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Best of Tampa

Date spots with brisket

Sharing a plate of smoky brisket makes for a low-pressure, high-reward evening.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Southern Luv BBQ image 1
Southern Luv BBQ image 2
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Smoked meats fill the air in a clean, modern space with bench seating and 90โ€™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.

Ribs fall right off the bone and the QUE-Bano offers a Cuban sandwich twist. Mac and cheese pairs well with banana pudding for a comfort food vibe.

Juicy and tender brisket comes in large portions. It cooks to perfection and pairs well with pulled pork and beans.

People are saying

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

"The brisket here is tender, smoky, and flavorful."

"The macaroni and cheese here is so creamy and impressive."

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.

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.

Chicken pesto panini and chimi skillet with jalapeรฑo cornbread offer flavorful meal options. Service includes friendly attention to service dogs and halal food choices from a Jordanian owner.

Brisket sandwiches come tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. The meat stays fresh and juicy, making each bite stand out.

People are saying

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

"The service here is so sweet and friendly, especially Ana."

"I thought the brisket sandwich was honestly one of the best I had ever eaten."

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
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.

Sharing a two-meat combo with options like pork, ribs, and corned beef fits well for couples. The sides, including beans and hot macaroni, add a nostalgic touch that can spark conversation.

Beef brisket comes out tender and melts like meat butter. Pulled pork also pairs well with it.

People are saying

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

"The pulled pork dinner is sublime, especially with spicy macaroni salad."

"The brisket here is so tender, it's like butter."

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.

04
Grand Hacienda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with detailed cultural decor and a cozy, clean atmosphere. Music is fun and lively, creating a high noise level that energizes the space. Offers great margaritas and a patio with a beautiful view.

Brisket tacos stand out with rich flavor and a delicious, tender texture. They pair well with drinks like the Hacienda Rita and offer a satisfying taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and really fresh."

"The servers here are so attentive and friendly, making it a great spot for a date."

"I found the brisket tacos to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2-6pm with 2 for 1 drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and is very popular.

3

Expect large crowds on free tequila days, especially during Taco Tuesday.

05
Streetlight Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Fast-casual Mexican restaurant with open kitchen and covered outdoor patio surrounded by plants. Atmosphere stays lively yet chill with excellent music and a fun vibe. Strong focus on exceptional margaritas and high-quality tacos creates a refreshing, food-forward experience.

Friday afternoons offer a relaxed vibe for couples. Servers and chefs provide gluten-free, celiac-safe options and dishes like Grouper Tacos add flavor to the date.

Big helpings of messy and juicy brisket fill the tacos with amazing flavor. The brisket stands out as unique and delicious, making it the star of the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the brisket taco was the best I'd ever had."

"I thought the brisket tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"The tacos here are fantastic, especially the grouper."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

2

Expect to pay around $11 for two tacos.

3

Happy hour runs from 2-5 PM with discounted prices.

06
Al's Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que and Soul Food image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall barbecue spot with old-fashioned charm and walls adorned with musical legends. Atmosphere feels like a warm family gathering, relaxed and inviting with friendly staff. Outdoor area hosts roosters and chickens, adding to the homey vibe.

Soul food with juicy, flavorful meat creates a relaxed vibe for couples. Sharing dishes like the pulled pork sandwich and two-item combos fits well for a casual date.

Smoked beef brisket stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. It appears in combos alongside sausage and pulled pork, paired often with classic sides like collard greens and potato salad.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious."

"I thought the brisket here was amazing and mind-blowing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for patrons in the lot behind the restaurant.

2

A huge meat plate with two sides and a drink costs $20.

3

The restaurant often runs out of several side dishes.

07
Wicked Oak BarbeQue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Oak smoke fills the air around a clean, well-decorated space with local graffiti art and a vibrant rock music soundtrack. Seating is limited inside but extends to an outdoor patio that could benefit from added shade and lighting. The atmosphere blends a teenage arcade hangout vibe with a welcoming, lively energy.

Wing combo and rib combo offer solid choices for sharing. The brisket stands out as a memorable dish for couples looking to enjoy a hearty meal together.

Smoked brisket comes perfectly seasoned and very tender, with fat that melts in your mouth. Pulled brisket offers a smokey and tasty flavor but can be slightly dry at times.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is perfectly seasoned and tender."

"The brisket here just melts in your mouth."

"The brisket here is incredible, the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Order at the counter and take it to go or sit at the tables in the cold AC.

2

They only serve whole brisket on Sundays.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

08
Mighty Quinnโ€™s Barbeque image 1

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.

Dinner dates feature thorough explanations from staff and crispy chicken sandwiches with honey chili lime sauce. The BBQ stands out, especially for those familiar with North Carolina-style flavors.

Extra BBQ brisket features in rice bowls. Brisket stands out alongside ribs and chicken. Quality is consistently very good.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

"The brisket here is so tender and packed with wood-fired flavor."

"The brisket and ribs at these Date Spots are awesome."

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.

09
Meat Mechanico image 1
Meat dish restaurant

Restaurant resembles an American muscle car garage with mechanical-themed decor like license plates and toolboxes on walls. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming with warm, inviting energy. Known for generous portions of expertly grilled, halal meats and standout brisket and shawarma dishes.

Couples often return for a second visit, showing the spot's appealing atmosphere. Staff attentively check if meals are ready, adding to the comfortable dining experience.

Smoked brisket offers a smoky, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich, savory bark. Sliced brisket sandwiches come tender and tasty, often described as top notch and cooked to perfection.

People are saying

"The shawarma here is amazing, especially the coal-cooked beef."

"The brisket here is so tender and tasty."

"I waited forever for my order at this date spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is currently in soft opening, so expect limited menu options.

2

Portion sizes are generous, making it a good choice for hungry diners.

3

The prices are very reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.

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.

Rib dinners stand out as a favorite choice for couples seeking a casual meal. The spot offers authentic barbecue that fits well for a relaxed lunch or dinner date.

Brisket comes tender and flavorful, often served cube chopped or in sandwiches. It stays moist with great flavor and pairs well with ribs and sides like mac and collard greens.

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"I found the brisket here to be the best I've had."

"The ribs and chicken here are seasoned well and tender."

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
Jazzy's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open kitchen and stacks of oak wood create a smoky, rustic vibe with 90s wood accents and airbrushed jazz murals. Atmosphere feels cozy and family-friendly, with a relaxed pace and warm hospitality. Outdoor seating adds a comfortable, peaceful option.

A spot with a casual vibe where sharing a meal feels comfortable. Options like boneless chicken paired with BBQ baked beans and coleslaw make for a relaxed date meal.

Brisket comes moist with a great bark and smoke ring. It offers a choice of hot or medium sauce and keeps its tender texture and flavor every time.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the BBQ here every time I visited."

"You'll love the ribs and collard greens here."

"The brisket was decent but could use a little more flavor."

Good to know

1

A 15% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for tips.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

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