The southeastern part of the U.S. has no shortage of fun in the sun, and as the warmer weather begins to sweep across the rest of the country, we find ourselves planning weekend getaways to soak in every second of sunshine that Mother Nature brings us. When your work schedule permits and you have the opportunity to sink your feet in the sand and your bottom in a beach chair, there's no better place than Tampa Bay, Florida.
Between Busch Gardens, multiple aquariums, the Lowry Park Zoo and several other Tampa Bay attractions, you'll work up quite the appetite exploring this beautiful city. When the summer sun directs your palate to cold drinks and fresh seafood, we won't lead you astray. Below we've listed the top 5 seafood spots in Tampa, so you can take in all that the waters of the Atlantic have to offer.
Mitchells Fish Market
Known for the area's freshest seafood and most memorable dining experience, Mitchell's works with some of the world's greatest fisheries to provide a plethora of dishes from around the globe. From the exposed raw bar to the fish case displaying the catch-of-the-day, Mitchell's staff provides seafood expertise and has no problem pointing to you in the freshest direction depending on region, season and weather. With over 80 seafood choices for your dining pleasure, this upscale fish market will not disappoint.
Rusty Pelican Restaurant
If you're looking to enjoy your meal while overlooking the beautiful waters of Tampa Bay, check out the Rusty Pelican Restaurant, located in the Rocky Point section of the city. Offering a local mix of entertainment on the grand piano as well as elegantly placed tables hovering above the water, the Rusty Pelican offers an ideal atmosphere for enjoying Tampa's scenic views and dining to the fullest.
Miguel's Mexican Seafood & Grill
Wondering why a Mexican restaurant made it on this list? Well, if you're looking for seafood with a little south-of-the-border spice, look no further than Miguel's. With Mexican favorites such as chimichangas, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas and more, Miguel's throws in a variety of fresh seafood selections, amplifying a number of the tasty dishes on their menu. When you're looking to turn up the temperature on Tampa's seafood scene, Miguel's is your source of ignition!
Catch Twenty Three
Another anything-but-ordinary seafood joint, Catch Twenty Three offers complex flavors from the Caribbean to give you a true island feel. Located in the Westchase neighborhood, this restaurant's appealing outdoor ambience allows you to dine beneath beautiful palm trees while listening to smooth tunes from local jazz and reggae bands. Catch Twenty Three has transformed their property into a little slice of tropical paradise, serving some of the freshest fish in the Tampa Bay area.
Oystercatchers
Located in the Grand Hyatt, Oystercatchers offers diners a perfect view of Tampa's picturesque bay, especially during sunset hours. Plant yourself at a table during Oystercatchers' golden hour and you'll enjoy a meal you'll never forget. Offering up fresh daily catches and exquisite creations from expert chefs, this seafood spot is known for its unique spin on sauces and relishes to enhance every dish's flavor. Local favorites include Gulf-fresh fish such as grouper, mahi-mahi, and yellow fin tuna.
When you've had about as much of the Tampa Bay beaches as you can handle and you're looking for ambiance or a laid-back island vibe with great seafood, these restaurants will have you planning your return to the City on the Gulf before you've even departed.