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February 11, 2022

25 hard-to-get restaurant tables in Tampa Bay that are totally worth the wait

By Brandalynn Nuñez Cepeda

Forget "peak hours," most of these Tampa Bay hot spots always have a wait, and it's understandable,  they're all really great. From high-end formal dining, to comfort food and beach bites, here are a few our favorite local haunts where you'll almost never eat alone.  Remember, it doesn't hurt to call ahead! 
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American Social 601 S Harbour Island Blvd. no. 107, Tampa, 813-605-3333 This popular waterfront spot brims with a packed nightlife crowd, especially on the weekends. But it’s also a solid pick for a quick lunch midweek. Photo via American Social/Instagram

American Social

601 S Harbour Island Blvd. no. 107, Tampa, 813-605-3333
This popular waterfront spot brims with a packed nightlife crowd, especially on the weekends. But it’s also a solid pick for a quick lunch midweek.
Photo via American Social/Instagram
Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar 2223 N Westshore Blvd no. 203, Tampa, 813-800-8226 If the eclectic decor adorning the restaurant’s interior doesn’t entice you, the menu sure will. Made-to-order (literally, they make it in front of you) guacamole and a wide range of margarita flavors to choose from come with the Rocco's experience. Photo via Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar/Instagram

Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar

2223 N Westshore Blvd no. 203, Tampa, 813-800-8226
If the eclectic decor adorning the restaurant’s interior doesn’t entice you, the menu sure will. Made-to-order (literally, they make it in front of you) guacamole and a wide range of margarita flavors to choose from come with the Rocco's experience.
Photo via Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar/Instagram
Ulele 1810 N Highland Ave., Tampa, 813-999-4952 This Native-inspired eatery offers a vibrant fusion of ingredients to create this riverside treasure. Outdoor seating has a view of the Tampa skyline almost as good as the jalapeño corn beer muffins and grilled oysters. Photo via Ulele/Instagram

Ulele

1810 N Highland Ave., Tampa, 813-999-4952
This Native-inspired eatery offers a vibrant fusion of ingredients to create this riverside treasure. Outdoor seating has a view of the Tampa skyline almost as good as the jalapeño corn beer muffins and grilled oysters.
Photo via Ulele/Instagram
Cooper’s Hawk Winery 4110 W Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa, 813-873-9463 Inspired by Napa Valley, Cooper’s Hawk is a fancy wine-lover’s treat, and a long wait on the weekends. And it makes sense, the tasting room’s with curated food pairings are worth the RSVP. Photo via Google Maps

Cooper’s Hawk Winery

4110 W Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa, 813-873-9463
Inspired by Napa Valley, Cooper’s Hawk is a fancy wine-lover’s treat, and a long wait on the weekends. And it makes sense, the tasting room’s with curated food pairings are worth the RSVP.
Photo via Google Maps
The Avenue 330 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg, 727-851-9531 The Avenue Eat + Drink is the ultimate local hangout. Enjoy a diverse menu and fresh cocktails at this popular downtown sports bar. Photo via The Avenue/Facebook

The Avenue

330 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg, 727-851-9531
The Avenue Eat + Drink is the ultimate local hangout. Enjoy a diverse menu and fresh cocktails at this popular downtown sports bar.
Photo via The Avenue/Facebook

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