Ulele image

Ulele

Restaurant Bar American restaurant Event venue Native american restaurant

One of the Most Reviewed American restaurants in Tampa


Address

1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602

Website

ulele.com

Contact

(813) 999-4952

Price rating

$$$ $

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (8.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 11 AM to 11 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Monday: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM to 11 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: great (47) good (36) Ulele (30) time (29) experience (24) delicious (24) service (21) restaurant (19) server (15) nice (15)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Alain J. 2 years ago on Google
    Some friends invited my wife and I here for dinner on a Friday evening, but we had no idea what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised in so many ways throughout the dinner and we had a great time. I had the opportunity to try so many different interesting meats that I've only heard about before in one dish, the chili. I was able to try boar meat, venison, alligator meat and a few other exotic meats. I was sure how it would taste with so many things in there, but it turned out good. My server recommended having the chili with the jalapeno muffins and I was not disappointed. The gator bites were also pretty good; a little bit crispy but soft without being mushy. My wife's shrimp dish was really good as well and everyone at the table seemed to have enjoyed their food. I went with my wife and some friends, but this is a pretty good spot for a date or date night. Unfortunately we couldn't sit outside without a reservation, but the sunset we saw from our table was beautiful. Certainly a great experience overall, from food, service, ambience, and location. With the right planning, someone could have a beautiful water view date at this place.
    28 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gem L. 2 months ago on Google • 217 reviews New
    We were visiting and went here for the first time. I chose this place based on the reviews and menu. Pleased to say that it met my expectations. The food was well seasoned and everything tasted great. I got the pompano which came with fried carrots - these were so good and added another layer of texture (crunchy component) to the dish. The green beans seasonal veg was cooked well. Oysters were fresh. Make sure to get reservations if you can. We went Sunday night at around 7 pm and it was packed. We sat indoors but the weather was nice to sit outdoors too. Our table was close to the outdoor area by the river and felt it was a good location. Our server was friendly and professional. He gave us recommendations for beverages. I wanted to try their brewed beers. Not usually a beer drinker but the porter converted me.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sergio G. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome experience for my first time. I loved the food and ambiance. This place had a large indoor sit down area but also had a huge open air campus right by the water. You could come here hundreds of times and experience a new way to enjoy it every time. The food was delicious and well portioned. Drinks and food very decently priced and affordable in my opinion. Would definitely come back anytime I find myself in Tampa again!
    13 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah E. 2 months ago on Google • 154 reviews New
    This was my first time at Ulele after hearing so much about it. It was busy on this particular night. My group met there for our annual book club celebration and what a great choice it was. The food was fantastic and well seasoned. There wasn’t one item I regret trying. I do want to mention that the price was a bit on the higher price point. So keep this in mind as you are making plans to eat there. The ambiance was fantastic and the service was fantastic. Our server was very helpful and offered great suggestions. We ate outside so I am not sure what the inside is like. I will certainly be back to try more items from the menu.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Genevieve K. 1 year ago on Google
    The freshness and uniqueness of the food was great. Service was quick and friendly. The fried okra fingers as an appetizer was a nice surprise, while the Captain's shrimp was bursting with flavor. Blackened redfish with wild rice was fantastic, as well as the roasted chicken with spinach and risotto. Their unusual drink (Ring of Fire) made with fire ant vodka got the taste buds tingling. The pineapple bread pudding with coconut ice cream was to die for. Overall, an interesting sample of unusual yet delicious flavors.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian K. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing restaurant! We went while visiting family and the area is beyond nice and fun. So much to do and all walking distance. I recommend eating outside so you can enjoy the views. Food was out of this world and no complaints. Chardonnay was great as was my margarita to go! I had the Cobb salad and it was great! A little extra on the dressing but it was wonderful.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stacey V. 2 months ago on Google • 115 reviews New
    Make the reservation and enjoy the experience. The food was amazing. Berci, our server was super nice and oh so helpful. The atmosphere was absolutely astounding. I would advise you to sit outside to take it all in.

  • 5/5 Conor L. 1 month ago on Google • 115 reviews New
    Honestly my favorite restaurant of all time. The folks at Ulele do it right. Whether it is surf, turf, or others, ingredients are strikingly fresh and of high quality. We have been here twice and each time every dish has been scrumptious and extremely well executed. We have never been even a bit disappointed. Food is pricey, but not as bad as other restaurants of similar (but less consistently good) quality. Cuisine is inspired by Seminole tradition. The atmosphere is en pont, located right near the scenic river walk, and sporting an upscale industrial vibe. Servers are knowledgeable, pleasant, and efficient. Furthermore, Ulele brews its own beer and makes its own ice cream and condiments in house, and at a HIGH level! I Highly recommend.

  • 4/5 Nav S. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing experience this evening at Ulele. We’ve been trying to get a reservation at this restaurant for the past couple days while visiting Tampa to no avail. I even questioned the 9k reviews on Apple Maps so had to witness for myself. The hostess couldn’t seat us due to limited availability and mentioned that they had to move everyone inside this evening due to the inclement weather. We decided to take our chances anyway given it was our son’s birthday. We were able to get a seat at the rear counter and our waiter Joe was very hospitable and accommodating. Tables were starting to become available but we were never offered one and hence the four star rating. As for the ambiance and food, it’s definitely worth the visit. Very attentive and prompt service. The food is very flavorful but it’s not your typical healthy choices. I presume people go here for the ambiance and view which we couldn’t experience since it was late. The cocktails are ok and the calamari and oysters were as expected - more like comfort level food rather that exceptional or creative chef inspired - good flavor though. Joe our waiter was exceptional and made us feel comfortable and special so the service is above standard from the staff. The kitchen is very well managed and seems efficient with over two dozen kitchen staff on a Sunday evening. I wish the hostess was more considerate in making sure we had a seat when many became available. Planning to dine here on a busy day then expect to stand or sit at the bar if you don’t have a reservation.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Kat C. 2 months ago on Google • 87 reviews New
    I've given this more thought and have updated my review. I was really excited about this place. I'm a big fan of the Columbia Restaurant Group and the menu looked outstanding. But the truth is all our seafood was overcooked and/or dry. If it happened to one dish, or even one course, that could be a fluke. But it happened to our appetizers and our entrees, including one entree that contained several varieties of seafood. The cocktails were decent and the jalapeno bread is good, but I wouldn't come back just for that. If we're in the area, maybe we'll give them another chance, but I wouldn't go out of your way to eat here.

  • 5/5 Mike V. 1 year ago on Google
    You don't hear of "native Floridian" food often, nor does it inspire much confidence, but Ulele delivers. The venue itself is beautiful, both indoors and outdoors. The service was top notch, and although our waitress had only been there a few weeks, she was still very knowledgeable and able to answer any questions we had. The brewery on site is a nice touch as well. Most importantly, the food was well seasoned, well cooked, and presented very well. I would have happily went back the next day.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ardi 2 years ago on Google
    I have dined in Ulele multiple and it has never disappointed. It has bar seating inside and outside (with heater, if needed), indoor seating at two levels, and outdoor seating. There is a Parking nearby or use Vale parking ( make sure the vale ticket gets stamped by staff). Reservation is a must and probably a few days in advance for busy times such as evenings. Great variety of alcoholic beverages including Ulele specials are available. I have tried not to miss char broiled oysters, they are prepared in open fire in the kitchen. They are delicious. Today some were not plump, ? Due to season or other reasons. Wish they were plumper and meatier. We also tried snapper, calamari and Ulele burger all excellent. I would say noise level is moderate and you find warm vibe. Good place for group of friends and colleagues, families and dates 😉for a party of two you will end up 80-120$ on average. overall satisfied with the service and quality of food and beverages.👍🏼
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 El R. 3 months ago on Google • 34 reviews New
    I highly recommend this place. An overall great experience. I had the Seafood Risotto and the Jalapeno Corn Beer Muffins-- both a must try. Their portion sizes are great for the prices. I was not disappointed. Service was wonderful; Jacob was marvelous! Great place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 erin s. 3 months ago on Google • 33 reviews New
    I work in restaurants so I may be a little picky. I'm also not much of a seafood person but a friend wanted to go. She got a stone crab which was pretty pricey for just an appetizer. I've been to places where stone crab was offered with sides for that price but it was good. I had the steak. It was delicious and worth the price for me. The waitress was nice but possibly new. Forgot the crackers for the crab, water after asking for them, and my friends side of roasted corn came as we were finishing up the meal. The atmosphere is industrial, lots of windows and clean. I bet it's great in the summer but it was freezing inside. I would probably go back for a drink at the outside bar but not for a full meal again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Angie S. 1 year ago on Google
    We came here for lunch with the family. The hostess in the front was great and service was just ok. He wasn't as attentive as the others seemed to be. The food was good but not as good as the last time I had gone a year ago. The charbroiled oysters were less flavorful and more salty this time but good. The Mac and cheese was great. The Gouda grouper and mushroom were also good but since its a similar base only the protein was different and the flavors were similar. I got the lobster roll but wouldn't get it again next time as their wasn't much flavor and it was overcooked. Their house beer was fantastic.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tena A. 9 months ago on Google
    This was my first time here, and I made online reservations for a birthday for two. We checked in and the host was a doll and so polite. She then sat us outside which was the most beautiful scenic place I think I've ever been to. Raven was our waitress, and she was amazing. The food was wonderful. You know how nice it is to have great food and a great scenery in the same place. Eating outside is most definitely the way to go when the sun is shining and the wind is blowing. We had three people separately come and tell my father Happy Birthday and actually had a conversation with him. I found out one was the owner. That made me smile really big. We will definitely be going back often.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Karla A. 11 months ago on Google
    I was highly impressed but this place. The service was exceptional and the service was amazing. They have great options and a variety of seafood options. It’s in a great location and it was a great place to go with friends. It’s a nice area to walk around after your meal. Will definitely be going back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ERICA1908 9 months ago on Google
    Great place! Food delicious. Atmosphere pleasant alongside the decor and artwork. We actually stumbled upon this hidden jewel after deciding not to sit outside at a neighboring restaurant that was severely understaffed. Ulele exceeded our expectations. The wait time for sitting was short, and the restrooms were clean. They even have 2 bigger separate bathrooms and a hand washing station outside the normal restrooms as an option. A must try.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Susan M. 9 months ago on Google
    One of our favorite restaurants in Tampa! Fresh Delicious food in a sophisticated atmosphere with exceptional service with a smile. Everything is delicious especially the grilled oysters, which is a must! Everything on the menu is fresh, delicious and made to perfection. The cornbread is amazing and you must try their signature icecreams. Drinks are on point as well. Sitting outside is nice weather permitting!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Todd H. 7 months ago on Google
    So it's my mother's 77th birthday. And I knew I had to do something special. So after researching and reviewing restaurants 2 weeks prior I came to the conclusion I had to come. Reason is the outdoor statues that were from Lowery park zoo, my mother took me there for the first time 50 years ago and I knew it would be a full circle moment. I made a reservation we showed up on time. We were seated promptly. We had a lot of questions that the server was more than helpful with us. We ordered appetizers, we ordered entrees and we order desserts, (which we never do) everything was wonderful.. And because it was her birthday, they gave her a birthday card signed by the entire staff and 4 housemaid truffles. I thank you very much to the staff and be assured we will be back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Veronica G. 7 months ago on Google
    The food and service was great our server was great he gave us many recommendations which we enjoyed, the atmosphere was great the place is really nice we had a great experience and will be coming back! Love the house made berry’s beer
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 My L. 6 months ago on Google
    Wow! Shoutout to James! He’s such an amazing, friendly, and welcoming server. He gave me a few post cards for my fridge and let us know the history of Ulele. But, the food is so tasty and delicious! Very flavorful and savory. I love the location and it has a small fresh water spring outside. The decorations is so beautiful and full of history! Such an amazing restaurant and must come when you’re in downtown Tampa.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Luis Enrique G. 6 months ago on Google
    Ulele is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the area of Tampa, because everything is really well compensated: The atmosphere, the service and the food. The atmosphere is perfectly good, the perfect light to make the space cossy, decor, restaurant setup. The 5 stars service from start to end, and the last, but not less, the food was spectacularly good. You guys are doing a great job. I recommend this place a 100%
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adrianna B. 5 months ago on Google
    I had a WONDERFUL experience at Ulele! The ambiance was so nice, not too crowded and loved the open dining concept. The service was amazing; quick and helpful. And the food?? I can't even begin to explain how every dish was made and seasoned to perfection!! I am looking forward to coming back very soon and can't wait to try other the other dishes!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Darla B. 4 months ago on Google
    Had a nice afternoon lunch. Atmosphere is great. Relaxed and comfortable with a high class restaurant feel. The food was okay. Honestly was disappointed with it. The food looked good. The rice was starchy not cooked all the way maybe. Flavor was lackluster.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 dorisyong 5 months ago on Google
    Finally, a restaurant that makes me feel I am in Florida! This place should definitely be recommended. Kudos to Nick too who served us with his impressive knowledge of alcohol pairings. Both indoor and outdoor seatings have their own allure. Indoor seating gives a view of the passionate open kitchen concept. Outdoor seating will place you in a magical landscape decorated with sculptures and fairy tale paraphernalia.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Robert N. 2 years ago on Google
    There is a lot to like about this place. Fantastic location, great food and relaxing ambiance. Highly recommended. A delightful lunch in an indoor open air environment. I had the native chili, which boasts having gator, duck, boar and venison, the grilled oysters, Seared Scallops and a Shrimp Po Boy. The star was the chili, it was superb. I detected 4 distinct meat textures. The broiled oysters also met my expectations, a very tasty treat. The scallops were perfectly cooked, well presented and delicious. The lost star is because the Shrimp Po Boy missed the mark. Less batter, more flavor and while I like amoroso rolls, the bread could not hold up, even with 2 large skewers, to the sandwich and was falling apsrt as I ate it. Ulele is a great place to slide into another vibe. Next visit I will delve into a more beefy dish course where Ulele can regain the lost star.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lisa V. 10 months ago on Google
    We celebrated my husband’s birthday dinner here with our children and his family. We dined on the patio and it was the perfect environment; they had large fans to help with the heat, were very friendly towards children. We ordered the children’s mac & cheese, seafood risotto, grouper, salad, charbroiled oysters, jalapeño corn muffins. Everything tasted amazing and I would highly recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shawn B. 7 months ago on Google
    Ulele is an incredible dining establishment that offers fantastic food, friendly staff, and a great atmosphere. The menu is diverse and delicious, with each dish prepared with care. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making your visit enjoyable from start to finish. The restaurant's inviting ambiance adds to the overall experience. I highly recommend Ulele for a wonderful dining experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Syrlane A. 1 year ago on Google
    We went to Ulele on Sunday and we had the most perfect lunch. My drink was Ring of Fire, super delicious. We started with fried okra as appetizers, and let me tell you, it was perfect. My main dish was the Florida Pompano "Pallardy" - it is MARVELOUS!! It is a great portion, so make sure you go there when you are hungry. Staff was awesome and the place is so beautiful (we stayed outside). We will go back because Ulele is a keeper!

  • 5/5 Paul J. 1 year ago on Google
    First time here. Good atmosphere and very good service. They offer their own craft beers which were good. Had the Pork Shank. It was good but I probably would try something else next time. We also ordered the red fish which was very good as were the alligator hush puppies.

  • 4/5 Sandra L. 2 years ago on Google
    I give a 3 stars for the food but 5 stars for atmosphere so I went with an overall 4 stars. The outdoor seating area is beautiful and they have heating lamps. The cocktails were good particularly the mojito as it wasn’t too sweet but I couldn’t taste any liquor, the drink needed to be stronger. The okra fries were the highlight of our meal, everything went downhill from there food wise. The meatloaf I was told was the most popular ordered item but it was so disappointing, it didn’t even taste like real meat and I struggled to finish my meal. The three sisters salad was fresh but lacked any flavor, I could barley taste the dressing. I would suggest coming here for drinks and an appetizer, maybe have a meal elsewhere

  • 4/5 Jaxx G. 1 year ago on Google
    Service was good. Busy on Sunday dinner rush. Ambiance was great. They have out door seating ,indoor and upstairs seating. We started with the calamari which was delicious along with the sauce for dipping. I had the short rib with mashed potatoes. Both delicious, the short rib melted in my mouth and the mashed potatoes were perfect (I don’t normally get mashed potatoes). My husband got the tommyhawk pork chop which also melted in your mouth. Dessert we had the maple bacon ice cream. It was good , but probably needed more bacon for flavor as you couldn’t really taste the bacon in the flavor. My husband said the ice cream was perfect. We can’t wait to go back and try other dishes!

  • 5/5 Robert R. 5 months ago on Google
    The best meal I have ever eaten. Everything we had from the fried green tomatoes to the pompano to the bourbon cake was exceptional. The staff are very accommodating, kind, and attentive. Even on a busy Saturday we were made to feel like VIP's. Highly recommended.

  • 3/5 Victoria B. 1 year ago on Google
    Went there for the first time with my boyfriend and a friend of ours. We made a reservation in advance for 7:30 pm dinner so we didn't have to wait more than 5 minutes before we got seated. Overall, the food was fine for the most part. The alligator hush puppies fell flat for the group overall didn't seem like there was much alligator, mostly hush puppy. Calamari was pretty good, but super salty unfortunately. The stuffed mushroom was good (from what I was told, it was our friend who got it so I didn't try any). Also the crab Mac n cheese was reported to be quite tasty as well. Lastly, the wedge salad that I got was fine, dish was presented nicely, and as far as price goes definitely one of the more budget friendly options for dinner ($12), but probably not something I would order again as it didn't stand out particularly. The main star of the show was the pork shank that my bf got (not included in the pictures). The meat was super tender, fall off the bone, sauce was divine (sweet, but savory), mashed potatoes were delicious. Only downside to the dish was that my bf said the green beans were a tad on the salty side. Lastly, waiter that took care of us was super friendly and attentive! In summary, I would say if you're looking for a nice outdoor dining scenery/experience (the restaurant had a mirad of fantasy wonderland-esque inspired decor on the outside), then I would say this place would be great to just come in and relax.

  • 5/5 Mariah R. 5 months ago on Google
    I have been to Ulele every time I visit Tampa and I've consistently had a 5 star experience. I am planning on moving to the area soon and when our waitress, Liz, found this out she went above and beyond to make me feel celebrated and welcomed to the area by giving me a signed note by staff and decadent, yummy chocolates. Little acts of kindness and service like this will always keep me coming back for more delicious food and good vibes.

  • 5/5 Gabrielle A. 1 year ago on Google
    We had such a great experience here. The food was great, coastal casual atmosphere but upscale, perfect for a celebratory meal. I'll def recommend my family bring out of town guests here, too. Seafood dishes were so so good. Portions were generous, next time I'll try to save more room for dessert! Took a walk on the riverfront to wiggle down our meal, such a nice location!

  • 5/5 yiwen 2 months ago on Google • 17 reviews New
    There was a ambience was marvelous and our server fantastic. Very accommodating. The calamari and charbroiled oysters were too salty for my taste the calamari was pretty lemony (I’d like try the raw oysters next time), but i’d really recommend the pompano, it was delicious! The three sister’s salad was okay. We also had the pineapple bread pudding which was a little heavy, but tasted good. The little one got mac and cheese and enjoyed it. Overall a lovely experience! They have valet for parking but other than that it is pretty hard to find parking on the weekends.

  • 5/5 Tom M. 2 years ago on Google
    Incredible food selection of interesting recipes. Food quality and quantity were both excellent. 10 of us went together and everyone was happy with their meals. Service from Dan was first class. The building and grounds are park-like with several interesting sculptures and the property is located on Tampa's Riverwalk. A great outing!

  • 5/5 Kingston K. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful restaurant with the food to match! We stopped in for lunch and were quite impressed. Bar and drinks were creative and very tasty. Bar staff was friendly and attentive. Would love to stop back if we are ever in the area again.

  • 5/5 Michele M. 2 years ago on Google
    We went to Armature Works and decided to give Ulele a try. We weren't very hungry so decided on appetizers and a cold drink. We had the Parmesan Baked Oysters and Fried Calamari, both were very good. The atmosphere was festive and everyone appeared to be having a great time. The Wait staff were very accommodating and pleasant. The statues on the ground were well done and the upstairs should be checked out as well. We will be back!

  • 4/5 Christina P. 2 years ago on Google
    Tried quite a few appetizers and the mahi mahi. The fried gator tail bites were the best thing we had all night. I didn’t care for the sauce with calamari at all. The rest of the food was good but not great. The mahi mahi was cooked perfectly but over all the dish fell a little flat. I expected better flavors/seasoning considering the price point. Our server was great! Very prompt and checked on us often. I liked the option to pay via QR code on the receipt so we didn’t have to wait for the server to run the cards and come back.

  • 5/5 Mary Jo H. 2 years ago on Google
    We had a wonderful time here. The food was delicious and we had great service. We sat outside and had a great view of the river and park. I had the Water Works Wedge salad. It was unique and delicious. The corn salsa on it gave it just the right touch. The snapper was mild and had great flavor. We will definitely return. There were so many dishes on the menu that I want to try.

  • 5/5 Tee O. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful scenery and delicious food. We were told everyone came for the charbroiled oysters, so we had to try it. It was just okay. Didn't really leave an impression on us. But our meal overall was great. My daughter had the seafood risotto and I had the shrimp criollo. Both were very delicious. Will definitely come back.

  • 5/5 Nancy C. 6 months ago on Google
    We had an absolutely fabulous experience at Ulele during our visit to Tampa. The service was great. Sarah was a fantastic server; so much personality! On our second visit, Michael was so friendly. The food was beyond delicious on both visits. Love the wine and bourbon selection! We can’t say enough about Mike, the General Manager. He was so friendly and outgoing, and made us feel special. We had special beverage sample on our first visit and on our second visit, he helped us “stage” a great picture for my husband! His personality and hospitality are a definite asset to the restaurant. Hats off to Ulele and it’s staff!!!!

  • 5/5 Saahil P. 6 months ago on Google
    We had a great time! I tried the Florida mojito and it was a fun twist using Orange Liqueur instead of rum. We also tried the fried okra and the jalapeno corn muffins and they were so good! 10/10 The desserts blew us away as well. The key lime pie, and pineapple bread pudding were absolutely delicious.

  • 5/5 Brian G. 7 months ago on Google
    Xena was a terrific server and made our meal more enjoyable. Food is excellent, pricey but very tasty and generous portions. Free parking, but a good walk to the restaurant.

  • 5/5 Karina U. 7 months ago on Google
    It was my first time here at Ulele. Amazing place to spend with friends, family or with your partner. The food is delicious 😋. Michael, our server, was very professional and attentive. I will highly recommend Ulele to anyone who visits Downtown Tampa for the first time.

  • 5/5 Abrar S. 1 year ago on Google
    "I had the pleasure of dining at Ulele, and let me tell you, it was a culinary journey that set my taste buds on fire! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that made it feel exotic . The decor was tasteful and stylish, and the lighting created the perfect ambiance for a memorable meal. Now, let's talk about the food. It was nothing short of amazing! Every dish that came out of the kitchen was a masterpiece, packed with flavor and beautifully presented. The menu offered a fantastic range of options, from classic comfort food to more daring and exotic dishes that pushed the boundaries of my palate. it was an explosion of flavors that left me craving for more! The service was also top-notch. Our waiter was attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to make sure we had the best possible experience. I appreciated the attention to detail, like the frequent refills of drinks and water. Overall, I can't recommend Ulele enough for those who are looking for a little heat in their dining experience. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, this restaurant is the perfect choice. I can't wait to come back and try more of the menu, and see what new spicy surprises they have in store!". Thanks guys for making it a memorable experience.

  • 5/5 Jessica G. 8 months ago on Google
    This is my favorite restaurant in the Tampa area! I travel all the way from Houston, and always have to stop here to eat! From the appetizers, to the desserts, everything is 10 out of 10! Food is served elegantly and cooked perfectly. This really is great food, every time! Our waitress was also nice and attentive. Seafood risotto was amazing! The pineapple bread pudding was also so divine, Def. recommended!

  • 5/5 Susan S. 8 months ago on Google
    It was fantastic😃. However, my steak was cook a little to much. And a sprinkle of sea salt could have finished off the green beans. Liz was great along with her funny self. 💚

  • 4/5 Lauren H. 8 months ago on Google
    My boyfriend made a reservation for my birthday at Ulele. Our waitress was excellent and very knowledgeable. The food was amazing, I had a seafood risotto, I highly recommend. The only downside was they don't really advertise the free valet/parking to their customers which was unfortunate for us because we just paid and parked on the street. So definitely take advantage of the free valet.

  • 5/5 Reginald C. 8 months ago on Google
    I was in Tampa for a conference. I got a lot of recommendations for this restaurant. If you go, take advantage of the complimentary valet. The entrance is inconspicuous but the clue is the valet podium. It was very busy due to the conference but they were still able to offer excellent service. The GM came by a couple of times. Our servers were on point. I tried the oysters, calamari and seafood risotto. The oysters were good for gulf oysters. The calamari was fresh but a little salty for my taste. The seafood risotto was good. Overall it was an enjoyable dining experience. It is definitely worth checking out. I will stop back by next time I come to town.

  • 5/5 Linda B. 2 years ago on Google
    Update 12/21/21: Went with family for the holidays and it was excellent. Loved the food - gator tail apps and charbroiled oysters for for apps, beets & pears salad, snapper, seafood risotto (2) and pork shank - all shared, all so flavorful. Patrick did great getting our changes. We'll be back! Best dining experience in a long time! Start to finish, valet, host, dining area, view, Ricky our excellent server, drinks, apps, entrees, busing, dessert, all was incredible! Can't wait to go back.

  • 5/5 Tasha K. 9 months ago on Google
    A beautiful place with delicious and creative dishes. Get the seafood risotto! Bacon ice cream is also unique. Make a reservation in advance as they book up quickly inside.

  • 5/5 Jason M. 9 months ago on Google
    We had a fantastic experience at Ulele. From the complimentary valet service to the food, server, and views, it was great all around. I had the Loaded Native Chile and managed to talk my wife into trying it. We both loved it. The Calamari was good, and the sauce that comes with it was spectacular (can I have that recipe?). My wife had the short rib for her entrée, and I had the Gouda Grouper. I would definitely go back for the food. Even better, the wait was very brief with an online reservation, and there were plenty of sights to see in the park next door and a beautiful view of the river from the patio area behind the restaurant. Definitely one of our better eating experiences while vacationing.

  • 5/5 Marilou K. 9 months ago on Google
    a first and definitely not the last….it’s not like I look for flaws in an establishment but this first visit was perfect as soon as I got off the highway. 1) parking lot for it’s customers. I got there early cause I was concerned about parking. Didn’t realize they had that covered. 2) obviously got there early and I didn’t expect early seating - bar options, indoor or outdoor. I did check in and told them which bar we’ll be at 3) bar staff - attentive and friendly. Didn’t even had to ask for water considering the heat outside 4) food - refer to the star rating. I might be daring next time and try the chili. Still can’t get myself to try alligator and it has boar. I’m fine with all the other ingredients.

  • 4/5 Shan R. 9 months ago on Google
    Came here for a dinner date with the hubby. He ordered Salmon with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans. I ordered the pork chop (same sides)talk about a lot of meat. Now let's talk about this bacon ice cream. We hardly ever get dessert but this ice cream is a must-get if you come here And we ordered Gator tail appetizer EVERYTHING WAS GREAT!!!

  • 5/5 M. H. 11 months ago on Google
    Ulele in Tampa is a popular restaurant, and I was excited to try it out to see if it lived up to the hype. To my delight, it did not disappoint. Our waiter was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. The restaurant has a lively open ambiance that can be a bit loud inside, so we opted to sit outside and enjoy the pleasant night air. One unique aspect of the restaurant is the open kitchen concept, which allows diners to watch the chefs at work. However, the highlight of our experience was undoubtedly the food. We ordered the Short Rib and Flank Steak dishes, and both were cooked to perfection with flavorful mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned veggies. Overall, I highly recommend Ulele to anyone in the Tampa area looking for a fantastic dining experience.


Call (813) 999-4952 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed outside
  • Parking
    • ✓️ Valet parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Plenty of parking
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
    • ✓️ Counter service
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Curbside pickup
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as Latino-owned

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