Downtown Tampa Bay is a happening place with culture, history, and great food. Breakfast is big here, with cozy cafes and trendy diners serving up delicious meals to start your day. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding a good breakfast spot can make your morning special. This article covers the 10 best breakfast spots in Downtown Tampa Bay, each with something unique. From classic American to Cuban-inspired, there’s something for everyone. Let’s get started!
10 Best Breakfasts in Downtown Tampa
1. Oxford Exchange
ADDRESS: | 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606 |
PHONE: | (813) 253-0222 |
Oxford Exchange is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Located in a beautifully designed space, it’s a mix of a bookstore, coffee shop, and upscale eatery. Their breakfast menu is full of fresh organic ingredients. Try their avocado toast or fluffy pancakes, both made with love. The atmosphere is calm and chic, perfect for a relaxing morning. If you want a fancy breakfast with great coffee, this is the place to go. They also serve afternoon tea on weekends, which is a fun treat.
2. Samaria Cafe
ADDRESS: | 502 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602 |
PHONE: | (813) 402-2913 |
Samaria Cafe is a local favorite for a hearty breakfast. This cozy diner near Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park serves classic American dishes with a homey feel. Their pancakes are fluffy, and their omelets are packed with fresh ingredients. The Cuban sandwich here is a must-try, with Tampa’s cultural flavors all mixed in. The staff is friendly, and the outdoor seating is great for a sunny morning. If you want a filling meal that feels like home, Samaria Cafe is the way to go. For more on Tampa’s food scene, check out our guide to the best Cuban restaurants in Tampa.
3. Mise En Place
ADDRESS: | 442 W Grand Central Ave, Tampa, FL 33606 |
PHONE: | (813) 254-5373 |
Mise En Place is a fine dining spot that also kills it for breakfast. Known for its elegant setting and creative dishes, this restaurant serves up a fancy breakfast. Their Eggs Benedict is a standout, with perfectly poached eggs and rich hollandaise sauce. They also have unique options like crab cake Benedict for seafood lovers. The service is top-notch, and the atmosphere is upscale yet welcoming. If you’re in the mood for something fancy to start your day, Mise En Place won’t disappoint.
4. Daily Eats
ADDRESS: | 901 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606 |
PHONE: | (813) 868-3335 |
Daily Eats puts a modern spin on the classic diner. This trendy spot is famous for its breakfast bowls, which are filled with eggs, avocado, and crispy potatoes. Their “Shredder” bowls are a customer favorite, with sweet and savory options. The blueberry crepes are light and yummy, perfect for a sweet morning treat. They also serve fresh juices and gourmet coffee to go with your meal. With its bright and cheerful atmosphere, Daily Eats is a fun and filling breakfast spot. If you’re planning a day out, check out our list of the best things to do in Tampa.
5. La Creperia Cafe
ADDRESS: | 1729 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
PHONE: | (813) 248-9700 |
La Creperia Cafe is a hidden gem in Ybor City. They serve French-style crepes, thin pancakes filled with all kinds of fillings, from savory like cheese and sausage to sweet like strawberries and honey. The Southwest crepe with guacamole and jalapeños is for the spice lovers. They also have smoothies and espresso drinks to top it off. Cozy and intimate, La Creperia is perfect for a unique breakfast.
6. First Watch
ADDRESS: | 3712 Henderson Blvd, Tampa, FL 33609 |
PHONE: | (813) 807-3563 |
First Watch is a popular chain with multiple locations in Tampa, and for good reason. Their breakfast menu is full of healthy and hearty options, from power bowls to omelettes and waffles. The Crab Cake Benedict is a must-try, topped with fresh spinach and sriracha hollandaise. They use fresh ingredients and homemade baked goods and you get a whole pot of coffee at your table. Easy choice for a reliable breakfast.
7. La Segunda Central Bakery
ADDRESS: | 2512 N 15th St, Ybor City, FL 33605 |
PHONE: | (813) 248-1531 |
La Segunda Central Bakery has been a Tampa institution since 1915 and is famous for its Cuban bread. Their breakfast sandwiches served on fresh, crusty bread are a local favorite. Try the Cuban breakfast sandwich with eggs, cheese and sausage for a taste of Tampa’s history. The bakery also has pastries like guava turnovers that pair perfect with their strong Cuban coffee. Quick and affordable breakfast with a side of history. For more restaurants near you, check out our restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk guide.
8. The Lab Coffee
ADDRESS: | 1703 W State St, Tampa, FL 33606 |
The Lab Coffee is a coffee lover’s and breakfast enthusiast’s dream. This modern cafe serves up creative dishes with expertly brewed coffee. Their avocado toast is a hit, topped with fresh herbs and a perfectly cooked egg. They also have breakfast sandwiches and pastries that pair well with their signature lattes. Hip and relaxed, it’s a great spot to sip coffee and have a light meal. If you’re into specialty coffee and a cool vibe, The Lab Coffee is a must-visit.
9. Yeoman’s Cask & Lion
ADDRESS: | 202 N Morgan St, Tampa, FL 33602 |
PHONE: | (813) 224-9367 |
Yeoman’s Cask & Lion is a British pub with a great breakfast menu. Their Full English Breakfast is a big plate of eggs, sausage, bacon, beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes—a real taste of the UK. If you prefer American classics, they have fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. The pub has a lively atmosphere with live music and is a fun place to start your day. They also have bottomless mimosas for brunch. Yeoman’s is a great spot for a filling breakfast with a side of charm.
10. Goody Goody Burgers
ADDRESS: | 1601 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606 |
PHONE: | (813) 308-1925 |
Goody Goody Burgers is a Tampa institution, serving breakfast since the 1920s. This diner brings nostalgia with its vintage decor and classic American fare. Their homemade biscuits and gravy are a local favorite, made with recipes that have been tested through time. The POX scramble with potatoes, onions, and cheese is another hearty option. The warm and cozy atmosphere makes you feel right at home. For a taste of Tampa’s history, Goody Goody Burgers is the way to go. If you’re in Ybor City, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Ybor City.
Final Thought:
Downtown Tampa Bay’s breakfast scene is as diverse as the city itself. From the elegant Oxford Exchange to the historic La Segunda Central Bakery, each spot is special. Whether you’re in the mood for eggs Benedict or a Cuban sandwich, you’ll find it here. These restaurants serve great food and Tampa’s unique blend of cultures and flavors. Next time you’re in town, try one of these spots to start your day off right. And if you’re looking for more to do, check out Tripadvisor’s guide to Tampa restaurants or USA Today’s 10Best for Tampa breakfasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best breakfast spot for families in Downtown Tampa Bay?
Samaria Cafe and Goody Goody Burgers are great for families. They have kid-friendly menus and a welcoming atmosphere. Samaria’s diner vibe and Goody Goody’s classic American food make them perfect for a family morning out.
Are there vegan or gluten-free breakfast options in Downtown Tampa?
Yes, places like Daily Eats and First Watch have vegan and gluten-free options. Daily Eats offers customizable breakfast bowls, and First Watch offers power bowls and wraps with egg whites or plant-based ingredients.
Which breakfast spot has the best coffee in Downtown Tampa?
The Lab Coffee is known for its specialty coffee, with expertly brewed lattes and cappuccinos. Oxford Exchange also has great coffee and unique blends for coffee lovers.