This guide covers 8 cocktail bar options in Tampa. Guests rate them 4.5 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across South Tampa, Westshore, Downtown, so those are the areas to start with.

All Cocktail bar in Tampa

Yummy House South China Bistro

4.3 1,970 reviews

YHS China Bistro is a premiere authentic Chinese cuisine restaurant located in South Tampa. It serves a full dinner menu, including Dim Sum, and offers a unique experience for its customers. The restaurant's interior design and visual experience are created in partnership with interior designer Charlie Shiller and the mural painting duo Illsol. The owners, John and Tommy, are experienced chefs who have refined their dishes through years of experience. They offer authentic and signature dishes, such as the Salt and Pepper mix and the Spicy Yummy Chicken, which are available at an affordable price. The restaurant has been a Florida favorite for 8 years and has won several local awards, including Best of the Bay in Creative Loafing and Readers Choice Awards. YHS China Bistro has been featured in various local publications, including the Tampa Bay Times and Tampa Magazine. The restaurant is open 7 days a week, serving Dim Sum and lunch from 11 AM to 2:30 PM, and dinner from 5 PM to 9:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 5 PM to 8:45 PM on Sundays. The restaurant's address is 302 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33609, and the phone number is 813-513-4788.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM
  • Friday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–8:45 PM

The Brother Trattoria

4.6 357 reviews

The Brother is an Italian restaurant in South Tampa, Florida, offering a wide variety of delicious Italian foods. The restaurant features fresh pasta and gnocchi made in-house daily, scratch-made sauces, wood-fired pizza, and entrees steeped in tradition with a personal touch. The Brother is a family-owned and operated establishment, blending into their beautiful family the youngest of three children, Sylas, who is the inspiration behind the restaurant. The Brother offers a range of options for special events, including catering, party hosting, and group reservations. The restaurant's catering packages are designed to accommodate intimate occasions and big functions, with a focus on quality and efficiency. The Brother also offers online reservations and online ordering, making it easy for customers to enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their own homes. In addition, the restaurant features a full-service bar with signature cocktails, an exceptional wine list, and local craft beer. The Brother's menu features a range of authentic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood options. The restaurant's chefs use only the freshest ingredients and traditional recipes to create dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing. The Brother's menu is designed to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs, with options for vegetarians and those with gluten-free requirements. The restaurant's staff is attentive and welcoming, making it a great choice for families, couples, and special occasions.

Opening hours
  • Monday4–9 PM
  • TuesdayClosed
  • Wednesday4–9 PM
  • Thursday4–9 PM
  • Friday4–10 PM
  • Saturday5–10 PM
  • Sunday5–9 PM

Luigi’s Kitchen

4.6 894 reviews

Luigi's Kitchen is an Italian restaurant in Tampa, Florida, that offers authentic Italian cuisine and a unique dining experience. The restaurant, led by Chef Luigi Cavallaro, specializes in Northern Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Its menu features a range of pasta dishes, including Linguini alla Puttanesca, Ravioli Principessa, and Penne Dolomiti, all of which can be prepared at your table by Chef Luigi himself. The restaurant's signature experience, "Luigi at Your Table," is available every Thursday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, where Chef Luigi personally prepares your selected pasta entrée right at your table. This interactive tableside dining experience combines authentic Italian flavors with the warmth and tradition of old-world hospitality, making it perfect for date nights, celebrations, or simply enjoying dinner with family and friends. Every meal includes a complimentary house salad, and reservations are highly recommended. Luigi's Kitchen is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving the Tampa community since 2012, previously known as Trattoria Pasquale. The restaurant has gained a loyal following for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm atmosphere, making it a top choice for families and food enthusiasts alike. Its location on South Westshore Boulevard in South Tampa offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that reads like a love letter to the Italian countryside, with house-made meatballs, pasta dishes, and other regional specialties that showcase Chef Luigi's passion for traditional Italian cooking.

Opening hours
  • MondayClosed
  • TuesdayClosed
  • Wednesday4–9 PM
  • Thursday4–9 PM
  • Friday4–10 PM
  • Saturday4–10 PM
  • Sunday4–9 PM

Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro Tampa

4.9 2,738 reviews

Dracula's Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro is a unique wine bar that specializes in offering an extensive selection of wines, including Romanian varietals, in an immersive and atmospheric setting. The bar is owned by the Neamtu family, who brought their Romanian heritage and culture to the United States, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that combines history, culture, and atmosphere. Dracula's Legacy has received rave reviews from customers who praise its creative drinks, delicious food, and exceptional staff, with many reviewers noting the bar's attention to detail and commitment to Romanian tradition. The bar's menu features a wide range of options, including wine flights, charcuterie boards, and gourmet bistro menu items, as well as a selection of craft cocktails and beers. Dracula's Legacy also hosts live music events, wine tastings, and other events that enhance the atmosphere and wine education. The bar's owners take pride in infusing the atmosphere with a touch of the Old World, drawing inspiration from the history of Dracula's true origins and Vlad the Impaler, the ruler of Walachia. The decor features hauntingly beautiful gothic elements, dim lighting, and staff who embrace the vampire theme, creating an unforgettable experience for guests. Dracula's Legacy has two locations in Tampa and St. Petersburg, Florida, and is known for its cozy and intimate setting, making it a popular spot for special occasions, dates, and nights out with friends. The bar's staff is knowledgeable and attentive, providing personalized recommendations and creating an immersive experience for guests. With its unique atmosphere, extensive wine selection, and commitment to Romanian tradition, Dracula's Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Opening hours
  • Monday5 PM–12:30 AM
  • Tuesday5 PM–12:30 AM
  • Wednesday5 PM–12:30 AM
  • Thursday5 PM–12:30 AM
  • Friday5 PM–2:30 AM
  • Saturday3 PM–2:30 AM
  • Sunday2 PM–12:30 AM

Don Julio’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine – Tampa Palms

4.2 586 reviews

Don Julio's Authentic Mexican Cuisine is a restaurant that offers a rich dining experience rooted in Mexican tradition. It features bold flavors and fresh ingredients, with a diverse menu that includes popular dishes like tacos, burritos, and fajitas. The restaurant was established in 2018 by the Rodriguez-Nambo family, who are committed to providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for their customers. Don Julio's Authentic Mexican Cuisine offers a variety of services, including dine-in, happy hours, and catering. They also provide delivery and take-out services, making it easy for customers to enjoy their delicious food at home or at the office. The restaurant has received multiple awards for its food and service, including being voted the Tampa Bay Times People's Choice "Best of the Best" in both 2024 and 2025 for Best Mexican Restaurant, Best Taco, Best Margarita, Best Happy Hour, and Best Brunch. The restaurant's menu features a range of dishes, including quesabirria, refried beans, tortas, carnitas, tacos, quesabirria tacos, and more. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options, as well as a variety of cocktails and drinks. Don Julio's Authentic Mexican Cuisine is a family-friendly restaurant that is committed to providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all of its customers, making it a great option for families, couples, and individuals alike.

Opening hours
  • Monday10 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday10 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday10 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday10 AM–9 PM
  • Friday10 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday10 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday10 AM–9 PM

Carmine’s Restaurant & Bar – Ybor

4.1 3,272 reviews

Carmine's Restaurant & Bar is a dining destination located in the heart of Ybor City, Tampa, Florida. Established in 1948, it has been a cornerstone of the community for over seven decades, serving authentic Italian and Cuban cuisine with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its rich history, blending tradition and passion, and offering guests a taste of Tampa's vibrant cultural heritage. Its menu features a carefully crafted selection of dishes made from the freshest ingredients, ensuring each bite transports you to the heart of Italian cuisine. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Carmine's promises a delightful atmosphere and exceptional service that will make your visit truly memorable. Carmine's is a beloved local institution, known for its classic dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Its team, led by owner Carmine Lavarone, is dedicated to preserving Tampa's rich culinary heritage and serving customers with passion and pride. With a diverse menu that offers something for everyone, from classic Cuban dishes to Italian favorites, Carmine's is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

Opening hours
  • Monday10 AM–5 PM
  • Tuesday10 AM–9:30 PM
  • Wednesday10 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday10 AM–10 PM
  • Friday10 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday10 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday10 AM–8 PM

Besito Mexican Restaurant

4.5 5,548 reviews

Besito Mexican is an upscale restaurant in Tampa known for its authentic Mexican food, best table-side guacamole, and fresh-made margaritas. It is a popular destination for those seeking a true Mexican culinary experience. The restaurant's menu features local ingredients at the peak of freshness, ensuring that each dish is made with the highest quality ingredients. Besito Mexican offers a wide range of authentic Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and other traditional favorites. The restaurant's cocktail menu features unique, handmade drinks and an extensive tequila selection, making it a great spot for those looking to try something new. Additionally, the private dining room can accommodate all types of events, from small gatherings to large corporate parties, making it a versatile and convenient option for hosting events. The restaurant is a great choice for individuals and groups alike, offering a unique and authentic Mexican experience. With its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients and its extensive selection of drinks, Besito Mexican is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to try authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether you're a foodie, a business owner looking to host an event, or simply someone looking for a great meal, Besito Mexican is sure to impress.

Opening hours
  • Monday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Friday11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday11:30 AM–9 PM

Edison: Food+Drink Lab

4.5 1,667 reviews

Edison: Food+Drink Lab is a restaurant that offers creative and modern cuisine, blending global techniques with Florida ingredients. It is a New American Restaurant located in Tampa, Florida, where Chef Jeannie Pierola conducts culinary experiments and creates unique dishes. The restaurant's kitchen formula is product+technique+creativity², resulting in new interpretations of everyday food expertly engineered into current, modern cuisine. Edison: Food+Drink Lab is known for its inventive menu, which changes daily to feature fresh ingredients, exciting flavor experiments, and newly interpreted key core items. The restaurant offers a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, making it a great spot for diners with dietary restrictions. The menu features dishes like cracker-fried red snapper with smoked cheddar grits and sugar snap tomato bacon salsa, and Edison Crullers, a unique take on a classic dessert. Edison: Food+Drink Lab is a popular destination for foodies and those seeking a unique dining experience. With a 4.3-star rating on TripAdvisor and over 4,000 reviews, the restaurant has received widespread acclaim for its creative cuisine and exceptional service. Edison: Food+Drink Lab is also a great spot for private dining, parties, and meetings, offering a flexible space called LAB916.