The 7 Best Sparkman Wharf Restaurants

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If you’re looking for a vibrant spot in Tampa to eat, drink, and soak in the waterfront views, these Sparkman Wharf restaurants should be at the top of your list! Located right along the beautiful Tampa Bay, this lively area is packed with cool spots to enjoy delicious food, craft drinks, and even catch a sunset. This lively area offers a mix of vibes with both small eateries housed in colorful shipping containers and fully established sit-down restaurants.

It’s the best of both worlds—perfect for a casual bite or a more refined dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, tacos, or just a refreshing cocktail by the water, Sparkman Wharf has something for you!

Also, if you’re in search of a good coffee shop, Shortwave Coffee’s strawberry basil latte put them on the list for one of the best coffee shops in Tampa!

Sparkman Wharf Restaurants

1. Gallito Taqueria

If you’re in the mood for a fresh twist on classic Mexican street food, Gallito Taqueria is a must-try! This modern taqueria serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas made with authentic, flavorful ingredients. Bonus: you get to enjoy all that tasty goodness with a gorgeous waterfront view!

Taco Tuesdays here are a real treat, with two street tacos for just $6—yes, please! During my visit, I couldn’t resist trying the fried fish taco and grilled mojo chicken taco, and they were packed with flavor! I’ll definitely be back for more. Oh, and if you’re in Lakeland, you can grab the same amazing bites at their other location too!

2. Noble Rice

If you’re craving high-quality, inventive Japanese cuisine, Noble Rice is one of the best restaurants in Sparkman Wharf for you to experience! An expansion of the beloved Hyde Park restaurant, which closed during the pandemic, this restaurant brings the same exceptional flavors but with a modern twist.

With fresh seafood flown in from Japan every week, their menu is packed with mouthwatering dishes you won’t want to miss—think toro tartare, uni, and tempura poke rolls.

The prices might be a little higher than your average sushi joint, but it’s totally worth it for the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Plus, their full bar featuring Japanese whiskey and sake is the perfect touch. If you’re looking for a great dinner spot to impress a date in Tampa, this is it. Make your reservation now—you won’t regret it!

3. Edison’s Swigamajig

Edison’s Swigamajig is the perfect spot to kick back, sip on fun cocktails, and dive into some seriously fresh seafood! This no-frills seafood kitchen keeps things exciting with a menu that changes daily based on the catch of the day—so you’re in for a new adventure every time you stop by.

Chef Pierola takes seafood to the next level, serving up creative dishes that go beyond the usual butter and Old Bay. Whether you’re craving something familiar or ready to try something totally new, Edison’s has you covered with flavors that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance!

4. Dang Dude

Dang Dude is a laid-back Sparkman Wharf restaurant that’s owned by the same awesome crew behind Nebraska Mini Mart and Gallito Taqueria. If you’re a fan of Asian fusion, you’re in for a treat! The menu is packed with fun, creative dishes that put a fresh spin on familiar flavors like spicy beef and ginger garlic fried rice. Each bite is bursting with umami goodness!

We tried the chilled sesame noodles and were pleasantly surprised by the mix of flavors—it had the perfect kick! I don’t usually go for cold noodles, but this dish totally changed my mind. And don’t miss out on their boozy boba—it’s a must-try!

Plus, Dang Dude is super accommodating to dietary needs with vegan and gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy the deliciousness!

5. JoDog Craft Hot Dogs

If you’re in the mood for a hot dog like no other, JoDog Craft Hot Dogs is going to be a staple on this list of Sparkman Wharf restaurants! This spot, owned by Michelin-starred Chef Joe Isidori and the Millennium Restaurant Group’s Guy Revelle and Mark Gibson, is taking hot dogs to a whole new level. With signature creations like the New York City-style chili cheese dog, the spicy Mexico City Dog, and Joe’s Famous Kimchee Dog, your taste buds are in for a wild ride!

I tried the Mexico City Dog, and let me tell you—it was hands down the best hot dog I’ve ever had. The flavors were next-level! And you better believe the Kimchee Dog is now at the top of my list. But the hot dog magic doesn’t stop there—JoDog also offers crispy waffle fries, loaded fries, and a killer drink menu with beer, sake bombs, and signature cocktails. Trust me, this place is a must-try!

6. JoToro

If you’re in the mood for some seriously delicious Mexican food, you’ve gotta check out JoToro! This fun spot serves up “Fine Mexican Provisions” with a twist, like wood-fired tacos, hearty burritos, and fresh, flavorful salads.

They’ve got all sorts of mouthwatering options, like Mexico City-style street corn, a grilled Thai watermelon feta salad, and spicy Vietnamese steak—talk about a flavor explosion! And let’s not forget about the drinks—craft margaritas and premium tequila flights to keep the vibes high.

I couldn’t get enough of their supreme guac, loaded with roasted corn, pico, jalapeño, pickled onion, tajín, cotija, and parm—seriously, it’s a party in a bowl! And the birria tacos? Absolute perfection. Oh, and if you hit up Taco Tuesday, all tacos are just $5!

7. The Battery

The Battery has a cool, laid-back vibe, but it’s also got all the classy touches you’ll love—think prime steaks, fresh seafood, and crafted cocktails that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night out with friends or celebrating something special, The Battery has the perfect setting. Their charcuterie boards are a showstopper, and I can’t forget to mention the wine and whiskey selection. The place is a beautiful mix of exposed brick, elegant accents, and a vibe that’s perfect for any occasion. Trust me, you’ll want to add this one to your list of Sparkman Wharf restaurants to visit!

You also can’t leave without getting dessert! Some of the best ice cream in Tampa can be found in Sparkman Wharf from Jeni’s Ice Creams and Hampton Chocolate Factory, so save room 🙂

Which of these Sparkman Wharf restaurants are you checking out first?!

Sparkman Wharf truly has it all—delicious food, waterfront views, and a vibe that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re chowing down on tacos, sipping boozy boba, or indulging in a fine dining experience, there’s something here for every craving and occasion. Gather your crew, head to the wharf, and let your taste buds go on their own little adventure. Trust me, you’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:

Fun things to do in Lakeland, Florida

Best breakfast restaurants in Clearwater Beach

Tampa Bay speakeasies to check out