Culinary trends come and go, but steakhouses are forever. Since the rise of the original American steakhouses in the 1800s, steak has cemented itself as an American icon, a focus of our fine dining desires. Whether you prefer the Wagyu way or a seared sirloin, you’ll find something to whet your appetite in our roundup of top steakhouses in Tampa Bay for 2023. This year’s selections reflect Tampa Bay’s wealth of diversity in culinary thought.
Steelbach
Housed in historic Armature Works, Steelbach offers innovative Southern cuisine with butcher-selected steaks and chops, paired with an extensive wine and whiskey selection. Steelbach partners with local ranchers in Kenansville to deliver grass-fed cattle raised exclusively for the restaurant’s use.
“Our beef program is what sets us apart,” says Matthew Mangone, director of culinary for Three Oaks Hospitality. “Our partnership with local producers allows us to minimize waste and maximize the flavor of our meats.”
The chef recommends the 32-ounce Tomahawk Ribeye served with roasted shallots, whipped cultured butter and house-made Maldon salt.
1902 N. Ola Ave., Tampa
(813) 693-5478
Meat Market
Described as a sexier, more glamorous take on the traditional steakhouse, Meat Market is where Tampa goes for an upscale night out. Guests can expect more than high quality steaks and entrees, alluring sides and inventive cocktails. Located in the heart of Hyde Park Village, the ambiance is sophisticated, modern and refined.
“Meat Market is a chef-driven modern American steakhouse,” explains Meat Market COO Sebastien Tribout. “We offer a vibrant, sophisticated dining experience. Visit us for a variety of flavorful dishes served in an experience-driven atmosphere. Our extensive menu choices also include daily chef’s creations.”
A highlight is the Wagyu swinging tomahawk. This guest favorite, grilled and charred to perfection, is now solidified as a regular menu offering.
Among other popular dishes are signature steaks, elevated sides, a raw bar and Instagram-worthy cocktails. The Lounge by Meat Market adds an elevated, private nightlife element.
1606 W. Snow Ave., Tampa
(813) 280-1113
Donovan’s
From Roger and Suzanne Perry, the innovative minds behind Datz Restaurant Group, Donovan’s Modern American Meatery is a fresh take on the steakhouse experience. The concept was over 15 years in the making – and it was well worth the wait.
Expectedly, Wagyu and Certified Angus steaks take center stage, but an expansive menu also offers options like lobster mac and cheese, grilled lobster tails, and cauliflower alfredo. For the steak lover and the vegetarian alike, there’s much to savor.
Many items are cooked over an open flame or in an old-fashioned “smokebox.” Flatbreads are cooked in a Wood Stone pizza oven for the perfect crust. A Southern Pride smoker finishes prime rib and weekly wild game specials (including hard-to-find proteins like kangaroo). In a pièce de résistance, Donovan’s house cures and smokes its bacon.
The restaurant’s name is a homage to Roger Perry’s late father, Russell “Donovan” Perry, who was a farmer in rural Ohio. The meals the younger Perry grew up eating on the family farm inspired his Riverview eatery.
“I wanted to make this steakhouse for years,” Roger says. “The fact that I get to honor my dad by sharing some of my childhood with our guests makes it an even bigger dream come true.”
At the farm, there was an abundance of fruits, vegetables, beef and other meats. These elements, overflowing with freshness and flavor, now inspire the menu at Donovan’s.
“We spent many a day shucking the sweetest corn ever,” Perry recalls. “If we didn’t grow it, we didn’t eat it. That’s the kind of feeling we want to recreate at Donovan’s — a comfortable, cosmopolitan atmosphere where we serve food that brings together the familiar with the innovative.”
A cut above, Donovan’s offers the steakhouse experience in a modern and approachable atmosphere for guests to feel at home. Furnished with exposed concrete, repurposed wood, vintage furniture and rustic table settings, it is a must-visit in Riverview.
11206 Sullivan St., Riverview
(813) 295-8445
Driftlight Steakhouse
Downtown Tampa’s staple steakhouse is located in Tampa’s first true luxury hotel, JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. The elevated menu features an array of fine-aged steaks and fresh seafood.
“We enjoy taking classic steakhouse dishes and modernizing them with seasonal and southern flair,” senior sous chef Dylan Rebuck says. “We strive to provide a perfect, intimate steakhouse experience.”
One of many highlights is dessert made by renowned pastry chef Natalia Meshalkina.
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
510 Water St., Tampa
(813) 314-6611
Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
Terra Gaucha is keeping the culture and tradition of the gaucho alive by skewering and roasting succulent steak cuts over natural wood charcoal and rock sea salt. Ideal for those who are always caught between multiple menu options, the full rodízio experience is an all-you-can-eat feast featuring varied cuts and other carnivorous delights.
“It is the ultimate churrasco,” says owner Rodolfo Melo, who hails from southern Brazil, where churrascaria was born. “Our gaucho chefs are dedicated to preparing and slowly searing meat to perfection to ensure only the finest cuts are served.”
Hot and cold bars offer Brazilian and American classics to complete the experience.
1108 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa
(813) 999-4332
Ponte Modern American
The newest endeavor from beloved Tampa chef Chris Ponte, the eponymous modern American restaurant gives a nod to French and Italian influences in a luxurious atmosphere.
“Our steak program has been procured by some of the finest facilities and small farms in the country,” executive chef Paul Morrison boasts. “We showcase our custom-made Italian dry age cabinets, which allow us to finish dry aging our meats up to 60 days in-house. We source only the finest product available on the market. Every piece of protein is hand selected for us and personally butchered by the executive chef and his team.”
The joy, and perhaps challenge, comes from selecting a steak and then choosing from toppings like lobster tail, fried duck egg, foie gras or tiger shrimp. Butters made with Calabrian-nduja and black truffle are oh-so indulgent.
1010 Gramercy Lane, Tampa
(813) 582-7755
Perdigon El Sabor
Venture outside of the traditional steakhouse for chef Wilmer Perdigon’s Venezuelan spin on the American steak. At his restaurant, Perdigon showcases the flavors of South America. Meats are assiduously seasoned to perfection and served in a low-key atmosphere.
Prepare for a double portion of meat, as many steaks are served with chorizo, chicken skewers, ceviche and shrimp. Traditional Latin sides like rice, beans and arepas are a welcome departure from tradition.
At the heart of Perdigon’s work is a love of culinary art, prepared with simplistic elegance and served with hospitality, no frills needed.
8548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., #1A, Tampa
(813) 932-3949
Beau & Mo’s Italian Steakhouse
Curiously located in Historic Kenwood, Chef Beau Wallace serves up fresh favorites made from scratch. Sizzling specials (like Beau’s signature Tomahawk Ribeye) fill the dining room with warmth.
“We’re known for our hard sear, Chicago charm and Wagyu cuts,” says public relations manager Ellen O’Donnell. “Chef Beau is proud of our staff and the experience the team provides for our guests.”
Ditch the mashed potatoes and indulge in a local favorite – Beau’s pasta carbonara.
2924 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg
(727) 771-3690
Renzo’s
Dry-aged steak and Wagyu beef complemented by prime seafood are at the heart of the experience at Renzo’s. Dishes honor European and Latin American culinary traditions, transformed for the New American Grill.
“We fuse classic European cuisine with the best dishes from our Americas,” owner Renzo Menzerotolo explains. “Our family concept exists to celebrate and promote New American cuisine, bringing together the best of the Old World and the undiscovered parts of our continent.”
Every steak is hand-selected and cut. Unique elements include signature desserts like chajá, made by the in-house bakery. Renzo’s also boasts one of Tampa Bay’s largest collections of New World wines expertly curated for the chef’s menu.
Locations in South Tampa, Carrollwood and St. Petersburg
Wondering where to dine in Tampa, according to the Michelin Guide? Check it out here.
