Bernini of Ybor Tampa is a restaurant in the heart of Historic Ybor City, and it's a good choice if you want a sit-down meal with a strong wine list in a historic setting. The restaurant describes itself as an eclectic eatery rather than an impersonal chain, and it aims to pair its cooking with its surroundings without pushing prices out of reach. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, it's built for both lunch and dinner.
The menu covers a broad range of Italian dishes. Examples include Eggplant smothered in house-made Pomodoro sauce with Fresh Pecorino Romano cheese, a half Crispy Duck with Dried Cherry and Vanilla Chianti Demi-Glace, and a daily fresh Pistachio Crusted Gulf Grouper with Marsala Brown Butter Sauce. Gluten-free items are also available, so ask your server if you have dietary needs.
What to Expect at Bernini of Ybor in Tampa
The restaurant pairs its food with a fully stocked bar that includes top shelf liquors, crafted cocktails, and an extensive wine list. The business says it has one of the most impressive wine lists in the Bay area, so it's worth browsing if wine is part of your plans. Reservations are strongly recommended, and there is no dress code, so the atmosphere works for a casual lunch as well as a dinner out.
The Italian restaurant in Ybor City also has a few regular specials. Skyy Martinis are every day from 11:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Pastas and entrées are half off every day from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friends and neighbors can ask their server about a food discount.
Bernini of Ybor has been running in Ybor City for over 30 years, and the restaurant's leadership comes from a long line of Tampa restaurant owners. Owner Jason Fernandez, a fourth-generation Tampa native, brings experience from restaurants including Commander's Palace in New Orleans and Wolfgang Puck's restaurants in California and Las Vegas before returning to Tampa to take on Bernini.
Planning Your Visit: Hours and Contact
Bernini of Ybor is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Current hours are:
- Monday and Tuesday through Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The restaurant is located at 1702 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605. To make a reservation or ask about a private party, call (813) 242-9555. Hours can change, so call ahead to confirm before you visit, especially for a holiday or a large group.
The website at berniniofybor.com includes the lunch and dinner menus, specials, and catering information. If you're planning an event, the restaurant also offers catering and private parties, and you can contact them at the same phone number to talk through details.
Tips Before You Go
For the Italian restaurant in Ybor City you're considering, I'd call (813) 242-9555 before you go, since reservations are strongly recommended and hours can shift. If you want the drink specials, plan to arrive before 7 p.m. for the Skyy Martinis or between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. for half-off pastas and entrées. Checking the menus on the website before you go will also help you choose dishes ahead of time.
