Tampa just scored a culinary jackpot with El Tablado, a must-visit restaurant tucked away at 5008 W Linebaugh Ave. If you haven’t heard of it, you’re missing out on one of Tampa Bay’s most exciting dining spots. With an expansive outdoor patio and a menu that’s “a fusion of vibrant Caribbean flavors and global influences” (according to its website), El Tablado is quickly becoming the go-to place for anyone craving something different – such as squid ink pasta.
The ambiance here is on point. Its rustic facade includes a large wood sign and a sprawling covered patio. It’s naturalistic without feeling like a log cabin. According to the influx of good reviews, its main draw is the quality of service. There’s a reason it is regarded as one of the hottest new dinner spots in the city.
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The best kept secret in Tampa is out: El Tablado
The menu here is where things get interesting. Picture gourmet twists on Caribbean classics, from fresh Peruvian ceviche to savory pork belly chicharron. The seafood steals the show with dishes like mussels in white wine and a mouthwatering lobster burger (I never knew we needed to see that on a menu).
Not to mention the squid ink pasta and beef medallions, both loaded with bold flavors. The drink menu is just as impressive, with creative cocktails like the lychee margarita earning rave reviews. And if you’re a wine lover, El Tablado’s curated selection pairs beautifully with every dish.
5-star reviews pouring in
According to diner Alex Castillo’s 5-star review, the outdoor patio is a highlight, especially when live music sets the mood. He called it a “hidden gem for food, wine, and ambiance.”
Another diner, Yaimaris M., raved about the “amazing” food, “top-notch” service, and the lychee margarita. To learn more, visit the restaurant’s website, Facebook, and Instagram.
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