Tampa Bay, Florida

Originally opened in 1956, Bern’s is an internationally renowned steakhouse, and possibly the Tampa Bay area’s best-known restaurant. Bern’s specializes in prime dry-aged steaks cut to order, but also boasts a wine list that numbers over 6,800 labels. Reservations are recommended at Bern’s, sometimes well in advance.

In Clearwater Beach, the Beachcomber has been a staple since 1948. Offering both steaks and seafood, the Beachcomber is also known for its fine service and unique touches, such as the relish tray with fresh baked banana bread. The Seafood Mélange is a hit, with its combination of Gulf shrimp, scallops, fresh fish and Maryland deviled crab cake. Reservations are recommended.

Jackson’s Bistro is located in the Harbour Island section of downtown Tampa. With a great waterfront location, Jackson’s is open every day for lunch and dinner, and also features a delicious, and affordable Sunday brunch. In the later hours, Jackson’s night club comes alive, with two large rooms inside and outdoor cabanas outside on the waterfront terrace. Jackson’s also offers a full sushi menu to go along with its more traditional fare.

Part of the Hyatt Hotel, Oystercatchers blends a gorgeous waterfront location with exquisite local cuisine. The restaurant specializes in seafood, featuring fresh wild and line-caught fish. Sunday brunch is quite a treat, as the buffet features everything from fresh sushi and stone crab to a full dessert bar. Reservations are recommended.

Ted Peters is a local favorite between mainland St. Petersburg and the Gulf beaches. Famous for its unique smoked fish spread, many diners swing by just to pick some up to augment their own meals or have on hand for snacks. Don’t expect white tablecloths here, as you will probably be sitting on a bench outside. One of the best local secrets in the St. Petersburg area.

One of the finest seafood restaurants in the entire area, Salt Rock Grill offers everything from raw oysters to lobster tail to Alaskan king crab, as well as other favorites such as steak and veal. Located on the Intercoastal Waterway in Indian Shores, diners can take in the spectacular views while enjoying an entrée that was probably swimming in the Gulf of Mexico just the day before. Reservations are recommended.

The Columbia traces its roots back to 1905, when the original location was opened in Tampa’s Ybor City, earning it the designation of Florida’s oldest Spanish-themed restaurant. The 1905 salad should kick off every diner’s experience, and can be followed by black bean crab cakes, scallops “casimiro”, or empanadas de picadillo, which are spiced ground beef-filled pastry turnovers with roasted corn and black bean salsa. Columbia has other locations in the area, including some cafes.