Is it just us, or does eating outside make food taste better?
Catch some rays or laze in the shade at one of these 17 Tampa Bay area patios. Pro tip: Don’t miss the shade level we’ve included for each of these locations.
Restaurants
Columbia Cafe , 801 Water St. #1905, Tampa | Partially covered
Nestled in the the Tampa Bay History Center, enjoy Riverwalk views and legendary Cuban eats from your perch at the Columbia Cafe. This is just one of the brand’s handful of TBAY locations.
Ulele , 1810 N. Highland Ave., Tampa | Some cover
It’s a Tampa staple for a reason. The Floridian (and Michelin Guide lauded) spot boasts a large dining room, but the real star is the outdoor space — where bars and tables sit directly beside a soothing spring.
Red Mesa Mercado , 1100 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg | Some cover
Looking for a casual after-work spot that packs a punch? Order burritos, chips and guac, margaritas and other Mexican faves from this walk-up window — then enjoy your feast at one of the picnic tables + catch the game on one of the flat screens.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille , Multiple locations | Some cover
This seafood powerhouse has two scenic locations — one right on the St. Pete Pier and one in the Jungle Terrace neighborhood. Stop by for oysters, shrimp, boat drinks, and ambiance galore.
Meat Market Tampa , 1606 W. Snow Ave., Tampa | Some cover
This Hyde Park Village steakhouse serves up smoking drinks and premium meat cuts + is a great spot for people watching and local celebrity spotting.
Nebraska Mini Mart , 4815 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa | Some cover
Tow the friend group or fam along to the old school spot for games like cornhole + bocce ball, and order burgers and milkshakes at the walk-up window.
Parasol , 501 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg | Some cover
The Vinoy’s recently opened poolside restaurant menu is packed with Latin cuisine and colorful cocktails. Plus, you can take in Downtown St. Pete views from the rooftop bar.
Once you’re finished grabbing drinks or eating at LightHaus, roam the rest of the Wharf.
Photo via @lighthaustpa
Bars and breweries
LightHaus Beer Garden , 615 Channelside Dr., Tampa | Partially covered
Located right in the heart of Sparkman Wharf, this outdoor beer garden is the perfect spot to grab drinks and light bites before heading to a Lightning game, or watching it on the big screen.
Green Bench Brewing Company , 1133 Baum Ave. N., St. Petersburg | Partially covered
This popular St. Pete gathering spot boasts a turf beer garden with ample seating for relaxing on a sunny day, plus an open-air bar, and of course, tons of locally brewed beers.
Southern Brewing & Winery , 4500 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa | Partially covered
Stop by this Seminole Heights gem to try a range of beers, ciders, and sodas, to pick up homebrewing supplies, or for the night market featuring plant vendors, jewelry, and more.
3 Daughters Brewing , 222 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg | Partially covered
Located right off the hustle + bustle of Central Avenue, this laid-back brewery has plenty of covered space and outdoor tables to watch live music, chow down on food truck pizza and other eats, listen to live music, and of course, sip on sours and other brews.
Order your brew of choice from the walk-up window at Spaddy’s.
Photo via @spaddyscoffee
Coffee shops
Craft Kafe , Multiple locations | Partially covered
Head to the Downtown St. Pete location for open-air dining, tons of gluten free pastry options, and java.
Spaddy’s Coffee Co. , 5206 N. Florida Ave., Tampa | Some cover
The outdoor, community-driven coffee shop brews + roasts tons of coffee options, plus teas and a few nosh choices. Pro tip: This spot is cashless.
Bandit Coffee Co. , 2662 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | Some cover
Enjoy hand-crafted lattes and pastries — and a full menu — at the Central Avenue watering hole’s outdoor patio — featuring brand-new seating.
Caffeine Roasters Tampa , Multiple locations | Some cover
This local beanery has three Tampa locations — and the Kennedy location is the perfect spot for an outdoor coworking date complete with specialty coffees and a little breakfast or lunch.
Kick back with a drink and some barbecue at this St. Pete hangout spot.
Photo via @stpetesocialtruckntat
Food truck parks
The Food Trucks Plaza , 1798 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa | Some cover
Sample eats from Los Gorditos, Papas Chicken, and more at this permanent food truck depot.
St. Pete Social , 4580 49th St. N., St. Petersburg| Some cover
The recently opened food truck park is the perfect Friday night destination. The Kenneth City spot has local eats like Smokin’ Me Crazy BBQ + Jo Jo’s Taste of Chicago, a turf yard, cornhole, and lots of seating.
City Guides are presented by Water Street Tampa .