Trips to Discover has gathered its list of the most beautiful restaurants in Florida. A large majority of these culinary gems are located either in Tampa, or in the greater Tampa area. These restaurants offer waterfront views, historic charm, beach access, and of course deliver on the elevated culinary expectations of visitors to the Tampa Bay region. In case you hadn’t heard, our city now has 3 MICHELIN-starred restaurants, plus plenty of Bib Gourmand Award-winning institutions.
Oystercatchers
2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa
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First up in Tampa is Oystercatchers, a spot regarded as one of the best brunch destinations in Tampa. The restaurant is nestled amongst “lush tropical landscaping on the edge of Tampa Bay,” writes Charity De Souza. While many come for the picturesque views and endless mimosas, they end up staying for the restaurant’s pleasant ambiance and world-class cuisine, from scallop fritters to a buffet of caviar, oysters, and smoked salmon. A delight for the eyes, this beautiful restaurant serves up flavorful dishes that please the palate, perfectly paired with colorful sunset views and impeccable service.
Columbia Restaurant
2117 E 7th Ave, Ybor City
Columbia Restaurant is an iconic institution in Florida. For more than a century this family owned gem has delighted diners with table side paella, fantastic sangria, excellent service, and one of the most highly regarded Cuban sandwiches in the city. Occupying a full block in Ybor City, the restaurant has twelve dining rooms with original Spanish tile floors, high ceilings, and walls covered in period photos. Evoking a traditional Spanish inner courtyard, you’ll find Moorish architecture alongside a bubbling fountain and terraced balcony.
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Caretta on the Gulf
500 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater
Caretta On The Gulf captures hearts with its charming yet sophisticated ambiance, offering a delightful blend of upscale dining and breathtaking ocean vistas. As a premier restaurant in Clearwater, it takes its name from the loggerhead turtles that frequent the area’s shores and proudly holds the distinction of being the only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant in town. Indulge in a culinary journey with dishes like seasonal duck confit, black grouper, or exquisite sushi, accompanied by a glass of organic wine, while witnessing the mesmerizing sunset hues paint the Gulf of Mexico. With indoor and outdoor seating options, patrons can relish the popular chef’s dinner tasting menu, complete with handpicked dessert and wine pairings by skilled sommeliers, or unwind with a specialty drink like the refreshing watermelon cucumber martini after dark.
Spinner’s Rooftop Restaurant
5250 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach
Spinner’s is an exquisite seafood destination that epitomizes the essence of Florida’s coastal charm. Located on the 12th floor of the Bellwether Beach Resort, this rooftop gem offers an unrivaled 360-degree panorama of St. Pete Beach, making it the sole revolving restaurant on the West Coast. Step into a world of elegance and romance as you savor a delectable menu featuring locally sourced seafood, crisp salads, and irresistible desserts, all while basking in the breathtaking vistas of Florida’s sun-drenched shoreline. Spinners Rooftop Grille is a haven where culinary delights and awe-inspiring views intertwine to create an unforgettable dining experience.
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