South Tampa: Your COVID-19 Waterfront Outdoor Dining Guide

While most of Tampa’s prime waterfront land is taken up by stunning homes with a true variety in architectural styles rather than commercial space and restaurants; there are still a couple of gems that both locals and visitors alike should not miss! Here are some of my personal favorites:

Ulele

Located at the end of Tampa’s new Riverwalk, Ulele is one of Columbia Restaurant Group’s newest concepts. Rooted in history, Ulele is located in the old Waterworks building in Tampa Heights. It has quite the atmosphere and a menu that will surely impress. Ulele’s slogan is “Native-Inspired Food and Spirits”. Ulele is perfect for an afternoon lunch or a nighttime dinner, with lots of outdoor seating under umbrellas and a tranquil view of the river.

Recommendations: Charbroiled Oysters, Florida Pompano, Ring of Fire or Magbee’s Honey Lager

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Columbia Cafe at the Tampa Bay History Center

Columbia Restaurant is basically a trademark of Tampa. If you haven’t been there, chances are you probably haven’t spent too much time here or you don’t have the right person giving you restaurant recommendations (call me instead, I’ve got you!). Their location on the river is basically a mini-me of the original. The menu still has a lot of the favorites, and of course - you can enjoy sangria while planted downtown, undercover with shade and fans.

Recommendations: Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad, Chicken and Rice “Ybor”, White Chocolate Bread Pudding

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Stone’s Throw

Simply put, Stone’s Throw at Armature Works is a great weekend afternoon hangout spot or happy hour outpost! I’m going to go straight to recommendations here. I would order a couple things for the table and snack on everything. They do have great grouper sandwiches if you are in the mood for a true meal, but see below for the favorites!

Recommendations: Fried Shrimp, Fish Spread, Ceviche Mixto & an Aperol Spritz or a Margarita

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Sparkman Wharf

A great option to go with a group of indecisive people - or maybe a trap… Either way, you will have a LOT of options. It is a nice and open space, but it does get scorching hot if you go midday. Sparkman Wharf is located in the Channelside District downtown and provides great views of the city as well as Harbour Island and the Sparkman Channel. While you are there, don’t miss a photo opp in front of the Tampa sign!

Recommendations: Pork Carnitas Taco from Gallito Taqueria, any Chicken Sandwich from Flock & Stock, Drinks & Tarpon Springs Charred Octopus Greek Salad from Edison’s Swigamajig

Menu: Visit on-site for most accurate menus. Trust me, there are a lot of options, you won’t be disappointed!

Hula Bay Club

A personal favorite, Hula Bay is located right next to the new Westshore Marina District. Hula Bay has been a Tampa spot for many years. With Duke’s Retired Surfer’s Island Bar adjoining Hula Bay, it is a great place to grab a drink and listen to live music! Also, the sunset from both spots is unmatched.

Recommendations: Crunchy Grouper Nuggets, Hawaiian Breeze Roll, Smothered Fish

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Salt Shack on the Bay

A great location at the end of Rattlesnake Point, Salt Shack is truly directly on Tampa Bay. Alike with Hula Bay, Salt Shack also has phenomenal sunset views. Outdoor seating is their specialty, as is good food & drinks. Some would say crafting fresh seafood with a Caribbean flare is their M.O.. Others would say it is grabbing a tropical cocktail and relaxing by the water while listening to live music.

Recommendations: Smoked Mahi Fish Spread, Coastal Crab Cake Sandwich, “Shack Style” Catch of the Day, Uncle Mike’s Spicy Cucumber Mule

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American Social

You can never go wrong with AmSo happy hour and dinner before a Lightning game (when they return), or their brunch! With a view of Hillsborough Bay and Downtown Tampa, American Social is a great hangout spot with friends.

Recommendations: Goat Cheese Croquettes, Maple Glazed Bone-In Pork Chop, Guava BBQ Pork Belly, Spinach & Artichoke Dip

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Enjoy! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!