When it comes to vacationing in Florida, there are plenty of places you might consider, such as Orlando, Miami, and even Key West, but the state is actually much larger than one might imagine, and there are plenty of amazing destinations. And if you are looking for an amazing date night in Tampa, Florida (whether you live in the area or are visiting for a weekend getaway), then we have some wonderful suggestions to make your next date night a winner.
While some people might think of Tampa as a center for business, the reality is that this Gulf Coast city is so much more than that. Tampa is also a place for culture, fun, and romance. From museums to Busch Gardens amusement park, there are plenty of options when it comes to planning an amazing date. And Food and Dating has the guide for you, to give you some ideas on how to make the most out of you next date night in the city.
Date Ideas in Tampa
No matter how old you are or what your budget may be, there are plenty of options when it comes to planning the perfect date in the city. Ybor City is a historic neighborhood in Tampa that is a nightlife hot spot, offers amazing restaurants, and of course features amazing music. It is the perfect place to spend a day or an evening with your partner. Then there is the Hyde Park area, which features upscale dining options and shopping.
Beyond the obvious, there are also some unique date options for those willing to try something new off the beaten path. From bird watching to hiking and paddling options, there are plenty of outdoor activities that will make you glad you chose to plan your date in Tampa.
And of course, nothing beats the perfect dining experience when we are talking about an amazing date night. Which is why we have put together a list of some of the best places to choose for a perfect date night dinner (of course if you are looking for a day date, then these options work too).
Ulele
If you are looking for a restaurant that is a perfect mix of casual elegance, then look no further than Ulele. Not only can you go out for a perfect date night dinner, but they are also open for lunch which means this is also a great option for a day date.
Ulele is an American cuisine restaurant that is actually a fusion of Native American flavors, and fresh seafood from the area. Here is a restaurant that can host a wedding, has a beer garden, and offers a setting that will have you coming back for more.
With a menu that includes oysters, Native chili, filet mignon, and seafood risotto among other dishes, you can find something for everyone, no matter what you enjoy. There are some amazing options on the menu and the cost is such that no matter what your budget is, you can enjoy a fabulous night on the Riverwalk.
Haven
Don’t worry, we won’t make you ‘labor’ over your choices, try them all and share! 🍴A reminder, we will be closed Monday for the holiday. #thisishaven #laborday
📷: #vickybui70056 pic.twitter.com/m7l7K59lLj— Haven (@HavenWineBar) September 1, 2018
If you are looking for a unique dining experience on your next date night, then you will want to head to Haven restaurant in Tampa. While their cuisine is considered to be American, they are actually a small plate/tapas restaurant.
Among their offerings are artisanal cheeses, specialty wines, hand crafted cocktails, and even charcuterie that is house made. On the menu are such dishes as macaroni and cheese (which varies based on the cheese of the day), collard green kofta, oxtail fried rice, and conch Bolognese.
This is a chance to try something new on you next date and we think you will love it. These are the kinds of places that make for an amazing experience and one that any foodie will enjoy.
Donatello
Nothing says romantic date night quite like an elegant, fine dining Italian restaurant. Donatello easily fits the bill, with authentic cuisine that has been served since 1984 (we consider them an institution in Tampa).
This is a four star dining experience that includes waiters in tuxedos and roses at the end of your meal. There is nothing quite like and elegant dining experience, and Donatello knows how to make you feel like you are a prince or princess. And they even offer live jazz music that simply elevates the entire night.
And that doesn’t even touch on the menu which features such amazing offerings as Prosciutto Di Parma Con Melone, Penne Puttanesca, Salmone Alla Stromboli, Ossobuco Alla Milanese, and Pollo Palermitana. This means not only is the atmosphere elegant and upscale, but so too is the cuisine itself.
Rusty Pelican
If you are looking for a local favorite that has some of the best seafood and steak around, then look no further than the Rusty Pelican. Here is a restaurant that offers you casual elegance, and an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you are aiming for a more relaxed lunch date or a romantic date night, Rusty Pelican is able to deliver the perfect experience every time. Beyond the experience, there is also the different menus to enjoy including a dinner menu and a sunset menu.
On the menu are raw bar options, fresh fish options cooked the way you want it, New York Strip Steaks, and even Lemon Garlic Shrimp Risotto. And on the sunset menu, you can choose a three-course prixe fixed meal that is an amazing $27.95 per person.
With amazing service, delicious food options, a stunning setting, and a long and stories history, the Rusty Pelican is one option we highly recommend.
Pane Rustica
If you are looking for a bakery and cafe that is perfect for a perfect date day or night, look no further than Pane Rustica. As a dining location that has a Zagat rating, you know this is a must visit restaurant in Tampa.
No matter what you are looking for, Pane Rustica has it. There are hearth cooked pizza, fresh-baked goods, sandwiches and so much more. The food is described as eclectic fusion, with an international flair. As a more casual restaurant, you don’t have to feel like you need to be dressed to the nines in order to enjoy a meal.
From beautiful small plates and salads, to flatbread pizzas and pastas, there are dishes for every diner. Entrees include a red wine braised boneless short rib, pan seared sea scallops, and even an oak grilled filet mignon.
This is a dining experience that will make your date night shine and we think you will love every moment of your evening at Pane Rustica.
Tampa is a beautiful and historic city in Florida that will leave you charmed. And we highly recommend the city for a weekend getaway or a perfect date night experience.
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