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Cake and seafood spots in Tampa

A meal of fresh seafood followed by a slice of cake is the only way to end the day. It is about balancing a light dinner with a heavy dessert.

Based on 739 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.

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

Seafood dishes feature shrimp and scallop linguini and a crab linguine that stand out. Pasta with seafood often comes with extra garlic on request and pairs well with wine.

People are saying

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

"The seafood pasta dishes, like shrimp and scallop linguini, were fantastic."

"I had the limoncello cake for dessert."

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
Caffé 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.

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.

Seafood shines in the seafood salad, served as a standout appetizer. Fish specials appear as main courses alongside various pasta dishes.

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."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like you're right by the ocean."

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.

03
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.

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 seafood appetizers, like oysters and crab cake, were so fresh."

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

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.

04
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.

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

Fresh seafood appears in dishes like crab and shrimp ravioli with brandy orange sauce and a special with clams and arrabbiata sauce. The menu blends seafood with authentic Italian pasta and meat options.

People are saying

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

"The seafood specials here are amazing and spicy."

"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.

05
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.

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

Shrimp pasta stands out with ultra-fresh, tender shrimp and a perfect balance of flavors. The shrimp salad blends fresh vegetables and just the right amount of mayonnaise for a satisfying side.

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 got hooked on their shrimp pasta; it's delicious."

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.

06
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.

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.

Shrimp dishes stand out with creamy shrimp and grits that come perfectly seasoned and paired with house-made jalapeño cornbread. Freshness shines in the shrimp salad and the shrimp bowl with rice and kimchi offers a flavorful twist.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp and grits, is perfectly seasoned."

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.

07
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.

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.

Fried fish and fried shrimp come out cooked very well. The seafood pairs with sides like cheese macaroni and greens for a solid meal.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

08
The Outside Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with intimate seating and vibrant R&B music sets a chill, welcoming vibe. Live DJ energizes the space while the decor adds a cozy touch. The atmosphere feels spotless and inviting, creating a relaxed dining experience.

Moist and well balanced, the cakes come in small pink portions that offer a flavorful and sweet finish. They pair nicely with a glass of champagne.

Shrimp dishes feature exceptional seasoning and pair well with rice and egg rolls. The shrimp pasta includes a Cajun creamy sauce and comes with a huge lobster tail or chicken wings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and cooked fresh."

"The lamb chops with shrimp were so juicy and flavorful."

"The Rasta Pasta was a vibrant medley of flavors."

Good to know

1

They have weekly food specials that change regularly.

2

The restaurant primarily focuses on takeout orders.

3

Expect a line for takeout orders during peak hours.

09
M&R Café Southern Cuisine image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with throwback R&B music and clean, cool decor creates a relaxing, upbeat vibe that feels like home. Large portions and exceptional soul food define the dining experience, with standout dishes like oxtail and fried catfish. A Black-owned business adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

Rich, moist cakes like banana pudding and strawberry stand out. The pound cake is also notable for its flavor and texture.

Fresh fish comes well seasoned and sits on a bed of yellow rice. The seafood fried rice bursts with flavor and cooks perfectly.

People are saying

"The American Food here is seasoned well and tastes great."

"The oxtail here is so tender, you can pull it with a plastic fork."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for food during peak hours.

2

Drinks cost $6 for Kool-Aid style beverages.

3

There is a 3% surcharge for credit card payments.

10
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.

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.

Shrimp dishes like shrimp scampi and shrimp parmigiana stand out here. Chicken parmigiana also appears often and satisfies many.

People are saying

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

"The shrimp scampi here is the best I have ever had."

"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.

11
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.

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.

Seafood offerings include raw oysters and sea bass with an elegant presentation. The menu pairs Mediterranean cheeses and meats alongside seafood, creating a varied selection.

People are saying

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

"The Chilean sea bass was cooked perfectly and tender."

"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.

12
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.

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

Brown stew fish stands out with rich seasoning and tender texture. Fried catfish pairs well with collard greens and black-eyed peas, while snapper fish comes perfectly seasoned and fried.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

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

"The fried snapper fish was seasoned perfectly."

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.

13
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.

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.

Fresh seafood shines here with oysters, shrimp, and lobster standing out. The large seafood tower includes stone crab and sauces, serving as a solid starter for a group.

People are saying

"The Delmonico steak was delicious."

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

"I found the steaks to be aged to perfection and seared just right."

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.

14
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.

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.

Creamy, well-seasoned grits come with generous portions of lobster and shrimp in the Lobster and Shrimp Grits dish. Appetizers include sweet potato cornbread, mussels, and shrimp, all prepared with care.

People are saying

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

"The seafood pasta and mussels were amazing and well-seasoned."

"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.

15
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.

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

Shrimp dishes stand out with an ample shrimp piccata appetizer served in a lemon butter and caper sauce over crostini. Shrimp also complements salads well, adding a delightful touch to the menu.

People are saying

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

"The Seafood here is wonderful and attentive."

"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.

16
Publix Super Market at Hillsboro Plaza image 1

Large modern supermarket offers a calm and friendly atmosphere with mutual respect among shoppers. Busy deli and bakery provide fresh, high-quality foods like spicy fried chicken, fresh baguettes, and fried sweet plantains. Clean environment and excellent product selection create a cozy, welcoming vibe without glamour.

Cakes come in various flavors like cookies and creme and carrot cake. They suit any occasion and offer great quality with reliable pickup service.

Freshness stands out with a well-stocked fish counter and up-to-date seafood options. The seafood salad and chilled fried shrimp receive special attention, with staff going the extra mile to provide the last portions and friendly service.

People are saying

"I've loved shopping at this grocery store for years."

"I thought the cakes here were great."

"I was so happy after getting the seafood salad."

Good to know

1

Expecting to get an order on time when ordering ahead is not reliable.

2

They let multiple orders of meat and cheese sit out, violating health standards.

3

The store runs its operations but struggles to fix its own machines.

17
LaMeiZi Hot Pot & BBQ 辣妹子火锅烧烤 image 1

Asian restaurant offers sunken hot pot tables and an island buffet for self-selection of ingredients. Spacious layout includes private rooms and a smoke machine to remove BBQ odors. Atmosphere is beautiful and relaxing with clean, welcoming decor and koi fish wall art.

Buffet includes mocha mousse cake, coffee cake, and small cakes. Cakes come in bite-sized squares and pair well with other dishes like sushi and hot pot.

Seafood includes fresh oysters, crayfish, and sushi alongside a huge selection of meats. The seafood ranks among the freshest found at Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I loved the huge variety of fresh seafood and meats available."

"I enjoyed multiple squares of the delicious mocha mousse cake."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 9pm on weekends, perfect for a fun night out.

2

Birthday meals are free, making it a great spot for celebrations.

3

Hotpot costs $35 per person during lunch, including a drink.

18
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.

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.

Bang bang shrimp and shrimp tacos stand out with bold flavors and good portions. Fish dishes and birria also deliver strong, spicy tastes.

People are saying

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

"The bang bang shrimp tacos are a must-try seafood option."

"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.

19
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.

Fresh seafood shines with a chilled seafood tower that stands out. Large portions like the Sea Bass offer mild flavors balanced by a garlic crust, while dishes like spicy shrimp and filet medallions with shrimp deliver well-prepared options.

People are saying

"The steak was cooked perfectly and delicious."

"The seafood here is excellent, and the staff make it feel special."

"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.

20
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.

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.

Seafood here is tender, perfectly seasoned, and undeniably fresh. Large shrimp, flaky catfish, and crispy fish with flavorful breading stand out.

People are saying

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

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

"The blue velvet cake felt like a celebration."

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.

21
Aji Limo Peruvian Cuisine image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with pinewood paneling and wood-style flooring creates a cozy, neat atmosphere reflecting rich cultural decor. Live music adds a pleasant, lively vibe, especially in evenings with a band. Private back room suits small gatherings, enhancing the welcoming, comfortable setting.

Lucuma cake stands out with its unique flavor, paired well with alfajores for dessert. The Tres Leches Cake is moist and rich, balancing sweetness perfectly to end the meal.

Macho fish stands out as a perfect and delicious dish. The menu includes seafood ceviche and Peruvian style Chinese fried rice with shrimp, known as Chaufa.

People are saying

"The Peruvian food here is authentic and bursting with flavor."

"The seafood here is bursting with authentic Peruvian flavor."

"I found the Peruvian food here amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers drink specials from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Live music occurs every Saturday night, enhancing the dining experience.

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