The closure of Datz Restaurant marks the end of an era for Tampa Bay food lovers. The beloved eatery, known for its creative comfort food and vibrant local atmosphere, has officially shut its final location at 180 Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg. Workers posted a heartfelt goodbye note on the door, signaling the close of a restaurant that had become a staple of Tampa Bay’s dining scene.
The End of a Culinary Chapter
After delighting locals for years, Datz Restaurant has now closed all of its locations. The St. Petersburg branch followed the South Tampa closure in August and Riverview in June. This last spot, opened in 2019 beside the James Museum, quickly became a hub for foodies craving the restaurant’s unique twists on classic dishes.
“This restaurant, the vibe, the food, everything fits with St. Petersburg,” said Mayor Rick Kriseman to St. Pete Catalyst, reflecting how deeply Datz had embedded itself in the local dining culture.
A Design That Matched Its Flavor
The St. Petersburg Datz offered an inviting mix of spaces — a modern bar, cozy nooks, and a spacious dining room that made it perfect for every kind of diner. The project was a collaboration between Harvard Jolly’s architectural vision and Boyd Construction’s craftsmanship, with KW Realty’s John Witner overseeing the property transaction through Fifth Third Bank. The result was more than a restaurant — it was an experience that blended style, comfort, and great food.
From a Deli Dream to a Food Phenomenon
The story of Datz began in 2009 when Suzanne and Roger Perry opened their first location in South Tampa. Initially inspired by a Zingerman’s-style deli, they quickly pivoted to a full-service restaurant after recognizing the city’s appetite for hearty, creative dishes. That decision paid off.
Soon, Food Network and the Travel Channel were showcasing their innovative creations like “The Cheesy Todd” burger and “Barry C.’s Stuffed Meatloaf.” Even Good Morning America spotlighted Datz for its bold and playful approach to American comfort food.
A Restaurant Group That Defined Tampa Bay
Beyond Datz, the Perrys expanded their culinary footprint. They launched Dr. BBQ in the EDGE District, operated Dough bakery, and introduced Roux, a Creole-inspired restaurant that brought New Orleans flavors to Florida. Each venture carried Datz’s signature creativity and commitment to quality.
At its height, the restaurant group employed over 400 people, serving as a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s hospitality industry. Their influence extended far beyond the kitchen — shaping the way the community dined, celebrated, and connected.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though the Datz era has come to an end, its impact remains unforgettable. The original South Tampa location has already found new life as a restaurant called 1983, symbolizing the city’s ever-evolving food landscape.
For longtime fans, Datz wasn’t just a place to eat — it was a place to gather, laugh, and savor creativity on a plate. The goodbye note may mark the end of Datz’s physical presence, but its spirit continues to inspire Tampa Bay’s culinary innovation.
To revisit Datz’s story, visit their official website at www.datztampa.com and explore their legacy through their social media pages on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Even though Datz has closed its doors, Tampa Bay’s food story is far from over — stay tuned, because the next great chapter might already be cooking.
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