7+ AWESOME Restaurants in Channelside Tampa
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Searching for the best restaurants in Channelside Tampa? You’re in luck because this vibrant waterfront district is packed with delicious spots to satisfy any craving! From fresh seafood to international flavors, Channelside has it all—and I’m here to spill the tea (or the margaritas) on where to eat next. Let’s dive in!
Casual Restaurants in Channelside
1. The Poke Company
After spending months in Hawaii, I thought finding poke that matched my sky-high expectations would be impossible—but The Poke Company proved me wrong! This fast-casual restaurant in Channelside lets you build your dream poke bowl or burrito, and trust me, the options are endless.
I was slightly overwhelmed (hello, so many sauces and proteins to choose from!) but ended up loving my creation: white rice, mixed greens, ahi tuna, cucumber, edamame, and sweet onion, all tossed in spicy mayo and eel sauce, then topped with crispy onions. Oh, and don’t sleep on their Company Sauce—so good!
If you’re a key lime fan, please save room for their key lime pie ice cream. It’s crazy light, refreshing, and the perfect sweet ending.
2. Sparkman Wharf
Now, if you’re like me and sometimes can’t decide what to eat, Sparkman Wharf is the dream. This outdoor entertainment hub has not just a few but several amazing dining options, all served from super-cool shipping containers. There’s something for everyone—perfect for picky groups or the indecisive foodie in you.
Here’s a list of some of the best restaurants in Sparkman Wharf:
- Gallito Taqueria: Street tacos, quesabirria tacos, and more.
- Edison’s Swigamajig: Fresh seafood meets creative cocktails.
- BurgerFi: Juicy burgers, hot dogs, and made-to-order sides.
- Dang Dude: Asian-inspired street food like dumplings and double-fried wings.
- JoDog: Craft hot dogs and crispy waffle fries.
And when it’s dessert time, you have to check out Jeni’s Ice Cream for some of the best scoops in Tampa or grab decadent treats from one of my favorite dessert spots in Tampa, Hampton Chocolate Factory.
3. JoToro Kitchen & Tequila Bar
JoToro is a colorful spot that dishes up Mexican favorites with global twists, courtesy of their Michelin-starred chef. My go-to is usually tacos or a taco salad (I’m basic, I know), but JoToro’s menu? Anything but basic.
We started with their supreme guac, loaded with roasted corn, pico, jalapeño, pickled onion, tajín, cotija, and parm. Insanely good! Of course, we had to try the birria tacos, and they were divine. Swing by on Taco Tuesday, when all their tacos are just $5!
My one regret is not trying their cocktails! Their cocktail list is next-level, and they even have a watermelon mezcal creation, aka my dream drink. Needless to say, we’ll be back for round two—guac and cocktails this time.
4. Splitsville Southern + Social
For classic Southern eats with a fun twist, Splittsville has it all! Their menu is packed with comfort food like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, short rib sliders, salads, and signature flatbreads. Pair that with hand-crafted cocktails (the Florida Crush is a must!) or one of their 50+ beer options, and you’re set.
But Splitsville isn’t just about the food—it’s an entertainment hotspot! Play 10-pin bowling, ping pong, pool, foosball, darts, or shuffleboard in their warehouse-chic space. Whether you’re pre-gaming for a Lightning game or just out for a good time, this Channelside spot is the ultimate trifecta of food, drinks, and fun.
5. Bamboozle
If you’re hunting for an affordable, healthy, and downright delicious spot to grab a bite in Channelside, Bamboozle is the move! Their menu is bursting with fresh ingredients and plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.
From fresh rolls and pho to bowls, salads, and dishes like red curry, their Vietnamese and Asian fusion menu has something for everyone. And the drinks? Think dreamy Vietnamese-style fruit smoothies, coffee drinks, milk teas, and more!
I’ve only been to their Seminole Heights location, but I’m obsessed. If you’re into a little spice, the red curry is incredible, and if you’re craving comfort, their beef pho is like a warm hug in a bowl.
6. Gateway Subs
Nothing makes me happier than seeing Gateway Subs expanding from St. Pete to multiple Tampa locations. This sub shop is, hands down, the best—and I mean that with absolute confidence. Every time I take a bite, I’m just blown away by how ridiculously good it is. Seriously, I’ve never had a sub that compares.
My go-to is the Cool Ranch Rider, it’s a masterpiece. Shaved buffalo chicken, hot peppers, and crushed Cool Ranch Doritos come together to create something so dang delicious you’ll wonder why all subs aren’t made this way.
Oh, and if you need a little pick-me-up, don’t sleep on their in-house cold brew! It’s surprisingly amazing and makes for the perfect pairing with your sub.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch for a picnic or packing it up for a beach day, this spot is a total must. Trust me, you need to add Gateway Subs to your list of must-visit restaurants in Channelside. You won’t regret it!
Elevated Restaurants in Channelside
7. The Battery
Bourbon lovers, this one’s for you! The Battery is a bourbon-focused restaurant and cocktail bar with nearly 130 different bottles of bourbon and whiskey (yes, you read that right!). They even have a whiskey vault—how cool is that?
This Channelside restaurant serves up classic yet elevated dishes like house-cut Prime steaks, premium seafood, and over-the-top charcuterie boards. Pair that with handcrafted cocktails or a glass of exquisite wine in their sleek and sophisticated space, and you’ve got yourself a night to remember.
It’s also a prime spot to pregame for Lightning games, especially with the watch parties often happening on the lawn at Sparkman Wharf.
8. Noble Rice
Noble Rice is a modern Japanese restaurant that’s truly next level. Known for its inventive seafood dishes and dedication to quality, this spot flies in fresh seafood weekly from Japan—yes, weekly! Highlights include uni, toro, and a standout toro tartare that’ll blow your mind.
If you’re a sushi fan, the tempura poke roll is a must-try. The roll is paired with its own shoyu sauce—ours came with a white shoyu that complemented it perfectly. Oh, and I have to gush about their milk bread. My first experience, and I’m officially hooked.
While the price points are a bit higher, the quality is unmatched, making it one of the best restaurants in Tampa and a top-notch pick for a date night. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Which of these restaurants in Channelside are you checking out first?
And there you have it—your ultimate guide to the best restaurants in Channelside! Whether you’re craving sushi, a mouthwatering sub, or a fresh, healthy bite, this neighborhood has something for you. You may also be interested in awesome restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk and the best restaurants on Water Street in Tampa! Let me know if I left out one of your favorites, and be sure to check out some of my other Tampa Bay posts:
Best restaurants in downtown Tampa
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