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Salad and cake

A fresh salad followed by a slice of cake is the only way to balance the day.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Amaretto Italian restaurant Tampa image 1
Amaretto Italian restaurant Tampa image 2
Amaretto Italian restaurant Tampa image 3
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Small dining room offers a cozy Mediterranean-Italian atmosphere with quiet, casual energy. Family-owned, it serves home-style Italian cuisine with unique, flavorful dishes and a pleasant, low-key vibe.

Salads come with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Options include an Amaretto salad with great dressing, a Caesar's salad, and one featuring tasty artichokes and crusty bread.

Limoncello cake offers a bright, authentic flavor. The Nonna cake provides a sweet surprise on the dessert list.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and fantastic."

"I had the limoncello cake for dessert."

"The salads here are fresh and generous."

Good to know

1

Most entrees are priced between $18 and $20.

2

The restaurant offers a good variety of Italian menu items.

3

There is plenty of free parking available nearby.

02
Lina's Restaurant image 1

Mediterranean bistro with bright, warm family vibe and live plants creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoy a personal, home-like experience with cheerful service and vibrant decor. The place stands out for its harmonious ambiance and friendly energy.

Potato salad stands out with its freshness and flavor. Greek Salad features sliced tomatoes, olives, and feta. Falafel appears in the Mediterranean sampler and is consistently well-made and tasty.

Pineapple upside-down cake stands out and is served with a celebratory song. The baklava also draws attention alongside the cake options.

People are saying

"The food here is scratch-made, packed with flavor, and delicious."

"I've never had cake this fresh and full of flavor."

"The owners are so nice, they even pulled up a chair to chat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Bingo night happens every Thursday at 7pm with fun prizes.

3

Lina's offers a special dinner menu on Saturday evenings with live music.

03
Piccola Italia Bistro image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with intimate, cozy atmosphere and authentic homemade pasta. Chef cooks in an open kitchen, creating a warm, friendly vibe that feels like dining in Italy. Limited seating and no-frills setup make it a quiet, personal experience.

Salads feature fresh burrata and a unique caprese that stands out from typical versions. Options include smoked salmon and burrata caprese salads served family style.

Pistachio cake stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. Desserts like limoncello cake and tiramisu also offer distinct, memorable tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the specials."

"The caprese salad was delicious and the burrata was very fresh tasting."

"I found the pistachio cake to be the most delicious I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own wine.

3

Expect a cozy atmosphere with only 6-7 tables.

04
ABC Pizza House image 1
Pizza restaurant

Old-school pizza restaurant with a retro 1980s vibe and family-friendly atmosphere. Cozy space features arcade games and 80s-90s music, creating a nostalgic, down-to-earth feel. Tables sit close together, and the place fills up on game days.

Greek salad stands out with fresh ingredients and careful preparation. Potato salad and a tiny salad with blue cheese dressing also offer rich flavors and shareable portions.

Chocolate cake is super moist and creamy, earning consistent praise. The carrot cake called Cherry on top is also popular and well-liked. Other options include a tres leches cake and a Greek cake, both noted for their quality.

People are saying

"The food here is hot, delicious, and reasonably priced."

"I thought their Greek salad was delicious."

"The chocolate cake here is super moist and creamy."

Good to know

1

Pizza Thursdays offer a special deal on select pizzas.

2

The restaurant has special pizza days with unique menu items.

3

Weekday specials provide great value for diners.

05
Driftlight Steakhouse image 1

Upscale steakhouse with classic design and clamshell booths creates an elegant yet inviting atmosphere. Dim lighting and calm energy support romantic dining and quiet conversation. Bar area buzzes with a lively crowd enjoying craft cocktails and martinis made to perfection.

Beef carpaccio and wedge salads stand out with fresh, crisp flavors. Beet salad pairs well with purple potato bread, while Caesar salad stays classic and tasty.

Carrot cake stands out with its light and fluffy texture and an elevated take that feels unique. It often comes highly rated and sometimes offered as a complimentary dessert for celebrations.

People are saying

"The Delmonico steak was delicious."

"I thought the carrot cake was the best I have ever had."

"The wedge salad here is a must-have."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner and breakfast to ensure seating.

2

Valet parking is complimentary for up to 3 hours on non-event nights.

3

The restaurant is cashless; credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

06
Nene's Restaurant & Bar image 1
Eastern European restaurant

Cozy spot with traditional Eastern European decor creates a warm, home-like atmosphere. Live kavkaz music and dancing energize the space, often including interactive performances. Georgian wine and authentic dishes like khinkali and khachapuri define the culinary experience.

Tbilisi salad features fresh, vibrant ingredients with a Georgian twist. Ukrainian Salad Olivye balances creamy and crunchy textures well.

Homemade cakes like Honey Cake and Napoleon Cake stand out for their freshness and quality. A free slice often comes for birthdays, adding a nice touch.

People are saying

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

"The Napoleon cake here is amazing and exceptionally good."

"I loved the beet salad with walnuts and spices."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Karaoke nights occur weekly; check the schedule for specific dates.

3

Parking is generally easy with no traffic during peak hours.

07
Wright's Gourmet House image 1

Large dining space with self-service setup and plentiful seating creates an inviting environment. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with a lively, relaxing vibe ideal for lunch or professional gatherings. Fresh bread and desserts add to the welcoming sensory experience.

Salads feature good quality ingredients and include options like turkey pecan salad and Dill potato salad that stand out for their flavor.

Chocolate killer cake is a must-try slice here. The coconut and strawberry cakes stand out as some of the best around.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were delicious and made with high-quality ingredients."

"I thought the cake here was the best I had ever eaten."

"I loved their delicious salads."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early to secure a spot.

2

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended due to limited seating.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

08
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar image 1

Small Italian restaurant with authentic decor and cozy, retro ambiance. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but can be loud due to limited sound treatment. Italian music plays throughout, creating a cultured, upscale vibe.

Complimentary garlic knots and salad come with meals. The salad pairs well with fresh bread and stands out as a notable starter.

Limoncello cake stands out with its light texture and delicious flavor, making it a popular choice to end meals. Pistachio cake offers a heavenly taste that complements the dessert selection well.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, bursting with fresh flavors."

"The family-style salad they serve is out of this world."

"You have to try the pistachio cake; it's heavenly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5 PM, featuring red and white sangria.

2

Arrive early for happy hour to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

3

The venue is suitable for hosting large gatherings and events.

09
Haven image 1
American restaurant

Large restaurant offers a beautiful outdoor patio with tropical plants and a walk-in cheese refrigerator. Atmosphere feels upscale yet laid back, combining cozy indoor spaces with a warm, inviting garden setting. Cocktails and steaks attract a crowd seeking refined but relaxed dining.

Fried Brussels sprouts salad stands out with its creative preparation and mix of spinach, ricotta salata, orchard fruits, and quince vinaigrette. It turns a simple vegetable into an extraordinary dish that draws attention.

Smoky and rich, the olive oil cake comes with caramel vanilla ice cream or smoked olive oil ice cream. It pairs well with white chocolate and roasted blackberries for a mix of flavors and textures.

People are saying

"The steaks here are cooked perfectly for a great date spot."

"You have to try the fried Brussels sprouts salad; it's unforgettable."

"The olive oil cake was smoky, rich, and a delectable masterpiece."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for outdoor seating.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The menu changes seasonally, offering new dishes regularly.

10
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.

Pistachio cake and Dubai chocolate stand out as great dessert options. The chaser cake with bacon offers a unique, very good flavor. Pastries and cakes here are consistently delicious.

People are saying

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

"The salads here are fresh and flavorful."

"The Biscoff and pistachio cakes were delicious and fresh."

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.

11
Caffรฉ Paradiso image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with an older, traditional atmosphere and cozy, lively vibe filled with the scent of fresh basil. Bar area buzzes with energy, creating a festive ambiance reminiscent of Rome or Mulberry Street in NYC. Seating is somewhat tight, but the space fosters fun, friendly gatherings and memorable family occasions.

Seafood salad stands out with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Caprese salad offers small tomato slices and a bit of mozzarella, keeping it simple and light.

Limoncello cake stands out with its soaked, balanced, and creamy texture. Chocolate mousse cake features a decadent brownie base and cheesecake layer, making desserts a highlight here.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, truly some of the best I've had."

"The chocolate mousse cake is delicious and decadent."

"I found the seafood salad to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance for dinner service.

2

The prix fixe menu costs $90 per person, including gratuity.

3

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours.

12
Craft Tampa image 1
Restaurant

Boat cruise restaurant offers relaxing river views and an elegant atmosphere with air conditioning and scenic waterfront sights. Guests enjoy well-crafted cocktails and perfectly cooked meals while dining in an intimate, peaceful setting that feels exclusive and special.

Baby kale salad stands out with fresh greens. The wagyu beef tenderloin Caesar salad features a fork-tender filet, romaine, shaved parmesan, and croutons. Some salads may be sent back if not right.

Dark chocolate cake and bread pudding offer tasty dessert options, with cheesecake standing out as the most flavorful. Crab cake is huge and made with all crab, no fillers or breading, delivering a rich taste.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is amazing and beautifully prepared."

"The staff's attentiveness and politeness made the cake experience so special."

"I paid $80 for a simple salad."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day and Father's Day brunch.

2

Dinner cruises typically cost around $79 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Parking at the Garrison lot costs $2 per hour via the Park Mobile app.

13
J&J Jam'Soul image 1
Family restaurant

Family restaurant offers authentic Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine with a quiet, homie atmosphere that encourages deep conversations. Indoor seating features clean, simple decor and reggae music plays softly, enhancing the warm, welcoming vibe.

Cucumber salad appears often as a side, served alongside dishes like jerk chicken and vegetable plates. It complements hearty mains with a fresh, crisp contrast.

Coconut rum cake stands out with rich flavor. The pound cake impresses as a highlight. Strawberry cake tastes balanced and not too sweet.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The rum cake here is the best I've had."

"The potato salad here is the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times on weekends, especially during brunch.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

14
Ena's Secret Bake image 1

Huge bakery space with only two small dessert counters creates an open yet cozy setting. Warm, welcoming atmosphere fills the air with freshly baked aromas and a family-oriented vibe. Decor blends authentic Cuban style with charming, stylish touches, offering a unique and nostalgic experience.

Cold salads stand out with a Cuban-style flair and a macaroni salad that shines. These salads deliver a spectacular, exquisite taste that many find impressive.

Small round cakes come with vanilla custard and a notably sweet flavor. Cuban cakes and croquetas cake stand out for their taste and quality.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best bakery I visited."

"I thought the cake here was spectacular and divine."

"I found the cold salad to be exquisite."

Good to know

1

They advertise a special bread with suckling pig skin, but it may not be available.

2

Employees have been seen eating and then handling food, raising hygiene concerns.

15
Soul de Cuba Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Vibrant decor showcases family history and black Tampa legacies, creating an authentic Cuban atmosphere. Live music, including soulful guitar and DJ sets, fills the space with energy. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic Cuban culture and flavorful food.

Huge and filling, the salad features fresh veggies and a tasty dressing. It offers a well balanced mix that works as a meal on its own.

Strawberry Tres Leche Cake melts right in your mouth with a fluffy and lovely texture. The cake is extremely delicious and light.

People are saying

"The Cuban sandwich food here has the best flaky bread and roasted pork."

"The strawberry tres leches cake melts right in your mouth."

"The Soul Salad is huge and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, starting at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties or special events.

3

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited during busy hours.

16
YaYa Southern Cuisine image 1
Soul food restaurant

Intimate 16-seat soul food spot with warm, welcoming atmosphere and dark, relaxing decor. Small size creates an exclusive, personal vibe filled with good music and genuine smiles. The space feels like home, inviting guests to slow down and enjoy hearty, authentic meals.

Seafood salad and crab salad stand out with fresh, rich flavors. Macaroni salad tastes better than homemade versions and comes alongside greens and potato salad served in ceramic bowls.

Red velvet cake costs $5 a slice and stays consistently on point. Banana pudding and southern pound cake with possible lemon flavor also stand out among the desserts.

People are saying

"The food here was so good, I had to comment."

"You have to try the red velvet cake; it's on point."

"You have to try the seafood salad; it's the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect wait times of over 2 hours during peak dining hours.

3

Ordering ahead is advised as food is prepared to order.

17
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.

Red velvet cake comes out super moist and flavorful. The pound cake rivals those from Alabama, and the pineapple cake pairs well with pineapple tea for a sweet finish.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The barbecue here is legit, especially with the mustard sauce."

"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.

18
Ruth's Chris Steak House image 1

Steak house offers an elegant and cozy atmosphere with complimentary valet parking and a talented piano player in the lobby. Tables sometimes feature rose petal decorations for celebrations, creating a special vibe. The energy suits romantic meals and business meetings, with a calm yet refined pace.

Large Caesar Salad features chopped lettuce and shaved cheese. Salads come with solid sides and pair well with other dishes.

People are saying

"The steak was cooked perfectly and delicious."

"The salad here is delicious."

"The steaks were cooked to perfection, tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM in the Cocktail Lounge.

2

Reservations are not required for dining.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

19
Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour image 1

Speakeasy-style space with a secret entrance behind a bookshelf creates a unique setting. Live music and a jazz vibe fill the room, offering outstanding entertainment and ambient tunes. Cocktails like espresso martinis and rum punch complement the warm, inviting atmosphere that draws people in and keeps energy lively.

Salads feature well-seasoned jerk chicken and come in generous portions. Options include a Jerk Chicken Caesar and a Jerk Chicken Salad with fresh ingredients.

Cheesecake stands out with fresh strawberries and a sweet flavor. The Rum Cake offers a rich, flavorful experience, while the sweet potato cheesecake blends savory and sweet perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The dimly lit space felt like a movie set."

"The chocolate cake here is to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to ensure entrance, especially for special events.

2

Happy hour features special drinks and appetizers, typically from 4-7pm.

3

Live music nights occur regularly, enhancing the atmosphere.

20
Talkin' Tacos Temple Terrace image 1

Black lights and glowing tables with mandala designs create a vibrant, fun atmosphere. Neon signs and handmade art murals add unique visual appeal. Music plays a key role, enhancing the welcoming, family-friendly vibe.

Salads come in large portions with generous toppings at no extra cost. Options like the taco steak salad and shrimp taco salad bowl stand out, though some could use a bit more seasoning.

Tres leches cake stands out with dulce de leche and cookies and cream flavors. The cake often comes as a complimentary treat and pairs well with horchata.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the food; it was delicious and came out hot."

"The taco salad bowls here are huge and loaded with toppings."

"You have to try the tres leches cake; it's the highlight."

Good to know

1

Orders can only be placed via the vending machine.

2

The restaurant offers express dining with order at a kiosk and food brought out to me.

3

They have great deals for Taco Tuesdays with special pricing on all tacos.

21
Ladies of the Sea & Soulfood image 1

Small seafood restaurant offers a cozy, family-oriented atmosphere with a warm, home-like environment. Space is limited with only two booth tables, making it better suited for takeout. The vibe feels like a family reunion, inviting and comfortable.

Conch salad stands out as a unique offering here, prepared with clear skill. Potato salad also appears as a notable side option.

Red velvet cake stands out as a highlight, drawing attention for its flavor. The blue velvet cake and banana pudding celebrate Southern tradition with rich, classic tastes.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the mac and cheese, feels like home."

"The seafood here is packed with flavor and soul."

"I found the conch salad here, a true culinary masterpiece."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is better suited for takeout because it only has a couple of tables inside.

2

There isn't much seating available, so plan accordingly.

3

An extra fee of about $6 applies for credit or debit card payments; cash is recommended.

22
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.

Strawberry crunch cake stands out as a popular choice. Sweet potato pie or cake also offers a delicious option to try on the way out.

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"I found the cake here amazing, especially with Cece's lemonades."

"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.

23
Iavarone's Steakhouse & Italian Grill image 1

Classic steakhouse and Italian restaurant with dim lighting and rustic interiors creates an old Europe vibe. The atmosphere feels local and welcoming, balancing a lounge with TVs without becoming a sports bar. A hidden rooftop event space adds a unique touch to the traditional setting.

Caesar salad comes with the prime rib and a side for $30. The salad stands out as delicious and well-prepared.

Chocolate cake stands out with its decadent richness and large slices. It pairs well with vanilla ice cream for a satisfying dessert.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are amazing for Date Spots."

"I thought the Caesar salad was exceptional, maybe the best I've had."

"The chocolate cake is a perfect ending to the meal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Easter brunch is a special event that requires advance reservations.

24
La Segunda Bakery and Cafe image 1

Small bakery inside a vintage industrial building offers an authentic Cuban atmosphere with rich aromas and warm, family-like vibe. Space is tight with no seating, creating a bustling, shoulder-to-shoulder experience. Known for best Cuban bread and legendary Cuban sandwiches, it feels like a local treasure with old school charm.

Salads come with mojo fried chicken and fresh ingredients. They pair well with authentic Cuban bread and offer a solid, tasty option alongside sandwiches and pastries.

Sponge cake stands out with its light texture. Cuban, chocolate, and pineapple upside down cakes offer moistness and rich flavors. The Boston Crรจme Cake also ranks among the notable options.

People are saying

"I loved their Cuban sandwich; it's the best I've had."

"You have to try the pineapple crumb cake; I wish I'd ordered two."

"I'd eat the mojo fried chicken salad every day if I could."

Good to know

1

La Segunda Bakery and Cafe is takeout only with no tables or outdoor seating nearby.

2

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

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