Tampa
United-states
Discover the best restaurants, dishes, and local cuisine in Tampa, United-states. Read authentic reviews, browse menus, and find your perfect dining experience.
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Restaurants in Tampa
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsPain au Chocolat
Boulon Brasserie and Bakery / Tampa (United States)
View Pain au ChocolatChocolate croissant.
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Buttery and flaky French pastry.
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French Onion Soup
Boulon Brasserie and Bakery / Tampa (United States)
View French Onion SoupTraditional French onion soup with a rich beef broth, caramelized onions, and a Gruyère crouton.
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Moules Frites
Boulon Brasserie and Bakery / Tampa (United States)
View Moules FritesMussels steamed in white wine, garlic, and herbs, served with fries.
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Steak Frites
Boulon Brasserie and Bakery / Tampa (United States)
View Steak FritesGrilled steak served with crispy fries. A classic French brasserie dish.
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Italian rice balls, a common appetizer
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Pasta dishes
Forbici Modern Italian / Tampa (United States)
View Pasta dishesVarious handmade pasta dishes are commonly mentioned. Specific popular choices vary, but handmade pasta is a key charact…
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Polenta Fries
Forbici Modern Italian / Tampa (United States)
View Polenta FriesA unique take on fries using polenta. A common side or appetizer.
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Cacio e Pepe Pizza al Taglio
Forbici Modern Italian / Tampa (United States)
View Cacio e Pepe Pizza al TaglioThis appears to be a popular pizza offering, drawing inspiration from the classic Cacio e Pepe pasta dish, reimagined in…
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Biscuits & Gravy
Metro Diner / Tampa (United States)
View Biscuits & GravyTwo buttermilk biscuits smothered in their creamy sausage gravy.
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Charleston Shrimp & Grits
Metro Diner / Tampa (United States)
View Charleston Shrimp & GritsGrits topped with shrimp, Andouille sausage, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic in a creamy sauce.
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Iron City Meatloaf Melt
Metro Diner / Tampa (United States)
View Iron City Meatloaf MeltMeatloaf with grilled onions, swiss cheese and Metro Diner sauce on grilled sourdough bread.
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Signature Dishes
Tampa's cuisine is characterized by a bold blend of flavors, incorporating spices, rich sauces, and fresh seafood. Cuban sandwiches, Spanish bean soup, and deviled crabs are just a few of the dishes that showcase this unique culinary heritage.
Cuban Sandwich
A Tampa staple, the Cuban sandwich typically consists of Cuban bread, roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, pressed until warm and slightly crispy. The Tampa version often includes salami, distinguishing it from the Miami Cuban.
Spanish Bean Soup (Garbanzo Bean Soup)
A hearty and flavorful soup made with garbanzo beans (chickpeas), ham hock, chorizo, potatoes, and various vegetables. Often seasoned with Spanish spices, it is a comforting and traditional dish.
Deviled Crab
A local favorite, deviled crabs are made with blue crab meat mixed with a spicy blend of breadcrumbs, seasonings, and sometimes other ingredients like vegetables or peppers. The mixture is then stuffed into a crab shell and baked or fried.
Grouper Sandwich
Fresh grouper, usually blackened, grilled, or fried, served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. Represents the city's proximity to the Gulf and access to fresh seafood.
Columbia Restaurant's 1905 Salad
A signature salad from the Columbia Restaurant, featuring iceberg lettuce, baked ham, Swiss cheese, olives, tomatoes, Romano cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice, all tossed with a garlic dressing. A Tampa institution.
Local Tips
To truly experience Tampa's culinary scene, consider these special tips for exploring the city's food culture.
Visit Ybor City
Explore the historic Ybor City neighborhood to sample authentic Cuban cuisine and experience the vibrant culture that shaped Tampa's food scene.
Try a Local's Recommendation
Ask locals for their favorite spots to enjoy a Cuban sandwich or deviled crab. They often know the hidden gems and best-kept secrets.
Look for Authentic Ingredients
Seek out restaurants that use traditional ingredients and preparation methods to ensure an authentic taste of Tampa's culinary heritage.
Explore Local Markets
Visit local farmers' markets and seafood markets to experience the fresh, seasonal ingredients that contribute to Tampa's unique flavors.
About Tampa
FL
Food History
Tampa's culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its diverse history. Influences from Spanish colonization, Cuban immigration, Italian communities, and Southern American traditions have all shaped the unique flavors found in the city. The cigar industry, particularly in Ybor City, played a significant role in establishing many of the iconic dishes.
Food Culture
Food is deeply intertwined with Tampa's cultural identity, particularly within the historic neighborhood of Ybor City. The city's vibrant community life revolves around dining experiences and celebrations.
Ybor City Influence
Ybor City, once the cigar capital of the world, remains a cultural hub where many of Tampa's signature dishes originated and continue to be celebrated. The neighborhood's architecture and atmosphere reflect its rich history and diverse cultural influences.
Family Traditions
Many Tampa families have passed down recipes and cooking traditions for generations, ensuring the preservation of these unique culinary treasures. Sharing food is an integral part of family gatherings and community events.
Seafood Abundance
Being a coastal city, Tampa enjoys an abundance of fresh seafood. This has led to a strong focus on seafood dishes within the local cuisine, showcasing the region's natural resources.