Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Ellenton

Our 4 person group started off at the outside bar while waiting for out table. The cocktails were just ok. Nothing outstanding but they also had a good wine selection. The baked oysters were very dry and hard to remove from the shell. Not juicy at all but very dry. The fried green tomatoes and pork belly were a big hit. The dinner selections were tasty. I had the pompano dish and it was great. The native chili was dry as well. It was meaty but also very dry and lacked moisture or sauce. The desserts were good except the whisky butter cake with blackberries came with 1 blackberry and it was cut in half. I wish it had more berries or some blackberry compote to go with it. Overall nice meal with some improvements to be had on some dishes. I would recommend this place especially with the nighttime ambiance.

Whenever we find ourselves in the area, Pier 22 is our top choice for dining. It consistently exceeds our expectations. The breathtaking view of the water sets the perfect backdrop for our meals, and the food is always a delightful experience, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The service is equally impressive—attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. It truly is a standout spot that never lets us down.

We had another wonderful dining experience at Michael's on East, and because of the delightful weather we enjoyed our meal in the lovely outdoor atrium beneath the twinkling lights We decided on the monthly Epicurean menu, so this month we enjoyed menu options inspired by the cuisine of South Africa - what a treat! We always enjoy the regular menu options, but it is so special to be able to enjoy flavors from around the world as an alternative. The food, as always, was freshly prepared to order and every bite was delicious. The recommended wine pairings made the perfect match The service at Michael's on East is always wonderful, and this time was no exception - so many thanks to Freddy, Katie and the rest of the team for a wonderful service that added greatly to our enjoyment of the evening.

Great view huge patio on water. Attentive staff. Great food not pricey for water view. Loved my seafood Cobb salad with shrimp and lobster

Haven in Tampa exceeded all our expectations! From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was inviting and chic, especially in the bar area—it’s beautifully designed and perfect for enjoying a drink. Speaking of drinks, the Berns cappuccino was an absolute highlight, with rich flavors that were perfectly balanced. The Brussels sprouts were phenomenal, easily one of the best dishes of the night. They were so well-prepared, packed with flavor, and left a lasting impression. Our waiter made the evening truly unforgettable, delivering impeccable service with a warm and attentive attitude. They went out of their way to make my wife feel special on her birthday, adding a personal touch that elevated our experience. We’d give our server a 10 out of 5 if we could! Haven is a spot I’d wholeheartedly recommend for any occasion—whether a casual evening out or a special celebration. We can’t wait to return!