Trendy Restaurants in Tampa: Where to Eat at Midtown Tampa
Tampa’s food scene is a foodie’s dream come true, and nowhere is that more true than at Midtown Tampa. This stylish, walkable neighborhood is packed with trendy restaurants, cool cafés, rooftop bars, and casual eateries where the vibe matters just as much as the food. From rooftop cocktails and sushi to pizza, tacos, brunch, and burgers, Midtown Tampa brings together the perfect mix of bold flavors, atmosphere, and social energy.
Whether you’re grabbing dinner before a concert, meeting friends for lunch and shopping, or planning a photo-worthy girls’ night out, Midtown offers a one-stop destination for trendsetters and food lovers alike in the heart of Tampa.
Best Restaurants at Midtown Tampa
Midtown Tampa’s dining scene is all about variety, convenience, and atmosphere. Visitors love the open-air design and the ability to walk between dinner, dessert, happy hour drinks, and entertainment without ever getting in a car. It’s common to see people enjoying brunch, grabbing ice cream, and strolling through the plaza afterward.
Here are some of the most talked-about, must-visit, and trendiest places to eat at Midtown Tampa:
Sal Y Mar Rooftop Lounge
Perched above the Aloft & Element Hotel, Sal Y Mar is a rooftop bar and Latin-inspired restaurant known for its stylish ambiance and signature cocktails. Guests come for the views and stay for the vibrant vibe. While the food is flavorful, the setting is what makes Sal Y Mar one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Midtown Tampa.
Fan favorites: Rooftop views, live music nights, craft cocktails, and Latin-meets-Mediterranean dishes perfect for a date night or special occasion.
Sunda New Asian
This chic, globally inspired Tampa restaurant brings together Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese flavors in a modern, energetic space. With bold plating and a shareable-style menu, Sunda is a favorite for groups looking to try a little of everything.
Why it’s trendy: Stylish decor, fusion dishes, sushi that doubles as art, and a buzzing crowd.
BellaBrava: New World Trattoria
BellaBrava blends Italian classics with contemporary flair. Think squid ink pasta, truffle cream sauces, and spicy Calabrian honey drizzled over crispy pepperoni pizza. It’s casual enough for a weekday dinner but polished enough to feel like a night out.
Why people love it: Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, high-quality ingredients, and a lively, upbeat dining experience.
Colony Grill
Colony Grill is famous for its signature thin-crust, hot oil pizzas that keep people coming back. It’s simple, satisfying, and stylish—perfect for casual nights out or spontaneous get-togethers.
What everyone’s talking about: Thin-crust pizza, bold flavors, and a welcoming environment that blends retro charm with modern American energy.
Shake Shack
Sometimes, trendy is simple—and Shake Shack nails that formula. Burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and frozen custard are served with fast-casual style and a cool urban vibe that fits right in at Midtown.
Vibe check: Cult-following burgers, outdoor seating, and a grab-and-go vibe that keeps the plaza buzzing with Tampa Bay locals and visitors alike.
True Food Kitchen
For those looking for something healthier without sacrificing flavor, True Food Kitchen delivers. This popular restaurant focuses on feel-good dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a go-to for lunch, smoothies, or a colorful brunch.
Guest-approved: Health-conscious menus, sleek design, and high-quality dishes that taste as good as they look.
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Walk-On’s brings a social, laid-back atmosphere to Midtown with big screens, bold Louisiana flavors, and regular live music or trivia nights. It’s a great sports bar to hang with friends over beers, bites, and a lively dining experience.
What makes it a standout: Southern comfort food, happy hour specials, and a high-energy environment perfect for game day or casual date nights.
Why Midtown Tampa Restaurants Are the Best Places to Eat
Midtown Tampa isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about the full experience. Whether it’s sipping cocktails at golden hour, snapping photos with your meal, or walking from dinner to dessert to shopping, Midtown makes it easy to enjoy food and fun in one place.
Common visitor sentiments include:
- “The dining scene is a foodie’s dream come true”
- “We ate dinner, had ice cream, and walked around”
- “Perfect for dinner, taking a break, some shopping”
This mix of stylish spaces, walkability, and diverse cuisine—from tacos to sushi to pizza—makes Midtown Tampa one of the best places to explore trendy restaurants in Florida.
Tips for Enjoying the Midtown Vibe
- Arrive early on weekends to find parking and beat the dinner or brunch rush.
- Dress with style. These eateries are popular for a reason, and you’ll feel right at home in your favorite going-out fit.
- Plan to linger. Most people don’t just eat—they hang out, stroll, and socialize.
- Check for live music or events. The courtyard and select restaurants often host entertainment that adds to the atmosphere.
Plan Your Trendy Night Out in Midtown Tampa
Whether you’re grabbing sushi, craving thin-crust pizza, or want rooftop bar cocktails with a view, Midtown Tampa is the place to be. With trendy eateries, stylish surroundings, and walkable access to shopping and events, this is where Tampa Bay comes together to eat, explore, and unwind.
Located just minutes from Downtown Tampa and not far from Ybor City, Midtown is a hidden gem that makes every brunch, happy hour, or special occasion feel like something worth celebrating.
Midtown makes dining an experience—not just a meal—and stands out as one of the best restaurants districts in Florida. Whether you’re meeting friends, planning a date night, or looking for high-quality food with bold flavors, Midtown Tampa restaurants are a must-visit part of Tampa’s vibrant food scene.
Oh—and if you’re looking for a wine list, rooftop views, or hot oil pizza? You know where to go.
Chris Ponte would approve.
