Best Seafood in Tampa

Open-air, toes-in-the-sand energy with Gulf fish cooked simply and well. Featured in The New York Times’ Restaurant List and praised by Southern Living, it’s where locals send friends for sunset shrimp, smoked fish spread, and day-boat grouper.

A South Tampa staple from chef Nick Cruz known for its blackened grouper sandwich and playful lobster corndog. Praised by local food writers for doing simple seafood right—no-frills setting, big flavors, and a loyal neighborhood following.

Daily-catch board, smoked spreads, and boat-drink cocktails in a laid-back Seminole Heights perch. Covered by Creative Loafing and loved by industry folks, it keeps the focus on fresh Gulf fish and simple, dialed-in technique.

Family-run Ybor City favorite blending Caribbean and New Orleans cues—think steam pots, bayou oysters, and blackened grouper. Praised by local critics over the years, it’s casual, welcoming, and very Tampa in spirit.

Local, sustainability-minded counter turning out Nashville hot fish, po’boys, and fried oysters by the water. Recognized by Tampa Magazine readers and covered by city publications, it’s an easy downtown move before a game or show.

Native-inspired menu from a storied local restaurant family, set on the Riverwalk with an oyster bar and on-site brewery. Recognized by the Michelin Guide, its chargrilled oysters and Florida seafood celebrate regional ingredients.

Seafood-forward Mediterranean from local operators in Water Street. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and local editors, it shines with branzino, crudo, and pasta, plus a lively bar and retail market that nods to coastal traditions.

Old-school marina hangout with a raw bar, blue crabs, and live music. It’s a locals’ choice by boat or by car—come for oysters, smoked fish spread, and a laid-back Hillsborough River backdrop that screams Tampa.

Beloved Seminole Heights market-kitchen serving generous, made-to-order plates alongside a case of fresh local fish. Affordable, no-pretense seafood that locals rely on for fried shrimp, grouper sandwiches, and take-home fillets.