For the residents of the South Tampa peninsula, the Bay is a private luxury. There’s a rare, quiet prestige in checking the tides before checking a reservation and knowing that the evening’s commute involves a gentle cruise across the water rather than the stress of a highway.
As Tampa’s culinary profile ascends to meet its flourishing skyline, a new standard for “waterfront dining” develops. Today’s discerning palate demands an effortless segue from the deck to a dining room. Here’s the current rotation for those who live a life led by the water.
Casa Santo Stefano
Nestled along Ybor City’s historic brick-lined streets, Casa Santo Stefano – an authentic Sicilian restaurant – is a popular destination for those docking at nearby Water Street or the Channel District. It provides an experience of “Old World” opulence that is increasingly rare. The menu is a sophisticated homage to Sicilian heritage, featuring salt-crusted snapper and rich, complex pastas that pair beautifully with their specialized reserve list. At the rooftop terrace, panoramic views of the shipping channels and the city’s glowing silhouette remain the top spot for an evening espresso or a vintage cigar.
Anchor and Brine
Located at the base of the JW Marriott, Anchor and Brine is the quintessential “see and be seen” destination for the Water Street crowd. The aesthetic is crisp and maritime, mirrored by a menu that emphasizes raw-bar purity. The crudo and cold-water oysters are non-negotiable starters. It is a space that understands the modern resident, someone who enjoys an energetic and sophisticated environment where the service is as sharp as the plating.
Salt Shack on the Bay
Despite its purposefully unpretentious name, Salt Shack has become the definitive waypoint for the Westshore yachting set. It serves as a natural gathering spot for Marina Pointe residents to catch up over fresh oysters and salt-air breezes, often acting as a casual extension of the neighborhood’s social life. Because the entrance is within a brief walk of the property, it is an easy destination for a sunset drink or an impromptu dinner with neighbors.
Slowing the Pace
The ultimate luxury here is found in the absence of a commute and the quiet presence of the tide. In Tampa, the finest tables are always best reached by water as it remains the city’s most elegant passage.
