Heading to an event at Amalie Arena? Whether you’re cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning, rocking out at a concert, or attending another thrilling event, the main attraction is only half the fun. The other half? Discovering the perfect culinary experience to complement your evening. Finding the right restaurant near Amalie Arena can elevate your whole night, turning it from a great event into an unforgettable one. This comprehensive guide will take you on a delicious journey through the diverse and exciting food scene surrounding the arena, catering to all tastes, budgets, and time constraints. Get ready to explore everything from casual bites to fine dining and discover your new favorite pre or post-event spot!
Casual Delights Near the Arena
When you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere and tasty food without breaking the bank, the casual dining options near Amalie Arena are plentiful. These spots are perfect for a pre-game meal with friends or a post-concert wind-down.
One area brimming with choices is Sparkman Wharf. This vibrant waterfront destination offers a variety of casual eateries with stunning views of the Garrison Channel. Options abound, from elevated street food to fresh seafood. Imagine enjoying tacos with a bayside breeze or savoring gourmet burgers while watching the boats go by. Prices are generally moderate, making it a great option for families or groups looking for variety. Its close proximity to the arena makes it an incredibly convenient choice. The atmosphere is lively and fun, adding to the excitement of your event.
Another excellent choice is Ferg’s Live Tampa. This sprawling sports bar and restaurant offers a classic game-day experience. Expect a lively, boisterous atmosphere with plenty of TVs showing all the action. The menu features classic American fare like wings, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, all at affordable prices. Ferg’s is a popular spot for Lightning fans, so be prepared for a crowd, especially on game nights. The energy is contagious, and the food is hearty and satisfying.
For a unique dining and entertainment experience, Splitsville Southern and Social stands out. This isn’t your average bowling alley. It combines delicious Southern-inspired cuisine with bowling, billiards, and other social games. The menu features upscale comfort food like mac and cheese, gourmet burgers, and creative salads. While slightly pricier than other casual options, Splitsville offers a complete evening of entertainment and delicious food. The atmosphere is fun and engaging, making it a great choice for groups or families looking to make lasting memories.
Quick Bites and Flavorful Fast Casual
Sometimes, you need a delicious and satisfying meal, but you’re short on time. Luckily, the area around Amalie Arena offers several excellent quick-bite and fast-casual options. These are ideal for grabbing a quick lunch before a matinee performance or fueling up before heading into a concert.
District Tavern presents itself as a fantastic option for those seeking elevated bar fare in a chic and lively environment. Located conveniently near the arena, it offers a menu boasting an array of gourmet pizzas, mouthwatering burgers, and delectable sandwiches. It’s a spot where quality ingredients meet speed, making it perfect for a pre-event fuel-up without sacrificing taste or time. The atmosphere is buzzing with energy, adding to the excitement of the evening.
Harpoon Harry’s, a vibrant and themed eatery, offers a fun, casual dining experience with a menu featuring classic American favorites. From juicy burgers and crispy fries to refreshing salads and tasty appetizers, there’s something for everyone. It’s an excellent place to relax and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal before or after your event. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular choice among arena-goers.
Irish 31 is a local favorite known for its authentic Irish pub atmosphere and extensive menu of classic Irish dishes and American favorites. From shepherd’s pie and fish and chips to burgers and sandwiches, there’s something to satisfy every craving. It’s a great place to enjoy a quick, comforting meal and a pint of Guinness before heading to your event. The friendly atmosphere and lively music make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Upscale Dining: Elevate Your Evening
For a special occasion or when you simply want to indulge in a more refined dining experience, the area around Amalie Arena boasts several exceptional upscale restaurants. These establishments offer exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and elegant atmospheres.
Mise en Place, a Tampa institution, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on innovative and seasonal cuisine. The menu features contemporary American dishes with international influences, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. The elegant dining room and impeccable service create a truly memorable experience. Mise en Place is perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal before a special event. Making reservations well in advance is highly recommended.
Malio’s Prime Steakhouse provides a classic steakhouse experience with a focus on high-quality cuts of beef and exceptional service. The menu features prime steaks, fresh seafood, and classic sides, all prepared to perfection. The dimly lit dining room and attentive service create a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. Malio’s is an excellent choice for a celebratory dinner or a business meeting. Be prepared for a higher price point, reflecting the quality of the food and service.
American Social Tampa offers a vibrant and upscale dining experience with a focus on contemporary American cuisine and craft cocktails. The menu features creative dishes like truffle fries, gourmet burgers, and fresh seafood, all prepared with high-quality ingredients. The lively atmosphere and stylish decor make it a popular spot for socializing and enjoying a night out. American Social is a great choice for a pre-event dinner or a late-night cocktail.
Bars and Pubs with Delicious Bites
Sometimes, you want a lively atmosphere, great drinks, and tasty food all in one place. The bars and pubs near Amalie Arena offer the perfect combination of all three. These are great spots to grab a pre-game drink and a bite to eat or to wind down after a concert with friends.
Hattricks Tavern is a popular sports bar known for its casual atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and delicious bar food. The menu features classic pub fare like wings, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, all at affordable prices. Hattricks is a favorite spot for Lightning fans, so expect a lively crowd on game nights. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to hang out and watch the game.
Yeoman’s Cask & Lion, a British-inspired pub, offers a unique and charming atmosphere with a wide selection of beers, ales, and spirits. The menu features traditional pub fare like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash, as well as American favorites. Yeoman’s is a great place to enjoy a hearty meal and a pint of beer in a cozy and inviting setting.
Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Spot
Navigating the culinary landscape around Amalie Arena can be exciting, but it’s helpful to have a few tips in mind to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience.
First and foremost, consider your budget. The restaurants in the area range from affordable fast-casual options to high-end fine dining establishments. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your meal before you start exploring.
Time is also a crucial factor. If you’re in a hurry to get to your event, opt for a quick-bite or fast-casual option. These restaurants are designed to serve food quickly and efficiently. If you have more time to spare, consider a sit-down restaurant where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on event nights. Popular restaurants can fill up quickly, so it’s always a good idea to book a table in advance. This will save you time and ensure that you have a spot at your desired restaurant.
Parking can be challenging around Amalie Arena, especially on event nights. Consider using a ride-sharing service or public transportation to avoid the hassle of finding parking. If you do drive, be sure to check the parking options near your chosen restaurant and the arena.
Keep an eye out for specials, like happy hour deals or pre-event menus. Many restaurants in the area offer discounts and special promotions to attract customers before and after events. Taking advantage of these deals can save you money and enhance your dining experience.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
The food scene around Amalie Arena is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, offering something for every palate and budget. From casual bites to upscale dining, you’re sure to find the perfect culinary experience to complement your event. Explore the options, try something new, and savor the delicious tastes of Tampa! Don’t be afraid to venture out and discover hidden gems – you might just find your new favorite restaurant. The area surrounding Amalie Arena is a culinary playground waiting to be explored. So, whether you’re craving a quick and tasty snack or a luxurious dining experience, prepare your palate and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will make your trip to Amalie Arena truly unforgettable. Now go forth and indulge! No matter your craving, you’re sure to find the perfect culinary accompaniment to your Amalie Arena experience!
