What’s the best recipe for a perfect date night? Good company, great cocktails, delicious food and gorgeous views. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Tampa Bay that are definitely worth trying, but rooftop bars are taking over our city and for good reason. What’s a better way to end a romantic evening with one of Florida’s iconic sunsets over the bay area? Whether you’re trying to impress your significant other or just trying to treat yourself, take in the breathtaking city views or beach sunsets at these rooftop bars. Be aware that some of these spots are known for upscale dining, so don’t try to walk in after a day at the beach.
Because the amazing views expand all over the bay, we arranged our list in two categories: Tampa rooftop bars and St. Pete/Clearwater rooftop bars. This way you can plan you perfect date night without having to travel all around town.
Did your favorite make the list?
Tampa Rooftop Bars
1.) SiX at JW Marriott
SiX is one of the newest editions to downtown Tampa. Experience an elevated bistro on the sixth floor of the all-new JW Marriott Tampa. You can find intoxicating views of downtown Tampa while enjoying a lovely outdoor ambiance and chef-crafted specialties. It sounds super fancy, but the dress code on the website says casual wear is okay.2.) M.Bird at Armature Works
Armature Works has quickly become a favorite Tampa hot spot since opening in 2018. The newest edition to the food hall is the rooftop bar M.Bird, which offers waterfront views of Tampa’s ever-growing cityscape. Rain or shine, you can enjoy M.Bird’s strong and fruity cocktails under their covered patio. Head there on a Friday night and dance the night away with a dj set starting at 9 p.m.3.) Sal Y Mar
Located in the quickly developing Midtown Tampa, Sal Y Mar features fine dining Latin cuisine, 4,900 square feet of indoor and outdoor seating, and 360-degree views of the Tampa, Westshore, and St. Petersburg skylines. Head up to the 7th floor of the Dual branded Aloft and Element hotel to take in the newest Tampa edition. Note that this spot requires a smart casual or business casual dress code. No street wear or sportswear permitted.4.) Luna Lounge at Bulla
Set in the heart of the trendy Soho and Hyde Park neighborhood, Bulla Gastrobar Tampa has an electrifying atmosphere and is a great addition to Tampa’s restaurants. Head there for brunch, lunch, happy hour or dinner. Located on the fifth level of the Morrison building in Tampa’s south Howard corridor.5.) Edge Rooftop Cocktail Lounge
Across from the iconic Bern’s restaurants is The Epicurean Hotel, head to the top floor to experience the Edge Rooftop Cocktail Lounge. Indulge in crafted cocktails using the freshest fruits, herbs and spices and small plates that feature a European twist. Open till 1 a.m. on the weekends, this is a perfect spot to take your date for a night cap while enjoying the vibrant mood.St. Pete/Clearwater Rooftop Bars
1.) The Canopy at the Birchwood
When we think of rooftop bars in St. Pete the iconic Canopy is the first that comes to mind. Known for their signature Frosé and private canopy areas, this is the perfect spot to relax on a summer day. Note they do not allow reservations for the rooftop and all seating is first come-first served.2.) Pier Teaki
One of St. Pete’s newest additions. Perched high above Tampa on the new and improved St. Pete Pier is Pier Teaki, an upscale tiki bar with panoramic views of the bay. Seriously, it is highly recommended that you catch a sunset here at least once!3.) Level 11 Rooftop Bar & Lounge
From signature cocktails to stunning sunset views, Level 11 Rooftop Bar & Lounge is the place to be on St. Pete Beach. Jump into a vacation state of mind at this rooftop bar with gorgeous views of the Gulf Of Mexico. Located on the 11th floor of the Bellwether Beach Resort (formerly the Grand Plaza Hotel) in St. Pete Beach. Also, be aware that Level 11 does not accept reservations. Above the open-air rooftop bar you also find Spinners Rooftop Grille, the only revolving restaurant in the Tampa Bay area.
4.) Vantage Rooftop Bar
Chill out in a climate-controlled rooftop retreat and unwind in style. This rooftop hideaway features artisan cocktails, local craft beers and tapas to share. Located on the 12th floor of the Karol Hotel in Clearwater beach.5.) Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar
Located at the iconic Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, this rooftop Dunedin bar brings cocktails to new heights. Hi-Fi is a mix of modern resort vibes with a Florida twist. It’s the best spot to catch a post-beach drink and watch the sunset.6.) Rusty Lyon
If you like bourbon and bar bites, this is the spot for you. Opened in Fall 2018, Rusty Lyon is located right in downtown Dunedin. This is by far the most casual rooftop spot you can find in the city. Although it’s not known for the best sunset views, you should still stop in for $3 happy hour deals or check out their weekly specials.
Best Espresso Martinis In Tampa Bay
#1. Timpano
Winner of Tampa Magazine’s 2022 Best of South Tampa’s Best Espresso Martini. Their version is more on the classic side: Stoli vanilla vodka, Kahlúa, Baileys, and Espresso. Don’t mess with a classic.
#2. OLIVIA
Enjoy an evening over craft cocktails at the open bar as you relax with friends and family at OLIVIA. Their espresso martini takes a twist using Stoli vodka, Godiva Chocolate, Espresso, and Frangelico.
#3. The Saint
Lurking behind a discrete, unassuming entryway on a side street in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg, awaits an unrivaled cocktail experience. They have a whole drink menu named after each deadly sin! Their espresso martini game is a step above the rest by using: Grey Goose vodka, Bacardi Cuatro, Borghetti Espresso Liqueur, simple syrup and coffee powder.
#4. Mandarin Heights
Noted on Florida Rentals for one of the top 8 spots to get an espresso martini in Florida, this Seminole Heights gem creates a new menu each Tuesday for guests to experience.
#5. Ciro's
At Ciro’s in Tampa, you won’t find the usual vodka espresso cocktail. Their version is made up of Jameson Stout, Borghetti Espresso Liqueur, vanilla, cream
#6. Copper Shaker
Found in St. Pete and Ybor, this hidden gem has one of the best espresso martini’s in town. Crafted with home-made cold brew, espresso-infused Wodka Vodka, complemented by a silky sweet dash of Creme de Cacao. *Tries not to drool.*
#7. The C House
Another Seminole Heights fav, every menu item at this spot is going to start with the letter ‘C.’ So be on the lookout for the “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop” cocktail. Their signature drink is made of: Van Gogh Vanilla vodka, espresso, and Café Borghetti Espresso Liqueur.
#8. Mint
This tropical getaway is located by USF so you know the nightlife is poppin. Their espresso martini is known on their menu as “Havana Nights” and takes a Tampa twist with it. This signature cocktail is made of Brugal 1888, Miami Club Cuban Coffee Rum, and espresso syrup.
#9. CW Gin Join
Located in downtown Tampa, this classy spot is known solely for Gin focused cocktails, and their espresso martini is top notch. Made with Nikka Coffee Gin, Green Chartreuse, Luxardo Maraschino, and a hint of citrus.
#10. Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill is a Florida favorite. Everyone loves their iconic Bang Bang shrimp, but I bet you didn’t know about their incredible handcrafted martini’s. Their signature cocktail is made of vanilla vodka, Kahlúa, Crème de Cacao and fresh-brewed
espresso.#11. M.Bird at Armature Works
Last but certainly not least on our list is M.Bird at Armature Works. Take in the gorgeous Tampa views at this rooftop location and enjoy their must-try espresso cocktail: Santa Teresa, Amaro Averna, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, cold brew, orgeat, grated coconut and a coffee powder swirl.