Enjoying a perfect evening of seafood delicacies.
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Seafood and so much more
The Gulf of Mexico delivers Tampa's greatest culinary advantage and with access to some of the East Coast’s freshest seafood, Tampa’s food scene serves up the food in settings that range from casual dockside shacks to Michelin-recognized dining rooms. Your culinary journey through Tampa reveals a city where geography and heritage create extraordinary dining experiences.
Since 1997, Jackson's Bistro, Bar & Sushi (601 S. Harbour Island Blvd.) has offered quality food, featuring unparalleled views of Tampa's waterfront and downtown skyline.
Hula Bay Club (5210 W. Tyson Ave.) dishes up Hawaiian-inspired dining along Tampa Bay's waterfront. A local favorite, Hula Bay hooks you with fresh seafood, signature Molten Shrimp and Duke's Retired Surfer's Island Bar with dockside dining and poolside lounging. AAA Members save 10% on food and nonalcoholic beverages.
The Rusty Pelican (2425 N. Rocky Point Dr.) perfects waterfront dining with floor-to-ceiling windows framing Tampa Bay views. Their crab-stuffed Gulf grouper and crispy local snapper showcase the Gulf's daily bounty.
Savoring the luxurious flavors of Michelin-starred Lilac’s stunning Robiola Goat Cheese presentation.
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Tucked into The Tampa EDITION, the refined Lilac (500 Channelside Dr.) showcases a Mediterranean restaurant with a Tampa twist. From the rich agnolotti pasta to the melt-in-your-mouth grouper to the chocolate walnut cremeux, the menu delivers an unforgettable progression of flavors, exemplifying Michelin-star excellence. Design your own culinary journey or opt for the eight-course tasting menu, all while watching the culinary theater of the open kitchen.
Redefining modern Asian cuisine, Ro (1500 W. Swann Ave.) sources ingredients directly from Tokyo's Toyosu Market. The chefs reimagine traditional Japanese and Southeast Asian dishes, offering fresh sushi, flavorful bento, and rice-and-noodle dishes (like popcorn shrimp donburi) that preserve authentic flavor while elevating presentation.
At the Epicurean Hotel, Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar (1207 S. Howard Ave.) showcases Chef Jonathan Atanacio's Puerto Rican and Italian heritage through modern American cuisine. The Michelin Guide recognizes Élevage for its globally influenced menu, like the local snapper topped with yuzu kosho and pistachio-and-curry roasted cauliflower.
A delectable charcuterie board featuring a curated selection at Haven.
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Contemporary sophistication appears at Haven (2208 W. Morrison Ave.), with the focus on charcuterie, cheese and superb steaks. The knowledgeable servers guide guests through more than 60 cheeses, with pairings such as goat’s milk gouda and sweet reypenaer with Marconi almonds, honeycomb, grapes and apricot chutney.
In Hyde Park Village, Forbici Modern Italian (1633 W. Snow Ave.) focuses on Italian dishes designed for sharing in an intimate neighborhood setting. Its fun décor and outdoor patio create the perfect ambiance for gathering with friends or family. Try the sinfully delicious crispy calabrese square pizza for lunch!
Restaurant dancer dancing with dining patrons.
Historic Ybor City houses Columbia Restaurant (2117 E. 7th Ave.), Florida's oldest restaurant and the world's largest Spanish restaurant. Since 1905, the Hernandez-Gonzmart family has expanded from a corner café into an entire city block featuring 15 dining rooms. Try the famous 1905 Salad, mixed tableside.
In Tampa's Water Street District, Boulon Brasserie & Bakery (1001 Water St.) brings 'French by way of America' dining excellence, celebrating the fusion of local flavors with timeless French culinary traditions. In an elegant space adorned with classic Parisian touches, savor the lobster pot pie or beef bourguignon, capped off with a decadent dessert.
Head to historic Tampa Heights, where Ulele (1810 N. Highland Ave.) occupies a restored 1903 building along the Tampa Riverwalk, steps from Armature Works. Here, “Native-inspired” cuisine honors the Tocobaga tribe's legacy. Try the blackened Mahi Mahi with corn salsa while sipping a craft beer fresh from the onsite brewery.
Champagne Bar at Oxford Exchange.
In downtown Tampa, Sparkman Wharf (615 Channelside Dr.) transforms shipping containers into a waterfront food hall where you can satisfy every craving—from coffee, ice cream and chocolates to Asian street food, po’ boys and empanadas.
The two-story Oxford Exchange (420 W. Kennedy Blvd.) earned Food Network recognition as the “Most Instagrammable Restaurant in Florida,” combining coffee bar, tea shop, bookstore, restaurant, candle-making experience and champagne bar in a beautifully restored historic building.
In Ybor City, Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters (1901 E. 7th Ave.) captures a welcoming neighborhood vibe. It serves exceptional roasted coffee alongside flavor-packed pastries like guava and cheese turnovers and cran-oat bars.
Practical Tips and AAA Benefits
● Parking: Downtown Tampa parking is $3/hour at meters. Hyde Park Village offers two free garages (with limited spots); street parking is $2/hour. Use mobile apps like ParkMobile for convenience.
● Reservations: Book Michelin-starred restaurants well in advance.
● Savings: Access dining discounts through AAA mobile app. Visit during Tampa Bay Restaurant Week in June for multiple-course prix fixe menus.
Epicurean Hotel lobby.
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Strategic Accommodations: Consider these AAA Four-Diamond properties for a food-focused stay. The Epicurean Hotel (1207 S. Howard Ave.) boasts multiple on-site dining venues, culinary programming, and connections to Tampa's restaurant dynasty. The Tampa EDITION (500 Channelside Dr.) provides luxury accommodations in the heart of the Water Street District with walkable access to the newest dining and entertainment developments. At both of these properties, you can enjoy special AAA Member savings, plus earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA rates.
