Everybody’s got an opinion about Tampa Bay restaurants.
As of late, our local eateries have been getting some serious shine. In April, Michelin placed a number of local spots in its prestigious 2024 guide. Southern Living also recently put the spotlight on some of Tampa Bay’s favorite eateries. And, every year, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay readers weigh-in on their favorite restaurants and dishes for the annual Best of The Bay awards.
But what about Yelpers? What locals spots are they constantly checkin-in with, ranting about to their friends, or even trauma dumping over because of a lukewarm taco? Every year we like to check in with the infamous website to see what local users and tourists are raving/ranting about across Tampa Bay.
From touristy spots, beach bars, high-end fine dining, and even a few hole-in-the-wall joints, what follows are the local concepts that get a lot of attention on Yelp. In other the words here are the most popular and most-reviewed restaurants across Tampa Bay.
25. Jackson’s Bistro
601 S Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa
“Jackson’s is an upscale sushi and seafood restaurant located near American Social in Tampa, and it’s an absolute gem for a special dining experience. We chose to sit outside, and the view by the water was simply breathtaking. The ambiance added a magical touch to our evening.” – Carly R.
Photo via Jackson’s Bistro/website Credit: Photo via Jackson's Bistro/website 24. SeaBreeze Island Grill
17855 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores
“This is literally one of the very best experiences I’ve had at a restaurant in a long time. I wish I had taken pictures of how beautifully the food was plated. We were too hungry hahaha. We started with the street corn dip which was as good as any elotes I’ve ever had. We ordered two entrees and shared them. The crab cakes are huge!” – Ruth G.
Photo via SeaBreeze Island Grill/website 23. The Original Crabby Bill’s
401 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach
“The OG. Right on the main drag. Accommodating to large groups and families. Dog friendly. Food is Florida beach good and the happy hour is terrific. Definitely a stop for a drink or a meal. Florida Classic!” – Ron M.
Photo via The Original Crabby Bill’s/website 22. The Conch Republic Grill
16699 Gulf Blvd., North Redington Beach
“What can I say that others haven’t said. This place is amazing. It’s always so busy and it’s incredible the stag stays so calm and always does a great job. We had the Conch Fritters as an app and I had the shrimp soup and the Diablo Shrimp Pasta. All super amazing. Thanks for using paper straws!” – Barry M.
Photo via The Conch Republic Grill/website 21. Lolis Mexican Cravings
8005 Benjamin Rd., Tampa
“Lolis is a staple in the area – it’s authentic and never leaves you wanting in flavor. This location is small, not much seating inside – we opted for online ordering and pickup for this reason, but it definitely doesn’t deter us from ordering food from here!
We ordered the birria tacos and the carne asada sope along with a side of esquites. The birria tacos were really tasty – the consumme had a fantastic flavor, probably one of the top 3 birria’s I’ve had in Tampa for sure.” – Skye R.
Photo via Google StreetBest St. Pete Restaurant
Noble Crust
Finalists: Good Intentions, The Lure Credit: Photo via Amy Pezzicara 19. Snapper’s Sea Grill
5895 Gulf Blvd., St Pete Beach
“Had dinner at Snappers twice during this five night trip! First night had the Coconut Cashew Crusted Mahi and I had the Wasabi Crusted Tuna. Both were amazing and the two pieces of Tuna were huge Took half back to our room and made lunch for us the next day Last night my wife had the Snapper and I had the Gorgonzola crusted filet minus the Gorgonzola. Chef nailed my medium rare filet. We will definitely dine here again next trip!” – Rick M.
Photo via Google Street 17. Red Mesa Cantina
128 3rd St. S, St. Petersburg
“Red Mesa is a great place for a nice dinner in St. Pete. They consistently offer great food and great margaritas (won best in the Bay for a reason!) I’ve never been disappointed on the food or the beverages. And the ambiance is so good. The courtyard is gorgeous, the inside is nice as well, and the wait staff does a great job every time. It does get pretty busy, so I’d try to get a reservation or prepare for a longer wait.” – Amber P.
Photo via Red Mesa Cantina/Website 17. Bartaco
1601 W Snow Ave., Tampa
“These tacos are top tier. I come here and can easily put down 8 tacos. I love the spicy cucumber and have tried to recreate them at home and can’t seem to do it.” – Stephen S.
Photo via Bartaco/Website 16. Guppy’s On the Beach
1701 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach
“Across the street from one of my favorite beaches and has a free parking lot with lots of open spaces. The umbrella and weather made this the perfect reprieve from the sun. We ordered the oysters they were huge (that’s what she said)! The ceviche was fresh and flavorful, the perfect midday snack.” – Tiffany W.
Photo via Guppy’s/Website 15. Salt Rock Grill
1701 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach
“Finally made the long over due trip to try Salt Rock and I could not be happier. This restaurant quickly made it to my top 5 list! I am hit or miss with seafood but the way they make it even a non seafood lover would love it. They also have some excellent steak options.” – Jennifer G.
Photo via Salt Rock Grill/Website 14. Whiskey Joe’s
7720 W Courtney Campbell Cswy., Tampa
“My first time visiting Tampa. Whiskey Joe’s was my first stop. I had the fried gator bites for an app. They were great. I also ordered the chargrilled oysters: which most certainly did not disappoint. The outside seating and views were phenomenal, and the service was 10 out of 10. I would most definitely recommend the restaurant to anyone.” – Kenneth P.
Photo via Whiskey Joe’s/Website 13. Hellas Restaurant & Bakery
785 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs
“One of my ultimate fav spots in Tarpon Springs Florida! The cocktails are so tasty and perfect, I always get the white sangria! The authentic taste of Greece with their chicken souvlaki and Greek salad. The chicken souvlaki is perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, while the Greek salad bursts with freshness and flavor from crisp vegetables and tangy feta cheese. Overall, a delightful culinary experience that transports you to the Mediterranean with every bite.” – Christina B.
Photo via Hellas Restaurant & Bakery/Website 12. St. Pete Beach Crabby Bill’s Seafood
5100 Gulf Blvd., St Pete Beach
“Crabby Bill’s is a staple in St. Pete Beach that is right on the water and has a full seafood menu. I first started coming here about 15 years ago and it has remained consistent over time. They specialize in crab, seafood, and sides such as hush puppies and fried gator.” – David W.
Photo via Crabby Bill’s/WebsiteCredit: Photo via Hawkers Asian Street Food/Facebook 10. Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill
937 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs
“This is my favorite restaurant in the area by far. If you like seafood, hush puppies, and mojitos with fresh muddled blackberries this is your spot! Pretty hard to get seated during busy times so I highly recommend putting your name down and then walking around beautiful Tarpon while you wait for name to be called. Wait staff is great and both the inside and outside seating are gorgeous. Right on the water!” – Grace T.
Photo via Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill/Website 9. On Swann
1501 W Swann Ave., Tampa
“My mom and I had a great experience On Swann. Located in the Hyde neighborhood, parking in the evening was much easier and free! We got to sit on the patio where they do allow dogs for the beautiful spring evening. Our server was informative and took great care of us. The beef carpaccio was an excellent starter! The scallops entree was great. Would highly recommend this establishment for a night out.” – Olga S.
Photo via On Swann/Facebook
Best Coffee
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Finalists: Kahwa Coffee, White Duck EspressoCredit: Photo via Mazzaro's Italian Market/Facebook7. Bodega
1180 Central Ave., St. Petersburg
“Right when you walk inside this place you know it’s going to be good. The free smells were amazing. It’s big, open, lots of light – great atmosphere. I loved that they had vegetarian options! My husband got the tofu plato and I got the tempeh plato and we shared so we could try both. We both liked the tempeh more but the tofu was still excellent and seasoned amazingly. The portions were great. I loved they gave you so many rice and beans. The maduros were just as good too. Would totally recommend!! Great food for the price!” – Fiona K.
Photo via Bodega/Instagram 6.Clear Sky Cafe
490 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater
“By far the best food and service on Clearwater beach. It is a staple and has a great food selection and staff that has been there for years. You just don’t find that on the beach. Best breakfast with great indoor and outdoor options.” – Scott W.
Photo via Clear Sky Cafe/Website5. Oxford Exchange
420 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa
“Oxford Exchange is quintessential South Tampa. It’s a boujee spot with boujee food. If you dare to brave this place for weekend brunch, be sure to make reservations. Their food is consistent and delicious. My classic buddy brew iced vanilla latte just tastes better here.” – Krista S.
Photo via Oxford Exchange/Website4. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
7 Rockaway St., Clearwater
“A must when in Clearwater Beach! Sits right on the beach. Arrive 90 minutes before sunset and get your name in the queue for outside. The wait can be an hour, so take a walk to the water, take some pics, and grab a seat in the chairs, rocks or sand. Once seated, you will be in a position to see a stunning sunset as you get your drinks and food. The food is typical pub fair but the atmosphere is worth it. Good service.” – Eugene A.
Photo via Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill/FacebookCredit:Photo via Bern's Steak House/Facebook2. Columbia Restaurant
2117 E 7th Ave., Ybor City
“It was so exciting having lunch at the Ybor location. When we walked inside, the interior was beautifully decorated and there were several rooms with plenty of tables/seating. Our waiter suggested their Columbia’s Original “1905” salad, which was refreshing with fresh vegetables and partially made at tableside. We were also served complimentary bread and butter. For our entree, we shared the Paella “Española.” It had a variety of seafood including shrimp, scallops, and calamari. I recommend ordering this right away as it does take some time to prepare as well as making a reservation.” – Sonia K.
Photo via Columbia Restaurant/Website1. Ulele
1810 N Highland Ave., Tampa
“Ulele is an absolute gem! It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The ambiance is charming, and it’s the perfect spot to explore new flavors.Their menu offers a delightful variety, but one dish that stole my heart was their incredible crab mac and cheese – an absolute must-try! And the service? Top-notch! Do yourself a favor and save room for their exquisite desserts – they’re the cherry on top of an already fantastic meal!” – Andrea T.
Photo via Ulele/Website
