Best Water Street Tampa Restaurants You Must Visit

Water Street Tampa is the place to be for foodies. It’s not just for business—it’s a foodie’s paradise with restaurants serving up fresh seafood to bold Latin flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fancy dinner, these 10 restaurants will leave you wanting more. Let’s check out the best spots in this hot area, each one bringing something unique to the table. For more great dining ideas, check out restaurants along the Tampa Riverwalk or plan a relaxing day at Tampa’s best beaches.

10 Best Water Street Tampa Restaurants

Anchor and Brine

Best Mediterranean Flavors Water Street Tampa Restaurants

At the Tampa Marriott Water Street, Anchor and Brine is a seafood lover’s heaven. This waterfront restaurant serves up fresh fish and shellfish with a Mediterranean twist. The relaxed yet upscale vibe is perfect for lunch or dinner by the bay. Imagine a plate of oysters or grilled octopus while watching boats sail by. The outdoor patio has amazing views, and the craft cocktails pair perfectly with the menu. Whether you dine inside with modern decor or outside with ocean breeze,s every meal feels like an event.

Driftlight Steakhouse

Best Elegant Ambiance Water Street Tampa Restaurants

Located in the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, Driftlight Steakhouse is a steak and seafood haven. Led by Chef John Fraser this restaurant blends classic cooking with modern flair. The perfectly cooked steaks are a must try with options like ribeye or filet tailored to your taste. Seafood lovers can dive into fresh oysters or shareable plates. The elegant atmosphere with floor to ceiling windows connects you to the energy of Water Street. Driftlight’s breakfast menu is also a winner with lemon poppyseed pancakes that are a must try.

Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval

Best Vibrant Energy Water Street Tampa Restaurants

Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval brings bold Mexican flavors to Water Street. This lively restaurant, created by chefs Richard Sandoval and Pablo Salas, combines traditional recipes with modern twists. The lobster quesadilla is a crowd pleaser, packed with rich buttery flavors. Don’t skip dessert—the tres leches cake paired with an El Jefe espresso martini is a game changer. The colorful decor and fun vibe make Lona perfect for a night out. For more international dining options, check out Tampa’s top Korean restaurants.

The Pearl

Best Cozy Tavern Water Street Tampa Restaurants

The Pearl is a little tavern and oyster bar that’s a treasure. 823 Water Street. Made from scratch, everything, and a warm and cozy vibe. Fresh oysters and hearty options like huevos rancheros for brunch. The Pearl takes its drinks seriously with handcrafted cocktails, a good wine list, and a rotating selection of ales and stouts. Whether you’re here for lunch or dinner, this spot delivers flavor and charm in every bite.

Wagamama

Best Lively Vibe Water Street Tampa Restaurants

Wagamama brings fast Asian to Water Street with its fun, casual vibe. Known for Japanese-inspired dishes, this spot serves up steaming bowls of ramen, crispy gyoza and curries. The chicken katsu curry is a fave, perfect balance of spice and comfort. Open kitchen and communal tables make it great for groups or solo diners. Fresh ingredients and bold flavors make it a go-to for a quick and satisfying meal.

Azure at EDITION

Best Rooftop Dining Water Street Tampa Restaurants

At The Tampa EDITION, Azure EDITION is a Mediterranean oasis with a rooftop view. Chef John Fraser’s Greek-inspired menu features fresh, veggie-forward dishes that celebrate local ingredients. Think grilled seafood, hummus, and salads. The airy atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows pairs perfectly with the coastal cuisine. Sip on a craft cocktail and take in Tampa’s skyline. Azure is great for a romantic dinner or special occasion with its elegant yet relaxed vibe.

Lilac

Best Sky-High Views Water Street Tampa Restaurants

Lilac, a Michelin-starred restaurant at the JW Marriott, is a vegetable lover’s dream. Chef John Fraser’s Mediterranean menu highlights fresh, local ingredients with bold flavors. The four-course prix fixe menu is a journey through Floridian coastal produce, with dishes like roasted beets or grilled branzino. Open-concept dining room with walnut floors and glowing lights is refined yet cozy. Lilac is perfect for foodies looking for an elevated experience that’s creative and delicious.

Rooftop Dining at JW Marriott

Best Historic Cuban Water Street Tampa Restaurants

For stunning views and great food, the rooftop dining at JW Marriott’s Beacon is unbeatable. On the 27th floor, this is Tampa’s highest public rooftop with panoramic views of the city and waterfront. The chef-crafted menu features small plates and shareable dishes perfect for pairing with handcrafted cocktails. A sophisticated atmosphere makes it great for a date night or special occasion. Whether you’re sipping a drink or dining under the stars, Beacon delivers.

Drift

Best Water Street Tampa Restaurants

Drift at the JW Marriott is a food journey with chef-driven dishes. The menu blends American favorites with creative twists, something for everyone. From seafood towers to pasta dishes, every dish is made with love. Modern space and open layout are perfect for long conversations and casual meals. Drift is right on the Tampa Riverwalk, so stop by after a day of exploring. For more dining ideas, check out Tampa’s best 5-star restaurants.

The Columbia Restaurant

Best Water Street Tampa Restaurants

The Columbia Café, part of the Columbia Restaurant family, is a treasure on the Tampa Riverwalk. Located in the Water Street district, it serves Cuban favorites like the Cuban sandwich and paella, with a side of history. The indoor dining room, with the original 1905 bar replica, has windows all around for views. The patio, with sangria pitchers and tableside mojitos, is where you’ll want to be. The Columbia is a must-see for a taste of Tampa.

Final Thought

Water Street Tampa is a foodie’s dream come true with a mix of seafood to Cuban classics. Each restaurant brings something different, whether it’s fresh seafood at Anchor and Brine, bold steaks at Driftlight, or vibrant Mexican at Lona. The Pearl’s cozy tavern vibe, Wagamama’s Asian comfort food, and Azure’s rooftop elegance add to the mix. Lilac’s Michelin-starred dishes, Beacon’s sky-high views, Drift’s chef-driven plates, and The Columbia’s historic charm round out this amazing lineup. No matter what you like, these restaurants will deliver unforgettable meals in the heart of Tampa.