Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in New Tampa

Great food! Great ambience! Wonderful service! We celebrated day two of my husband’s 30th party and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!

The Feast of the Seven Fishes was a real delight. Nothing like anything else we've ever even seen. Sword fish and tuna carpaccio! I've never heard of such delights, and the octopus salami was absolutely amazing. All the courses were fantastic. The sauce on the mussels I could drink like soup, and the lobster risotto was so creamy and delicious, topped with a perfectly seared pair of the largest sea scallops I've ever seen. This was the most unique and ambitious take on the Seven Fishes meal I've seen. We had a great recommended wine pairing as well, a white Bordeaux. My sincerest compliments to Chef Chris for putting on such a wonderful event.

I recently had the pleasure of dining with my favorite colleagues David & Brendan at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! From the moment we walked in, we were welcomed with warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere. The historic charm of the restaurant, with its beautiful Spanish tile and vibrant decor, set the perfect tone for the evening. The service was exceptional. Our server was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, offering great recommendations. We started with the famous "1915 Salad," which was absolutely delicious, fresh, and full of flavor. We decided to indulge in a variety of Tapa's and it was a feast for the senses – perfectly seasoned with tender seafood, chicken, and empanadas. Every bite was incredible! The dessert, a classic "Flan," was the perfect end to the meal – creamy, sweet, and absolutely divine. The live music added a delightful touch, creating a festive, yet relaxed ambiance. Overall, the Columbia Restaurant exceeded all expectations. The combination of incredible food, attentive service, and the rich history of the place made for a dining experience that I will certainly be returning to. Highly recommend this gem in Ybor City!

**Ocean Prime Dinner Review – Bar Lounge Experience** Ocean Prime truly delivered an exceptional dining experience in the bar lounge! From start to finish, the evening was a perfect blend of ambiance, service, and culinary excellence. Our group of four opted for a mix of dishes that showcased the restaurant’s range, and each one was an absolute delight. The **Seafood Cobb Salad** was a standout—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Both the **Filet Mignon** and the **Ribeye Steak** were cooked to perfection, tender, and full of rich flavor. The attention to detail in preparation was evident with every bite. The sides were equally impressive, complementing the main dishes without overpowering them. The additional **side salad** was crisp and refreshing, a simple yet elegant accompaniment to our meal. The atmosphere in the bar lounge added to the experience—sophisticated yet relaxed, making it an ideal spot for an upscale yet comfortable evening. The service was attentive and friendly without being overbearing, ensuring we felt well taken care of throughout the night. Ocean Prime is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re craving expertly prepared seafood, steak, or a mix of both, this spot hits all the right notes. We’ll definitely be back!

Our food was delicious, the waitress was wonderful, and we had an amazing dinner. Shay was super nice and attentive. Everything was fantastic!! Stonewood Grill and Tavern at Tampa Palms is our favorite restaurant.