The 7 Best Date Night Spots in Tampa, Florida

It's now been two full years that I've lived in the Tampa Bay area, and one year that I've lived in South Tampa (I previously lived in St. Petersburg). By now, I've had the chance to explore the hotspots, the hidden gems and the quirky newbies on the block.

When it comes to date night, L and I are all about the atmosphere, the food and the entertainment. So, I won't keep you waiting any longer - see below for some of the best spots to take your significant other (or gal pals!) on your next night out.

Bartaco Hyde Park

This should come as no shock to everyone since I'm here almost once a week for their delicious menu. From their flavorful bite-size tacos to the irresistible margaritas, you can't go wrong! I recommend snagging one of the tables on the patio with bench seating, and order the four cones (the coconut gelato is so good!) for dessert before taking a stroll around the park area.

Berns Dessert Room (and Restaurant)

Now if you live in Tampa, there's no doubt you've heard of Berns - probably heard of it even if you don't live here. But if a full Berns dinner is too much for a given night, just make a trip upstairs to the dessert room. The low-lit corner tables make for a romantic evening, and you can't go wrong with ANYTHING on their menu! Cult favorites include the bananas foster, baked alaska and macadamia nut ice cream.

Cinebistro

A place that lets you eat your meal in your seat during a movie? That's my kinda spot. Not only is the menu delectable, but the entire idea of getting to do dinner and a movie together in the theater is just really neat! Be sure to arrive 30 minutes before your movie begins to be able to place your order and get to your seat!

Cask Social

This spot is pretty new to my rotation, and I'm not sure why it took me so long to try it out! Their outdoor seating and bar area is a fun spot on the weekends, and their upstairs lounge is perfect for private parties/events. You can't go wrong with any of the cocktails on the menu! Some of my favorite appetizers include the buffalo cauliflower and the crab spinach dip.

Ulele

L and I visited here not too long ago for the first time with some friends and fell in love with the place! From their outdoor bar and lawn seating to the cozy indoor environment, you just can't go wrong. Looking for a good drink? Try the wedding beer. And I highly recommend the gouda grouper or snapper for the entrees!

On Swann

Oh baby, then there's On Swann. If you go here and don't order one of the cheese boards and the hot chicken, you're doing things SO wrong. The short rib and scallop entrees are also amazing! This spot is also in Hyde Park, so you can stroll around and stop at a dessert shop before heading home. 

Bella's 

This Italian spot holds a special place in my heart. It was one of the first restaurants that L and I went to when we started dating, and is still a favorite to-date. The authentic Italian dishes never seem to disappoint, and the wine selection is robust enough for anyone who drops in. I'm a huge fan of the eggplant parm, while L loves their pollo milano.

And there you have it! My top seven spots for date night here in the Tampa area.

Have you been to any of these places before? If you're trying it for the first time, be sure to leave a comment about you visit and let me know if there's a new dish I need to try!

x, B