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.
Plus, it a place where our editor lived for 8 years.
So, get ready to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene and discover the best lunch spots in Tampa!
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Best Lunch in Tampa at a Glance:
- Pho Quyen: Serving the area for over a decade this is a local favorite for Vietnamese food (Try the Grilled Curry Chicken on Broken Rice…our favorite!!!)
- On Swann: A great lunch spot in Tampa when you are looking to indulge in a sophisticated menu of gourmet and seasonal dishes (Try the Grilled Cheese with fig jam)
- The Oxford Exchange: Part restaurant, bookstore, coffeehouse, and even a shop there’s a little bit of everything here (Try the Fried Chicken Sandwich with dill pickle chips)
- TacoSon: Serves up a wide variety of Mexican dishes that pack a flavor punch at affordable prices (Try the Chicken Mole Tamales)
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria: Prepared in coal brick pizza ovens this New York-themed pizzeria will steal a little pi-zza your heart with its tradition and authenticity (Try the Brooklyn Bridge Pizza with creamy ricotta cheese)
Keep reading to find out more of my favorite lunch spots in Tampa.
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
- Grilled Cheese: Prosciutto, taleggio, fontina, provolone, fig jam, sour dough
- 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. HOLY FRY
We just recently discovered this location on our trip out to Busch Gardens Tampa and we’re sooooo happy we did!
It’s now one of the Editor’s favorite spots that she MUST visit whenever she’s in town.
This top lunch spot in Tampa is just a 5-minute drive from Busch Gardens making it a convenient spot for a lunch meal.
Plus, it serves Halal Certified Products and according to their site, HOLY FRY is committed to upholding the highest standards of Halal cuisine while providing efficient and convenient service.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Honestly, it may not look like much from the outside but the inside was clean with a friendly staff that was more than accommodating.
Just know that it has limited seating so you will want to go there outside of the lunch and dinner rush.
One thing we love about this place is that it’s open late until 11 pm during the week and until 12 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
Now the food is the absolute star at this place! Whatever you get here WILL BE DELICIOUS!
We love fries so this was such a cool spot to discover. We got the Loaded Holy Fry and it was one of the BEST dishes I’ve had in a really long time.
It came with fries topped with chicken tenders, buffalo sauce, ranch and Mussarela cheese!
The chicken was cooked to perfection with a nice crisp to it and not too heavily breaded. It was also season with superior flavors that all worked together effortlessly.
Below are some of our other recommendations that we know you’ll love:
- Red Snapper Platter
- Fish and Shrimp
- Chicken Tender Platter
- Loaded Holy Fry
- Gyro Sandwich and Wings
Address: 8890 N 56th street Temple Terrace, Florida 33617
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. What makes them stand out from the other lunch spots in Tampa is that they are a butcher shop that also serves deli sandwiches and charcuterie boards.
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:
- Knuckle Sandwich: Braised beef with caramelized onions and mushrooms, provolone, bacon, & truffled herb goat cheese on pressed Cuban bread. Served w/ rosemary au jus.
- Boozy Fries: Tallow fries topped w/ smokehouse beans, smoked gouda cheese sauce, caramelized onions and sweet peppers, and bacon bits.
- The Haymaker: Shaved steak or chicken w/ caramelized mushrooms, onions and peppers, and a decadent smoked gouda cheese sauce on a toasted hoagie w/ a lemon, caper and horseradish aioli and served with rosemary au jus.
- Hillsborough Hash: Tallow Home Fries. Braised Beef Shank. Onion + Peppers. Sweet Plantains. Fried Egg
- Bourbon Bread Pudding: Bourbon bread pudding with warm caramel and fresh whipped cream
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 breakfast all day, elevated lunch dishes 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: Buttermilk brine, dill pickle chips, Garlic aioli, on a toasted potato bun
- Whipped Feta: Toasted pistachio, honey, pickled shallot, lemon, grilled naan bread
- Steak Sandwich: Shaved ribeye, caramelized onion, provolone, garlic aioli, on griddled ciabatta
- Fish Tacos: Chili agave glaze, kale slaw, pico, feta, cumin aioli, micro greens, flour tortilla
- Wright’s Cake by the Slice
Address: 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
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6. Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
Serving up delicious sushi on a budget, Kura Revolving Sushi Bar is one of Tampa’s most interactive meals.
Located in Westshore Plaza, Kura Revolving Sushi Bar is the perfect spot for a quick casual lunch with a unique and exciting menu.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
From Salmon Skin Rolls and American Wagyu Gunkan to ramen and desserts like Mochi ice cream and Gooey Butter Cake, there’s something for everyone on the menu.
The conveyer belt sushi makes your Tampa lunch fun and there is so much to choose from that each time you visit this Tampa restaurant you can try something new.
This lunch spot in Tampa operates on a technology-driven approach (with tablet ordering and plate counting) so you can control exactly how much you spend and eat.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Softshell Crab Tempura
- Crunchy Roll
- Spicy Crunchy Taco Roll
- Fried Shrimp Wontons
- Salmon Skin Hand Roll
Address: 214 Westshore Plaza, Tampa, FL 33609
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:
- Gator Tail: Chili-marinated Fresh from Florida alligator, dusted in seasoned flour, flash-fried, with spicy remoulade
- Candied Bacon Maple Ice Cream: Corn flake crust, Knob Creek créme anglaise, caramel, waffle crisp
- Fried Green Tomato ¨BLT¨: Pork belly, pimento cheese, frisée, tomato jam
- Shrimp Po’Boy: Buttermilk-marinated, crispy fried, spicy remoulade with lettuce, vine-ripened tomato, and red onion on Amoroso roll
- Gouda Grouper: Gulf of Mexico fresh grouper fillet, smoked Gouda ale béchamel with wild rice blend and seasonal vegetable
Address: 1810 North Highland Avenue (in Tampa Heights) Tampa, FL 33602
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8. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Grimaldi´s Pizza is a great place to go for lunch in Tampa whether you are looking for a slice in a hurry and a quick Grimaldi’s Slices ASAP or wanting to sit down and dine to some mouth-watering pizza pie.
Known for their New York theme and coal brick pizza ovens their menu items feature the tastes and tradition of authenticity.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Cauliflower crust pizzas, covered patio dining, Tuesday Tastings of half-off glasses of sangrias, wine, and new seasonal menu items this lunch spot in Tampa has got it all.
Whether you are in the mood for traditional, white with garlic, or pesto pizza, this lunch place in Tampa is the ultimate go-to when that pizza craving hits
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Bruschetta Trio: Personalize your platter with 3 options from classic tomato and basil, marinated artichoke, roasted red pepper & ricotta
- Brooklyn Bridge Pizza: Roasted red peppers, creamy ricotta cheese, and hand-pinched Italian sausage, atop their traditional pizza
- Prosciutto Arugula Pizza: Their classic white pizza topped with thinly sliced prosciutto, shaved cheese blend, and fresh arugula
- Bacon and Asparagus with Hot Honey: Pesto-based pizza topped with bacon, red onions, garlic, and asparagus and finished with Mike’s® Extra Hot Honey
- Grimaldi’s Famous Cannoli: Fried pastry dough filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips
Address: 218 West Shore Plaza Tampa, FL. 33609
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 and breakfast all day.
Don’t forget about a juicy steak at Steelback. At Butcher n’ Barbeque, you’ll find hand-cut, Florida-raised beef, house-smoked meats, and plenty of Southern flavor. Then there’s Han Hand Roll and Ramen Bar offers chef-crafted hand rolls made with premium Japanese nori.
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:
- Shrimp & Grits at Steelbach: blackened shrimp, cheesy grits, andouille sausage gravy
- ’83 French Dip at Steelbach::garlic baguette, shaved ribeye, horseradish, gruyere, rosemary au jus
- Black Bean Burger at Graze 1910: mixed greens, guacamole, crispy onion, house made black bean patty, jalapeño jack cheese, bun + side
- Buffalo Chicken at Graze 1910 : pickled cabbage, spicy slaw, ranch, pickles, buffalo sauce, bun + side
- Mac N Cheese with maple-pepper bacon at Graze 1910
Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
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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.
The protein options are super tasty and filling with options on the menu like lime lemon grilled shrimp, chipotle ancho chicken and a plant based mushroom and tofu chorizo mix.
Plus, Taco Dirty has daily specials known as “Dirty Hours” 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
- Dirty Burrito: 12” Flour Tortilla + 1 Rice + Black Beans + 2 Proteins or Veggies + 2 Toppings + 1 Sauce
- Three Taco Plate: Choice of Tortillas + 1 Veggie or Protein + 2 Toppings + 1 Sauce
- Snack Bowl: 1 Base + 1 Veggie + 1 Protein + 3 Toppings + 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
- Larry’s Crab Cakes
- Nashville Hot Fish Sandwich
- Po’ Bo Sandwich
- Shrimp and Chips
Address: 615 Sparkman Wharf Drive Tampa, FL 33602
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12. Hiccups and Churroholic
Tampa is home to one of the most popular restaurants in Florida – Hiccups and Churroholic.
This restaurant offers a variety of delicious lunch options including their signature breakfast churro bites and famous chicken wings.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
If you’re looking for something truly indulgent, try their 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
- Sriracha Fries
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
- Chicken Mole Tamales
- Chimichanga
Address: 7521 N 56th St Tampa, FL 33617
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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:
- Taste the RainBol: Jasmine rice and rotisserie chicken thigh, topped with chimichurri tomatoes, pickled red onions, and herb pesto
- The Nood-trition Bol: Double Asian noodles and garlic broccoli with teriyaki chicken, toasted almonds, cilantro, and smoky chipotle
- Omega Miso Bol: Pesto noodles and kale salad with maple sweet potatoes, miso-glazed tofu, chimichurri tomatoes, and ginger turmeric dressing
- Teriyaki Zen Bol: A flavorful fusion of jasmine rice and Asian sweet potato noodles, topped with garlic broccoli, teriyaki chicken, pickled red onions, and finished with ginger turmeric dressing
- Steak Street Salad: Mixed greens topped with chilled street corn, steak, chimichurri tomatoes, Parmesan, banana peppers, and cilantro, finished with creamy garlic & herb dressing
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
- Sticky Maple Biscuit: Chicken, bacon, maple syrup
- Farmer Biscuit: Chicken, bacon, apple butter, cheddar
- Sweet Grace: Chocolate chip waffle, strawberries, whipped cream, powdered sugar and maple syrup
- 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, but 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
- Pork Belly Rice
- Tiger Slaw
Address: 4603 N Florida Ave Tampa, FL 33603
17. Taco Bus
Tampa is a great city for food lovers, and this authentic Mexican street food stop will make not only your stomach happy but your wallet too.
The Taco Bus is a unique concept (literally a bus) that also offers a dedicated vegan and plant-based menu so there is truly options for everyone.
What Makes it the Best Lunch in Tampa, Florida
Taco Bus is a fun Tampa favorite known for its tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other Mexican classics.
The casual, colorful atmosphere makes it a great choice when you want something quick, flavorful, and a little different from your typical lunch stop in Tampa. Short on time then download their app here to order ahead.
Don’t Forget to Try the Best Dishes on the Menu:
- Chimichanga: Large lightly fried burrito stuffed with cheese, black beans, choice of protein, topped with queso and pico de gallo
- Blackened Seafood Burrito: Flour tortilla stuffed with cheese, cabbage, pico de gallo with blackened shrimp and grouper
- El Jefe: Weighing in over 2lbs, this is the chief! Two tortillas wrapped in choice of protein, double Mexican rice, refried beans, cabbage, cheese, pico de gallo, sour cream and guacamole
- Taco Salad: Crispy tortilla shell, loaded with lettuce, choice of protein, and topped with fresh pico de gallo, grilled corn, mozzarella cheese, cotija cheese, and finished off with zesty street corn sauce and sour cream.
- Apple Pie Empanada: Apple pie filled pastry fried to perfection, rolled in cinnamon sugar and drizzled with caramel.
Address: 3939 US Hwy 301, Tampa, FL
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:
- Media Noche: Marinated pork, smoked ham, genoa salami, Swiss cheese, special sauce &
- pickle
- Italian Meatball on Cuban Bread, hot & pressed: Hearty meatballs in savory scacciata sauce, topped with provolone & parmesan cheese
- Turkey Bacon Avocado Sandwich: Cuban bread, oven roasted turkey, bacon, avocado, tomato & ranch
- Cuban Sandwich: Cuban bread, Mojo marinated roast pork, smoked ham, genoa salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, special sauce
- Tampa Cheese Steak Sandwich: Marinated steak, provolone cheese, caramelized onions & peppers with fire sauce on Cuban bread
Address: 2512 N 15th St, Ybor City, FL 33605, 4015 W. Kennedy Blvd Tampa, FL 33609, 2424 4th St. N St. Petersburg FL 33744 and 5150 N. Florida Ave Tampa, FL 33603
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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 Spicy Chicken Sandwich 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
- Shrimp and Grits: Kielbasa, Poblano Peppers, Gouda Cheese Grits
- Crispy Fish Roll: Piccalilli Mayo, Gem Lettuce, Celery Salt, Fries
- Bourbon.Bacon.Boozy: Fat-Washed Maker’s Mark, Brown Sugar, Peychaud’s Bitters, 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 wieners, 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.
- Bagel Dog: Mel’s renowned all beef Polish Sausage served on a steamed poppy seed bun served with spicy brown mustard and smothered with grilled onions.
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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!
Contributors
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a mother and a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
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.
(Original Article Date: March 22, 2023/Updated by Editor on September 25, 2026)