Tampa Bay restaurants are having a moment, with a wave of new openings and exciting concepts on the horizon. From chic Italian dining to bagel shops with history, the Bay area’s culinary scene is buzzing with energy. Hungry locals and visitors alike can look forward to fresh flavors, cozy cafes, and bold new fusions.
Newly open
V-Roll, Gulfport
It’s all rolls, bowls, and fresh Vietnamese flavors at V-Roll. The new Gulfport eatery lets you customize spring rolls, rice, and noodle dishes. With no reservations needed, just grab your order and head to the nearby beach.
Elliot Aster, St. Pete
Led by a Michelin-starred chef, Elliot Aster brings fine dining to the Pink Lady. Expect elevated steaks, an antipasti bar, and outdoor seating with gorgeous waterfront views. Reservations are required, so plan ahead for this upscale experience.
RetroHouse, Tampa
This versatile spot in Tampa starts with coffee and pastries, then transitions into Chinese plates like bao and dim sum. Locals rave about the matcha with yuzu dip, calling it “top of the line.” RetroHouse blends flavors seamlessly from day to night.
Olivia, St. Pete
Chef Chris Ponte expands his modern Italian concept across the Bay. Diners will find beloved pizza, pasta, charcuterie, and cheeses. Olivia offers the same South Tampa favorites but in a new downtown location, perfect for Italian food fans.
Lara, Tampa
Described by the Tampa Bay Times as the “most exciting restaurant to open this year,” Lara is an apothecary-style bar, restaurant, and market. With Spanish, Italian, and Cuban influences, this Ybor City addition offers innovative dishes with vibrant small plates.
Mad Dogs & Englishmen, Tampa
This iconic pub reopened in a massive South Tampa space decorated with murals and British pop singer memorabilia. Helmed by Oxford Commons Hospitality, it brings classic tavern fare into a new 6,000-square-foot venue, with familiar menu favorites and lively atmosphere.
Seymour’s, St. Pete
Housed in the historic Snell Arcade, Seymour’s is all about bagels, coffee, and breakfast. The shop’s menu also features matzo ball soup and hearty sandwiches. Named for the owner’s grandfather, this café is already a downtown St. Pete hotspot with a nostalgic vibe.
King of the Coop, Tampa
Famous for its Nashville Hot chicken, King of the Coop makes a big comeback in Tampa. From hush puppies to fried pickles, the menu is bold and flavorful. Preorders for Huli Huli Chicken Mondays are a must for true fans of Southern-inspired comfort food.
Perry’s Porch, St. Pete
Located near the St. Pete Pier, Perry’s Porch offers waterfront breakfasts, lunches, and cocktails. Its menu spans charred octopus to quick working lunches. Whether for coffee or dinner, this new café and bar delivers relaxed coastal flair and tasty dishes.
Eat Art Love Café & Gallery, St. Pete
Where food meets art, this café surrounds diners with local works while serving creative brunch dishes. Expect rotating seasonal menus with highlights like blueberry cream cheese pancakes and duck and grits. It’s a brunch destination that feels uniquely Tampa Bay.
Cousin Vinny’s Sandwich Co., Tampa
Already recognized in the Michelin Florida Guide, this sandwich shop brings big flavors to Tampa. Expect chicken cutlet, prosciutto, and stacked Italian-style sandwiches. With rave reviews, Cousin Vinny’s is quickly becoming a go-to spot for handheld favorites.
The Highland House, Dunedin
Part of a historic golf club’s multi-million dollar renovation, this restaurant offers upscale American dining in a beautiful setting. Beyond great meals, it will also serve as an event space for weddings and gatherings. Dunedin locals are eager for this opening with elegant touches.
Juno & the Peacock, St. Pete
Located in the former 400 Beach spot, this swanky coastal restaurant brings Wagyu beef carpaccio, Maryland crab cakes, and crafted cocktails. Its lounge, Pluma, makes for a chic night out. Juno & the Peacock blends coastal cuisine with a modern edge for elevated nights.
Coming soon
Kinjo, Tampa
Opening August 13, Kinjo pairs Japanese ingredients with Italian recipes for a Wafu-Italian experience. Expect crudo, pasta, sake, and wine. This is a fusion worth marking on your culinary calendar, brought to you by the team behind Koya.
The Moon Under Water, St. Pete
This British pub is returning to Beach Drive after closing in 2021. Its past menu included sausage rolls, cod fingers, and Indian-inspired dishes. Locals are ready to welcome this beloved restaurant back with nostalgia and hearty flavors.
Forbici Modern Italian, St. Pete
Hyde Park’s favorite Italian restaurant is expanding to the Sundial complex downtown. Fans can expect calabrian chicken wings and beloved classics. With its chic interior and Italian comfort food, Forbici’s new location is set to become a favorite spot.
Hungry yet? Tampa Bay’s food scene is growing fast, and these new restaurants are just the start. Which one will you put at the top of your to-dine list?
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