Tampa Bay restaurants are up against quite a bit. Despite rising rents and food costs, pesky inflation and even GLP-1 weight loss medications, local restaurants are still making it happen. And, even though summers are often the slower months for local eateries, Tampa Bay still witnessed a slew of new spots to explore. From new smash burger joints, high-end sushi spots, and elevated Spanish cuisine, what follows are some of the most popular new restaurants to debut in Tampa Bay over the last few months.
Lumbre
A new modern Spanish concept from the folks that brought you Michelin-starred Rocca, Michelin-recognized Bar Terroir, and Michelin Bib Gourmand Streetlight Taco, opened this summer in the North Hyde Park area. Lumbre, the latest concept from local hospitality group Tastes Pretty Good, officially opened its doors on Wednesday, July 15. Located in the Rome Collective development, at 220 N Rome Ave., the new Spanish restaurant is led by Executive Chef and Co-Founder Nick Orr, who previously helmed the kitchen at Rocca. —Colin Wolf…