)

Tampa’s food scene is a wild ride, blending diverse flavors with unforgettable vibes. From waterfront seafood joints to quirky spots that make every meal an experience, this city knows how to impress food lovers. Whether you’re into fresh Gulf Coast oysters, authentic Cuban sandwiches, or creative fusion dishes, Tampa serves up plates that are anything but boring.

Picture yourself enjoying sushi with skyline views at Ulele, feasting on barbecue at Columbia Restaurant, or diving into crazy milkshakes at Datz. Each spot tells its own story, giving you more than just a meal—it’s an adventure on a plate.

If you’re ready to explore Tampa’s most unique foodie spots, buckle up for a journey through the city’s boldest, tastiest, and most exciting restaurants. Let’s dig into Tampa’s ultimate dining scene!

👉 Pro Tip: The Historic Ybor City Food Tour is a must for food lovers! Try iconic eats like Cuban sandwiches and deviled crab while exploring Ybor’s rich history. Ask your guide for extra food tips to keep the adventure going!

Unique Restaurants in Tampa

Are you ready to discover the most unique restaurants in Tampa? As mentioned earlier, there’s a wide array of places to eat in Tampa that will please everyone. Keep reading to find out where to eat in Tampa, Florida.

Are you looking for a tropical escape with Caribbean-inspired dishes? Or would you prefer a futuristic dining experience that transports you to another galaxy? Whatever your palate desires, Tampa can accommodate your needs. Here’s your in-depth guide to the most unique restaurants in Tampa, FL.

1. Ulele

• 📍 Location: Tampa Heights (Tampa Riverwalk)
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Native-Inspired Florida Cuisine / Seafood / Grill
• 🔥 Standout Features: Native Florida-inspired dishes, on-site brewery, barbacoa grill, fresh oysters, beautiful riverfront setting.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Unique Florida flavors, craft beer fans, waterfront dining, oyster lovers, and scenic meals.

Set in a restored powerhouse on the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele celebrates Florida’s native ingredients with a fiery twist. Inspired by indigenous cooking, the menu features unique dishes cooked on a massive barbacoa grill. They also brew their own excellent beers!

Their charbroiled oysters, topped with garlic butter and Parmesan, are a must-try. The alligator hush puppies with a spicy aioli, or fresh Florida pompano grilled on the barbacoa, are also fantastic. The setting is gorgeous, with stunning river views.

2. Babushka’s

• 📍 Location: Temple Terrace / Hyde Park
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Russian / Eastern European Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Russian/Eastern Euro food, cozy/kitschy decor, pierogies/borscht focus, infused vodkas.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Eastern European food fans, pierogi lovers, cozy vibes, unique comfort food, and trying infused vodka.

Get a taste of authentic Russian comfort food at Babushka’s. This cozy spot charms with its slightly kitschy, homey decor and serves up hearty, traditional Eastern European dishes made with love. Don’t skip their selection of house-infused vodkas!

Expect classics like pillowy pierogies (potato and cheese or meat are popular). Flavorful borscht (beet soup) with a dollop of sour cream, or their rich beef stroganoff, are also satisfying plates that warm the soul. It feels like dining at your cool Russian grandma’s.

3. Columbia Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Ybor City
• 💲 Price range: $35 – $70 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Spanish / Cuban
• 🔥 Standout Features: Florida’s oldest restaurant (1905), stunning historic building/tilework, flamenco shows, 1905 Salad, tableside sangria.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History buffs, Spanish/Cuban food lovers, experiencing classic Tampa, dinner & a show, and group celebrations.

Dine amidst history at the Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant (since 1905)! Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time, with gorgeous Spanish tilework and ornate decor. It’s an absolute classic, with live flamenco dancing shows many nights.

The menu features traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine. Ordering the famous “1905 Salad”, tossed tableside, is essential. Savor delicious paella “a la Valenciana”, or the tender snapper Alicante (baked in a rich almond sauce). Get a pitcher of their sangria!

4. Chanta

• 📍 Location: South Tampa
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: European / Romanian / Mediterranean / Eastern European
• 🔥 Standout Features: Family-owned (Grandma cooks!), authentic European dishes, fresh bread, cozy vibe, outdoor seating.
• 🎯 Perfect For: European food fans, cozy dinners, trying Romanian dishes, hidden gem seekers, and family-run spot lovers.

Welcome to a slice of little Europe at Chanta! This charming spot is family-owned, and Grandma is often in the kitchen cooking dishes made with passion and tradition. It feels like a warm and hospitable home, serving authentic European cooking.

Expect delicious, homemade goodness. Their freshly baked bread is a wonderful start. For mains, consider traditional Romanian sarmale (cabbage rolls). Hearty stews like goulash, or perhaps chicken paprikash, are also excellent. It’s a cozy hidden gem.

5. Dio Modern Mediterranean

• 📍 Location: Downtown Tampa
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Mediterranean / Greek Inspired
• 🔥 Standout Features: Contemporary take on Mediterranean, stylish downtown setting, craft cocktails, lively bar/lounge area.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Modern Mediterranean fans, stylish downtown dining, craft cocktail seekers, group hangs, and pre/post-event bites.

Experience Mediterranean flavors with a contemporary twist at Dio Modern Mediterranean in Downtown Tampa. This stylish spot offers a modern interpretation of Greek and Mediterranean classics, focusing on fresh ingredients and updated presentations. The ambiance is chic and modern.

Think elevated takes on dips like creamy hummus or whipped feta with pita. Flavorful skewers (chicken, beef, or lamb), fresh Greek salads with calamata olives, or creative entrees like pastitsio (Greek lasagna) are great choices.

6. Gaspar’s Grotto

• 📍 Location: Ybor City
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Pub Fare / Bar Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Pirate theme bar/restaurant, multiple bars/patio areas, casual pub grub, live music, Gasparilla central.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Pirate theme lovers, casual Ybor hangs, live music fans, day drinking/patio fun, and Gasparilla revelers.

Ahoy, mateys! Dive into Tampa’s pirate spirit at Gaspar’s Grotto, a sprawling, multi-bar institution in Ybor City. This place fully embraces the Gasparilla legend with pirate decor galore, creating a fun, kitschy, and always lively atmosphere.

Expect straightforward pub grub. Their burgers, like the “Grotto Burger,” are a popular choice. Crispy chicken wings with various sauces, or sandwiches like a Tampa-style Cuban, are also good to fuel your swashbuckling. They feature live music.

7. SpookEasy Lounge

• 📍 Location: Ybor City
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Kava & Botanical Bar / Tea Lounge
• 🔥 Standout Features: Spooky gothic/burlesque theme, kava/kratom/botanical teas, unique non-alcoholic drinks, themed events/performances.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Kava/kratom curious, unique lounge vibes, spooky/gothic theme fans, non-alcoholic hangs, and alternative nightlife.

Looking for a different kind of buzz? Step into the shadows at SpookEasy Lounge in Ybor City. This unique spot combines a gothic, burlesque-inspired aesthetic with a focus on kava, kratom, and other botanical teas known for their relaxing or uplifting effects.

The menu centers on expertly prepared traditional and flavored kava and kratom drinks. They also offer unique botanical tea mocktails. The atmosphere is dark, with spooky decor and oddities. It’s a one-of-a-kind lounge experience.

8. Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar

• 📍 Location: South Tampa (Inside Epicurean Hotel)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Modern American / International Influences
• 🔥 Standout Features: Chic hotel dining (Epicurean), elevated American classics, global flavors, buzz-worthy vibe, SoHo scene.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Upscale SoHo dining, special occasions, hotel guests/visitors, sophisticated brunch, and refined food lovers.

Inside the foodie-focused Epicurean Hotel, Élevage takes classic American dishes and gives them a serious glow-up. They obsess over ingredients, refine recipes, and elevate familiar flavors with global tastes. The dishes are aesthetically beautiful works of art.

Consider their popular Élevage Burger with truffle fries. For dinner, the pan-seared scallops or a perfectly cooked New York strip are excellent. Their Sunday brunch, featuring creative Benedicts, is also a highlight. It’s a sophisticated dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unique Restaurants in Tampa

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Tampa? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Tampa’s most unusual restaurants.

What food is Tampa best known for?

Tampa is renowned for its Cuban sandwiches, made with layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between slices of Cuban bread. Additionally, Tampa’s seafood scene is vibrant, with dishes like grouper sandwiches and stone crab claws being local favorites. The city also has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and flavorful brews.

Where are the best areas to stay in Tampa for food lovers?

Tampa is a paradise for food enthusiasts, with diverse culinary offerings spread across the city. If you’re wondering where to stay to be close to the best dining experiences, here’s a quick guide:

1. Ybor City: Known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter, this historic neighborhood offers a range of unique restaurants in Tampa, from Cuban eateries to modern fusion joints.
2. Hyde Park: A trendy area with a mix of upscale restaurants and casual bistros. Perfect for those searching for the best fine dining restaurants in Tampa.
3. Channelside: Located near the port, it’s the go-to place for fresh seafood and boasts some of the best places to eat in Tampa, FL.
4. Seminole Heights: A hipster haven with a plethora of unique places to eat in Tampa, including vegan cafes, artisanal bakeries, and craft breweries.

Is Tampa a foodie city?

Yes, Tampa has steadily emerged as a foodie destination in recent years. Its culinary scene is a delightful blend of its rich history, diverse cultures, and the bounty of fresh produce from both the land and sea. Here’s why Tampa is a foodie city:

1. Historical Culinary Roots: Tampa’s Ybor City, once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World,” has a deep-rooted Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influence. This history is deliciously evident in its iconic Cuban sandwiches, deviled crab rolls, and Spanish tapas.
2. Seafood Galore: Being a coastal city, Tampa offers a plethora of fresh seafood options. Oysters, grouper, and stone crab are just a few local favorites that foodies can savor.
3. Innovative Chefs: A new wave of chefs and restaurateurs have made Tampa their home, bringing innovative dining concepts and turning the city into a culinary hotspot. They often blend traditional flavors with modern techniques, creating unique dining experiences.
4. Craft Beer Scene: Tampa’s craft beer scene is among the best in the Southeast. With numerous award-winning breweries, it’s a paradise for beer enthusiasts.
5. Diverse Cuisine: Beyond its traditional offerings, Tampa boasts a wide range of international cuisines, from Asian fusion to Mediterranean, reflecting the city’s diverse population.
6. Local and Sustainable: Many restaurants in Tampa emphasize farm-to-table dining, sourcing ingredients locally and ensuring both freshness and sustainability.
7. Food Festivals and Events: Tampa hosts a variety of food and wine festivals, celebrating its culinary diversity and attracting food lovers from all over.
8. Burgeoning Food Halls: Places like Armature Works and Sparkman Wharf offer a communal dining experience where foodies can sample a variety of dishes all under one roof.

Is Tampa a good place for vegan and vegetarian diners?

Absolutely! Tampa is becoming increasingly vegan-friendly, with a growing number of restaurants catering to plant-based diets. From dedicated vegan spots like Vegan Valley to mainstream restaurants offering extensive vegan menus, there’s no shortage of options. Those on the hunt for the best vegan restaurants in Tampa will be pleasantly surprised by the variety and creativity on offer.

Where do celebrities eat in Tampa?

Tampa, with its growing reputation as a culinary hotspot, has seen its fair share of celebrities dining out. While celebrities can be spotted at various locations depending on their personal preferences, events, or recommendations, there are a few establishments that have a reputation for attracting the famous and elite. Here are some of the places where you may find celebrities in Tampa:

1. Bern’s Steak House: This iconic Tampa restaurant has a vast wine collection and impeccable steaks. Its reputation often draws celebrities who are in town.
2. Ulele: Located on the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele offers native-inspired dishes and has seen a mix of local and visiting celebrities.
3. Ocean Prime: This upscale steak and seafood restaurant, located in the International Plaza, offers elegant ambiance and has been a choice for many celebrities.
4. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood: Offering prime seafood and steaks, Eddie V’s sophisticated setting attracts those looking for a fine dining experience.
5. Ciro’s Speakeasy and Supper Club: This prohibition-themed restaurant and bar require a password for entry, offering celebrities a more private and discreet dining option.
6. Donatello Italian Restaurant: An upscale Italian restaurant that has been a staple in Tampa for years and has hosted numerous celebrities.
7. Epicurean Hotel: The hotel’s restaurant, Élevage, and its rooftop bar, EDGE, attracts celebrities, especially those who choose to stay at this food-themed hotel. This is one of the most unique Tampa restaurants, hands down.

Are there any themed restaurants in Tampa?

Yes, Tampa offers a variety of themed dining experiences. From pirate-inspired eateries like Gaspar’s Grotto to futuristic spots like Galactic Grub, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for themed restaurants in Tampa, FL, you’re in for a treat, as the city offers a blend of history, fantasy, and culinary innovation. There are tons of Florida hidden gems, particularly in the dining space!

What’s the average cost of dining out in Tampa?

Dining costs in Tampa can vary widely based on the type of restaurant and its location. While there are plenty of high-end restaurants where a meal might cost upwards of $50 per person, there are also numerous cheap eats in Tampa, FL, where you can enjoy a hearty meal for under $10. The city offers a range of options to suit every budget.

Can I find international cuisine in Tampa?

Definitely! Tampa’s diverse population means that the city is home to a wide range of international cuisines. From authentic Italian pizzerias to vibrant Indian curry houses and everything in between, Tampa is a treasure trove for global flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, tacos, or Mediterranean mezze, Tampa has it all.

Does Tampa have a good food scene?

Absolutely! Tampa boasts a diverse and vibrant food scene that has been gaining recognition in recent years. The city’s rich cultural history, combined with its coastal location, has given rise to a culinary landscape that’s as varied as it is delicious.

1. Seafood Delights: Given its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa offers an abundance of fresh seafood. From casual shacks serving up fried grouper sandwiches to upscale restaurants offering sophisticated seafood dishes, there’s something for every seafood lover.
2. Cuban Influence: Tampa’s historic Ybor City is known for its Cuban heritage, and this is reflected in its food. You can’t visit Tampa without trying a Cuban sandwich, and there are plenty of places, both old and new, that claim to have the best in town.
3. Farm-to-Table Movement: Many Tampa restaurants prioritize locally-sourced ingredients, leading to innovative menus that change with the seasons. This emphasis on fresh, local produce ensures that dishes are as flavorful as they are sustainable.
4. Craft Breweries: Tampa’s craft beer scene is thriving. With numerous breweries and taprooms dotting the city, beer enthusiasts will find a wide variety of unique brews to sample.
5. Diverse Offerings: Beyond seafood and Cuban cuisine, Tampa offers a range of international foods. From authentic Italian to Thai, Vietnamese, and everything in between, the city’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse population.
6. Food Festivals: Tampa hosts several food festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from craft beer to vegan food, showcasing the city’s passion for good eats.