Looking to have dinner at one of our favorite restaurants in Tampa? Check out one of these local hidden gems! There are so many to choose from, you’ll have a hard time picking – from organic Lebanese food to authentic Italian dishes. Check out our master guide below on the best hidden gem restaurants in Tampa!
La Teresita Restaurant
One of our favorite places to eat on a budget has to be La Teresita in West Tampa. This signature Cuban restaurant has been a staple in our families for years! They have the best Cuban food around, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have three separate experiences – a sit down restaurant, a diner, and a bakery. We love the diner because it’s open super late – sometimes it’s open 24 hours!
King State
Do you love aesthetic coffee shops? Well, Tampa is home to the feature coffee shop – King State. This gas station turned restaurant is a popular hang out for the Tampa locals! We love that they don’t just serve coffee drinks, so you don’t have to go elsewhere for food if you’re getting some reading done.
Our favorite is their breakfast – the classic breakfast plate is the best! You can also check them out for dinner, where they serve craft beer and small plates. Check them out on Friday nights for pizza, especially the Charcuterie Pizza!
West Tampa Sandwich Shop
Everyone has their favorite Cuban sandwich shop. We challenge you to try the delicious twist on the fan favorite Cuban here at West Tampa Sandwich Shop! This is the only place you can find their signature Honey Cuban, made with honey. If you don’t want to stray far from the classics, they have plenty of the traditional Cuban sandwiches you know and love like the Media Noche or Palomilla Steak Sandwich!
Vino e Pasta
For homestyle Italian food, Vino E Pasta is always a solid spot. You should definitely make a visit here for cheat day! You’ll love their rich pastas – you can even build your own! Their approachable atmosphere makes it perfect for family dinners or a weekly date night. From sauteed clams to yummy desserts, the whole family will find something delicious to feast on!
Cuban Breezes
Cuban Breezes is a local hole in the wall shop serving up delicious Cuban sandwiches and your favorite traditional eats. This casual eatery is a staple in the community – calling those who need a quick lunch or a dinner with the family! We love how affordable all their dishes are, and you’ll love their delicious flavors!
Fresh Bites
If you love Lebanese food as much as us, grab a pencil and add Fresh Bites to your list. This counter service eatery offers some of the best Lebanese food in Tampa Bay. They have the best hummus, amongst other organic offerings! Check out their organic shawarma, falafel, wraps, kebabs, and other plates! Take some home for dinner or stop by for the best lunch you’ve ever had.
Ebisu Sushi Shack
You may have driven right by the hole in the wall sushi shop and didn’t even notice it! Located in a bungalow, it’s truly in Seminole Heights style. Inside you’ll find a chill sushi shop, well loved by the Seminole Heights locals. Quick tip: check out their dialy specials board to find creative sushi rolls by the chefs themselves! We love their Orange Sunrise roll, topped with citrus Ponzu sauce!
Sar Ri One - Tampa (on Cypress)
For homestyle Korean food, you need to visit Sar Ri One on Cypress. Known as one of the first Korean restaurants in Tampa, this hidden gem is one of the best kept secrets by the locals. Here you can find authentic Korean dishes made in a cottage style atmosphere, cooked expertly by their chefs – like savory bulgogi beef and Korean BBQ. We love this as a spot for weeknight dinners with friends, enjoyed with Korean beer!
La Terrazza Restaurant - Ybor
No more of these twists on Italian food, sometimes you want the real thing! Make plans to have dinner at the warm and inviting Italian restaurant, La Terrazza. Serving Northern Italian food, it’s very romantic and perfect for an impressive date night in an unforgettable location. Check out their delicious pastas – like Penne alla Vodka, with bacon and flambéd!
Mr. and Mrs. Krab
Are you a total seafood fanatic? Look no further! If you haven’t been to Mr. and Mrs. Krab, you need to make this a must visit. You’ve probably seen their steamed bags of snow crab, lobster tails, and shrimp covered in their signature spicy sauce. You can get it mild, but go big or go home! We love their flavors of garlic, peppers, butter, and other seasonings – how it seeps into the complimentary steamed corn is so craveworthy!
Fruitwood Standup Market
On any given day, you can find us craving Fruitwood Standup Market. Tucked away in a mini strip mall on Platt Street, this tiny juice and wrap shack packs a lot of flavor. From flatbread pizzas with healthy toppings to the best chopped salads around, there is so much to enjoy! We love that they don’t have indoor seating and feature amazing outdoor picnic seating areas full of color. On a sunny day, definitely make your way to Fruitwood – check out AJ’s Pink Flamingo flatbread with prosciutto, pistachios, and arugula!
Locally curated guides
Here are some awesome guides, from us to you.
8+ Must Try Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa Bay
Jacky Saunders
melanie-thomas
Selena Perez
The Ultimate Tampa Bay Summer Bucket List
Kirsten Nye