Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Tampa / Central Florida West

Best Authentic Restaurants in Tampa

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

40 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jay Luigi restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(37)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • South Tampa
Booked 67 times today
Jay Luigi offers a fresh and modern take on Italian cuisine in the heart of South Tampa’s vibrant SoHo district. Known for its Roman-style pizzas, fresh pastas, shareable plates, and crisp salads, Jay Luigi combines traditional flavors with a contemporary twist. The menu also features options for vegetarian, gluten-free, and health-conscious diners.With a full bar serving an array of Italian wines, craft beers, and aperitif-style cocktails, it’s the perfect spot for date night, family gatherings, or a casual meal with friends. Guests can enjoy brunch favorites like savory breakfast pizzas and more on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, or visit for dinner served daily.Jay Luigi’s welcoming atmosphere, convenient location, and thoughtfully curated menu make it a top choice for those seeking authentic Italian food or a relaxed yet upscale dining experience in Tampa.
A photo of Columbia Restaurant - Ybor City restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(17607)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Tampa
Booked 238 times today
The Columbia is Florida’s Oldest RestaurantSM, founded in Tampa's historic Ybor City in 1905. Family-owned and operated for 119 years, the restaurant has earned acclaim for old-world charm as well as for its award-winning Spanish/Cuban cuisine and wine list.Open 365 days a year, including all holidays and serving lunch and dinner daily.Casual attire is fine, but we don’t allow sleeveless shirts on men in the dining room.Experience the Fire of Flamenco! Flamenco Dance Shows: There is an $10 cover charge per person for guests over the age of 12.Monday through Thursday dinner reservation times for the 7 p.m. show are 5:30, 6 or 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday dinner reservations for the 7 p.m. show are 5:30, 6 or 6:30 p.m. and for the 9:30 p.m. show, seatings are at 8:30 or 9 p.m. Reservations for dinner and the show are required. Please call the restaurant to check availability for reservations.Please call 813.248.4961 for flamenco show reservations.
A photo of Babushka's - Hyde Park restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(516)
Price: Moderate
• Eastern European • Tampa
Booked 23 times today
Babushka's - Hyde Park is an authentic Eastern-European restaurant. We provide Classic Russian, Ukrainian and Eastern European plates, caviar bar & infused vodkas served in a dacha-like interior.
A photo of EBBE restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(160)
Price: Very Expensive
• International • Tampa
Booked 2 times today
EBBE is a unique restaurant offering a symphony of flavors orchestrated by 2 Michelin star Chef Ebbe. It's nestled in the heart of Tampa and has received rave reviews for its unwavering commitment to using the best seasonal ingredients refined in their kitchen. Customers have praised the creative, expertly prepared dishes, the inviting atmosphere and the knowledgeable and attentive staff. The 5-course and 11-course tasting experiences have been hailed as culinary masterpieces that transport diners on a journey of flavors.
A photo of Spain Restaurant & Toma Bar restaurant
4.3
Awesome(622)
Price: Moderate
• Spanish • Tampa
Booked 3 times today
Spain Restaurant & Toma Bar is considered authentic due to its authentic Spanish cuisine, as noted in its menu and reviewers' experiences. The restaurant offers traditional Spanish dishes like Filete de Res and Empanadas de Carne. The atmosphere is described as 'Mediterranean' and there's a live Flamenco show every last Saturday of the month. Reviewers often mention the food as 'delicious and authentic', 'excellent' and 'flavorful'.
A photo of Chanta restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(358)
Price: Expensive
• European • Tampa
Booked 9 times today
We would like to invite you to enjoy dinner in little Europe. Our restaurant is fully family-owned. You will meet the grandma who's cooking everyday at the restaurant, you will enjoy our freshly baked bread and delicious food!The Chanta family invites you to our home, where we will offer you authentic European food, hospitality and warmth! We started our restaurant business in Romania, over 8 years ago and we have three restaurants there. This is our first restaurant in the States, which opened in June 2020. We highly recommend the lamb chops specialty and all the homemade breads we have. The restaurant is beautifully designed for a cozy, intimate dinner. Enjoy your journey!
A photo of Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval restaurant
4.5
Awesome(289)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Tampa
Booked 25 times today
Lona is a dynamic modern Mexican restaurant brought to life by the creative collaboration of renowned chefs Richard Sandoval and Pablo Salas and aims to redefine the Mexican dining experience by combining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques and artistic presentation.At Lona, guests will be immersed in a lively atmosphere that pays homage to Mexico's rich culinary heritage while embracing the spirit of innovation. The menu showcases a fusion of regional Mexican cuisines, featuring an array of bold and authentic flavors. From delectable street food favorites to refined dishes inspired by ancient recipes, Lona offers a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and complexity of Mexican gastronomy.We also offer reservations for our TopGolf Swing Suites, which can be made via our OpenTable Experiences.
A photo of Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse Tampa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4500)
Price: Very Expensive
• Brazilian Steakhouse • Tampa
Booked 97 times today
Born in the “Pampas”, (Southern region of Brazil) Terra Gaúchaʼs concept revolves around “Churrasco” a traditional grilling method using open flames and various cuts of meat. Today, we proudly keep the flame alive using authentic Gaúcho seasonings and natural wood charcoal to roast succulent beef, lamb, poultry, pork and seafood.In addition to our grilled meats, guests enjoy a gourmet salad and sides bar featuring the freshest vegetables, a variety of cheeses and cold cuts. During the dining experience each guest is transported (no passport required) to “Southern Brazil” where they are pampered from start to finish. The “Terra Gaúcha familia” would like to invite you for a unique experience that will make a lasting impression.
A photo of Donatello restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3355)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Tampa
Booked 46 times today
Welcome to Donatello, a fine dining restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1984. Located close to the Tampa Airport, Raymond James Stadium, International Mall and convenient to I-275 and Downtown, Donatello features an award winning wine list to accompany traditional veal dishes like Osso Bucco, homemade pastas, fresh seafood, prime steaks, with decadent desserts, and live music 6 nights a week in our piano lounge and bar. Perfect for a romantic evening, large groups with private dining available, or celebrating a birthday or special occasion, Donatello's old world charm provides an unique dining experience.
A photo of Mad Dogs and Englishmen restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(180)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary British • Tampa
Booked 190 times today
Vibrant neighborhood haunt pairing classic British bar fare with draft beers, craft cocktails, and unique wines - plus dog friendly patio seating, varied indoor dining options, and a plethora of TVs. It is not just a pub, it is a way of life.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • BruceTampaVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •21 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We have been coming here for over a year and are always satisfied. The menu is great, and we constantly try new items.
    More info
    Babushka's - Hyde ParkPrice: Moderate• Eastern European• Tampa
    4.7
  • LaurieT
    Maine •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    As alawsys the food was marvelous, the atmosphere amazing, and the service impeccable. We will continue to return to Columbia again and again.
    More info
    Columbia Restaurant - Ybor CityPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Tampa
    4.7
  • RickVIP
    West Palm Beach •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    My wife and I have done many chef tasting menus at other restaurants and this was by far our favorite. I loved that I could pick our own time. Usually, the seating times for tastings are set. All of the dishes were outstanding and chef Ebbe was working the whole counter, serving guests and explaining the ingredients, answering any questions or just talking to guests when they wanted to talk. Desserts were fantastic too. Overall, a wonderful dinner/experience and will definitely do it again.
    More info
    EBBEPrice: Very Expensive• International• Tampa
    4.6
  • JenniferVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We went to the new location in SoHo and it was amazing! We sat outside and had exceptional service. The owner came out and spoke with us for a few minutes and was so nice and personable. When our food came out it was always hot and delicious. The executive chef delivered our food to us and spoke with us each time too. All in all, was a great experience and will definitely be back!
    More info
    Jay LuigiPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Tampa
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Mar 2025
    Don Julio’s has a great staff and great food, the flavors are on point and authentic, los sabores son increíbles. One of my favorites.
    More info
    Don Julio's Authentic Mexican Cuisine - Tampa PalmsPrice: Moderate• Mexican• New Tampa
    4.3

Discover best authentic restaurants in Tampa

Discover the heart of authentic dining in Tampa, where a diverse array of restaurants captures the essence of culinary excellence. From the smoky flavors of open-flame grilling at American grills to the rich, traditional tastes of Italian kitchens, Tampa offers an authentic dining experience that caters to every palate. Each restaurant in this vibrant city prides itself on delivering not only high-quality food but also an atmosphere that enhances every meal. Whether it's the modern twists on classic dishes, the meticulous attention to culinary detail, or the warm, inviting ambiances, Tampa's dining scene stands out for its authenticity and creativity. Dining in Tampa is not just about eating; it's about experiencing the culture and passion infused in every dish. With options ranging from cozy local eateries to sophisticated rooftop bars, the city offers a unique blend of casual and refined settings, all committed to authenticity. The local dining scene is vibrant and continually evolving, making Tampa a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking genuine and memorable culinary adventures. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the restaurants here promise to deliver an exceptional dining experience that truly reflects the spirit of Tampa.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo