Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant will return to Tampa next summer, bringing its signature Spanish flavors to International Plaza and Bay Street — adding to the growing list of Tampa Bay restaurants shaping the region’s dining scene.
Caledon Concepts, the boutique restaurant group also behind Rococo Steak, announced plans to open a new Ceviche at International Plaza and Bay Street next summer. The restaurant will replace the former Alma Restaurant & Bar space and serve as an anchor for the mall’s growing dining scene.
“This opening marks an exciting new chapter for our beloved local tapas brand,” said Lee Karlins, president of Caledon Concepts. “We have dedicated ourselves to becoming a place where people gather and share — sharing plates, stories and sangria — and we couldn’t think of a better place in Tampa Bay than International Plaza.”
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The expansion marks Ceviche’s return to Tampa, eight years after closing its South Tampa restaurant. The beloved tapas bar, once recognized by Guinness World Records for crafting the world’s largest sangria pitcher, had operated there since moving from its original South Howard Avenue home in 2012.
That closure opened the door for Caledon Concepts to reimagine the brand — a vision now realized at International Plaza.
Ceviche’s roots
Founded in 1997, Ceviche is widely regarded as the region’s original tapas restaurant and ranks among the best restaurants in Tampa for authentic Spanish food. Executive Chef Horasio Salgado ties family recipes to each dish, creating a menu that balances tradition with creativity.
The new location will feature a modern design with indoor and outdoor patio seating, a large open bar and access to more than 170 stores and restaurants within the mall.
“Ceviche has been a staple of the Tampa Bay dining scene for decades, and we’re delighted to see their next chapter unfold here at International Plaza,” said Julia Wyman, marketing and sponsorship director at International Plaza. “Ceviche’s celebrated Spanish flavors and vibrant atmosphere will be a great addition to the variety of dining experiences offered by our Bay Street restaurants.”
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Ceviche has earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence since 2022 for its Spanish and international wine program. The restaurant’s extensive list will remain a focal point at the new Tampa location.
Caledon Concepts partnered with PB Realty’s Jim Sullivan for the real estate transaction and worked directly with International Plaza’s leasing representative, Dan Hayhoe of Taubman. The company also selected local architect Brian Wolfe of Wolfe Architect to design the new space.
Ceviche’s flagship location on Beach Drive in Downtown St. Petersburg remains open. For updates, visit Ceviche’s website.
Why It Matters
- Local brand growth: One of Tampa Bay’s most recognizable dining names is expanding to one of its busiest commercial destinations.
- Culinary roots: Ceviche helped define the region’s tapas culture nearly three decades ago and continues to evolve, influenced by contemporary design and global trends.
- Economic impact: The project strengthens International Plaza’s position as one of Tampa’s top restaurant destinations, drawing both residents and visitors to Bay Street.
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