5 Hot New Restaurants Opening this Fall in Tampa

5 Hot New Restaurants Opening this Fall in Tampa

The vibrant food scene in Tampa keeps progressing year after year, and it's a trend that's only getting better. If you're skeptical, simply take a look at the recent additions of MICHELIN star-rated restaurants in the city. As the fall season approaches, anticipation is building for the opening of three new restaurants that are poised to enhance our culinary landscape.

1. Located at 307 W Palm Ave, Kōsen, an upcoming omakase restaurant, is set to join the already impressive array of dining establishments in Tampa Heights this upcoming fall.

At the helm of the restaurant is renowned Chef Wei Chen, hailing from the Michelin-starred restaurant Masa. Under his guidance, Kōsen will offer an 18-course menu priced at $250, showcasing Chef Chen's expertise and creativity. The dining experience is expected to be exceptionally valuable. Situated beneath the Pearl building, the restaurant will accommodate 10 guests at the intimate sushi bar and provide seating for 25 in the dining area.

In a significant recognition earlier this year, the restaurant's owners, Johnny and Jimmy Tung, also known as the founders of the Bento empire, received a prestigious accolade from the James Beard Foundation. They were nominated for the Outstanding Restaurateur award, adding to their already impressive culinary reputation. 

“We are incredibly humbled to be recognized next to these amazing pioneers in the industry. Without our hardworking team and supportive community, this would not be possible,” said the Tungs in a joint statement. The Kosen team wrote on Instagram, “Humbled is an understatement. What a very proud moment and a career highlight for our co-founders.”

2. Situated at the intersection of Channelside Drive and S Jefferson Street, Yard House is renowned for its expansive collection of over 100 beers on tap and a diverse menu of bar bites. As per the information on its website, this expansive restaurant and taproom is scheduled to unveil its doors on October 9 in Tampa.

The forthcoming Yard House on Water Street will conveniently face Amalie Arena. Among its offerings, the Yard House menu boasts delectable options like poke nachos, generously sized Bavarian pretzels, zesty firecracker shrimp, and mouthwatering Baja fish tacos. 

“Every new retailer that has signed a lease at Water Street Tampa has helped us to create a more well-rounded neighborhood that we know residents, office workers, and guests will look forward to experiencing time and again,” said Lee Schaffler, Chief Portfolio Officer for SPP. 

3. Kura Sushi is making its mark at 214 Westshore Plaza, embracing a tech-driven culinary concept. The establishment has secured a 2,734-square-foot space for a duration of 10 years, as confirmed by Ripco Real Estate, the representative for the tenant, in a press release. The restaurant is currently in the process of staffing for its upcoming location, with plans to welcome customers in the late summer or early fall.

Kura Sushi offers an innovative dining experience that seamlessly integrates technology, coupled with the delight of savoring authentic dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients. These delectable offerings glide by on a double-layered conveyor belt system, allowing patrons to feast with their eyes before selecting what tantalizes their taste buds. Having embarked on its culinary journey in 1977, Kura Sushi, Inc. has achieved remarkable growth, expanding to encompass over 500 establishments throughout Japan, Taiwan, and the United States.

4. Ro, the upcoming Modern Asian and Sushi Restaurant, is extending its presence within the city. Situated at 1500 W Swann Avenue, this venture marks the expansion of Three Oaks Hospitality's portfolio.

“We create spaces that cultivate our local neighborhoods – they aren’t just restaurants and bars – but rather gathering places that foster meaningful interactions and conversations,” writes the Three Oaks Hospitality ownership team. For the uninitiated, Three Oaks is behind some of the most acclaimed restaurants in Tampa.

5. Cinnaholic South Tampa, located at 927 S Howard Avenue, is a haven for custom gourmet cinnamon rolls and homemade treats like cookie dough, brownies, and cookies. With a repertoire of over 40 distinct frostings and toppings, the potential flavors for their cinnamon rolls are limitless. If you're a dessert enthusiast, you'll be pleased to know that Cinnaholic also offers sizeable, personalized cinnacakes. The establishment is currently in the process of hiring staff, and an official opening date for the upcoming fall season will be revealed shortly.