BEST OF SOUTH TAMPA
Eat
Salt Shack On The Bay
Best Bar with Sunset Views
A piece of paradise on Old Tampa Bay is where you will find this popular waterfront eatery and bar. Fresh seafood and seasonal cuisine accompany the cocktail and beer menu, ensuring a relaxing time with incredible sunsets nightly.
813.444.4569
www.salt-shack.com
Olivia
Best Modern Italian
Modern Italian restaurant with a creative flair of a chef inspired menu. Chef Chris Ponte and his family started this concept as homage to daughter Olivia blending the best of southern and northern Italian cuisine. Open for dinner and brunch on the weekends, one may enjoy delicious handmade pasta, pizza, steak & seafood in a casual, yet refined ambiance.
813.328.8866
www.oliviatampa.com
Timpano
Best Contemporary Rustic Italian Flavors
Rustic elegance is apparent at this Hyde Park hotspot featuring fresh decor, lively music and a menu featuring comfort classics with a modern twist. The food and drink menu has many favorites that keeps guests excited to come back. Try the sizzling mussels or the Parm to Table Experience with bucatini al pesto prepared table side in a parmesan wheel.
813.254.5870
www.timpanohydepark.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 classic flavors, 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
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
On Swann
Best American Bistro Restaurant
A destination for contemporary American cuisine that features a seasonal menu with local flair. This restaurant boasts an open-kitchen dining room, giving guests an option to view the art of cooking as it occurs. An interior that reflects the surrounding areas hip sensibilities only accentuates the evolving menu.
813.251.0110
www.onswann.com
Meat Market
Best Contemporary Steakhouse
Undeniable popularity, boasting a swanky interior, this hotspot for camaraderie and stellar steaks never ceases to amaze. Break bread in the luxe dining room 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
Bern’s Steak House
Best Classic Dining
The iconic Bern’s Steak House is a time tested, flavor packed endeavor. Plush decor, experienced personalized service compliments the vast flavor profiles to be had at this steak house. An updated modern bar and home to one of the world’s most extensive wine collections, it’s sure to wow any food or wine connoisseur. Stroll to the Harry Baugh Dessert Room after dinner to fully enjoy this culinary journey.
813.251.2421
www.bernssteakhouse.com
Cru Cellars
Best Boutique Wine Bar
The perfect gathering place for wineaux’s does exist. A secluded garden, extensive wine and beer selection and full dining menu accentuate the overall experience that owners Jen and Torrey yearn to provide at this and other concepts within the Cru family.
813.831.1117
www.crucellarstampa.com
Counter Culture
Best Modern Plate
Elevated kitchen bar dining, open air mixologist bar, Florida patio, and Bay views are key factors that set this restaurant apart from others in the area. Chef Pierola’s modern homage to classic counter dining and its barstool kinship between diners and the kitchen. Bold accents and beauty within each dish stand out tantalizing the tastebuds.
813.570.8660
www.cc-tampa.com
Wright’s Gourmet
Best Sandwich Shop
Satisfying sandwich and sweet lovers for over 60 years, their commitment to incorporating quality ingredients prepared in their modern deli atmosphere has become a local staple. A beef martini sandwich and chocolate cake are a delicious favored option among patrons.
813.253.3838
www.wrightsgourmet.com
Haven
Best Wine & Cheese Bar in SoHo
Haven boasts a wide array of wines and cheeses that will surely captivate palates. Charcuterie boards and innovative small plates are the crowd pleasers at the bar. Make reservations to experience the innovative flavors under the direction of Executive Chef Chad Johnson or arrive when they open to secure a spot at the bar for Happy Hour. Make this your next happy hour destination!
813.258.2233
www.haventampa.com
bartaco
Best Taco Vibe
Hyde Park hot spot offering unmatched vibes, health oriented street food with Spanish influences that excite the senses. The ambiance engulfs you in features such as woven basket light fixtures, and a sprawling bar at the center that really allows a relaxed yet, upbeat vibe.
813.258.8226
www.bartaco.com/location/tampa
Sunda New Asian
Best Southeast Asian Cuisine
Home to a Modern Asian inspired menu and ambiance includes various Southeast Asia inspirations. By creatively melding the many cooking techniques and flavors found throughout Southeast Asia, Sunda creates new culinary experiences with 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
Old world flavor is implemented with new world flair at this Italian dining spot. With ample portions, priced affordably and a super friendly staff offering casual service, you’re sure to find a preferred flavor profile. Be sure to try the Chicken or Eggplant Parm as the ingredients are fresh and often locally sourced. Known for their Longest Happy Hour in Tampa Bay.
Midtown: 813.524.5226
St. Pete: 727.895.5515
www.bellabravastpete.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
Ponte American
Best Modern American
Elegance redefined is what to expect at Ponte. A menu is 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 really solidifying itself in the luxury dining category.
813.582.7755
www.pontetampa.com
Eddie V’s
Best Surf ’n Turf Dining in Westshore Business District
Eddie V’s takes pride in preparing the best fresh seafood and prime steaks. 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 popular Espresso Martini. Whether it’s date night or a business lunch/dinner, Eddie V’s won’t let you down.
813.877.7290
www.eddiev.com/home
Donatello Italian Restaurant
Best Old World Italian
Authentic cuisine and live music in the jazz and piano bar provide that full traditional Italian dining experience. Hand-made pasta daily with dishes with the northern style of cooking including seafood, veal and beef. Classy tuxedo clad waiters are detail oriented allowing guests to engulf themselves fully in the menu items and atmosphere.
813.875.6660
www.donatellotampa.com
Union New American
Best Business Lunch
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 crafted cocktails and ample refined dining and lounge space makes this an amazing place to celebrate business milestones and enjoy life. The Parker House Milk Bread is a must try sweet treat!
813.768.9989
www.uniontampa.com
Willa’s
Best Fusion Cuisine
Willa’s prevails as a Tampa favorite, neighborhood restaurant and bar serving simple classic dishes, killer on-tap cocktails and fine wines. A trendy and spacious environment presenting French-American fusion cooking that refuels guests in a relaxing environment and a great community table.
813.519.4552
www.willastampa.com
Ava Restaurant
Best Inspired Italian in SoHo
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 just a few staples that accompany the array of refreshing cocktails. Stop in for lunch, dinner or a drink, either inside or on the patio.
813.512.3030
www.avatampa.com
The Green Lemon
Best Modern Mexican with a Twist in SoHo
Whether it’s 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
Rome + Fig
Best Global Bistro
A mantra that’s in practice here is, locally sourced and globally inspired. Operating with service that makes you feel welcomed, and a part of the family, it’s complimented by the elevated foods with a modern twist. Sit at the community table and make new friends over a crafted cocktail while enjoying a meal. The espresso martini is a great pick-me-up, along with a refreshing Paloma Spritz.
813.253.3353
www.romeandfigbistro.com
The SoHo Backyard
Best Underground GastroPub
Just one block away from the lively SoHo strip, relax, while still in the mix, 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 less hectic night out.
813.284.5928
www.sohobackyard.com
Psomi
Best Modern Greek
Awarded a Bib Gourmand by Michelin, Psomi peeks interest with guests utilizing 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 enjoyed.
813.841.5555
www.eatpsomi.com
Oystercatcher’s
Best Sunday Brunch Views
For over three decades, Oystercatcher’s serves 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 for a wonderful Sunday Brunch, complete with Mimosas and a Bloody Mary Bar.
813.207.6815
www.oystercatchersrestaurant.com
Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
Best Brazilian Steakhouse
Churrascaria Brazilian Steakhouse encompasses a wide variety of flavors, proteins and more. South American recipes and cooking styles on an all-you-can-eat basis surely wont have you leaving hungry. Green or red cards decide 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
Izakaya Tori
Best Inspired Asian
The authentic Japanese cuisine combined with the quality of care each dish is prepared with, its no wonder this “hidden” gem receives so much attention. Indulge in izakaya-style delights such as yakitori, gyoza, and edamame. Whether your preference is tempura or ramen, this genuine experience offers a real deal taste of Japan.
813.875.4842
@izakaya_tori
Streetlight Taco
Best New Authentic Mexican Tacos
The recently opened concept sheds light on traditional Mexican fare. Utilizing ingredients sourced in Mexico grown by local families really accentuates the details that the culinary team have fine tuned to ensure a delicious, authentic and memorable experience. Recently received recognition in the 2024 Michelin Guide.
813.217.9158
www.streetlighttacos.com
Ro
Best Modern Sushi Bar
In Hyde Park Tampa, providing a modern twist on Asian cuisine, Ro delivers a fine tuned service, with the details truly flourishing. A focus on sensory experience is apparent with ingredients, plating and overall ambiance. With fresh fish flown in daily from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market, it’s no wonder that patrons appreciate the authentic flavors in each dish. Some favorites include Smoked Peking Duck and Omakase lunch.
813.358.2036
www.rohydepark.com
Palihouse
Best New Hotel Bar
Blending sophistication and comfort within this Hyde Park boutique hotel, the intimate lobby lounge and cocktail bar areas create an escape for locals and hotel guests alike. With easy access to upscale shops, boutiques and restaurants, it makes Palihouse bar an easy option for an top-end experience.
813.820.1685
www.palisociety.com/hotels/tampa
Shop
Deborah Kent’s
Best Boutique Filled with European Fashions
A South Tampa staple for 43 years continues to bring quality fashion to women of style with the latest designs from Paris, London, Milan, New York and California. Owner Deborah Skyrms and her team travel the world to bring the latest designs to the boutique. From casual to classics, discover timeless clothing in apparel, shoes and accessories.
813.259.1150
www.deborahkents.com
The Haute Shop Boutique
Best Style on a Budget
It’s not hard to look stylish and stay trendy with the latest fashions from Haute Shop. Find stylish fashions including dresses, tops, bottoms, rompers, jumpsuits, and outerwear. Perfect for date night, GNO or game day outfits that won’t break the bank. Shop online or at the boutique inCarriage Trade Plaza.
813.258.8100
www.hauteshopboutique.com
Bespoke & Co.
Best Custom Clothier
Personalized service and high-quality European fabrics is what owner David Kahn implements to be the renowned area clothier for athletes, politicians and those who want to look their best. Specializing in tailored suits, shirts, and wedding attire for both men and women.
813.902.1963
www.bespokeandcofl.com
Hazel + Dot
Best Place for Locally Made Gifts
Offering a curated selection of trendy clothing, accessories, and home décor. Known for its stylish and unique pieces, the boutique provides a chic shopping experience with personalized service. It’s a go-to destination for hottest gifts and those seeking distinctive Tampa finds.
813.876.0110
www.hazelanddot.com
Modani Furniture
Best Modern Furniture Shop
A great source for modern, contemporary or mid-century furniture and accessories for the living room, bedroom dining room, and even outdoor space. The Tampa showroom location allows you to look and try out that sofa or chair for comfort, before you buy.
813.426.8600
www.modani.com
The Market Boutique
Best Interior Market Décor
Looking for that statement piece to complete an design project? Owners and Designers Kristen McKinley and Melanie Rose scour the design markets for the latest trends and pieces to bring back home for designing delight, located inside McKinley Rose Interiors. Discover lighting, furniture, fabrics and more that will help complete your space whether for home or business.
813.981.0613
www.mckinlayrose.com
The Write Stuff
Best Gifts and Invitation Boutique
Looking for custom invitations and stationary? Step inside and the staff will assist you in creating the perfect wedding, birthday or special occasion invite. It’s also the perfect place to find cute and inspiring gifts from napkins, tumblers, totes and more. The shop is stocked with so many cute and inspiring gifts for everyone on your list from princesses to pirates.
813.837.0400
www.thewritestuff.mysimplestore.com
Heads and Tails
Best Place for College & Tampa Bay Sports Merchandise
Get game day ready with the best local selection of collegiate or pro merchandise. Heads and Tails has a great selection of sports apparel whether you are Gator, Seminole or Bull. For the perfect gift or look for the ultimate sports fan, stop in the Tampa location or shop online.
813.282.3783
www.theheadsandtails.com
Dwell Home Market
Best Trendy Furniture & Décor
A second location has opened in Water Street for home and décor shopping made fun. Shoppers are greeted with friendly staff that offers you a complimentary beverage. Offering the latest styles in furniture, rugs, pillows, and unique items. Most items are in-stock and ready to take home the same day. Enjoy sipping and shopping while decorating your space.
813.602.0360
www.mydwellhome.com
Label Swap
Best Designer Consignment
It’s the modern way to thrift and consign in Tampa for items such as handbags, men and women’s apparel and jewelry including brands from Zara to Louis Vuitton. New items arrive daily, so stop by the retail location on Kennedy Blvd. in South Tampa. Look, feel and try-on the curated collection of luxury brands with dressing rooms available.
813.535.7927
www.labelswap.com
West Third
Best Couture Boutique
Known for the high-end fashions, personal service and styling, Owner Maggie Carson and her staff stock this South Tampa Boutique with the latest designer fashions. Luxury brands include Rag & Bone, Helmut Lang, Alice + Olivia, Missoni, Escada, Jean Paul Gaultier, Red Valentino and more. It’s a favorite spot for fashionistas seeking distinctive items.
813.805.2060
@westthird
Salt Pines
Best Casual Outdoor Life Boutique
Feel the coastal vibe at Salt Pines located in Hyde Park Village. In addition to great brands including Southern Tide, Sperry, Fish Hippie, Yeti and more, they have developed their own Salt Pine brand, long with Proper Roger Flags and unique Gasparilla items for men and women.
813.644.5991
www.saltpines.com
You Glow Spray Tan
Best Organic UV-Free Tanning Salon
Stay out of the harmful rays of the sun, yet still have a sun-kissed look with a healthy spray tan. Specializing in providing radiant, natural-looking spray tans. Known for its expert application and personalized service, the salon offers a range of shades to suit various skin tones. It’s a go-to spot for achieving a sun-kissed glow without the UV exposure.
813.876.4560
www.youglowspraytan.com
Pia Esthetics Day Spa & Body Shop
Best Brazilian Wax in the Bay
In need of some self care gurus? Look no further than the soothing environment and experienced staff of Pia Esthetics Day Spa. The original Brazilian Waxers in Tampa, Pia Esthetics Day Spa offers a complete line of spa services. Other services include manicures, pedicures, massage, customized facials, eyelash extensions, micro blading, and dermaplanning. South Tampa and St. Petersburg locations.
Tampa: 813.831.2418
St. Pete: 727.346.6740
www.bypia.com
Spa Jardin
Best Relaxation Spa
The cute and fragrant bungalow offers peace and tranquility in the heart of South Tampa. Enjoy the private outdoor oasis, or inside, enjoy the heavenly scent that transports you into another place and time upon entering. Let the stress melt away with a deep-tissue massage or hydra quench facial. Exclusive skincare products are available to bring your experience home, along with unique clothing, jewelry or gifts in the Spa Boutique.
813.835.9549
www.spajardin.com
The Social Revelry
Best Party Shop & Planning
Step up your party game with unique and fun party accessories including decor by theme, or season. If you need help on where to start a plan for the party that everyone will be talking about (and never want to leave), give Social Revelry a call to provide their expertise in making a memorable event.
813.800.9677
www.socialrevelry.com
Bella Prana Yoga
Best Yoga & Meditation Studio
Thriving on community support, love, nurture and education for all who walk through their doors, Bella Prana, meaning “Beautiful Energy,” is open to yoga students of all abilities, sizes, needs and ages. The focus is on overall holistic wellness. Enjoy the luxuries of private changing rooms, showers, blankets, blocks, snacks and water station.
813.702.YOGA
www.bellaprana.com
Procure by The Women’s Creative Tampa
Best Curated Women Created Brands to Shop
Step into Procure in Hyde Park Village for the the ultimate shopping haven where fun meets fashion in every corner! With a fresh approach to retail therapy, Procure offers a curated collection of small, women-owned brands that are guaranteed to steal your heart and satisfy your shopping needs. From stylish apparel to unique accessories, each product is thoughtfully crafted, ensuring that every purchase is a true reflection of your individuality and style.
813.359.1618
www.shopprocure.com
ÉLAN Aesthetics
Best Anti-Aging MedSpa
Look your best by receiving non-surgical treatments for the face and skin to stay looking and feeling vibrant. Conveniently located in Hyde Park Village, co-founders Katrina Riley and Lindsey Cronk have created a menu of services including facials, laser treatments, botox, fillers, peels and micro needling in a luxurious setting.
813.440.8743
www.elan-aesthetics.com
Spa Evangeline at The Epicurean Hotel
Best Boutique Luxury Spa
It’s a recipe for total relaxation at the Evangeline Day Spa that is nestled on the ground floor of the Epicurean Hotel in South Tampa. The boutique day spa with five treatment rooms offers a delectable menu of body, skincare, beauty rituals, along with couples’ spa and bridal packages. The perfect spot to pamper and relax.
813.999.8742
www.spaevangeline.com
Haute Hair Studio Tampa
Best Salon for Hair Extensions
Specializing in NBR, Salon Owner + Creative Director Amanda Gluck and her team will create beautiful hair by adding extensions to create volume and length. The stylists create gorgeous and stunning hairstyles by artfully blending natural hair with extensions and coloring the hair to perfection.
813.683.1727
www.hautehairtampa.com
The Grand Beauty Spa
Best Spot to Revive with New Style
Known for their expertise and service for the latest trending hair styles and color techniques. The full service salon offers hair cuts, coloring and overall pampering with nail services and massages. Enjoy a complete day spa package with a delicious lunch.
813.874.7674
www.grandbeautyspa.com
Paradigm Beauty
Best Natural & Clean Beauty Boutique
A premier beauty boutique offering a range of makeup, hair and skin products that are clean. Owner Amanda Mascaro researches all the products and has strict standards to be carried in the store or online. Sample everything from foundation to lip liners to discover clean skincare and cosmetics for a healthier you.
813.294.2381
www.paradigmbeautytpa.com
Massage Studio
Best Convenient Massage Studio
The choice of music, aromatherapy, hot towels and type of massage is all yours to decide. Feel the difference at Massage Studio with convenient and luxurious massage therapy on both sides of the Bay. Conveniently open seven days a week including evenings hours. Soothe your mind and body with a pampering massage.
Tampa – 813.879.3700
St. Pete – 727.823.3700
www.massagestudiospa.com
Spa Sudeva
Best Stress Reliever Spa
Step inside and you will immediately begin to relax at this hidden gem in South Tampa. Let the hustle and bustle of daily life escape as you enter to experience a soothing facial or massage to begin a journey of relaxation and healing. The rituals are inspired by exotic and ancient modalities of Europe and the Far East. Try the Reiki Energy ritual to reset yourself.
813.837.4300
www.spasudeva.com
Mizzen + Main
Best Men’s Clothing Boutique
For that classic men’s look step into the boutique located in Hyde Park Village. From suit jackets to comfy and stylish shorts, the service oriented staff with assist in creating the perfect look.
813.898.8504
www.mizzenandmain.com/stores/hyde-park-village
Do
LA Fitness
Best Place to Get in Shape
Offering a wide selection of classes from yoga to kickboxing to get in shape. Get your sweat on with a group class or on the latest equipment. Enjoy a game of pickup basketball, indoor cycling or a swim in the pool. The Kids Klub is great for parents who need child care while they get fit.
813.775.6492
www.lafitness.com
Kate Jackson Park
Best Park for Kids to Play
Vibrant community space offering playgrounds, sports courts, and a splash pad. Known for its lush green areas and family-friendly amenities, it features walking paths and open spaces for various recreational activities. The park is a popular destination for local events and outdoor fun.
Bayshore Boulevard
Best Exercise with a View
Tampa’s scenic, waterfront roadway renowned for its stunning views of Hillsborough Bay, Davis Islands and Downtown Tampa. It features a long, picturesque promenade ideal for walking, jogging, and biking. Lined with beautiful homes and lush greenery, it’s a popular spot for leisurely strolls and enjoying the city’s natural beauty.
Ballast Point
Best Tampa Fishing Pier
Offering a picturesque waterfront setting with scenic views of downtown Tampa and Hillsborough Bay. The park features a fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths. It’s a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts, providing a relaxing environment for recreational activities and enjoying the bay’s beauty.
Hyde Park Tampa
Best Outdoor Scene
Historic and charming neighborhood known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, upscale shops, and dining options. The area features elegant homes, vibrant boutiques, and a lively atmosphere. Hyde Park Village, a central shopping district, offers a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment experiences.
