Diners' Choice: Innovative restaurants in Tampa / Central Florida West

OpenTable

Updated January 05, 2025

Looking for the best restaurants that are fit for foodies in Tampa / Central Florida West? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Paul’s Fusion Kitchen

4.9

4.9 (65)

$30 and under

Asian

Tampa

About the restaurant

We are a family with a rich Thai heritage that has been passed down for generations. Our love for Thai food and culture inspired us to create a fusion of traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist. Growing up in a Thai household, we were taught to appreciate the balance of flavors and the use of fresh ingredients in our cooking. Our menu features an array of dishes that combine Thai spices and flavors with other cuisines. Our goal is to showcase the beauty and complexity of Thai cuisine while infusing it with modern and creative flavors. We are excited to share our passion for food with you and hope you enjoy our unique fusion creations.

Our restaurant is located at 4034 W Kennedy Blvd right next to The British Shop and in the same plaza as Sucre and Chicken Salad Chick. Place a to-go order for your office or dine in with us in our cozy dining room!

We're looking forward to serving you in South Tampa, Florida.

Top review

MikeVIP

Dined on Dec 26, 2024

A neighborhood gem, for sure! Carefully sourced products and delicious creations from a very talented chef. The food is always fresh and healthy while maintaining a savory, mouthwatering style. Lots of love goes into dishes like Paul’s Crab Fried Rice, Oysters Rockefeller, Shrimp Pad Thai, the beef and duck dishes, etc. A decent wine list, too. The big surprise is that it’s a great bang for the buck given the superb quality of ingredients and preparations. A neighborhood must with beautiful decor and easy access and parking. Don’t wait any longer!

Hales Blackbrick - Hyde Park

4.9

4.9 (41)

$31 to $50

Chinese

Tampa

About the restaurant

HALES BLACKBRICK HYDE PARK

WINNER 2024 Best New Restaurant & Best Chinese Restaurant by Tampa Magazine. Best New Restaurant by Bon Appetit Magazine.

New Chinese
CHEF HALES INNOVATIVE, INSPIRED & SEASONAL CHINESE RESTAURANT

Our owner, Chef Richard Hales, a four generation Tampa family since 1954, is back in his hometown of Tampa after 25 years away. Mastering Chinese cuisine, opening award winning restaurants and appearing on the Food Network; beloved by the likes of Guy Fieri. Our seasonal menu features Asian techniques using the fi nest ingredients and availability of locally sourced produces. Chef Hales’ invites you to experience an eclectic ambiance, elevated service and his version of Asian fusion.

We are Grateful,

Chef Richard Hales & Jenny Hales
不是那么中国

Top review

TammyVIP

Dined 3 days ago

We were greeted by the hostess who were very friendly. We had a cocktail at the bar waiting for our guests to arrive. The manager introduced his self to us. The vibe and atmosphere was great. The food was exceptional.

Hales Blackbrick - Drew Park

4.8

4.8 (493)

$50 and over

Asian

Tampa

About the restaurant

WINNER 2024 Best New Restaurant & Best Chinese Restaurant by Tampa Magazine. Best New Restaurant by Bon Appetit Magazine.

New Chinese
CHEF HALES INNOVATIVE, INSPIRED & SEASONAL CHINESE RESTAURANT

Our owner, Chef Richard Hales a four generation Tampa family since 1954, is back in his hometown of Tampa after 25 years away mastering Asian cuisine, opening award winning restaurants and appearing on the Food Network; beloved by the likes of Guy Fieri. Our seasonal menu features Asian techniques using the fi nest ingredients and availability of locally sourced produces. Chef Hales’ invites you to experience eclectic ambiance, elevated service and his version of Chinese cuisine.

We are Grateful,

Chef Richard Hales & Jenny Hales
不是那么中国

Top review

Meade

Dined 7 days ago

This was our 2nd visit to Hales. We decided to try the duck breast, Brussel sprouts and Dan Dan noodles. We were thoroughly impressed again. The flavors are all well balanced, nothing is over powering. We plan on returning to go through the entire menu. We also tried the gelato and brown butter banana crème pie. Both excellent and fresh. The menu offers unique options you will not find anywhere else. The service is always top notch at Hales. Not the fake smiles or pretend to be interested service, but genuine friendliness and kindness.

Discover more

Experience

Dim Sum Sunday

By Patrik Pettersson at Kompose

4.7

4.7 (110)

$31 to $50

Contemporary French / American

Sarasota

About the restaurant

Experience a culinary voyage like no other, at Patrik Pettersson's restaurant, tucked away in the refined Kompose Hotel. Celebrated for his innovative fusion of classic flavors and cutting-edge techniques, Chef Patrik Pettersson promises an unforgettable epicurean journey. Immerse yourself in our rotating five and seven-course tasting menus, meticulously crafted to captivate your palate with every bite. With a menu that evolves every three weeks, each visit unveils a fresh symphony of flavors and culinary artistry. Reserve your table now and elevate your dining experience at Sarasota's premier destination for gastronomic excellence.

Top review

JudithVIP

Dined 3 days ago

This may have been our best meal at By Patrik Pettersson. There were some new dishes on the menu - which is always changing - but the Vension was new and outstanding - melt in your mouth wonderful! The Branzino was great - and I don't like fish but I loved this dish! He had a new wine for us to try which was perfect with our dinner. I don't know where he finds them. All and all, I don't know how Patrik will top this dinner! The service is always wonderful and the people are always friendly but not overly so. Looking forward to our next meal there! Thanks for another wonderful experience at this hidden gem!

Discover more

Experience

Five and Seven-Course Tasting Menu

Experience

Wine not Wednesday:Diablo Paso Wine Tasting Dinner

Experience

Valentine's Day 5-course Dinner

JPAN - University Town Center

4.5

4.5 (215)

$30 and under

Sushi

Lakewood Ranch

About the restaurant

WE OFFER A WIDE RANGE OF TRADITIONAL JAPANESE DISHES ALONG WITH MIND-BLOWING SUSHI AND KITCHEN CREATIONS. LET OUR EXPERIENCED AND INNOVATIVE CHEFS DESIGN A MAGNIFICENT MEAL FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ALL WHILE BEING IN THE CARE OF OUR LIVELY AND HOSPITABLE STAFF. WHETHER IT’S TRADITIONAL FARE, SUSHI OR TEMPURA YOU CRAVE, WE CAN HANDLE YOUR HUNGER AND GIVE YOU SEVERAL REASONS TO KEEP COMING BACK FOR MORE!
We have a 15 minute grace period. Please call us if you are running later than 15 minute after your reservation time.

Top review

DianeVIP

Dined 7 days ago

Everything we ate was well prepared and tasty. We had wonderful miso soup, seaweed salad, the Godzilla roll, edamame and salmon sashimi. Have eaten here multiple time and each time more than satisfied!

Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval

4.5

4.5 (255)

$30 and under

Mexican

Tampa

About the restaurant

Lona is a dynamic modern Mexican restaurant brought to life by the creative collaboration of renowned chefs Richard Sandoval and Pablo Salas and aims to redefine the Mexican dining experience by combining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques and artistic presentation.

At Lona, guests will be immersed in a lively atmosphere that pays homage to Mexico's rich culinary heritage while embracing the spirit of innovation. The menu showcases a fusion of regional Mexican cuisines, featuring an array of bold and authentic flavors. From delectable street food favorites to refined dishes inspired by ancient recipes, Lona offers a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and complexity of Mexican gastronomy.

We also offer reservations for our TopGolf Swing Suites, which can be made via our OpenTable Experiences.

Top review

BrettVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Excellent as always! The manager, Ryan, stopped by our table to ensure everything was up to standard. Service was professional yet friendly, and the food was delicious as always. Well curated, balanced, consistent, and fresh!

Bohemios Tapas Restaurant - St. Pete

4.5

4.5 (8)

$31 to $50

Tapas / Small Plates

St. Petersburg

About the restaurant

Your destination for authentic flavors with a blend of Spanish and Latin flair in the heart of Downtown St. Petersburg Camden District.
Indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy our tapas and shareable dishes al fresco style, paired with carefully selected beers and wines from around the world.

Top review

BradVIP

Dined on Dec 26, 2024

Amazing staff, attentive and on top of everything. Food was fantastic, we had 7 dishes for 4 people and it was the right amount- my only request is more greens!!

Ash

4.4

4.4 (46)

$31 to $50

Contemporary Italian

Tampa

About the restaurant

Ash is a modern Italian-inspired restaurant located in the Water Street District of Tampa, FL. Its menu is constantly evolving, and its beverage program is eclectic. Ash is a perfect place for diners who want to be delighted by new flavors and expect attention to service.

Ash is a cashless restaurant. All major credit cards will be accepted as payment. We thank you for your support and patronage!

Top review

Kaisone

Dined 4 days ago

The food was good. Our server Aries, !! Very informative and attentive. I will be returning.

Cane and Barrel

4.2

4.2 (206)

$31 to $50

Tapas / Small Plates

St. Petersburg

About the restaurant

We're raising the bar - literally......
The essence of the terrace bar at St. Petersburg’s AC Hotel is derived from the flora and fauna of Florida, infused with the lushness of a Caribbean courtyard, and inspired by Cuban heritage. The signature spirit, rum, is the key narrative – exploring its journey from the cane to the barrel. The interiors reflect the vibrant culture of Havana nights with an old world charm.

Top review

Emily

Dined on Jan 6, 2025

Service was great. Food tasted amazing. Will be coming back.

Discover more

Experience

Boozy Rooftop Brunch

7th + Grove

4.0

4 (137)

$31 to $50

Soul food

Tampa

About the restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Tampa, Florida in the Ybor City Historic District lies restaurant/lounge concept 7th+Grove. For the comfort food connoisseur searching for fresh authentic taste with a down home flair 7th+ Grove delivers an elevated southern menu, warm ambiance, extraordinary service and creatively crafted cocktails. 7th+Grove is an inviting adult-friendly space ideal for schmoozing and celebrating the perfectly imperfect you.

Top review

Andrea

Dined 3 days ago

Started out alittle shakey. We had a reservation but the hostess allowed all of us (about 12) to come in and sit when the door opened at 11. Ok… then another host is asked us all to lineup and give , our names and reservation and reseated us. I was given an outdated menu with cheaper prices which our waiter had to honor and he did without any issue. Enjoyed the unlimited mimosas 👍🏾 and the food. I had catfish bites and shrimp with a side of eggs.. kinda pricey for 2 scrambled eggs though $9 but very delicious. My husband had the oxtail, grits and collard greens bowl. He said it was wonderful. the only issue was that at first the wrong meal came out for me and then the waiter corrected it and the food came out separately so we didn’t get everything at the same time. One of the managers came over and spoke to us for a long time. Apologize for the issues and wanted to make sure we still enjoyed our experience which we did and really appreciated him coming over to talk. I would not hesitate going back there again the food is very good very friendly Atmosphere. definitely try it.

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