The Tampa restaurant scene is buzzing with exciting new spots popping up all over the city, and it’s not just about the MICHELIN Stars. Here’s a closer look at the latest openings that are creating a stir and giving locals even more dining options.
Mema’s Alaskan Tacos
Location: 1903 N 19th Street
Making a grand return, Mema’s Alaskan Tacos has re-emerged to the delight of Tampa locals. This beloved taco spot originally opened more than 20 years ago, but its roots go back even further to the 1950s, when “Goompa” was stationed at Alaska’s Elmendorf Air Force Base. There, Mema learned the secrets of her unique taco recipe, which quickly became a family treasure. Passed down through generations, these lightly fried tacos are known for their juicy, slightly crunchy texture, preserving the tradition of homemade goodness.
Royal Thai Restaurant
Location: 5011 W Hillsborough Ave
For a taste of authentic Thai in Tampa Bay, Royal Thai Restaurant is a standout destination. This family-owned gem is dedicated to serving traditional Thai cuisine using the finest ingredients, offering an authentic culinary journey. As one recent review raves, “So freaking good. Finally a decent Thai place in Tampa. Red curry, chicken satay, and that papaya salad are highlights!”
Shōgun Sushi
Location: 1713 S Dale Mabry Hwy
For sushi lovers, Shōgun Sushi brings a unique twist with its AYCE menu. Featuring not only traditional sushi but also a range of hot dishes and hibachi items, Shōgun is praised for its Pepper Tuna, Sushi Tacos, and more. The clean, zen-inspired atmosphere with air-chiming glass decor creates a lively yet tranquil setting.
Josephine’s Italian Market
Location: 730 W Brandon Blvd
This new Italian market offers a wide array of delicious options, from Roman-style pizza to specialty roast coffee and desserts. Josephine’s shelves are stocked with spices, sauces, and other essentials for cooking Italian meals at home. Shoppers can take a break and enjoy rich espresso at the coffee bar while exploring the market.
Tampeno Fish & Meat Market
Location: 3413 West Tampa Bay Blvd
A fusion of diverse cultural flavors thrives at Tampeno Fish & Meat Market, where the owners bring their West Tampa heritage to life. From fresh seafood to hand-selected meats, they capture the spirit of hard work, family bonds, and community pride that define the area.
Retro House Dim Sum
Location: 934 E Henderson Ave
Retro House Dim Sum brings a collaborative touch to Tampa’s culinary scene. Combining the talents of Corrinne Liou, Paul Venghaus, Meishan Lu, and Joseph Hixon, this bao bun haven serves up specialties like golden lava bao and ube bao. The adjacent coffee bar, soon to open, will feature Felicitous’s renowned pastries and drinks, adding to Retro House’s offerings.
It’s officially open for takeout with its hours set from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Within the next 4 months, Retro House will expand with a full coffee bar next door, designed to accommodate up to 30 patrons. This coffee bar will feature Felicitous’s renowned pastries and drinks. Once the coffee bar is open, Retro House will open around 7:30 a.m./8 a.m.
Enjoy golden lava and ube bao, sensational black pepper steak, sweet Thai tea, crab rangoon, and more.
Kiwa
Location: 5415 Bayshore Boulevard
Kiwa’s menu presents a stunning array of Korean-inspired dishes, with items like Beef Brisket Fried Rice, Bulgogi Beef, and Rock n Roll Shrimp as fan favorites. Each dish is celebrated for its flavor and presentation, creating a dining experience that’s both bold and refined. Kiwa’s influence in Tampa’s dining landscape continues to grow.
The Meltdown
Location: 1910 N Ola Avenue
A unique twist on comfort food awaits at Meltdown Grilled Cheese Shop. Their Cheez-It pie topped with Chili con Carne and candied jalapeños has become a local favorite, alongside a variety of other comfort classics like curly fries. This spot is all about indulgent, crave-worthy flavors.
Leon’s Lobstah Shack
Location: 5314 Interbay Blvd
Leon’s Lobstah Shack offers a menu brimming with New England seafood classics. From hot and cold lobster rolls to lobster tacos and smash burgers, this spot brings authentic lobster flavors to Tampa. Crispy clam baskets and grouper po boys round out the seafood-centric offerings.
Zen Pho
Location: 3019 W Waters Avenue
Zen Pho brings the art of Asian cu
isine to Tampa with a dedication to balance, authenticity, and inclusivity. Each dish is crafted with sustainability in mind by founder Hung, whose travels and culinary expertise come together to create memorable, globally-inspired flavors.
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