The diversity of Tampa Bay’s culinary scene invites you to expand your gastronomic horizon. Familiar food may warm the soul, but eating globally tantalizes the tongue. Transcending cultural borders through cuisine, this year’s list includes recipes passed down through generations, alongside contemporary takes on time-honored traditions. Tampa Bay welcomes you to your next culinary adventure. Be curious, explore–go ahead and order something you can’t pronounce.
Alésia
In historic Old Pasadena, Alésia is a renowned local institution for global cuisine. Founded in 2011 by three partners with French, Vietnamese and Chinese upbringings, the restaurant is the culinary embodiment of these childhood influences.
“Alésia Restaurant is named after the street in Paris’ 14th Arrondissement where two of the founders grew up,” explains co-founder Paul Hsu. “Focused on creating a small cafe vibe, we serve simple, rustic meals made with fresh ingredients and an attention to the quality of preparation.”
Charming and convivial, the menu delights with worldly options such as a raw honeycomb appetizer, pho, bánh mì sandwiches and rice bowls, croque monsieur and madame sandwiches and beignets. Dine alfresco on Alésia’s airy patio courtyard.
7204 Central Ave N., St. Petersburg
(727) 345-9701
Bella’s Italian Café
Bella’s has been a South Tampa institution for over 36 years, serving up rustic Italian dishes in a casually chic atmosphere.
“An extensive array of classic Italian menu options include pasta made fresh daily and pizza baked in Bella’s oak-fired oven,” says owner Joanie Corneil, who spent years in Italy absorbing the spirit and flavors of the country and its people. “Visit us for dining and cocktails South Tampa has been enjoying for over three decades, plus our weekday happy hour and late-night specials.”
The cafe’s plant-based items have become very popular—even among omnivores—including versions of classic Bella’s dishes like Salsiccia al Forno and Chicken Parmesan.
Bella’s is open for lunch again with the full menu plus special lunch-only items, Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., with happy hour from 11:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. A late night menu runs Sunday through Thursday 10:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m., and Friday & Saturday 11:00 p.m. ‘till 1:00 a.m.
1413 S. Howard Ave., Ste. 100, Tampa
(813) 254-3355
Rasoi
Ybor City may be known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter, but guests flock to Rasoi in Ybor for a taste of authentic Indian cuisine. Crowd favorites include chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, lamb rogan josh, and garlic naan.
“Rasoi serves mostly Northern Indian food, but we also added favorites from over India,” says co-owner Manashi Boruah. “Our location in historic Ybor City makes us feel very special and one of a kind. It’s a unique area in Florida where all kinds of cuisine are served. We are proud that people love coming here because of our authentic food, service, and beautiful atmosphere.”
Redolent of warm spices, Rasoi’s flavor-packed dishes are deeply satisfying.
1701 E. 8th Ave., Tampa
(813) 241-0003
Pierogi Bar
The first Ukrainian restaurant in Tampa Bay has an unassuming exterior and a casual, old-school dining vibe. The owners create a warm and inviting atmosphere with cheery service and home-cooked dishes.
“Pierogi Bar is unique to Tampa Bay, and to Florida as well. It’s currently the only Ukrainian restaurant offering authentic Ukrainian and Ukrainian fusion cuisine,” remarks owner Roman Voloshyn. “We started as a cottage kitchen in 2020 but grew to the point that the business had to expand. This is how we opened in 2022, promoting Ukrainian culture through cuisine.”
Of course, the star is melt-in-your-mouth pierogis with varied fillings. But guests would be wise not to forget cabbage rolls or borscht.
6661 Central Ave, St. Petersburg
(727) 381-1212
Jason and Alice Zhang started cooking for homesick Asian students at the University of South Florida, and thus, the idea for Beijing House was born. Opened in 2017, it has grown into a beloved eatery serving northern-style Chinese cuisine and Szechuan spicy fare.
“Our mission is to bring the most original, unaltered Chinese dishes to Tampa Bay,” describes Alice Zhang. “One of our best sellers is Cumin Lamb, wok-fried over high heat along with 24 spices and a melange of Chinese flavors, which then becomes elevated with an abundance of chili peppers, resulting in an exciting and complex flavor profile.”
The expansive menu showcases the depth and breadth of the Zhangs’ culinary gift.
1441 E. Fletcher Ave., Ste 107, Tampa
(813) 513-8882
Interested more in southern fixins? Meet 7th + Grove’s Khalilah McDuffie.
