If you are looking for the best lunch in Tampa, Florida, you won’t be disappointed.
The city offers a variety of great food options that range from traditional American fare to international cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of restaurants in Tampa that offer delicious and unique menus.
From seafood to burgers and everything in between, Tampa has something for everyone when it comes to lunchtime dining.
Explore the city’s diverse culinary scene and discover the best lunch spots in Tampa.
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1. Pho Quyen
Pho Quyen, located in Tampa’s Town ‘n’ Country area, is a local favorite for Vietnamese food.
Serving the area for over a decade, Pho Quyen has quickly become a favorite among locals.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
The restaurant offers a large menu that includes classics like summer rolls and boba tea, as well as their namesake noodle soup – pho.
With its inviting atmosphere and delicious dishes, Pho Quyen is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends and family in the Tampa area.
Editor’s Note: This is my favorite restaurant in Tampa, Florida! Although I no longer live in the city, I go out of my way to eat here. Ever since I discovered this restaurant in 2008, I have been of fan of the amazing flavors and consistency of each dish over the years!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Grilled Curry Chicken on Angel Hair Rice Noodles (my favorite)
- Chicken Cabbage Salad
- Beef Combination Pho
- Grilled Curry Chicken on Broken Rice (my favorite)
- Fried Cheesecake
- Fresh Rolls
Address: 8404 W Hillsborough Ave. Tampa, FL 33615 (this is the best location)
2. On Swann
On Swann is a modern American restaurant located in the heart of Tampa.
The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with an open-concept kitchen, seasonal menu, and local flair.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
On Swann is located in Hyde Park, an area known for its hip dining spots, shops and bars.
This Tampa restaurant specializes in share boards and brunch dishes that are made with locally sourced ingredients.
With its close proximity to Hyde Park and other popular attractions, it’s no wonder why this restaurant is quickly becoming one of the hottest spots in town. And THE place to be seen!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Mussels: coconut milk, green curry, coriander, garlic toast
- Chicken: spicy buttermilk chicken, celery root slaw, honey butter, dill pickles, brioche bun
- Garden Social: New Amsterdam Vodka, St. Germain, Carpano Bianco, Cucumber, Basil, Lemon
- Cauliflower: toasted walnut crisp, golden raisin, capers, fried farm egg
- Sirloin Burger: prime, pimento cheese, bacon, pickled red onion, lettuce, b&b aioli
Address: 1501 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
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3. The Mill
As the hottest new restaurant in Florida, The Mill offers a unique dining experience.
Located in the heart of Tampa, The Mill boasts a modern and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for brunch or lunch.
With its wide selection of big and small plates, you’ll be sure to find something that will tantalize your taste buds.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
From fresh seafood to vegetarian dishes and everything in between, The Mill has something for everyone.
Plus, their full bar offers an extensive list of craft beers and cocktails to enjoy with your meal.
Quickly becoming one of the best restaurants in Florida, The Mill is a phenomenal lunch spot in Tampa.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Watermelon Bruschetta: Tomato, European Cucumber, Whipped Feta, Smoked Pistachio Brittle, Añejo Agave Syrup, Rustic Loaf
- Panko Crusted Pickled Deviled Egg: Avocado Crema, Sriracha Aioli
- Squid Ink Risotto: Crispy Calamari, Parmesan Tuille, Grilled Spring Onions
- Meatloaf Wellington: Loaded Potato Casserole, Braised Collard Greens, Honey Hot Sauce Gravy
Address: 2500 W Azeele St, Tampa, FL 33609
4. The Boozy Pig
Tampa’s, The Boozy Pig, is a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or drinks.
Plus, the interior of The Boozy Pig is simple and straight to the point, making it a great spot for a bite to eat.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Their menu features locally sourced proteins from their own whole animal butchery. But the real star of the show is their signature dish: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes.
These pancakes are light, fluffy and packed with flavor – making them an unforgettable treat for any occasion!
The Boozy Pig also offers delivery and take out services, so you can enjoy their delicious food wherever you are.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Rocket Man
- Cuban Sandwich
- Sicilian in the South
- Back to Bed
Address: 3255 W Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33607
5. Oxford Exchange
Oxford Exchange in Tampa is a unique combination of restaurant, bookstore, and co-working space.
The perfect spot for a working lunch, Oxford Exchange boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to work or relax while enjoying delicious food and top-notch coffee.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
This restaurant offers simple meals for lunch and weekend brunch, as well as afternoon tea.
The menu features fresh ingredients, making it one of the best places to eat in Tampa.
With its charming decor and delicious menu items, Oxford Exchange in Tampa is sure to be a memorable experience.
You’ll love the vibe as much as the food.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Whipped Feta
- Breakfast Tacos
- Cinnamon Roll
Address: 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
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6. Datz
Serving up delicious comfort food and craft beer, Datz is Tampa’s most popular gastropub.
Located in South Tampa, Datz is the perfect spot for a casual lunch with a unique and exciting menu.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
From Nashville Chicken Doughnuts to seasonal pancakes, there’s something for everyone on the menu.
And don’t forget to try their signature Purple Haze Lemonade – a refreshing drink to enjoy in the Floridian heat!
Whether you’re looking for a delicious deli sandwich or an indulgent dessert, Datz has something for you.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Waffles N’ Tweet: Boneless fried chicken breast, honeyed pecan butter, Belgian waffle with spicy smoked Buffalo Trace maple syrup and candied pecans
- The Cheesy Todd Burger: As seen on GMA; Ground brisket and short rib burger, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickle. Served on two bacon-jalapeño mac n’ cheese “buns”
- Barry C’s Stuffed Meatloaf: As seen on the travel channel! Meatloaf! Stuffed: bacon-jalapeño mac n’ cheese. Topped: ketchup glaze. Served with: house mashed potatoes, peas and pearl onions
Address: 2616 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
7. Ulele
The Ulele, located in Tampa, Florida, is a unique restaurant that serves up an eclectic mix of native-inspired cuisine with multicultural influences.
From the venue’s rustic charm to the menu’s vibrant flavors, Ulele has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
It’s definitely a spot that you have to try while in Tampa.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Ulele serves a delicious lunch prepared on their barbacoa grill offering everything from meatloaf to oysters.
For a new and unique taste experience, Ulele’s menu features alligator meat in a number of different dishes, including hush puppies.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Shrimp Po’Boy
- Gouda Grouper
- Crackling Pork Shank
- Three Sisters Stuffed Portobello
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8. Box of Cubans
If you’re in the Tampa area and you’re looking for a delicious Cuban lunch, then look no further than Box of Cubans.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
This Cuban coffee shop offers an array of freshly made dishes, such as empanadas, pastelitos, cuban sandwiches and cuban bowls.
Enjoy your meal with a cup of cafe con leche or a refreshing mojito along with experiencing an authentic Cuban cuisine at its finest!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Classic Cuban: Tender, juicy pork (lecho) marinated in special house spices, Serrano ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard
- The Famous Cuban Bowl: Black beans and rice with Lechon served with our house cilantro sauce and Cuban bread
- Empanadas: try the Beef, the Cuban Sandwich, and the Chopped Cheeseburger
Address: 10451 Gibsonton Drive, Riverview, FL 33578
9. Armature Works
The Armature Works in Tampa is the ultimate destination for lunch and drinks, an innovative hub for food and entertainment.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Located in the historic Tampa Heights neighborhood, Armature Works offers a food court home to a variety of innovative eateries including Graze 1910, a lunch spot with classic American dishes.
Don’t forget about a juicy steak at Steelback.
There’s also the Bento Asian Kitchen which serves up delicious Asian-inspired cuisine.
Offering an array of different foods from all over the world, Armature Works is your one-stop-shop for global cuisine in Tampa. Think of it as a foodie paradise!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Coconut Yellow Curry Bento Box
- Build a Poke Bowl
- Pao Pao®
- Hot Lava Roll
- Korean
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10. Taco Dirty
For lunch with kick, color and a burst of flavor, Taco Dirty is your go-to spot.
This restaurant offers a unique flavor fusion of Mexican and American cuisine, with vegan, sugar-free, dairy-free and gluten-free options.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Famous for their namesake tacos, the grilled tortillas are stuffed with vibrant colors and flavors that are certain to delight.
With a menu also featuring healthy juices and special bowls, you can also enjoy delicious flavor during a health kick.
Plus, Taco Dirty has daily specials known as “Dirty Days” that will make your lunch more affordable with different deals on select days.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- All-In-Bowl: 2 Bases + 2 Veggies + 2 Proteins + 2 Mexi Things + 1 Sauce
- Na*Cho Average Bowl: Chips + Black Beans + 1 Veggie + 1 Protein + Warm Queso or Warm Plant-Based Cauli Queso + 2 Mexi Things + 1 Sauce
Address: 2221 W Platt St Tampa, Fl 33606
11. Half Moon Seafood Company
The Half Moon Seafood Company in Tampa is a fast-casual seafood restaurant that serves up delicious and responsibly sourced seafood for lunch.
They offer dishes featuring a variety of seafood including Gulf Grouper, shrimp, oysters and crab.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Famous for their Po’Boy sandwiches, Half Moon Seafood Company offers a diverse range of dishes that are not exclusive to seafood.
You can also build your own dish by curating a meal from the selection of seafood, chicken and sides.
Half Moon Seafood Company is the perfect place to get a delicious lunch while enjoying responsibly sourced seafood from the Gulf of Mexico.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Fish and Chips
- Sample the Sea
- Nashville Hot Fish
- Po’ Bo Sandwich
Address: 11508 N 56th Street, Temple Terrace, FL 33617
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12. Hiccups and Churroholic
Tampa is home to one of the most popular restaurants in Florida – Hiccups and Churroholic.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
This restaurant offers a variety of delicious lunch options including their signature breakfast churro bites and famous chicken wings.
If you’re looking for something truly indulgent, try their topped fry – french fries topped with filet mignon, bulgogi beef, cheese, bacon bits and other delicious toppings!
For those who want something sweet after their meal, indulge in the iconic dessert of Hiccups and Churroholic, churros or a churro sundae.
All of this is accompanied by their classic iced tea or mouthwatering sugarcane juice, which are perfect for a hot summer day.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Bulgogi Fries
- Orange Chicken with Rice
- Pho
- Cookies and Cream Churro
Address: 13030 N Dale Mabry HWY Tampa, FL 33618
13. TacoSon
Owned and operated by a family originating from Sonora, Mexico, TacoSon is an authentic Mexican grill serving up all the flavor of their home country.
Offering a wide variety of Mexican dishes at affordable prices and made from only the freshest ingredients, TacoSon serves up dishes that pack a flavor punch.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Whether you like your tacos soft corn or crispy, TacoSon has it all.
From quesadillas to chimichangas, you can find the perfect meal to satisfy your Mexican lunch cravings.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Birria de Res
- Sonoran Style Hot Dog
- Torta Mexican Sandwich
Address: 7521 N 56th St Tampa, FL 33617 and 30056 FL-54 Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
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14. Bolay
Bolay in Tampa is the perfect spot for a delicious and healthy lunch.
With a 100% gluten-free menu, you can be sure that you are eating fresh and healthy food, plus, it is the ideal lunch spot for those with intolerances and allergies.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
From their signature dishes to the “build your own bols”, Bolay offers an innovative concept where guests can curate their own dishes with fresh ingredients and layered flavors.
With options of proteins, grains, sauces, and toppings, you can customize your meal to your liking or alternatively, select a pre-prepared Chef Bol.
Enjoy eating fresh and experiencing bold flavor when you dine at Bolay in Tampa!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Baja Lemon Chicken
- Havana Pulled Pork
- Vegan Miso Tofu
- Thai Shrimp & Noodles
- Lemon Chicken & Kale
Address: 402 S Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33609
15. Maple Street Biscuit Company
The Maple Street Biscuit Company in Tampa is a one-of-a-kind eatery that offers a unique blend of comfort food with a modern twist.
Whether you’re looking for lunch, brunch, or just something to snack on, they have something for everyone.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Specializing in both sweet and savory biscuits, Maple Street Biscuit Company’s signature items include the iced cinnamon biscuit, firebird sandwich, and chicken ‘n’ biscuits.
All of their dishes are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection.
Stop by Maple Street Biscuit Company for a spot of Tampa lunch to indulge in hearty, wholesome meals and delicious, mouthwatering sweet treats.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- The Squawking Goat: Flaky biscuit, all-natural fried chicken breast, fried goat cheese medallion and house-made pepper jelly
- Classic Chicken Biscuit: Flaky house-made biscuit with all-natural chicken
- Smoky Mountain Mac n Cheese: House-made with three different types of cheese and topped with a crunchy cheese cracker crumble
- Hash Brown Cake
- Mimosa
Address: 13028 N Dale Mabry Hwy Tampa, FL 33618
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16. Chanko
If you’re looking for where to eat in Tampa, dine like the rich and famous at an old stomping ground of Elvis Presley.
An iconic restaurant in Tampa for decades, Chanko (formerly Chop Chop Shop) welcomed the King of Rock and Roll in 1956 and has been popular ever since.
However, Chanko is not only renowned for its famous and historical connections, the restaurant also serves up some of the best Asian-Fusion cuisine in Tampa.
It is also Florida’s only Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki spot (also known as Japanese Pizza).
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
This homestyle Japanese restaurant quick service diner offers a traditional yet customizable take on the Okonomiyaki dish.
You can also enjoy the classic Japanese Curry where you get to choose your preferred protein and so much more here!
Complemented by an impressive sake collection, you ‘can’t help falling in love’ with the menu at Chanko.
This is one of the BEST places to eat lunch in Tampa!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Build-your-own Okonomiyaki
- Chicken Katsu Japanese Curry
- Karrage Rice
Address: 4603 N Florida Ave Tampa, FL 33603
17. Daily Eats
Tampa is a great city for food lovers and this classic diner with both comfort good and healthy options offers something for everyone.
Serving up both brunch and brinner, Daily Eats is a unique concept that combines the different meals of the day into one menu.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
From breakfast favorites like omelet and Benedicts to dinner staples such as burgers and mac ‘n’ cheese, you can enjoy classic breakfast, lunch and dinner options all day.
Fancy a burger before noon? Sure! Cereal for lunch? Go for it!
Oatmeal after 3pm? Enjoy! Any time of day, indulge in your favorite dish at Daily Eats.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Cap’N Cluck Bowl
- Lox Bowl
- Breakf-iesta Bowl
Address: 901 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
18. La Segunda Bakery and Cafe
La Segunda Bakery and Cafe is an iconic restaurant in Tampa, Florida that has been serving the city since 1915.
Renowned for its freshly-made Cuban bread, Cuban sandwiches and Cuban coffee, La Segunda Bakery and Cafe now offers three locations in South Tampa, St Pete and the historic district of Ybor City.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
La Segunda is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike who come to enjoy its delicious Cuban fare.
From their classic Cuban sandwiches to their mouthwatering desserts, there’s something here to satisfy every craving.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Avocado Toast
- Breakfast Platter
- Avocado Sandwich
- Cuban Sandwich
Address: 2512 N 15th St, Ybor City, FL 33605, 4015 W. Kennedy Blvd Tampa, FL 33609, 2424 4th St. N St. Petersburg FL 33744
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19. The Pearl
Located in the heart of Tampa, The Pearl is a newer local favorite for lunch.
This restaurant, tavern and oyster room has a modern chic design in the perfect location on Water Street in Channelside.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
With their made-from-scratch entrees, you can choose the perfect meal just for you.
They also offer specialty salads alongside their signature oysters and Southern Fried Chicken which are guaranteed to satisfy your hunger.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely afternoon meal, The Pearl serves up comfort food for the soul.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Old Fashioned Deviled Eggs
- Chicken Wing Confit: B’s Hot Sauce, Blue Cheese Dip
- N’awlins Style Baked Oysters
- Pub Burger: Ground Fresh Daily, Cambozola Cheese, Tomato Jam, Tavern Fries
- Southern Fried Chicken: Cinnamon Sticky Bun, Creamed Corn
- Old Fashioned: George Dickel No. 8, Demerara, Spiced Orange
- Bourbon.Bacon.Beautiful: Fat Washed Larceny Bourbon, Grapefruit Shrub, Maple, Candied Bacon
Address: 823 Water St. Suite C-100 Tampa, FL 33602
20. Mel’s Hot Dogs
Mel’s Hot Dogs in Tampa is a classic American lunch spot that serves up delicious all-beef weiners, covered in a cornmeal batter and fried to perfection.
This classic Chicago-style hot dog is then served on a steamed poppy seed bun with your favorite toppings.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Whether you’re looking for an old-fashioned beef hot dog or something more adventurous, enjoy the classic American flavors and savor the taste of Mel’s Hot Dogs.
And if you’re a local, then you know how much of a staple Mel’s Hot Dogs is to the city of Tampa.
It’s one of our favorite places to stop at when we’re leaving Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Chicago Style Hot Dog: Mel’s Famous all beef natural casing hot dog served on a steamed poppy seed bun with mustard, onions, relish, pickle, tomatoes, celery salt and hot sport peppers.
- Reuben Dog: Mel’s Famous all beef natural casing hot dog served on a steamed poppy seed bun topped with Thousand Island dressing, warm sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese.
- Slaw Dog: Mel’s Famous all beef natural casing hot dog served on a steamed poppy seed bun topped with our delicious homemade coleslaw.
- Mel’s Special: Mel’s Famous all beef natural casing hot dog served on a steamed poppy seed bun with mustard, onions, sauerkraut, relish & pickle.
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Lunch in Tampa
If you’re in search of the perfect place to look for lunch in Tampa, I hope you’ve found it from this extensive list as a helpful guide.
No matter what cuisine you crave and whether you fancy a light bite or an indulgent meal, Tampa has some exceptional dining locations to choose from.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast. She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.