Introduction
Stuck on Dale Mabry Highway and your stomach is rumbling? Don’t despair! You’re in luck, because Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa, Florida, isn’t just a major thoroughfare; it’s a culinary corridor packed with hidden gems and familiar favorites waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local resident looking for a new go-to spot, or a visitor passing through and craving a satisfying meal, the abundance of food options near Dale Mabry can be overwhelming. This guide will provide a carefully curated selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries near Dale Mabry, catering to various tastes, budgets, and dining experiences. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure!
Quick and Casual Bites: Food Near Dale Mabry on the Go
Sometimes, you need a quick and convenient meal without sacrificing flavor. Fortunately, the area surrounding Dale Mabry boasts a variety of fast-casual restaurants perfect for a speedy lunch break, a post-shopping refuel, or a simple weeknight dinner.
Armando’s Cuban Restaurant
Situated a block off Dale Mabry on Kennedy Boulevard, Armando’s is a true Tampa institution, serving up authentic Cuban sandwiches, flavorful black beans and rice, and crispy empanadas. It’s a no-frills spot with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional recipes. The atmosphere is casual and lively, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. A must-try is their Cuban sandwich, pressed to perfection with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It’s the perfect blend of savory and tangy, and it’s a testament to Tampa’s rich Cuban heritage.
Zoës Kitchen
Located in several spots along Dale Mabry. If you are looking for something healthier and quick, this is the spot. Zoës Kitchen features flavorful bowls, salads, and sandwiches made with fresh ingredients. They also feature amazing chicken kabobs and greek salads that you can’t go wrong with.
Metro Diner
Located on Dale Mabry this spot is known for their comfort food, breakfast all day, and fried chicken. They offer a variety of classic diner dishes with a modern twist, all served in a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Sit-Down Restaurants: A Relaxing Meal Near Dale Mabry
When you have a bit more time to spare and are looking for a more relaxed dining experience, Dale Mabry has plenty of sit-down restaurants to choose from. These establishments offer a comfortable atmosphere, attentive service, and menus with a wider range of options.
Seasons 52
Located within International Plaza, just a stone’s throw from Dale Mabry. Seasons 52 focuses on seasonal dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and flavorful preparations. Their menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest produce available, ensuring a unique and satisfying dining experience. The atmosphere is sophisticated and inviting, making it a great choice for a date night or a special occasion.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
Located just off Dale Mabry. This unique establishment combines a winery, a restaurant, and a retail shop, offering a truly immersive experience. The menu features a variety of dishes designed to pair perfectly with their extensive selection of wines. They offer wine tasting experiences where you can sample different varietals and learn about the winemaking process. The atmosphere is upscale and inviting, making it a perfect place for a leisurely lunch or a celebratory dinner.
Bella’s Italian Cafe
Located right on Dale Mabry, Bella’s is a Tampa favorite known for its delicious pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and extensive wine list. The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, with dim lighting and exposed brick walls. They offer a range of classic Italian dishes, from lasagna and spaghetti carbonara to chicken parmesan and seafood risotto. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving them a crispy crust and a smoky flavor.
Fine Dining and Special Occasion Restaurants Near Dale Mabry
For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience, the area surrounding Dale Mabry boasts a few exceptional fine dining establishments. These restaurants offer impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and menus crafted with the finest ingredients.
Council Oak Steaks & Seafood
Council Oak Steaks & Seafood is one of the restaurants located in the Seminole Hard Rock Casino Tampa. This spot is the perfect place to have a celebratory dinner. This restaurant features only the finest aged steaks and the freshest seafood.
Bern’s Steak House
While not *directly* on Dale Mabry, it’s close enough to be considered, and it’s an iconic Tampa institution worth the short detour. Bern’s is renowned for its exquisite steaks, extensive wine list, and unique dessert room experience. The atmosphere is elegant and timeless, and the service is impeccable. The menu features a variety of cuts of beef, aged to perfection and cooked to your exact specifications. They also offer an extensive selection of wines from around the world, as well as a decadent dessert menu.
International Cuisine Near Dale Mabry: A Global Culinary Journey
Expand your culinary horizons with the diverse range of international cuisine options near Dale Mabry. From authentic Vietnamese pho to flavorful Mexican tacos, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Pho 97
For authentic and mouthwatering Vietnamese food near Dale Mabry, you can’t go wrong with Pho 97. With over hundreds of great reviews online, this spot serves up some of the best pho in Tampa. The portions are generous, the ingredients are fresh, and the broth is rich and flavorful. In addition to pho, they also offer a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, banh mi sandwiches, and vermicelli bowls.
Miguel’s Mexican Seafood and Grill
If you want mexican food near Dale Mabry, visit Miguel’s Mexican Seafood and Grill. This spot is located right on Dale Mabry and features great food and great service.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems: Discovering Unique Food Near Dale Mabry
Beyond the well-known chains and established restaurants, Dale Mabry is home to a handful of local favorites and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These independently owned establishments offer unique flavors, cozy atmospheres, and a true taste of the Tampa community.
Oxford Exchange
One such gem is Oxford Exchange, located a short drive from Dale Mabry in the Hyde Park neighborhood. This unique space combines a restaurant, a bookstore, a coffee shop, and a retail store, creating a truly immersive experience. The menu features a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is chic and sophisticated, with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and plenty of natural light. It’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal, browse the bookstore, or sip on a cup of coffee.
Datz
Another local favorite is Datz, a quirky and popular restaurant known for its innovative comfort food and extensive craft beer selection. Datz has several locations near Dale Mabry. The menu features a variety of creative dishes, such as their famous “Cheesy Todd” sandwich, which is made with a grilled cheese sandwich inside a glazed donut. The atmosphere is fun and energetic, with a playful decor and a lively bar scene. It’s a great place to try something new and enjoy a memorable dining experience.
Drinks and Dessert: Sweet Treats and Refreshing Beverages Near Dale Mabry
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet treat or a refreshing beverage. Fortunately, Dale Mabry is home to a variety of coffee shops, juice bars, and ice cream parlors, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Buddy Brew Coffee
For a delicious cup of coffee and a sweet treat, head to Buddy Brew Coffee. Located on Henderson Avenue. Buddy Brew Coffee is a local roastery and coffee shop known for its high-quality coffee beans and expertly crafted beverages. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Dairy Joy
If you’re in the mood for ice cream, look no further than Dairy Joy. This iconic Tampa institution has been serving up delicious ice cream and milkshakes for over 60 years. It’s a no-frills spot with a focus on classic flavors and generous portions.
Considerations When Choosing Your Food Near Dale Mabry
When deciding where to eat near Dale Mabry, it’s important to consider your dietary restrictions, parking availability, the desired atmosphere, and the distance from Dale Mabry itself.
- Dietary Restrictions: Many restaurants in the area offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Be sure to check the menu or ask your server about available options.
- Parking: Parking can be challenging in some areas of Dale Mabry, especially during peak hours. Be sure to check the parking situation before you go, and consider using a ride-sharing service or public transportation if necessary.
- Atmosphere: The atmosphere of a restaurant can greatly impact your dining experience. Consider whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, a romantic setting, or a lively bar scene.
- Distance from Dale Mabry: Some restaurants are located directly on Dale Mabry, while others are a short drive away. Consider how far you’re willing to travel to reach your desired restaurant.
- Hours of Operation: Make sure you are aware of their hours of operation so you don’t arrive too late!
A Culinary Conclusion: Food Near Dale Mabry Awaits!
From quick and casual bites to fine dining experiences, the area surrounding Dale Mabry Highway offers a diverse and exciting culinary landscape. With a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. So, the next time you find yourself on Dale Mabry and in need of a delicious meal, don’t hesitate to explore the many culinary treasures that await. We encourage you to try some of the restaurants mentioned in this guide and share your own favorite spots with us. Dale Mabry has something to offer every palate! So get out there and start exploring!
