Margarita Wars is coming – Get your tickets here!

The 25 hottest restaurants in Tampa Bay right now

By CL Staff on Fri, Aug 2, 2019 at 8:44 pm

Tampa Bay's restaurant scene is popping off. From new cocktail bars to date-night eateries, to waterfront fish shacks, there are plenty of ways to expand your palette. What follows are a few Tampa Bay spots that are either brand-spankin' new, have all new menus, updated facilities, or just received some well-deserved praise.

Tags:

Scroll down to view images

Cafe Hey

1540 N. Franklin Ave., Tampa, 813-221-5150
After closing for renovations in July, Cafe Hey fans were worried that the popular Tampa Heights joint was gone for good. Those rumors didn’t last long. Cafe Hey returned on August 1 with a consolidated menu and now features a brand new draft bar.

Photo via Cafe Hey/Facebook

Sonder Social Club

966 Douglas Ave. Unit 101, Dunedin, 727-754-6674
Dunedin’s first craft cocktail bar, Sonder Social Club, might be your new date night destination. The concept began its soft opening stage during late July and will hold a grand opening in August. Aside from the handcrafted libations, Sonder also serves bar snacks like a braised short rib bao bun and white truffle cauliflower pizza. The craft cocktail oasis is open late every night of the week, from 4 p.m.-midnight Sunday through Thursday and 4 p.m.-2 a.m Friday and Saturday.

Photo via Sonder Social Club/Facebook

Charley's American Bar And Restaurant

4030 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 813-304-1511
Previously known, Good Time Charley’s, this joint has been a go-to for live entertainment, regular karaoke sessions and some of the best wings in town since 1979. Charley’s American Bar has a completely renovated the floor plan with a new bar, a larger corner stage for entertainment and karaoke, designated room for typical bar games like pool and darts and an updated menu.

Photo via charleysabar.com

Bandit Coffee Co.

2662 Central Ave., St. Petersburg
Bandit Coffee Co. is making moves to expand beyond its caffeinated origins. Bandit Coffee Co. began serving beer and natural wines back in April and announced in July that it would be opening up a food service as well. The food menu includes grab-and-go items like breakfast sandwiches, burritos and a variety of bowls. Bandit will also offer vegan food options.

Photo via @banditstpete/Instagram