Whether it’s for Valentines Day, or just a special night out, Tampa Bay has plenty of dimly-lit, romantic restaurants to choose from. To help come up with this list, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay turned to Yelp for a rundown of the “most romantic” spots across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. 

So, if you haven’t made and any RSVPs yet, here are a few spots to try.

20. Bin6south 330 6th St. S, St. Petersburg “WOW, the best meal I’ve had in a long time. I’d say this is my top 3 favorite restaurant. Everything about it was amazing from the food and service. I want to back already lol. It is pretty small and that’s what makes it so special. I highly recommend sitting at the bar so you can see how they make the food in action! Must get the duck. Even if you don’t like duck, this will change your mind but overall enjoyed all the dishes. 10/10!!!” – Jenna L. Credit: Photo via Bin6south
19. Copa 1047 Central Ave., St. Petersburg “Copa was amazing! The food was so good we got the Caribbean shrimp with rice and had margaritas for their happy hour. I will absolutely be back. The service was amazing, even the host was so sweet and welcoming. The restaurant is beautiful” – Bianca P. Credit: Photo via Copa

18. Ponte Modern American

1010 Gramercy Ln., Tampa
“Dinner was incredible! The ambiance is upscale and inviting, with a modern touch that makes it feel special yet comfortable. I started with the burrata appetizer, which was fresh and full of flavor. For the main course, I had the short rib and ribeye, and it was tender, perfectly cooked, and paired with delicious sides. The drinks were just as impressive–I tried the signature cocktail, and it was perfectly balanced and refreshing. The service was impeccable. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and made great recommendations, ensuring an amazing dining experience. This spot is perfect for date nights or celebrating special occasions. I’ll definitely be back!” – Ashley C. Credit: Photo via Ponte Modern American
17. Rusty Pelican (temporarily closed due to hurricane) 2425 N Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, “An absolutely lovely spot to enjoy dinner. The location is well-suited for an older crowd (great for dinner with parents or in-laws, for example). The location is on the water and has gorgeous views, but there isn’t any outdoor seating. Nevertheless, the food at Rusty Pelican is great. I’ve never had a bad meal (the scallops are my fave). Service has also been top notch each time I’ve visited.” -Effie O. Credit: Photo vis Rusty Pelican
16. Haiku Tampa 808 N Franklin St., Tampa “The ambiance here is stunning–modern, chic, and perfect for a night out. The food is just as impressive, with beautifully presented sushi and flavorful dishes that are fresh and well-balanced. The cocktails are creative and delicious, adding to the overall experience. Service is attentive and friendly, making sure everything is perfect from start to finish. If you’re looking for a stylish spot with amazing sushi, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere, this is definitely a must-visit!” – Ashley C. Credit: Courtesy Seven Marketing + PR
15. Birkin’s Steakhouse and Sushi Bar 16411 N Florida Ave,. Lutz “This place is amazing. Our steaks were cooked perfectly, with that we had the garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus. Everything was so delicious. The service was great, we had reservations but got there early and we decided to eat at the bar. The bar was well made to have dinner at and the ambiance is very nice. Please give this restaurant your business we need a high end restaurant in this area!” – Faye B. Credit: Photo via Birkin's Steakhouse
14. Casa Santo Stefano 1607 N 22nd St., Ybor City “It has a an airs of elegance from when you first walk in. Greeted promptly and friendly and the service today was excellent. Great authentic Italian food choices and other delicacy that you can choose from.The fresh Italian oil bread was great and the pasta with grilled eggplant was hot and flavorful.” – Gary R. Credit: Photo via Casa Santo Stefano
13. The Library 600 5th St. S, St. Petersburg “Long live the library. Never have been disappointed by this spot. Beautiful and elevated ambiance, perfect for daytime meals or a lunch time spot. The coffee bar is yum, and the baristas are phenomenal at getting to know you and trying to make the best drink for you. The food is even better, happy hour between 3-5 pm I believe and the drinks are delish. Def recommend the whipped feta plate.” – Ria J. Credit: Photo via The Library
12. Ocean Seven 385 S Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater “Beautiful restaurant with meticulously curated food and drink menu. Service was quick, friendly and professional. 10/10 overall experience. We stayed at the hotel so we had multiple dishes all weekend and not a bad bite! We loved the oysters, spicy tuna roll, beef empanadas and creamed corn. Best burger we had in a long time- so flavorful. Flan was to die for. Cannot wait to return! Be sure to check out ocean view from the deck and the rooftop bar, Sielo!” – Alexander O. Credit: Photo via Ocean Seven
11. Rocca 323 W Palm Ave., Tampa “I absolutely love this place–it’s definitely earned its Michelin star. My all-time favorite here is the Mozzarella Cart. The ingredients are so simple, yet I would come just for this dish alone.If you’re in the mood for something other than mozzarella, here are a few standouts: For starters, I highly recommend the Dry Aged Steak, Hokkaido Scallop Crudo, and Shrimp Fritti. When it comes to pasta, you honestly can’t go wrong with any of the options, but my top picks are the Tortello all’Uovo, Torchio Nero all’Arrabbiata, and Agnolotti. Just a heads-up–the pasta is served al dente, so if that’s not your style, well… shrugs.” – Samantha C. Credit: roccatampa / Instagram
10. Ocean Prime 2205 N Westshore Blvd., Tampa “The attention to detail is incredible here. There’s enough staff that there’s always someone around to help when needed. Everyone was very polite. Food was topppp quality. We got the lobster Mac and cheese, wedge salad, seabass and ribeye steak which were all 5/5. Not a single complaint. End with the carrot cake which is enough for the whole table honestly. Everything was great here!” – Corral W. Credit: Photo via Ocean Prime
9. Tori Bar 442 W Grand Central Ave. #190, Tampa “After receiving so many recommendations to this place, I finally made it–and wow, just wow. If I could’ve ordered the entire menu, I would’ve! Seriously, everything we tried was amazing. Nothing was a miss. The standout dishes I highly recommend (and were also suggested to me) include the Hokkaido scallop and truffle paste hand roll, smashed Japanese cucumber (trust me on this one), hamachi crudo, Hokkaido scallop truffle carpaccio, fresh salmon crudo, mentaiko fries, truffle scallop rice pot, and the wagyu beef skewer. This place is a gem, serving some of the freshest fish I’ve had, and it’s now at the top of my list for sushi spots in the Tampa Bay area.” – Samantha C. Credit: Photo by Tori Bar
8. Oak & Ola 1910 N Ola Ave., Tampa “Big fan of Oak & Ola! Located in Armature Works, it never disappoints. I’ve been here for both lunch and dinner, and it’s always a fantastic experience. The outside patio is dog-friendly, which is a huge plus! Service is consistently great, and the food is even better. The vibe is top-notch and perfect for a casual meal or a special night out. Their craft cocktails are amazing, and you really can’t go wrong with any of the dishes. Highly recommend!” – Jenna L. Credit: Photo via Oak & Ola

7. Predalina

1001 E Cumberland Ave., Tampa
“The food and ambiance are excellent at Predalina. We had one of the best servers we’ve had in a long time. Instead of a traditional Friendsgiving, we all went out to eat before Thanksgiving. We tried a variety of things off the menu and everything was fabulous. I especially enjoyed the scallops and octopus. The fried cheese app was 10/10.” – Kristen B. Credit: Photo via Predalina
6. BellaBrava 204 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg “I recently dined at BellaBrava Italian Restaurant, and I must say, it was an exceptional experience from start to finish! The ambiance was warm and inviting, perfect for a casual meal or a special occasion. The decor beautifully combines modern elegance with a touch of rustic charm, creating a cozy atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home.” – Robinson O. Credit: Photo via BellaBrava

5. Sunda New Asian

3648 Midtown Dr., Tampa
“This upscale Asian fusion restaurant exceeded all my expectations! 1st impressions are everything to me. I’ll never forget my first experience. I’m now a regular! From the moment I walked in for the first time, i was greeted warmly by the management and staff, who provided exceptional service throughout my visit. The food was phenomenal–each dish beautifully presented and bursting with unique flavors that showcased the perfect blend of traditional and modern Asian cuisine.” – Katrina M. Credit: Photo via Sunda New Asian
4. Brick & Mortar 539 Central Ave., St. Petersburg “One of my favorites here in St. Pete. Great drinks, amazing food and great service. The Gambas, and the the fries are so good! So many great choices! Amazing bartenders and great vibes!” – John C. Credit: Photo via Brick & Mortar
3. Caretta on the Gulf 500 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach “We love this place we go every time we are in town. Best food ever and the service is phenomenal. Not to mention the view.” – Tara A. Credit: Photo via Caretta on the Gulf
2. Six Tampa 510 Water St., Tampa “Six at Tampa’s JW Marriott Water Street is a romantic haven that sits on cloud nine, or should I say, on the sixth floor. From the moment you step onto that rooftop, you’re in for an enchanting experience that takes romance to new heights. Let’s talk sunsets – and boy, do they deliver! Six boasts one of the best rooftop sunset views in all of Tampa, and let me tell you, it’s a sight that doesn’t disappoint. As the sun paints the sky in shades of orange and pink, you can’t help but feel like you’re in a fairytale.” – David M. Credit: Photo via Six Tampa

1. The Black Pearl

315 Main St., Dunedin
“Amazing restaurant for a romantic dinner or important date to celebrate. It’s small and cozy. Same chef, same waiters, same menu. I love their risotto. It’s a high end place in Dunedin and I would get a reservation because they cook for the number of the expected guests.” – Olga P. Credit: Photo via The Black Pearl