When it comes to Tampa Bay’s hot new restaurants, 2025 has already been an exciting year. Part of what makes Tampa Bay such a vibrant culinary hub is the constant wave of innovative food concepts that bring locals and visitors something fresh. From elevated fine dining to casual comfort favorites, these new spots are quickly earning their place as must-visit destinations. Whether you’re searching for brunch with waterfront views or crave smoky barbecue done right, these are the restaurants setting the tone for Tampa Bay’s next chapter in dining.
Riverwalk Terrace
📍 505 Water St., Tampa | ☎️ (813) 204-6391
Official Website | Facebook | Instagram
Riverwalk Terrace is redefining brunch in Tampa Bay with its Riviera-inspired design and sweeping waterfront views. Located inside the Tampa Marriott Water Street, this stylish restaurant blends French and Italian influences into traditional breakfast dishes. Expect flaky pastries, savory omelets, and refreshing cocktails in a setting that feels both upscale and inviting. Perfect for a leisurely morning or a weekend escape, Riverwalk Terrace brings a taste of Europe to the heart of Tampa.
Cheeky’s Fish & Raw Bar
📍 2823 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | ☎️ (877) 243-3595
Official Website | Instagram
If you’re craving fresh seafood in St. Pete, Cheeky’s Fish & Raw Bar is a must-visit. This coastal-inspired restaurant captures the laid-back energy of Key West and Nantucket while celebrating Florida’s Gulf traditions. Highlights include Connecticut-style lobster rolls, blackened grouper sandwiches, and East Coast oysters served on ice. With house-smoked fish dips and scratch-made sauces, Cheeky’s focuses on bold, fresh flavors. Add in frozen cocktails and a weekend brunch, and you’ve got a spot that instantly feels like a neighborhood favorite.
Southern Luv BBQ
📍 8019 Citrus Park Drive, Tampa | ☎️ (813)-945-2443
Official Website | Facebook | Instagram
For lovers of authentic barbecue in Tampa, Southern Luv BBQ is the new destination. Chef Essi Tadrus has traveled across Texas, Georgia, the Carolinas, and beyond to create a menu that celebrates regional barbecue traditions. From pecan wood–smoked meats to hand-trimmed brisket and scratch-made sauces, every detail reflects a deep respect for the craft. Even the barbecue potato chips are made in-house, proving that Southern Luv is about quality from start to finish. With its motto of “raising the bar in barbecue,” this restaurant is set to be a landmark for meat lovers.
The Crane
📍 575 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | ☎️ (727)-201-4437
Official Website | Instagram
The Crane brings casual fine dining with a global twist to Central Avenue. As part of the Mangosteen Hospitality Group, it combines steakhouse classics with Asian-inspired flavors. Diners can savor Wagyu dumplings, Chilean Sea Bass over risotto, and creative cocktails like the Ube Colada. With an extensive wine list, inventive off-menu specials, and a sleek modern design, The Crane offers both sophistication and warmth. For anyone seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience, this restaurant is a standout in St. Pete’s booming scene.
Mighty Fine
📍 1018 E. Cass St., Tampa | ☎️ (813) 374-0169
Official Website | Instagram
Classic diner nostalgia meets modern comfort food at Mighty Fine. Founded by Nathan Hardin, this restaurant celebrates old Florida with smash burgers, chili dogs, and fried pickles served in a casual, friendly setting. Located inside Late Start Brewing, it’s the perfect place to pair comfort bites with a cold craft beer. With its tagline “comfy classics,” Mighty Fine captures the authentic diner experience while delivering high-quality flavor at affordable prices.
From waterfront brunches to smoky barbecue and nostalgic burgers, Tampa Bay’s hot new restaurants of 2025 are redefining the dining experience. Each brings something different to the table—literally—proving why this region continues to be one of Florida’s most exciting food destinations. Hungry yet? Trust us, this is just the beginning of Tampa Bay’s culinary evolution—what’s next will surprise you even more.
Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.