Best Seafood Restaurants in Tampa – Top 5 Must-Try Seafood Spots
Best Seafood Restaurants in Tampa – A Food Lover’s Guide
Tampa, Florida, is a seafood paradise known for its fresh catches, vibrant flavors, and stunning waterfront dining experiences. Whether you're craving fresh oysters, succulent lobster, or a perfectly grilled fish fillet, Tampa has something for every seafood lover.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top seafood restaurants in Tampa, so you can indulge in the city’s finest seafood dishes.
🔗 Looking for premium seafood to enjoy at home? Check out Global Seafoods for high-quality fresh fish!
1. Eddie V's Prime Seafood – A Luxurious Seafood Experience
📍 Location: Westshore, Tampa
⭐ Best For: Upscale dining, fresh oysters, and live jazz music
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood is a high-end seafood and steak restaurant known for its impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and fresh seafood selection. The restaurant offers a raw bar, premium shellfish, and expertly cooked fish fillets.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔️ Chilled Shellfish Tower – A seafood lover’s dream with oysters, shrimp, and lobster.
✔️ Norwegian Salmon – Perfectly cooked with a light, buttery finish.
✔️ South African Lobster Tail – Sweet and tender, a true delicacy.
💡 Pro Tip: Dress to impress—Eddie V’s has a business casual dress code (no shorts or flip-flops allowed).
2. Ulele – Native-Inspired Coastal Cuisine
📍 Location: Tampa Heights, Waterfront
⭐ Best For: Unique seafood dishes with Native American and Latin influences
Ulele is a Tampa favorite that offers a mix of Native American, Florida, and Latin flavors. With locally sourced seafood and a beautiful outdoor patio by the river, this is a must-visit spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔️ Charbroiled Oysters – Smoked and grilled to perfection.
✔️ Cedar Plank Salmon – Infused with rich, smoky flavors.
✔️ Ulele Salad – Roasted beets, smoked salmon, and fresh greens.
💡 Pro Tip: Ulele has a great selection of craft beers brewed in-house—don’t leave without trying one!
3. Rusty Pelican – Iconic Seafood with a View
📍 Location: Rocky Point, Tampa
⭐ Best For: Waterfront dining, seafood classics, and romantic dinners
For over 40 years, Rusty Pelican has been a staple in Tampa’s seafood scene. With breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and a menu full of fresh seafood classics, this is a great spot for a special night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔️ Rusty Pelican Paella – A flavorful mix of shrimp, mussels, scallops, and saffron rice.
✔️ Lobster Mac & Cheese – Creamy, cheesy goodness with chunks of lobster.
✔️ Whole Fried Snapper – Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
💡 Pro Tip: Request a waterfront table at sunset for the ultimate dining experience.
4. Ocean Prime – A Seafood & Steakhouse Gem
📍 Location: Downtown Tampa
⭐ Best For: Upscale seafood and steak pairings
Ocean Prime is a luxurious seafood and steakhouse that offers a modern, chic dining experience. The menu features fresh sushi, shellfish, and expertly grilled fish, making it a great choice for date nights or business dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔️ Ahi Tuna Tartare – Light, fresh, and beautifully presented.
✔️ Chilean Sea Bass – Served with champagne truffle sauce.
✔️ Prime Surf & Turf – A perfect pairing of filet mignon and butter-poached lobster.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip their signature cocktails—the Berries & Bubbles is a customer favorite!
5. The Oyster Bar – Casual & Fresh Oyster Spot
📍 Location: St. Petersburg (A Short Drive from Tampa)
⭐ Best For: Casual dining, fresh oysters, and seafood boils
If you’re a fan of oysters, The Oyster Bar is worth the short drive to St. Pete. This laid-back seafood spot specializes in freshly shucked oysters, fried seafood baskets, and seafood boils.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔️ Raw Oysters on the Half Shell – Served fresh daily.
✔️ Oyster Shooters – A fun and flavorful way to enjoy oysters.
✔️ Seafood Boil – Loaded with shrimp, crab, corn, and potatoes.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit during Happy Hour for discounted oysters and drink specials!
FAQs About Seafood Restaurants in Tampa
1. What is the best seafood dish in Tampa?
✔️ The Rusty Pelican Paella is a top pick, featuring a delicious mix of seafood, chorizo, and saffron rice.
2. What is the dress code for Eddie V's Prime Seafood?
✔️ Eddie V’s has a business casual dress code—no shorts, sandals, or athletic wear allowed.
3. Does Ulele offer vegetarian options?
✔️ Yes! Ulele has several vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including grilled veggie plates and fresh salads.
4. Where can I find the best seafood with a view in Tampa?
✔️ Rusty Pelican is the best choice for waterfront dining with stunning sunset views.
5. Can I find seafood markets in Tampa to buy fresh fish?
✔️ Yes! If you prefer to cook seafood at home, check out local fish markets or online seafood shops like Global Seafoods for high-quality seafood delivered to your door.
🔗 Want fresh fish? Explore Tuna Selections & Sablefish.
Conclusion: Tampa’s Seafood Scene Offers Something for Everyone
Whether you’re craving upscale seafood, casual oyster bars, or classic seafood dishes with a view, Tampa offers a diverse selection of top-rated seafood restaurants.
Best Seafood Restaurants in Tampa Recap:
🥂 Fine Dining: Eddie V’s, Ocean Prime
🔥 Unique Flavors: Ulele
🌊 Best Waterfront Views: Rusty Pelican
🦪 Casual Oysters & Seafood Boils: The Oyster Bar
So, next time you're in Tampa, Florida, be sure to check out one of these top seafood spots for a meal you won’t forget!
👉 What’s your favorite seafood dish in Tampa? Let us know in the comments!
🔗 For the freshest seafood, visit Global Seafoods.
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