Cena

Restaurant · Tampa

Cena

Restaurant · Tampa

1120 E Kennedy Blvd UNIT 112, Tampa, FL 33602

Highlights

1120 E Kennedy Blvd UNIT 112, Tampa, FL 33602 Get directions

cenatampa.com

Reserve

@michelinguide

Cena

"Nestled among retail spaces and luxury apartments, this unassuming spot is well-loved for its Italian—with an American perspective—food. Minimally dressed with exposed ductwork and mottled cement floors, the space oozes with warmth, thanks to soft lighting. The result is a happy union between neighborhood joint and hipster bar.The trendy guests are here for the kitchen's bold flavors and novel twists on traditional items. Kick off with an antipasto of fried cauliflower, octopus and gigante beans with salsa rossa. House pastas are a huge draw, and perhaps fittingly so, when you consider satisfyingly chewy chitarra with pistachio and shishito pepper pesto, burrata and lemon zest.For dessert, a playful, deconstructed take on tiramisu is a favorite." - Michelin Inspector

https://guide.michelin.com/en/florida/tampa/restaurant/cena-1194505

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@eater

The 12 Best Restaurants in Tampa - Eater Miami

"At first glance, Cena may not seem like your typical Italian spot as it resembles more of a hotel lounge; however, don’t be fooled: its menu is nothing but resolute, truly elegant Italian dishes. Standouts include the octopus salad and wagyu beef carpaccio, and the cacio e pepe — a buttery, peppery parmesan Tuscan pasta — is not to be missed. Also a must? The desserts, as the restaurant harbors one of the most talented pastry chefs in the city." - Liz Newman

https://miami.eater.com/maps/best-new-restaurants-tampa-heatmap

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Tina Fortunato

Google

Dining at Cena was delightful. Our waitress, Gabrielle, gave great recommendations. The Crispy Eggplant, Rustic Bolognese, Truffle Radiatori, and meatballs were all fantastic, each dish bursting with flavor. The ambiance was cozy and elegant, and Gabrielle’s attentiveness made our experience memorable. Highly recommend!

Fritz Eichelberger

Google

I’ve been dining at Cena for 10+ years. Great place, tremendously good food, and friendly & professional service from the wait staff. I was there last night for a whiskey tasting event. Yum! Another solid event at Cena. The food was spectacular. The featured brand was Yellowstone. Rye, Single Malt, Toasted, TBWS pick and their Limited Edition. That brisket, the pork belly and the wild boar open faced lasagna…stars of the night for sure!!

Marissa Plaza

Google

We are new to Tampa and a friend recommended this place, it didn’t disappoint! We started with the Radiculous Wedge Salad (amazing!) and also tried the Truffle Mushroom, Meatballs and Bronzini! Definitively we will come back to try more of Chef Michael Buttacavoli’s Menu! The service was amazing and our drinks were on top! This is a hidden gem for sure! Try also their desserts, we love our Tiramisu . Since I like tequila I tried El Diablo!

Eboni P

Google

This was my 3rd time coming to Cena. I would say overall it was good but I've ordered the same dish twice and both times, I had to ask for salt. The flavor fell a little short. If they had garlic salt, I would've used that! My date had to ask for salt for his dish as well. I'm hoping that it will improve because I do like the restaurant!

Courtney Randall

Google

I came in and had Sonny as my bartender. He was so knowledgeable and gave great service. I loved his drink recommendations and food was delicious as well. I had the mushroom risotto and an old fashion. For my second round of drinks he made me the best espresso martini I’ve ever had! Sonny is a gem to this place and I will definitely be back for the tiramisu!

Cameron Riahi

Google

Food was great. The crispy eggplant appetizer was AMAZING and the bronzino was light and full of flavor as well. Service was good, but could have been faster. We were outside and it was ok, but there are other restaurants that share space and possibly why it took longer to get drinks etc

Shawn Jolly

Google

Great place. Elevated rustic Italian dishes, perfectly prepared and served with good vibes and a friendly atmosphere. High class, but not pretentious. Great cocktails and a modest, but selective wine list. Great for any occasion.

Muggle Snuggles

Google

Visited on Friday, the crispy eggplant does not disappoint, it is very very good. All the food we tried was absolutely delicious. Jorge, our server, was amazing too! He was attentive and very kind. Definitely recommend and I will be returning.