Top 10 Restaurants in Downtown Tampa to Visit for an Unforgettable Night

Over the years, Tampa has quickly become a top dining destination in Florida. Whether you’re in the mood for a light brunch or a hearty BBQ dinner, you’ll easily find something that fits your needs in this bustling city. If you happen to live in or near Downtown Tampa, you have tons of great options to choose from. Need some help narrowing down your choices? We’ve assembled a list of the top 10 restaurants in Downtown Tampa. Take a look at the full guide now!

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1. Yeoman's Cask & Lion

British-themed restaurant and pub that features live music

202 N Morgan St | Downtown Tampa | yeomanscaskandlion.com

While you might not be flying to Britain anytime soon, you can still enjoy some of its famous foods by stopping at Yeoman’s Cask and Lion. You can expect to find a vibrant, lively energy inside this classic British-themed pub. 

Hearty comfort food and craft drinks also await you. Some of our favorite dishes include the Beer Can Nachos, London Eye sandwich, and, of course, the Fish and Chips. In addition to its friendly service and delicious food, Yeoman’s is also known for its live music events. Handpicked local artists come to perform regularly. 

“Since the start they have always been the BEST. Absolutely amazing atmosphere, fantastic service and great food. The fish and chips are enormous and cooked perfectly. Salads are fantastic. Chicken sandwich is very fresh and delicious. 10/10, the only place I eat in Downtown Tampa!” - Yelp Review

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2. Spain Restaurant and Toma Bar

Spanish restaurant that is known for its Galacian seafood and tapas

513 N Tampa St | Downtown Tampa | tomaspain.com

Craving Spanish food? Then you need to visit Spain Restaurant and Toma Bar! This lively, family-owned restaurant serves some of the best Spanish food in Tampa. Most of the tapas offered here represent the cuisine of Galicia, the northwestern region of Spain. Many of the restaurant’s recipes have also been passed down generation to generation in the owner’s family. 

In addition to its tapa selection, Spain Restaurant also offers a wide variety of seafood and meat dishes. Cocktails are available to accompany your dish. If you manage to save enough room for dessert, you should try the Chocolate con Churros or Filloas Gallegas. Yum!

“Wow. This place has the greatest Spanish food in all of Tampa. Last week I ordered their Mahi Mahi with beans and rice. It was absolutely phenomenal. Fresh tasting with the natural spices of Spain. Love Spain Restaurant.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Spain Restaurant and Toma Bar.

3. Ulele

Unique, rustic restaurant that offers native-inspired food

1810 N Highland Ave | Tampa | ulele.com

Ulele pays homage to the Native Americans who once resided in what is now Florida. Inside its rustic digs, you’ll find stunning works of art like stained glass paintings and sculptures. Even the furniture is handcrafted and designed by local artists. 

Ulele is also known for its fresh, creative seafood dishes. The Shrimp Criollo, Seafood Risotto, and Crab Mac & Cheese are just a few of our favorite dishes. After you finish your entree, you can end your meal with some Key West Key Lime Stack or Candied Bacon Maple Ice Cream!

“All of the food I have had from here is delicious. Last time I visited I particularly enjoyed the Jalapeño Corn Beer Muffins and Crab Mac and Cheese. It is also so great that they brew their own beer here and they also had a lot of fun cocktails to choose from.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Ulele.

4. Oxford Exchange

Unique co-working space that includes a restaurant, bookstore, and shop

420 W Kennedy Blvd | Hyde Park | oxfordexchange.com

Oxford Exchange is not strictly a restaurant. It also has a bookstore, coffeehouse, and shop. Because of its many offerings, it’s not surprising that guests find themselves spending hours here. 

But for this post, we’ll focus on the food. Oxford Exchange offers weekday breakfast and lunch, afternoon tea, and weekend brunch. The menu features a savory selection of classic American dishes like the Fish Tacos and Chicken Burger. Craft cocktails like Mimosas and Bloody Marys are also available to enjoy alongside your meal!

“The food was fantastic! I highly recommend a mixed drink from the bar over brunch and the whipped feta appetizer. I would eat anything with that whipped feta on it! Amazing!! There were 3 of us there for brunch and not one person had a complaint about a single item we ordered.” - Yelp Review

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5. Fly Bar

Fun, laidback bar that boasts a long cocktail list along with a wide selection of international dishes

442 W Kennedy Blvd | Hyde Park | flyrestauranttampa.com

If you’re looking for a fun, laidback bar where you can just chill with friends, you’ll love Fly Bar. This rustic, modern bar offers an exceptional dining experience without any pretentiousness. To start off the night, we recommend trying one of Fly Bar’s famous jazz-inspired cocktails. From the Freddie’s Dead to the Crow Jane, each cocktail is bursting with flavor. Coming with a group? The nachos, garlic frites, and hummus appetizers are great for sharing. Enjoy!

“SOOOO GOOOD! The drinks are fancy and delicious. They have happy hour that is amazing. Their food is so good, we only got a couple of apps but they were all so good. The Mac n Cheese is a MUST get.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Fly Bar. 

6. Jackson’s Bistro

Top-rated sushi bar that offers sweeping views of the waterfront

601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Suite 100 | Harbour Island | jacksonsbistro.com

Since 1997, Jackson’s Bistro has been considered a top spot for fresh sushi and award-winning wine among locals. Not only does the restaurant offer delicious food, but it also features breathtaking views of the nearby waterfront and city skyline. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date night or special get together with friends. 

Jackson’s Bistro is open for lunch, dinner, and brunch. Some of its most popular dishes include the Tenderloin Steak Sandwich, Pan-Seared Snapper & Scallops, and Lump Blue Crab Cakes. A full sushi menu filled with appetizers, platters, bowls, and rolls is also available and well-liked among guests.  

“I loved Jackson's. I celebrated my birthday at Jackson's 2 years ago and I loved it so much that I took my daughter for her 26th birthday. She loved it from the food to the outside seating and how good the food and drinks was. Definitely will keep coming back.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Jackson’s Bistro.

7. American Social

Modern sports bar that features numerous indoor and outdoor bars, patio space, and a cozy dining room

601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Suite 107 | Harbour Island | americansocialbar.com

American Social is one of the most popular bars in Tampa. Located in Harbour Island, American Social features stunning waterfront views, multiple bars, and delicious food. Burgers, beer, and even bumping music await you! 

In addition to its regular menu, this high-energy sports bar also hosts daily specials like Burger Monday and Taco Tuesday. So if you’re looking for a good deal on your favorite foods, American Social is the way to go. 

“The food was amazing. I 100% recommend the Mahi tacos and truffle parmesan fries. Our server was super friendly and attentive and gave great drink recommendations. I got the Fifth and Lavender and the Cactus Pear Mojito, will definitely be returning here!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for American Social. 

8. CW’s Gin Joint

Stylish, upscale bar that offers a unique and creative menu

633 N Franklin St | Downtown Tampa | cwginjoint.com

CW’s Gin Joint will transport you back to the time of speakeasies and underground clubs. This classy and elegant bar will lure you in with its fine interior design and mood lighting. On the menu, you’ll find creative dishes like the Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Lobster Potato. Classic cocktails, beer, and wine are also served. Need help picking one? Just ask the bartender for a suggestion!

“Absolutely a great spot to have a drink or some delicious dinner. The atmosphere is perfectly on point. From the music to the tasty gin drinks to the art & decor. Cozy comfy tables & chairs. Food was full of flavor.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for CW’s Gin Joint.

9. Edison: Food + Drink Lab

Industrial gastropub that is known for its inventive dishes

912 W Kennedy Blvd | Hyde Park | edison-tampa.com

Over the years, Edison: Food + Drink Lab has earned prestigious distinctions like #1 Restaurant of 2016 by Tampa Bay Times and #5 Restaurant of 2018 by Tampa Bay Times. Head Chef Pierola is also a 5x James Beard Semifinalist. So you can expect great food and service here. 

The menu boasts savory and interesting dishes like the Bone Marrow Beef Tartare and Confit Pork Belly Wellington. If you want to try a little bit of everything, we recommend doing the 5-course tasting menu. Creative cocktails, beer, and wine are also available and are great for pairing with any of the dishes on the menu. 

“Ventured for an unexpected dinner that was thoroughly enjoyed. From the location's outdoor ambiance, to the pleasant and knowledgeable staff, to the carefully curated tasting menu... it was truly a culinary experience.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Edison: Food + Drink Lab.

10. Mise En Place

Contemporary restaurant that offers a French-inspired menu

442 W Kennedy Blvd, Suite 110 | Hyde Park | miseonline.com

Finishing off the list is Mise En Place. This chic and classy restaurant is perfect for special nights out when you have a little extra money to splurge on a meal. But the higher price is worth it.

From the Spatchock Grilled Chicken to the Mole Spice Crusted Scallops, everything is cooked to perfection. For dessert, you can treat yourself to something sweet like the Chocolate Pecan Toffee Mousse or Flourless Chocolate Coconut Cake. You’re sure to have a meal you’ll never forget at Mise En Place!

“Dinner at Mis En Place exceeded all my expectations. This isn't necessarily a cheap meal out but with the recent renovation that has transformed the inside into an airy and modern space this doesn't feel like your grandparents type of restaurant out. It's atmosphere now appeals to a younger audience and their food is sure to impress anyone.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Mise En Place.

Downtown Tampa is full of great restaurants that cater to a variety of different tastes. It’s easy to find a spot that you and your friends will love. What restaurants on our list do you plan to visit next? Let us know in the comment section below!