22 Best Cocktail Bars in Tampa

“My very first visit and I cannot wait to return. Everything from the moment we walked in till the moment we left was perfect. The service, food, atmosphere everything was wonderful. I highly recommend visiting, you will not be disappointed.“

“𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 Restaurant Review: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹 – 𝗧𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗮, 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮 -- Downtown Tampa Bay has become a culinary hot spot, providing a transformative array of restaurants that offer elevated food and dining experiences. You don’t have to go to the depths of the sea to find a Pearl that genuinely highlights the flavors, beauty, and aroma of the sea, satisfying your palate with every bite. -- As a seasoned traveler who has explored 68 countries and 36 states, I approach restaurant reviews with four primary criteria: taste, presentation, ambiance, and service. My goal is to provide an impartial perspective, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of dining at the establishment. -- 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 — The restaurant offers a cozy and sophisticated ambiance both indoors and outdoors, creating a vibrant vibe and a memorable experience for all occasions. Well-defined spaces throughout the restaurant and an artistic outdoor design offer opportunities for intimate dinners, social gatherings, and enjoyable spaces to share with friends, family, business professionals, and loved ones. -- 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 —We were greeted by the smiling hostess, who led us to a table by the window. Our server was quick to introduce herself, attentive, and a wealth of information to help us navigate the menu and find the best dining choices for our expectations and preferred food choices. -- 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 – We dined there during lunch, which provides a large variety of snacks, starters, shellfish, sandwiches, and entrees. We started with the Smoked Whitefish Spread and Garlic Shrimp before moving to our entrees, which included Scallops and Atlantic Salmon. -- 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐫𝐬 – Unfortunately, this is where there was a slight misstep. When ordering the garlic shrimp, the initial thought is that you would be presented with shrimp with an infusion and obvious flavoring of garlic. To our surprise, the dishes were disguised with an intense red pepper flavor, which created a discerning spice that was welcome. The heart of the dish was lost as all you could truly taste was the spiciness of the red pepper – failing to elevate the flavors of the shrimp and the garlic. What was an additional disappointment was that it was very difficult to enjoy the Whitefish Spread with the lingering taste of the spiciness of the red peppers. After guzzling down some water (and whiskey), I was able to enjoy the true elegance of the Whitefish Spread, which highlighted an amazing balance of smokiness, savory flavors, and creamy/smooth texture. The dish was even more elevated with onions, sweet peppers, capers, and sesame seeds. -- 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐬 – Only one word could truly describe the entrees – PERFECT. The chef was able to truly highlight the freshness, favors, and tenderness of the salmon and the scallops while pairing the seafood with the perfect blend of deep, complex flavors with purees that provide smooth textures, sweet flavors, and subtle buttery notes that complement the seafood rather than overpowering the dish. From the visual execution to the perfected flavor combinations, it offers sophistication and memorable taste with every bite! -- Simply put – just slightly short of perfection. While the dining experience had a minor imperfection, the entrees truly allowed us to walk away with an unforgettable experience that has us yearning to come back for more.“

“This place was so delicious, we came in twice in one week. So impressed with the quality of food and the ambiance. I have been a fan of Bern's Steak House since 2015, however, we have never eaten at their sister restaurant. Last week was our 1st time visiting Haven. It was our son's birthday and we decided to try this restaurant featuring New American small plates, wine & cocktails as per recommendation of my friend. Tuna Sashimi, Hamachi Sashimi, Shaved Beef Taco, Seared Foie Gras, Cheese platter and Coal Grilled Octopus as appetizers were all 10/10. As for the main course we opted in for Glacier 51 Sea Bass (O.M.G.), Arctic Char, 8oz Filet Mignon (perfectly trimmed) and 10 oz Dry-Aged Strip. Drinks, 'Margarita', 'Lemon Drop' and 'Moscow Mule', were good as well with the exception of the 'Duck Duck Jeep' (it was an odd one). We did not try their desserts (both times) as 1st time visiting we brought a cake for our son's birthday, however, we were never super impressed with Berns' dessert room. I know it may sound weird to many as they are known for their desserts, but truthfully, we have had desserts at other local restaurants that we prefer over Berns'. Service by Madeline K. was on point, however, she accidentally forgot to place the main course item for our birthday boy, so he ended up getting his filet about 15 minutes after everyone else received their meals. It did not spoil our night as she brought out the cake with large candle with sparkles and it was fantastic! Our son was so surprised and I was able to capture some awesome pictures of him with his cake and candles. Overall an excellent experience by everyone: valet guy, bussers, food runners, hostesses and the wait staff. We also appreciated the fact that we were seated at a larger table/couch with brighter lights vs more of a romantic, darker tables. Our second time we requested to sit outside which was nice as it was a pleasant evening. Haven's tacos are my husband's favorite in Tampa and we ordered 16 of them that night. If you are not up to dressing up in your best outfits, but would like a nice quality meal, Haven is your spot!“

“such an amazing dining experience! from the service to the impeccable food everything from start to finish was amazing can not wait until my next trip down if you have not experienced this place you need to it is a must stop when you are in town!“

“Great staff and menu! Plenty of parking nearby also right off the trolley line.“

“Fantastic place! We celebrated my daughter’s graduation here and had the very best experience. From start to finish they provided exceptional service. Everyone went above and beyond to make our event extra special. The service was amazing, the food was great and beautifully displayed, tables were set up welcoming, and we had plenty of space for our guests to enjoy. I look forward to returning and enjoying another great meal and experience!“

“Enjoyed every minute of time spent there. Can’t wait to return!“

“My family took me for my birthday brunch and it was fantastic. The food and drinks were amazing and so was the staff. Have already told my local friends to check it out and I’ll be going back soon. Close to home and my new favorite local spot!“

“Had the pleasure of stopping in for dinner last night, food and service were top notch. I’m from NY so very particular about my Italian food and I must say Chef Dan did not disappoint. The garlic knots were the best I have ever had, soft yet crispy dough n filled with the most amazing gooey cheese n of course an amazing amount of garlic… I will definitely be back…“

“The food was great!! The atmosphere was great!“

“Absolutely enjoyed my visit. Very subtle environment; every staff member was welcoming and attentive. Wait times are almost non existent. I love it; will be back again“

“Jake was very knowledgeable about his craft, and an overall cool dude to hang out with. Drinks were fantastic.“

“It’s a place like cheers we have special people and wonderful bar tenders Atmosphere is warm and friendly“

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“The ambiance, food, and customer service are phenomenal. It's a perfect setting for date brunch/dinner, anniversaries, birthday's, and other special occasions. We highly recommend this venue.“

“Super cool place atmosphere nice bartenders attentive“

“We came to Taste on Monday night after traveling all day with a baby. They welcomed us with open arms and served us a feast. The servers are AMAZING. There was no judgement for us being not at our best shape.

I came back for lunch with the baby the next day and my experience was just as good. I even paid incorrectly and they were so understanding. Best part of the hotel by far.“

“Delicious !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!“

“Very nice quiet upscale atmosphere. Came here for a friend's birthday. I don't drink but they had a nice selection of mock-tails. Service was a bit slow and had to go up to pay bill but it's definitely a laid back slow paced place.“

“Exceptional in everything!! Jacoby was our server. He was attentive, personable, informative regarding all aspects of the menu and had an amazing personality!! The food is always amazing and did not disappoint this time either! The hostess was friendly and personable! Thank you for being a classy, family friendly restaurant in Yibor City! We will return and ask to be seated with Jacoby!!“

“Wow, this is definitely my new favorite restaurant in the Tampa Bay area! First, it has great atmosphere & views of Downtown Tampa, with several different seating options. Anthony was amazing!“