BEST OF METRO: The Best Restaurants and Bars in Tampa Bay

Salt Shack On The Bay
Best Bar with Sunset Views
Tucked in a parcel of paradise on Old Tampa Bay lies this waterfront eatery and bar. The refreshing cocktails and beers paired with fresh seafood and open water views have guests coming back. Pull up by boat, or on land, to relax at this oasis in the city.
813.444.4569; www.salt-shack.com

Oak & Ola
Best EuroAmerican Restaurant
Comforting through culinary expression and the timeless design, Oak & Ola yearns for patrons to feel at home while they delve into an array of European delicacies. Drink, dine and enjoy the surrounding Armature Works.
813.773.1901; www.oakandola.com

Lilac
Best Upscale Pre Fixe Dinner
A new upscale Michelin starred restaurant in the Tampa food scene, Lilac has been integrating Chef John Fraser’s vegetable forward menu. Highlighting modern Mediterranean fare in an elevated, convivial space, this is a great culinary adventure. Reservations are a must and they fill up quick.
813.771.8022; www.lilacrestauranttampa.com

Mandarin Hide
Best Cocktail Culture
Known as St. Pete’s original cocktail bar, this Central Ave. refined bar yields some tasty concoctions. If the drink menu does not have an option that is appealing, ask the bartender to custom-craft a drink that suits a preference.
727.440.9231; www.mandarinhide.com

Olivia
Best Modern Italian
It’s a family affair with Chris & Michelle Ponte, and son JT Mahony, operating the restaurant named after their daugher, Olivia. Their vision brings out the best in southern and northern Italian cuisine. Enjoy delicious handmade pasta, pizza, steak & seafood in a casual, yet chicly sophisticated atmosphere. Open for dinner and brunch on the weekends.
813.328.8866; www.oliviatampa.com

M. Bird
Best Tampa Rooftop Bar
Perched above Armature Works, enjoy views of the waterfront and vibrant sunsets. The vibe is luxurious and tropical. Sip on a cocktail that is both tasty and gorgeous, and try a few sharable plates to satisfy your hunger like Rooftop Mac N Cheese or the M-Burger.
813.296.2702; www.mbirdtampa.com

Boulon Brasserie & Bakery
Best Modern French Cuisine
A center piece on the culinary front since its inception in the Water Street area, Boulon boasts an elegant interior with light airy tones throughout. French classics with a modern interpretation is their specialty. This concept is sure to provide an exceptional experience, along with delicious breads and pastries from the Boulon Bakery.
813.768.9988; www.boulontampa.com

Timpano Hyde Park
Best Contemporary Rustic Italian Flavors
This Hyde Park Village staple draws crowds nightly and it comes as no secret. The menu offerings, atmosphere and service solidifies itself as a force in the Tampa food scene. Veal Parm, any of their specialty pasta dishes or sides are also a great menu go to.
813.254.5870; www.timpanohydepark.com

Buya Ramen
Best Ramen Bar
A renowned Ramen bar with locations around the world offers Izakaya (small share) plates and top notch ramen dishes. The concept aims to connect people through food over conversation with friends and strangers alike.
727.202.7010; www.buyarestaurants.com

Tryst Gastro Lounge
Best Rendezvous Point for Cocktail on Beach Drive
Whether it’s date night or drinks out with friends, Tryst offers a fresh farm to table culinary approach and adds uniquely designed cocktails for your enjoyment. Steps away from the vibrant St. Pete night life and Pier, this gastro lounge sets itself apart from other local eateries with aesthetics, culinary exploration and libations earning Tryst plenty of awards.
727.821.4567; www.dinetryst.com

Restaurant BT
Best Vietnamese Flavors
Inspired classic French-Vietnamese cuisine is curated in a sleek zen-like atmosphere. Owner BT Nguyen prides herself on providing the essentials, and more, as she pays homage to her culture’s pride and joy. Private dining is available. Light, subtle and elegant are the main descriptors of what to expect dining at BT.
813.258.1916; www.restaurantbt.com

Rome & Fig
Best Global Bistro
A common theme and mantra here is, locally sourced and globally inspired. Operating with service that makes you feel welcomed, and a part of the family, is complimented by the elevated foods with a modern twist. Sit at the community table and make new friends over a crafted cocktail. The Espresso Martini is a great pick-me-up, along with an Old Fashioned or Martini.
813.253.3353; www.romeandfigbistro.com

Meat Market
Best Contemporary Steakhouse
Packed most nights, its popularity is undeniable, so be sure to secure a reservation. With a swank interior, this hotspot for camaraderie and stellar steaks never ceases to amaze. Break bread in the luxe dining or the outdoor dining while enjoying the flavors of the night. Save room for dessert with the classic Cookies and Milk, or warm Cinnamon Roll to satisfy the sweet tooth.
813.280.1113; www.meatmarket.net/location/meat-market-tampa

Cru Cellars
Best Boutique Wine Bar
Whether you’re hosting get togethers or a wineaux at heart, this unique experience with curated food and wine will delight. Dine, drink and discover. The attention to detail and product knowledge is key to their continuous growth.
813.831.1117; www.crucellarstampa.com

Hula Bay Club
Best Laid Back Waterfront Eatery
Hawaiian themed bar and grill features fresh sushi, seafood and delicious hamburgers all while enjoying the scenic waterfront. Discover Dukes bar, a great way to cool down, enjoy live music and a sunset.
813.837.4852; www.hulabayclub.com

Splitsville Southern + Social
Best Place for Bowling and Games
The bowling alley, menu and vibe allows a great time pairing craft brews with conversation and games. Billiards, darts, skeeball, foosball and other games are available to test your talent among friends, coworkers or other patrons.
813.514.2695; www.splitsvillelanes.com

Mise En Place
Best Modern American Cuisine
Pioneering the Tampa food scene since 1986, the ever evolving menu features changes based on freshness of ingredients and seasonal availabilities. Owners Chef Marty Blitz and Maryann Ferenc take great pride in offering an unforgettable culinary getaway in the heart of Tampa. The remodeled dining room provides a contemporary feel.
813.254.5373; www.miseonline.com

Datz
Best Foodie Fix
A foodie destination ahead of its time that’s been constantly inventing and reinventing classics for years. Locations in St. Pete and Riverview arouse the appetite and be sure to order a staple such as the Rogers Rockin Reuben or The Carolina On My Mind or Mac Bites. Featuring a wide variety of craft brews and cocktails Datz is sure to get any breakfast/brunch, lunch or dinner going in the right direction.
813.831.7000; www.datztampa.com

Bern’s Steak House
Best Classic Dining
The iconic Bern’s Steak House is a time tested, flavor packed endeavor. Plush décor, experienced personalized service compliments the vast flavor profiles to be had at this steak house. Boasting one of the worlds most extensive wine collections, it’s sure to wow any wine connoisseur. Stroll to the Harry Waugh Dessert Room after dinner to fully enjoy this culinary journey.
813.251.2421; www.bernssteakhouse.com

Koya
Best Intimate Asian Culinary Excursion
A concept geared towards engaging palate through superior seafood from Toyosu Market in Japan, Koya recently solidified itself in the Tampa food scene earning a Michelin star. With limited seating and a tasting menu only, the goal is to heighten your senses and allow for the flavor profiles to take over and guide this culinary expedition.
813.284.7423; www.koyatampa.com

Oystercatcher’s
Best Sunday Brunch Views
For over 3 decades, Oystercatcher’s has served up delicious lunch and dinners for any occasion. The water views are stunning and the selection of breakfast items, seafood, pasta, meats, desserts, and more create a wonderful Sunday Brunch, complete with Mimosas and a Bloody Mary Bar.
813.207.6815; www.oystercatchersrestaurant.com

Doc Ford’s
Best Waterside Dining in St. Pete
Embodying tropical flavors from world travels, this vibrant waterside oasis features quality bar food with a seafood strong suit. Refresh the soul, with views of the Pier as the bay breeze is complimented by a signature cocktail at any of their four Florida locations. We like the Ahi Tuna and Shrimp tacos are great
727.857.8118; www.docfords.com

Counter Culture
Best Modern Plate
Chef Pierola’s modern homage to classic counter dining and its barstool kinship between diners and the kitchen. Elevated kitchen bar dining, open air mixologist bar, Florida patio, and Bay views. Bold accents and beauty within each dish stand out at this concept. The flavors are tantalizing.
813.570.8660; www.cc-tampa.com

Grand Cathedral Cigars
Best Aesthetic Cigar Lounge
Delve into the divine at cigar aficionado’s dream bar and lounge. Within the confines of a previously operating church, offering an exclusive cocktail menu, extensive walk in humidor and indoor/outdoor seating, Grand Cathedral is sure to appeal to cigar enthusiasts and experience seekers alike.
813.808.4862; www.grandcathedralcigars.com

Wright’s Gourmet
Best Sandwich Shop
Satisfying sandwich and sweet lovers for over 60 years, Wright’s can do no wrong. Their commitment to incorporating quality ingredients properly prepared in their modern deli atmosphere has been imitated, but can never be duplicated. A beef martini sandwich and chocolate cake is a delicious favored option amongst regulars.
813.253.3838; www.wrightsgourmet.com

Tiki Docks
Best Tiki Bar
This South Pacific inspired escape in the Sunshine State is great for happy hour, entertaining the family or enjoying a special celebration. Featuring indoor or outdoor seating, offering a vast selection of drinks, seafood and more. The two locations in the Tampa Bay Area makes it easy to get your tiki on.
Riverview: 813.683.8454; St. Pete: 727.810.8454; www.tikidocks.com

Oceanic Oriental Market
Best Asian Market
Authentic and hard to find Asian ingredients, snacks and other items are found at this downtown Tampa gem. Stop by for fresh fish, duck and more to really enhance your Asian cuisine.
813.228.8110; www.oceanicmarket.net

The Canopy at Birchwood
Best Roof Top Lounge
Perched a top of the Birchwood Hotel, The Canopy hosts sunset parties providing a breath taking view of downtown St. Pete, Tampa Bay, and The Pier. Vibe creating cocktails and living room style seating allows for quality time with friends. Take it a step further by renting a cabana!
727.896.1080; www.thebirchwood.com

Caretta On The Gulf
Best Dining With Sunset View
Celebrate sunsets in all their beauty with the opulent décor and outstanding service at this Sandpearl Resort signature restaurant. Fresh seasonally inspired cuisine paired with organic wines will delight, benefitting from a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. The Raw Bar offers a fresh selection of oysters, shrimp and more. Mimosa’s and Bloody Mary’s remain a favorite at brunch.
727.674.4171; www.opalcollection.com/sandpearl/restaurants/caretta-on-the-gulf

American Social
Best Late Night Waterfront Spot for Cocktails
This Harbor Island staple AmSo, as its known to locals, features stunning waterfront views, extensive food menu and a plethora of cocktails to ensure a lively night out. This is a place to be seen on weekend nights as it’s solidified as a local hotspot.
813.605.3333; www.americansocialbar.com/locations/tampa

Haven
Best Wine & Cheese Bar in SoHo
The Bern’s Family of Restaurants never ceases to amaze. Haven boasts a wide array of wines and cheeses that will surely captivate. Charcuterie boards and innovative small plates are the crowd pleasers. Make reservations or arrive when they open to secure a spot, as the bar fills up quick.
813.258.2233; www.haventampa.com

Ricks On The River
Best Live Music on the Hillsborough River
The views from this laid back riverside bar and restaurant are stellar! Menu offers bar food staples and seafood lover favorites. Wings, burgers and fried seafood, as well as, oysters complement the various daily live music acts. Stop in by car, boat or pirate taxi!
813.251.0369; www.ricksontheriver.com

717 South
Best South Tampa Hotspot
With long standing ties to the community, Owner Michael Stewart continues to deliver excellence in the form of this SoHo staple. With a lively bar offering great cocktails and a selection of over 300 wines available by the bottle. Contemporary American dishes using only the freshest ingredients can be enjoyed in the friendly atmosphere.
813.250.1661; www.717south.com

bartaco
Best Taco Vibe
Hyde Park Village hot spot offering unmatched vibes, health oriented street food cuisine with Spanish influences that excite the senses. Ambiance engulfs you in features such as woven basket light fixtures and a sprawling bar at the center really allowing guests to be transported to what could be perceived as a South American sanctuary.
813.258.8226; www.bartaco.com/location/tampa

Dinner Done
Best Prepared Meals To-Go
Simplifying meals since 2004, the commitment to feeding busy professionals and families, using quality ingredients is unmatched. Featuring a wide variety of pre-made fresh/frozen meals, there’s something for everyones tastebuds.
813.264.7700; www.dinnerdone.com

Buddy Brew
Best Local Coffee Shop to Get Caffeinated
Boasting 8 locations in the Tampa Bay area, this hot spot for a cup of joe will surely give you a caffeine boost needed to conquer mornings, noon or night.
www.buddybrew.com

Council Oaks Steaks & Seafood
Best Steak House
Nestled within the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Council Oaks prides itself on exemplary service along side its cut-to-order prime dry-age steaks. The excellence doesn’t end with the steaks. Decadent seafood, side offerings and the cocktail/wine menu really solidify it as one of the best steak houses in Tampa.
813.627.7600; www.seminolehardrocktampa.com

Donovan’s Modern American Meatery
Best Modern American Steakhouse in the Burbs
Rustic charm paired with an elevated restaurant experience is what’s in store at Donovan’s. Sizzling steaks, chops and wild game prepared in a custom double wood-fired grill is protein paradise. The dishes are vegetable-forward instilling the idea that well-rounded meals are necessary for ultimate health and enjoyment.
813.295.8445; www.donovansmeatery.com

Ava Restaurant
Best Inspired Italian in SoHo
Providing a relaxed modern atmosphere, the freshness of the Italian inspired cuisine at Ava’s will surely satisfy. House cured salami, fresh handmade pasta and Neopolitan pizza are staples that accompany any of the refreshing cocktails. Stop in for lunch, dinner or a drink, either inside or on the patio.
813.512.3030; www.avatampa.com

Ocean Prime
Best Seafood to Steak Concept
A Cameron Mitchell concept situated near International Plaza that consistently prepares and cultivates memorable dining experiences. Ocean Prime steaks, seafood selections and out of this world side items such as the Mac’ n Cheese or Cream Spinach will satisfy any lover of a polished culinary presentation. The Berries and Bubbles is a delightful libation.
813.490.5288; www.ocean-prime.com

On Swann
Best American Bistro Restaurant
The Ponte Family dishes out quality items at their bistro in Hyde Park Village that more than fulfills what constitutes contemporary American cuisine. Earthy interior, a seasonal menu and open concept kitchen, this hot spot requires reservations.
813.251.0110; www.onswann.com

Sunda Tampa
Best New Asian
A new to Tampa Midtown, Modern Asian inspired menu and ambiance includes various Southeast Asia themes. Creatively melding the many cooking techniques and flavors found throughout Southeast Asia, Sunda creates new culinary experiences that feature a modern Asian twist. From signature entrees such as Miso Glazed Sea Bass and Lemongrass Beef Lollipops, to the award-winning sushi, all menu options feature a contemporary approach on classic Asian cuisine.
813.497.2900; www.sundanewasian.com

BellaBrava: New World Trattoria
Best New World Italian
The tasty menu offers up a great selection of Italian style pizzas, pastas, meats and seafood on Beach Drive and in MidTown Tampa. A perfect spot to enjoy the outside, under the cover of the umbrellas, and people watch.
Midtown 813.524.5226; St. Pete 727.895-5515;
www.bellabravastpete.com

Brocato’s Sandwich Shop
Best Cuban Sandwich
Look no further than Brocato’s to satisfy the craving of a quality Cuban sandwich. Fresh ingredients in all of their sandwiches and the famously delicious devil crabs that has kept locals and tourists visiting to this Tampa tradition for over 70 years.
813.248.9977; www.brocatossandwich.com

Il Ritorno
Best Contemporary Italian Cuisine
Chef-Owner David Benstock and his wife, Erica have created a quite the dining experience on Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg, with a menu that is updated to reflect the freshest ingredients possible. The Short Rib Mezzaluna, Charred Octopus and Steamed Mussels are favorites, or choose the Chef’s Grand Tasting Menu for an extraordinary culinary experience.
727.897.5900; www.ilritornodowntown.com

Ulele
Best Waterfront Eatery
Located near Armature Works, Ulele embodies native flavors from the land and waters of Florida. Intricately flavored dishes prepared on the 10 foot barbacoa grill and serene views of the Hillsborough River and Downtown Tampa skyline adds some spice to the occasion. Sit outside when the weather permits.
813.999.4952; www.ulele.com

Dunedin Brewery
Best Local Microbrewery
The Dunedin Brewery has been passionately brewing beer since 1996 and is the oldest microbrewery in Florida. Visit for a cold beer, a bite to eat and a good time with live music featuring regional acts and local talent.
727.736.0606; www.dunedinbrewery.com

Columbia Restaurant
Best Spanish Cuisine
For 117 years, the historic Ybor location has been serving up delicious Spanish dishes including the famed 1905 salad, chicken and yellow rice, ropa vieja and more. Enjoy the Flamenco dancers at the Ybor location.
813.248.4961; www.columbiarestaurant.com

Rococo Steak
Best Steak in St. Petersburg
Reimagining steak is in Rococo’s DNA makeup as a fine dining establishment. The grass-fed beef and chic atmosphere makes it a perfect date or business option. Consisting of a wide variety of inspired menu items and a vast array of over 900 different types of wine, there is something for foodies and wineaux’s alike.
727.822.0999; www.rococosteak.com

Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
Best Sunday Dining Escape
In the ever growing area of Seminole Heights, a Folk and Southern Soul restaurant, eclectic and independent eatery, music venue and art gallery dedicated to nourishing your stomach and your soul! American comfort food such as meatloaf stars at this funky, modern option with lots of drink options.
813.234.1000; www.ellasfolkartcafe.com

Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
Best Brazilian Steakhouse
Churrascaria Brazilian Steakhouse encompasses all flavors, proteins and more. South American recipes and cooking styles in an all you can devour scenario for the ages. Green or red cards dictate whether or not the next serving of lamb, steak, chicken is ready to be plated. A cold bar of various olives, cheeses, and more allow for a tasty reprieve from the copious meat selection.
813.999.4332; www.terragaucha.net

The Rez Grill
Best Bet on Brunch (Hard Rock Hotel & Casino)
A sophisticated Soulful American Grill that offers Brunch with all of the favorites. If you prefer to be guided by their pre-fixe menu featuring bottomless Mimosas and Bellinis, classics such as Steak and Eggs, French Toast or The Rez Omelette you wont lose. Various Brunch à la Carte options are able to arranged including Short Rib,Fried Chicken and Verlasso Salmon.
813.627.8120; www.seminolehardrocktampa.com

The SoHo Backyard
Best Underground GastroPub
Escape the crazy crowds on Howard Ave., just one block away, while enjoying the vibe at SoHo Backyard. A delicious adventure with flavorful menu choices, cold drinks and a full menu served late. Flashy eatery & bar offering tapas, flatbreads & elaborate burgers amid mood lighting & TV screens makes for a relaxed night out.
813.284.5928; www.sohobackyard.com

Bouzy
Best Champagne Forward Restaurant
Bouzy, a new Hyde Park Village spot for evening entertainment in South Tampa, offers an intimate and elegant experience, featuring a stand-out champagne menu curated by experts. This unique concept of bubbly-centric offerings for Lunch, Dinner and Brunch is a sure fire way to any champagne lovers heart.
813.550.2560; www.bouzybar.com

Social Roost
Best From Scratch American Eatery
Situated within the vibrant downtown St. Pete community, this from-scratch kitchen whips up a globally inspired menu. Hosting various events on a consistent basis, there’s always something to enjoy. Drink menus featuring tasty libations compliment the atmosphere and various tasty bites.
727.202.6113; www.eatatsocialroost.com

The Saint
Best Speakeasy in St Pete
Hidden behind a discrete, unassuming entryway on a side street in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg, Florida awaits an unrivaled cocktail experience. A wide array of elegantly crafted drinks in a conversation friendly environment make for a great night out with friends or on a date.
727.258.7626; www.thesaintspeakeasy.com

Donatello Italian Restaurant
Best Old World Italian
It’s old school Italian with authentic cuisine and live music in the jazz and piano bar. Hand-made pasta daily with dishes incorporating the northern Italian style of cooking including seafood, veal and beef. Classy tuxedo clad waiters are detail oriented, allowing guests to relax and enjoy.
813.875.6660; www.donatellotampa.com

Steelbach
Best Southern-Inspired Dishes
Southern-inspired kitchen and chophouse offering innovative food paired with timeless flair. Within Armature Works, Guests should expect a warm, timeless décor to accompany them on their taste of the South. Incredible steaks and chops have excellent marbling and premium flavor cooked over 1000- degree oak and mesquite open fire grille.
813.693.5478; www.steelbach.com

Haiku Tampa
Best Asian Fusion
Asian Fusion concept featuring Izakaya style dishes, and recipes combining other Asian influences. A notable dining experience matched with a creative beverage menu including sakes, sangria, and hand-crafted cocktails. This is certainly a hip, post-work hot spot!
813.644.5787; haikutampa.com

Madame Fortune
Best Speakeasy/HiFi Parlour
Paying homage to the past, the 7th & Grove team have yet another trick up their sleeve. This speakeasy concept lies beyond a bookshelf at what would appear simply a coffee shop known as Roast on 7th. There’s more than what meets the eyes, however with a refined hidden area for guests to engage their tastebuds in Southern and West Indie fare.
813.242.0572; www.7thandgrove.com/ybor-location

Rocca
Best Authentic Refined Italian
Rocca is a Michelin Star Italian restaurant and a love letter from Chef and Owner Bryce Bonsack to the family whom he worked for and lived with during his time abroad in Monforte d’Alba. During his journey, he refined his skills, learning new techniques to allow for a genuine Italian experience with hints of his work in New York City, bringing fresh handmade pasta, tableside mozzarella, dry aged meats, creative cocktails, and an extensive Italian wine list to Tampa Heights.
813.906.5445; www.roccatampa.com

The Pearl
Best Refined Pre-Event Dining at Water Street
A new Cameron Mitchell concept aimed at engulfing diners in a full on culinary experience. Featuring an oyster bar and tavern, this restaurant offers a special something in each food category. This Water Street addition is close to Amalie arena making it a great pre-game or concert destination for food, drinks and great times!
813.709.7776; www.thepearlrestaurant.com

Psomi
Best Modern Greek
Awarded a Bib Gourmand by Michelin, Psomi peeks the interest of guests with its flavorful menu items. The daytime eatery and bakery is an archetype of warmth and comfort in a dining setting. Traditional Greek cuisine and new creations are sure to be admired at this SoHo dining destination.
813.841.5555; www.eatpsomi.com

The Battery
Best Bourbon Bar Restaurant
Discover this cool and sophisticated restaurant in the heart of Sparkman Wharf. Showcasing classic yet refined plates, fine bourbon, exquisite wine and impeccable service. Cuisine ranges from raw bar to charcuterie boards, prime steak to pastas.
813.498.0008; www.batterytpa.com

Brick & Mortar
Best American Fare in St. Petersburg
Inspired American Fare handcrafted with love in this quaint, relaxed atmosphere. A rotating menu boasting seasonal items manifests the bold flavors that B&M prefer you experience. Stop in here before a night on the town or simply a great meal.
727.822.6540; www.facebook.com/brickandmortarkitchen

Mazzaro Italian Market
Best Italian Market
A culinary destination featuring one-of-a-kind Italian gourmet market goods. From fresh roasted coffee to handmade pasta, delicious deli selections, baked goods and specialty cheeses there’s a flavor profile experience for all. Whether you’re interested in trying new things or obtaining that traditional ingredient, Mazzaro’s succeeds in supplying the demand.
727.321.2400; www.mazzarosmarket.com

Edison: Food + Drink Lab
Best Creative Cuisine
Award winning Chef Pierola and her team precisely execute culinary excellence on a more than consistent basis. Edison manipulates ingredients allowing modifications to classics and the invention of new menu items. Explore what their mixologists have in store during Watercooler aka Happy Hour.
813.254.7111; www.edison-tampa.com

The Green Lemon
Best Modern Mexican with a Twist in SoHo
Whether its Taco Tuesday or just another evening in the SoHo district, the vibe is real. DJ’s, a wide variety of tequila and quality food in the equation makes for a fun night out with friends.
813.868.5463; www.eatgreenlemon.com

Eddie V’s
Best Seafood Restaurant in Westshore Business District
Priding themselves on quality fresh seafood and prime steaks, Eddie V’s will take date night or a business dinner to the next level. Pouring hand-crafted cocktails with precision, there’s a lot to choose from at the bar, Old Fashions, Dirty Martini or if you prefer a pick me up, there’s the famous Espresso Martini.
813.877.7290; www.eddiev.com/home

Ciros Speakeasy
Best Hand Crafted Cocktails in Tampa
Passwords are still in use to enter this Prohibition era, beverage-centric styled bar. Within the historic Bayshore Royal Building is where you will find this old school gem. Master mixologists are in action at the bar. For a more intimate experience, private booths are able to be reserved.
813.251.0022; www.cirostampa.com

Coppertail Brewing Co.
Best Brew in Ybor
Florida inspired and Tampa brewed, Coppertail crafts brews that quench the thirst. Fan favorites include Free Dive (IPA), Cloud Dweller, Unholy and Night Swim. Connoisseurs may rejoice in the large tasting room which features 20 beers on tap.
813.247.1500; www.coppertailbrewing.com

Barbouni at Baba Restaurant
Best New Seafood Concept
Within St. Pete’s Baba Restaurant, you will find Barbouni. This fresh concept is based around small plates, caviar and the new idea of preserving fish and other ingredients in a tin can for ultimate enjoyment.
727.954.3406; www.eatatbaba.com

Willa’s
Best Fusion Cuisine
Willa’s remains a Tampa’s favorite neighborhood restaurant and bar serving simple classic dishes, killer cocktails and fine wines. A trendy and spacious environment presenting French-American fusion cooking in an effort to relax and refuel guests.
813.519.4552; www.willastampa.com

Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
Best Neopolitan Pizza
Family owned and operated with 4 locations, this established restaurant is committed to preserving Neopolitan ways of pizza production. Utilizing hand crafted wood-fired brick ovens, 100-year-old recipes while sourcing top of the line ingredients directly from Italy, its safe to say this as authentic as it gets.
Tampa – 813.868.4440; www.bavarospizza.com

Heights Public Market at Armature Works
Best Foodie Hub/Destination
An eclectic mix of foodie favorites are found at this dining hall. A concept that implements various styles of dining and multiple cuisine types aimed at bringing the community together through food. Options ranging from Noodles to BBQ to Pizza and more, there is something for everyone. Live music and other forms of entertainment can be enjoyed to compliment a meal or drink with friends.
813.250.3725; www.armatureworks.com/eat-and-drink

Ponte American
Best Modern American
Elegance redefined is what to expect at Ponte. A sleek bar and lounge are complimented by first class service and French/Italian influences. Chef Chris Ponte, esteemed area restaurateur, blends his Parisian culinary training in his menu design. The experience is not complete with out chefs in tall white toques and guéridon service for table side caviar, and champagne.
813.582.7755; www.pontetampa.com

Oxford Exchange
Best Lunch Atmosphere
An offering of refined dining and shopping experiences are all within the chic and stylish time tested, Tampa treasure. At OE, locals and tourists alike venture in for a boutique style shopping experience and/or a bite to eat that will captivate. Open for breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch or high tea.
813.253.0222; www.oxfordexchange.com

Ceviche
Best Tapas in Town
Within the heart of down town St. Pete, Ceviche engulfs patrons in the unique Spanish atmosphere complimenting the plethora of hot and cold tapas. Enjoy sipping a refreshing glass of red, white or cava sangria while amusing the tastebuds with a signature paella or seafood ceviche.
727.209.2299; www.ceviche.com

Union New American
Best Business Lunch
A new dining concept in the heart of the Westshore Business District, Union integrates global techniques and flavors into familiar classics to create truly eclectic, modern American cuisine. The specialty cocktails and ample refined dining and lounge space makes this an amazing place to cerebrate life and business milestones. The Parker House Milk Bread is a must!
813.768.9989; www.uniontampa.com

Rooster & the Till
Best Evolving Menu
A wide ensemble of cuisine has been cultivated at this local hotspot over the years. Food and drinks that excite is whats in store at the Seminole Heights fan favorite. Award winning chefs and staff enthusiastically provide an exemplary experience. Let’s not forget some of their accolades, 2022, as well as, 2023 Michelin Bib Gourmand.
813.374.8940; www.roosterandthetill.com