Framed by the Gulf and Tampa Bay inlet, this region is a hotspot for fresh, quality seafood. Whether you’re craving local favorites like grouper or oysters—the latter of which is celebrated with an annual festival—or international dishes like ceviche and Maine lobster without the plane ticket, you’ll find it all here at Tampa Bay’s top seafood destinations.
Ro Hyde Park
1500 W. Swann Ave, Tampa | (813) 358-2036
At the heart of Ro Hyde Park is a modern Asian menu featuring sushi, maki and hand rolls made with hand-carved fish from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. Inspired by the Japanese spirit of omotenashi, Ro offers immersive experiences like large-format cocktails, roast duck, a brunch waffle cart and intimate omakase at the sushi counter. Its exclusive Swann Supper Club blends dinner, cocktails and a DJ. Standouts include the Chūtoro Truffle Roll with A5 Wagyu and caviar and the Bluefin Tuna Platter. The Lunch Omakase is an ideal 60-minute escape for client meetings or reconnecting with a friend.
Big Ray’s Fish Camp
6116 Interbay Blvd., Tampa | (813) 605-3615
Fifth-generation Tampa native Chef Raymond “Nick” Cruz opened Big Ray’s Fish Camp 11 years ago with one goal: to serve one of the best grouper sandwiches around—and the Michelin Guide confirmed he did just that. Filled with memories of fishing trips with his grandfather, Cruz knows how to select the best catch and cook it to perfection. House-made tartar and cocktail sauces complement favorites like shrimp po’boys, grouper Reubens, and fried, grilled or blackened grouper sandwiches. Unexpected hits also include a lobster corndog and yuca with blackened shrimp.
Snapper’s Sea Grill
5895 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach | (727) 367-3550
Established in the late ’90s, Snapper’s Sea Grill partners with local captains and seafood purveyors to source the freshest snapper, grouper and daily specialty catches. Signature dishes include the pan-seared Blue Tuna appetizer—marinated in blueberry teriyaki with pickled ginger and wasabi—the stuffed grouper and coconut curry snapper. Entrées are served as full plates, accompanied by a house salad, flatbread with hummus and a choice of side. Early bird specials offer a chance to enjoy these popular dishes at reduced prices, making it easy to indulge in fresh, local seafood without the splurge.
Watervüe Grille
700 Harbour Post Drive, Tampa | (813) 642-7980
Known for its fresh, high-quality seafood — sourced daily — and relaxed waterfront setting on Harbour Island, Watervüe Grille’s menu highlights coastal flavors through simple, thoughtful preparation. One standout dish is the Parmigiano-crusted, pan-seared swordfish served with butter-braised ruby red potatoes, sautéed spinach and a light beurre blanc. Other guest favorites include the pecan-crusted mahi-mahi and the selection of seafood pasta dishes.
Happy Fish Peruvian Fusion Restaurant
4046 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa | (813) 871-6953
A Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best winner for Top 10 Hidden Gems in 2023, Happy Fish Peruvian Fusion Restaurant brings the bold, vibrant flavors of Peru to Tampa. Peruvian cuisine is a cultural blend rooted in fresh herbs, spices and authentic ingredients—many sourced straight from Peru. Standout dishes include the tostones and a variety of cebiche, especially the Cebiche Apaltado, a mix of shrimp, octopus, calamari and raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices, then topped with shaved onions, sweet potato and avocado.
Welton Brewing Co. & Oyster Bar
8098 66th St. N., Building 2, Pinellas Park | (813) 820-0050
Founded by cousins Brandon and Sean Welton, Welton Brewing Co. & Oyster Bar started with a passion for craft beer and an award-winning Oktoberfest brew. Inspired by their Maine roots and craving for New England seafood, they set out to offer more than typical bar fare. Guests can enjoy oysters shucked at the bar, whole belly clams, and two styles of lobster rolls: Maine (cold with mayo) and Connecticut (warm with butter). After opening in Land O’ Lakes in 2020, they relocated to Pinellas Park, bringing a true taste of the Northeast to Tampa Bay.
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