Michael Mikuliza 
Diners feel special every time they go to Donatello. For decades, the Tampa restaurant has defined fine Italian dining and stepping into the dining room transports you to a world that delights the senses. Tables adorned with roses are draped with pink cloths and napkins. Pendant fixtures hang overhead and provide dramatic lighting. Black-jacketed waiters, … Read more
Il Ritorno, David Benstock’s Italian-inspired restaurant in downtown St. Petersburg, holds a special place in Tampa Bay’s dining scene. At first glance, it seems like an Italian restaurant. After all, the menu titles major sections with Italian words like “antipasti” and “primi.” But upon closer inspection, most dishes stray a little from classic Italian. And … Read more
Mandolas Italian Kitchen has opened in Carrollwood, at 14703 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. It’s the second location and follows the successful opening of Florida’s first-ever location in Riverview in 2020. The Carrollwood location has close to 8,000 square feet, with a seating capacity of 185 guests. Customers order from a menu board and select … Read more
Ocean prime | 2205 N. Westshore Blvd., Tampa As an upscale dining establishment, Ocean Prime checks every box. The location, adjacent to International Plaza in Tampa, teams with well-heeled clientele. The bar near the lobby is impeccably lit, cozy and offers exclusive spirits, signature cocktails and an impressive selection of wine, like the 2019 Caymus … Read more
Before it opened, Teak, the Birchwood-operated outpost on the pier head in downtown St. Petersburg, was the envy of many restauranteurs. It is the featured restaurant on the city’s newest attraction, the St. Pete Pier. The sweeping views of Tampa Bay, the yacht basin, Albert Whitted Airport and downtown are unparalleled. The facility is brand … Read more
Stepping into the Library in St. Petersburg, you will immediately notice the stylish interior space, abundant in natural light and furnished with modern fixtures and a deep-blue color palette. As you look further, you’ll realize each one of the hundreds of books that line the shelves has a blue, and only blue, spine. It is … Read more
Fine dining on Siesta Key is defined at The Summer House. Quality ingredients—thoughtfully sourced and expertly prepared—offer exceptional flavor. Here you will find classic soups and salads, certified Angus steaks and chops, seafood entrees and updated sides. There are no surprises on the menu. You will recognize everything. The big surprise is not on the … Read more
Grace | 120 Eighth Ave., Pass-a-Grille Beach Grace is an unassuming restaurant, tucked away on a small side street, near the southern tip of Pass-a-Grille. It has a minimalist interior design, almost to the point of austere. But don’t let that fool you. The food is based on quality ingredients showcasing natural flavors, skilled preparation … Read more
The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts anchors a row of museums in downtown Tampa, including the Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children’s Museum. FMOPA is dedicated to the art of photography and has a prominent place at Tampa’s rich, cultural table. It’s filled with exhibition and event spaces that showcase photographers and images,from … Read more
Casa Santo Stefano, Richard Gonzmart’s newest restaurant, is a soaring complex filled with artwork, and antiques, that pay homage to the little island of Sicily, off the Italian coast, and Ybor City’s rich Sicilian heritage. The open kitchen, complete with a wood-fired grill, sits in full view of the downstairs dining room. Upstairs is Santo’s … Read more
