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Best of Tampa

Barbecue and salad spots

A salad that can actually hold its own on a menu dominated by heavy barbecue.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Royal Thai Restaurant image 1
Royal Thai Restaurant image 2
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Thai restaurant

Small dining space offers a quiet, calming atmosphere with a charming piano in the corner and a unique runway view of planes landing. The setting feels warm and inviting, blending comfort with tasteful, simple decor. It suits both casual meals and special occasions, accommodating groups up to ten.

Papaya salad stands out with its crisp freshness and pairs well with crispy pork. The menu also features mango rice and other salads that balance sweet and savory flavors.

Barbecue here features grilled pork with jim jaew sauce and roast pork BBQ that melts in your mouth with sweet and citrus flavors. Sticky rice pairs well with the BBQ crispy pork for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"I thought this Thai food was the best I've ever had."

"The papaya salad is so refreshing and crunchy."

"I wanted something authentic and wasn't disappointed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 30 minutes or more during peak hours on weekends.

3

It's best to arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights to avoid wait times.

02
Dip and Happy image 1
Fusion restaurant

Fusion restaurant offers a modern, stylish decor with cozy indoor seating and pet-friendly outdoor tables under umbrellas. The atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly with an eclectic playlist featuring 80's rock and Latin music at a comfortable volume. Small but inviting space balances fresh vibes with a peaceful, welcoming mood.

Salads feature fresh seafood like salmon and shrimp with strong flavors. Options include barbecue chicken and classic Caesar, each pairing well with other menu items.

Smoked BBQ brisket shows up in tacos, sandwiches, and with fries, delivering a tangy, spicy, beefy punch. The combination of crunchy textures and rich flavors stands out in every dish.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and even better than I expected."

"The salads here are fresh and flavorful."

"The BBQ brisket is tender and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

They do not use seed oils in their dishes.

2

Pets are welcome at Dip and Happy.

3

Downtown parking is limited, so arrive early or consider walking.

03
Konan BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with hole-in-the-wall vibes and a friendly, home-like atmosphere. Blues music and the rich aroma of wood smoke create a warm, inviting mood. Offers indoor and outdoor seating with plenty of space and parking.

Potato salad appears often as a side and tastes consistently good and yummy. It pairs with various dishes like BBQ chicken, rib dinners, and meat platters.

Barbecue here stands out with its rich flavor and authentic taste that many find unmatched in the region. The menu includes a unique Pineapple sweet tea that complements the smoky dishes well.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The barbecue here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The potato salad and rice were delicious sides."

Good to know

1

Backpacks are given out the day before school starts.

2

Expect a long line at opening for lunch.

3

Get there early as they often run out of food.

04
Hamada kabob حمادة مشاوي image 1

Halal restaurant offers charcoal-grilled kabobs with food prepared fresh to order near the dining area. Atmosphere stays chill and family friendly with natural wood tables and a cozy, welcoming vibe reflecting Mediterranean culture.

Salads come complimentary and often feature a Tahini-based dressing that pairs well with main dishes. Meals like the lamb kebab and Chicken & Shrimp Kabob include generous portions of salad alongside.

Food cooks right in front of you on the barbecue grill. Options include shawarmas, half chicken BBQ, and chicken platters.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The food, especially the salads, was amazing and delicious."

"I found the barbecue here to be the best in Tampa."

Good to know

1

Food is prepared fresh upon order, so expect a wait of 20-30 minutes.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes provided.

3

All food served is halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

05
Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Indoor smoke room and drive-thru option stand out in this barbecue restaurant. Atmosphere feels cozy yet modern, with plenty of space between tables for easy conversation. Regulars enjoy top-notch ribs and brisket, making it a favored spot for casual dining and catering.

Broccoli salad stands out with its tasty flavor and is a favorite side dish. It pairs well with pulled pork, brisket, and corn fritters.

Old-school BBQ shines here with extra BBQ brisket featured in rice bowls. The barbecue offers an excellent, authentic experience that stands out in the Tampa Bay area.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

"I thought the Barbecue here was the best I ever had."

"You have to try their broccoli salad with almonds, craisins, and bacon."

Good to know

1

They offer lunch specials every day of the week.

2

Mighty Quinn's has a drive-through for convenient takeout.

3

Catering services are available for events and private parties.

06
Sugar Wing image 1
Chicken restaurant

Bright, clean dining room with colorful murals and a modern design creates a welcoming, chill atmosphere. Music plays at a comfortable volume, blending genres to enhance the relaxed vibe. Self-serve ordering and spacious seating support a casual, inviting experience.

Chopped salads stand out with fresh ingredients like fried portobello mushrooms and cilantro. Options include high protein choices such as chicken, making salads both flavorful and satisfying.

Jumbo wings come with a variety of sauces beyond the usual Buffalo and BBQ. The Carolina BBQ sauce stands out as a distinctive flavor among the options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always made fresh."

"I thought the BBQ wings were pretty good and amazing."

"I loved the chopped salad; it was one of the best."

Good to know

1

Monday night is kids night with games and activities.

2

The restaurant offers a $5 Grand Opening Special on select items.

3

Parking is available in the Publix plaza lot.

07
El Churrascaso Grill Tampa image 1
Brazilian restaurant

Brazilian restaurant offers an elegant and clean space with modern decor and a captivating bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and pleasant with good music enhancing the vibe. Cocktails like traditional caipirinhas and coconut mojitos stand out alongside delicious churrasco and flan.

Salads here stand out with Greek salad featuring kale that offers a fresh twist. Each salad is carefully prepared and pairs well with dishes like mixed grill and tostones.

Brazilian-style barbecue features meat, salt, and embers cooked traditionally. The barbecue delivers a sensational taste that reflects authentic Brazilian cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The service here is excellent and the staff is attentive."

"I found the Brazilian barbecue here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

An 18% service charge is added automatically to all bills.

3

Expect higher prices for smaller portion sizes.

08
Southern Luv BBQ image 1

Smoked meats fill the air in a clean, modern space with bench seating and 90’s music playing. A warm, family-friendly vibe welcomes guests, with personal touches like the owner offering tastes while waiting. The atmosphere feels authentic and inviting, setting it apart from typical BBQ spots.

The Cobb salad stands out with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Staff accommodate special requests easily to customize the salad.

Barbecue here stands out with phenomenal flavor and excellent quality. The dishes consistently deliver what many consider the best barbecue in the area.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is so creamy and wonderful."

"I couldn't put down this juicy, flavorful Barbecue."

"The potato salad was light, refreshing, and a perfect contrast."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they smoke ribs.

2

Everything is made homemade on the same day.

3

The menu is routinely tweaked to include new and unique items.

09
Big Chicken image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers juicy, well-seasoned chicken with fresh, flavorful sides like fries and onion rings. Atmosphere feels cool, open, and vibrant with some noise and warmth inside. Guests often enjoy basketball playing during dining, adding to the lively vibe.

Salads feature killer cheese curds that stand out. Chicken pieces come in larger chunks, which could be chopped smaller for easier eating.

Chipotle BBQ and Memphis BBQ sauces stand out with rich flavors. The gold BBQ sauce adds needed zest to the Big Chicken, while buffalo sauce pairs well with Dunks and fries.

People are saying

"The chicken sandwiches here have really tasty toppings and dipping sauces."

"The fries here are basic and not seasoned."

"The chicken in the salad is hot, fresh, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during the grand opening events.

2

Prices are higher than average, with meals costing around $25.

3

Not all menu items listed online are available in-store.

10
OUTSIDE BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and clean, warm environment. Seating near the smoker grill offers an authentic experience while pop music plays at a comfortable volume. The vibe reflects Black culture and flavor, creating a joyful and welcoming space.

Potato salad stands out with its Gordon's style and celery seed. Collard greens and baked beans match the quality of the ribs, making the sides solid choices.

Tender and juicy wings stand out with immaculate flavor. The barbecue offers a down home taste that many find unmatched in the city.

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I had ever tasted."

"The food here was phenomenal, truly a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portion sizes for a satisfying meal.

2

The menu may not always reflect available items; check before ordering.

3

Family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for gatherings.

11
BBQ Time image 1
Restaurant

Large, rustic space feels cozy and welcoming with bright, refreshing air conditioning. Atmosphere stays clean and presentable, inviting diners to relax and enjoy hearty meals. Known for smoky, tender barbecue and distinctive sides, it offers a satisfying experience without high prices.

Baked beans and potato salad come out amazing and solid. The spicy macaroni salad returns with a fiery kick that makes your mouth feel on fire.

Generous portions of ribs, potato salad, and BBQ beans come with bold, unique flavors. The spicy macaroni salad stands out alongside barbecue that rivals top spots nationwide.

People are saying

"I thought their BBQ was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the barbecue here was delicious and amazing."

"I tried the spicy macaroni salad and it made my mouth feel on fire."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

3

Prices are reasonable, especially for large portions of food.

12
BJ’s Alabama BBQ! image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Old gas station style with an old school mobile wood pit smoker out front creates a small town feel and signals authentic barbecue methods. Atmosphere stays family friendly and welcoming, with a relaxed, positive energy. Walls decorated with college banners add local character to the cozy interior.

Potato salad has a Southern style with a mustard kick that stands out. The beef, green beans, and potato salad all have a home-cooked taste made with care and pride.

Barbecue features a tangy vinegar sauce with a smoky flavor and a hint of sweetness. The food has a strong reputation for being excellent and is considered among the best BBQ in Tampa.

People are saying

"I found the BBQ here to be damn good."

"I found the barbecue here to be damn good."

"The potato salad tasted like a Southern style, homemade church potluck."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday only, with a break from 3 to 4 pm.

2

They are closed on Sunday through Tuesday.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular items like chicken and ribs.

13
Flaming Mountain Chinese Grill & Skewer Bar 火焰山烧烤&烤鱼 image 1

Casual Chinese restaurant with authentic Sichuan flavors and street-side barbecue style. Atmosphere is noisy and crowded with close seating that encourages sharing. Decor is simple with bright walls and a kitchen visible from the front, creating a lively but unpretentious vibe.

Cucumber salad stands out with its freshness, lightness, and a perfect amount of spice. It feels very refreshing alongside other dishes like grilled eggplant and braised pork.

Authentic Northeastern Chinese barbecue flavors come through clearly with traditional grilling methods. The BBQ oyster stands out as a delicious highlight among the offerings.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be truly authentic and not Americanized."

"I found the Chinese barbecue here to be really authentic."

"I experienced authentic northern Chinese cuisine here."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is available for those who are brave enough to participate.

2

All noodles are 20% off from January 4th to January 7th.

3

Expect long wait times for takeout orders, sometimes up to an hour.

14
Naz's Halal Food - Tampa image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers a clean and spacious interior with bright lighting and beautiful wall art. Atmosphere feels relaxed and lively, creating a welcoming vibe that feels like home. Seating is plentiful, supporting a comfortable dining experience.

Salads come fresh and crispy with every combo platter. They pair well with flavorful dishes like falafel and hummus, keeping the meal balanced and tasty.

Spicy BBQ wings come breaded and coated in a sauce that balances sweet and heat. The menu also features a cheeseburger and a variety of platters including chicken options.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and flavorful."

"You have to try the spicy Barbecue wings; they're breaded and perfectly balanced."

"The salad here is always fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

The portions are super generous, making it a good deal.

2

They charge $2.60 for a water bottle.

3

The restaurant is very clean.

15
Tony Roma's Bones & Burgers image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with a food court setting offers a comfortable atmosphere and fast service. Menu includes ribs, burgers, and plant-based options, with well-seasoned fries and popular mac and cheese. The place stands out for good value and friendly people in a busy mall environment.

Salads feature ranch dressing that stands out as the best part. Options include a bbq ranch salad and a chicken strip salad, both noted for being delicious and well-prepared.

Traditional BBQ includes ribs, BBQ chicken salad, and a BBQ Chicken Bowl. Prices stay reasonable compared to many other spots.

People are saying

"I found the food to be great and delicious."

"I found the salad to be delicious."

"Kayla's friendly greeting made the Barbecue experience feel like best friends."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait during lunch hours at this busy mall location.

2

Prices for meals can exceed $40 for fast food options.

3

They offer plant-based products on the menu.

16
Domoishi image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small, modern space offers a home-like atmosphere with clean, classy design. Energy stays calm and inviting, with quick service options through kiosks or register. Known for authentic Hawaiian flavors and generous portions, it attracts those seeking fresh, affordable island cuisine.

Macaroni salad features a balanced sweetness and comes in perfect portions. The rice macaroni salad adds a unique twist to the usual recipe.

BBQ short ribs offer rich flavor and tender texture, with meat that pulls off the bone easily. The Hawaiian BBQ mix plate delivers familiar tastes, including tasty BBQ chicken and Katsu chicken combos.

People are saying

"The food here tasted like it was made with love."

"I'm glad I had me some of those fantastic BBQ short ribs."

"The Barbecue short ribs were fantastic, falling right off the bone."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small, with limited spaces available.

2

Kiosks are available for ordering, or you can order at the register.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

17
Big John's Alabama BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Smokey aroma of oak wood fills a cozy space with rustic décor and local sports memorabilia. Friendly, family-like atmosphere with sounds of meat being chopped behind the counter. Focus on authentic southern BBQ with strong smoky flavors and excellent sauces.

Sides include potato salad, macaroni salad, and coleslaw. Potato salad and baked beans stand out as good options. Macaroni and cheese also appears frequently as a strong side choice.

Authentic Alabama-style barbecue features tender pulled chicken with a signature BBQ sauce. Generous portions come with a clean and friendly environment and a notably good BBQ sauce and Tea Punch.

People are saying

"I considered this the best BBQ spot I've ever had."

"I considered this the best Barbecue spot I've ever had."

"The potato salad here is really great."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait for chicken during peak hours.

2

Arrive early to avoid running out of high-demand items.

3

Parking is limited during lunch and dinner times.

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