Don't overthink it -- just make the reservation. Driftlight Steakhouse, is a gem tucked inside the JW Marriott. Every course from the irresistibly fresh oysters to the warm and cozy French onion soup and perfectly cooked filet that reminded you why steakhouses became institutions in the first place. The filet had a perfect crunch sear on it and was cooked exactly to the right temperature. Try the bernaise sauce. Why not? And I must give a special mention to the creamed spinach... honestly unbelievable. I was scraping the dish like it was chocolate ice cream and not even pretending to share. Service sealed the deal. Our waiter, Anthony, was the perfect gentleman and his recommendations didn't miss once. Highly recommend will be returning. read more

Food was good and the service was excellent. Went for dinner and the breakfast buffet during my stay at the JW Marriott where it's located. The presentation and quality were all great. While I would recommend, I did feel it was overpriced for dinner and the steak was not up to expectations for the price. I'm a steak connoisseur and this fell short at the price point. If you really are going for steak try Berns nearby. read more

The great thing about this restaurant is that it's located in the JW Mariott, in walking distance of the Benchmark Arena. So it's a possible option for dinner and a show. The bad part is that the food is over priced and mediocre and service is slow. Our server recommended the bone in ribeye and it was so flavorless and chewy. Bread service should be complimentary for the amount of time you wait, but it's 16 bucks for 4 small rolls. The best thing we ate was the creamed spinach. Parking is validated for 3 hours at half the regular price, so 25 instead of 50. Dress code is business casual, but really, I didn't see anyone checking what people were wearing. I wasn't impressed with anything here. And for 300 bucks for 3 people, I won't return. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Dry, chewy, flavorless bone in ribeye - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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We had a private room for an event at the back. Every time the door opened, the noises were quite loud outside. I liked the cozy room. The waiters were very polite and kept filling up our waters and asking us if we wanted more drinks. The food was very good. Fresh and tasty - I had the fish (only one they ordered it ;) - it was very healthy too with edamame and mushrooms. read more

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Stopped in here last night. Wife and I agreed that the best thing they had going for them was the service. Kristin was very attentive, personable and made good recommendations. The ambiance and upscale was a plus. The food was good. The Korean Fried Chicken was cooked perfectly with crisp, flavor and pizazz. The soy glazed brussel sprouts and collar-flower were amazing. The Shrimp/MacCheese was a little underwhelming. Would definitely go back. Sad we did not save room for desserts as they sounded decadent. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Korean Fried Chicken - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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We have been to all of the top steakhouses and Driftlight is easily in the top 5. The service was top notch. Ashley and Ryan were personable, friendly, super helpful and accommodating. The food and drinks were delicious. They had one of the best French onion soups and crispy Brussels sprouts I've ever had. My steak was cooked perfectly, albeit a little smaller than the competition's and with a very similar price point. Nonetheless, it was enough to split between my husband and I. The decor is modern and a nice size. You also can't beat 3 hours of validated valet parking! I also liked that the bar lounge and Beacon rooftop are just steps away to enjoy after dinner. It feels more like a place to just have dinner rather than a full dining experience you would get from Eddie V's, Fleming's or Meat Market but still worth a visit. read more

this was a five out of five experience. My wife and I had breakfast here the day before our wedding two years ago and we decided to celebrate our wedding anniversary here for dinner. And dinner was just phenomenal! The server was always attended to us and very respectful of our time. They were a great recommendations made for dinner, but honestly anything that you order will knock your socks off! The steaks are so tender, the salad is so crisp, and the salmon was cooked too perfection. We ordered a side of mashed potatoes that was enough to share between the two of us, I definitely recommend adding the truffle butter to the mashed potatoes to give it a extra kick. They gave us dessert as a nice anniversary surprise. read more

This has become my anniversary dinner spot. I love how low-key it is. It is a underrated spot in Tampa and it really deserves five stars. The steak is absolutely phenomenal. I have the Delmonico prepared medium and it's seriously hits every single time. The Caesar salad salad was so fresh and crunchy and they make their own dressing which I really enjoyed. The service was nice and simple very lovely to have and quick. And the ambience just feels like I'm in a hotel. A nice one though I really enjoy it Here will be back. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Crabcake - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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I went solo to try this restaurant out and was greeted with a smile and positive energy from the beginning. I had the NY steak and it was delicious. The service was exceptional and the ambiance was my favorite part. Their cocktails are good as well! read more

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We made a last minute reservation to celebrate our anniversary. Didn't know what to expect here but were pleasantly surprised. This is on the first floor of the JW Marriott Water Street. It was super quiet at 5pm but we were told it picks up around 7. I tried the crab bisque and was very happy with it. The bisque itself was creamy and flavorful. I feel like it was a decent amount of meat. But they put this chili oil in there that gave a nice slow burn. Not a huge kick but it added something and made it stand out. For our meal, we tried the prime rib eye. My husband loved it. I thought it was good, but not great. A tad under-seasoned, a tad dry. Not bad by any means - it was good, I just know it could be better. I really rate the meat by how it stands on its own. However, the sauces made it more enjoyable. We tried the peppercorn (which I thought I would prefer). I can't place why, but I just wouldn't order it again. It's really nothing wrong with it, but after trying their Driftlight sauce - that's the way to go. It has Gochujang in it, and added a pleasant subtle heat. The creamed corn was excellent. The charred broccolini was a little too charred for my taste, but overall everything was pretty good. For our 10 year anniversary, they just popped a handwritten card on the table. Nice it was recognized but a lot of other places go a bit more above and beyond. All that said - they did get us in and out for our dessert reservations elsewhere, so the timing was excellent! I was pleased considering it was a last minute reservation, but I don't think I'd go out of my way except for that crab bisque! I'd be willing to give it another shot though. read more

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Amazing steak house. We tried cocktails too and those were amazing. Crab and lobster cake I would say that would be my favourite. Amazing vibe and nice service. They make sure you are doing good. Love steak and lambchops. I loved the lamb chops. Those gonna be my favourite too. Lots of variety in drinks too. It's in JW Marriott just across the street of Tampa Marriott street. Amazing vibe and must try if you are around in Tampa and love to eat great food. Nice place for foodies read more

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Ate here twice during our stay. Breakfast buffet was horrendous and overpriced. Salmon tasted old. $36+ for the buffet. Dinner was far better. Filet mignon was what you'd expect from a proper steak house. Decent crust, cooked to order. Lacked some flavor. Sides were OK. Seafood Tower was impressive. Best part of the meal. Good service. For the price, they could step up their game. And the breakfast needs to be complete reimagined. Thank You for Your Attention to this Matter read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Filet - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Came for a big birthday party, and the server and service was great! The staff was patient, kind, accommodating, and knowledgeable. The food was definitely worth the buzz! We had a table full of different cuts of steak, premium sides (creamed spinach, creamed corn, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, etc). The champagne cocktail was my favorite drink! Bubbly, refreshing, and full of cognac! The ambiance was classy, intimate, polished, and welcoming. Definitely will come back! read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Menu - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Highly recommend. Had the Burrata and tomato appetizer. Nothing short of heavenly. Entree was the halibut. Super flakey and super fresh. Next time im in Tampa I will be back. read more

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Food was very good, but price wise I'd rather go to Flemings, Ruth Chris, or Capital Grill. Great selection of wines as well. Service was also very good. read more

The service here was impeccable. The wait staff, the management, the sommelier, and the chef all came by the table. The atmosphere is casual fine dining, so it's elegant but not stuffy. As for the food, everything was flavorful and robust. I had the wedge salad, the filet medium rare, and the creamed corn with a spicy old-fashioned. Superb food with exquisite care. read more

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Stopped in here for breakfast during my staycation at the JW Marriott. Waitress immediately served me coffee which I loved. I gave her some options because I couldn't decide what to order and she suggested the Brüléed Toast which was amazing. Combing French Toast with Crème Brûlée is genius and if you love sweets, I recommend trying this option. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Brüléed Toast - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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I was doing a staycation at the JW for Thanksgiving and decided to make a reservation at Driftlight for Thanksgiving dinner. Sometimes on busier holidays you can expect a lack in service at restaurants, but Driftlight is NOT one of them. Our service was exemplary and our food was absolutely delicious. I have been living in Tampa since before the JW was built, but had not visited the restaurant and I was definitely missing out. Thank you to the staff and chefs for a wonderful non-traditional Thanksgiving Dinner! read more

We had a large group come here for dinner with a lot of our coworkers. Our director had made a reservation before hand which I do recommend - although we came on a Thursday night of a big conference. We got seated in the big back table and it was very fancy. The place was a nice vibe - good lighting not too dim. For food - we decided to get a bunch of items to share for appetizers: -Calamari : so delicious - recommend this, so crispy and good -Crabcakes: This was meh to me and I would pass on ordering this again -Bread plate: SO DELICIOUS, it was sweet potato bread and it was absolutely delicious. Highly recommend this -For the main meal - my coresident and I shared the Tomahawk rib eye with the garlic butter and wedge salad to start; absolutely delicious. The meat was cooked to perfection and the garlic butter made everything so much better. We also got a side of corn which was so good! -For dessert we got the espresso cheesecake which came with a side of chips ; the sweet and salty flavors were very unique but the cheesecake was a little on the heavier side for me. Overall - great food and great vibes; highly recommend checking this place out. read more

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Went for our anniversary dinner and overall had a nice meal. Service was lacking enthusiasm and attentiveness. The food was consistent with previous visits, everything was hot and seemed fresh. My steak temperature was more towards medium instead of medium rare (as ordered). Nothing terrible and not worth sending back but definitely continued to rest/cook up to medium on the plate. Driftlight offered complementary carrot cake for dessert since we were celebrating which was a nice touch. After this latest visit, I do think Driftlight ranks fairly low Tampa Steakhouse scene being bested by the likes of Meat Market, Bern's, and even Ruth's Chris from a food quality and service standpoint. read more

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The restaurant is located inside the JW Marriott on the first floor. We went here for breakfast on our last day. The restaurant is clean and modern. The ambience is pleasant. Our server was friendly and efficient. The reason for 3 stars is that the food left something to be desired. The wife and kid had French toast and both said it was dry. It needs to soak in egg longer. The wife said hers had zero cinnamon flavor although it is advertised as cinnamon French toast. My bagel with smoked salmon was not very good. One problem is that the bagel was not toasted long enough. I like it crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. This one wad doughy and not crispy at all. The citrus cream cheese did not work. The salmon was fine, but overall, the flavors did not come together well. I would not order it again. read more

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Great steaks and Hallibut fish dishes. I loved the beet salad and the purple potato bread service.

Neil provided great service. We ordered the Delmonico and it was delicious. My favorite believe it or not is was the bread it was divine! read more

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Hidden gem & Tampa must visit steakhouse! Everything was incredible from the wine list, cocktails, bread, burrata, steak for the table and the best carrot cake you'll ever have (trust!) Everything was truly spectacular and the service is always 10/10. Highly recommend!!! read more

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Driftlight Steakhouse in the JW Marriott in Tampa offers excellent food in a charming setting. Our filets were perfectly cooked, and the carpaccio was fresh and flavorful. The service was attentive, and the wine cellar in the center added a special touch to the experience--cute for pictures. read more

The service is as great, prompt and efficient. The nova bagel is a great option for a healthy breakfast that's on the bigger side, it's a meal all by itself, with fruit on the side. Everything on the bagel worked together beautifully, all the ingredients were very well paired together. My partner had the healthy start bowl, which he said was very bland. Parking is great in the morning (if there's no event happening at the convention center. Unfortunately today was a sneaker convention so it was a little tricky. Go enjoy breakfast at Driftlight Steakhouse. Excited to come back and try happy hour or dinner. read more

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This place is a hidden gem! It is in the JW Marriott downtown. It is very quiet. The food is outstanding. The service was excellent as well. We enjoyed the shrimp cocktail, bread service, french onion soup, key lime caesar, ribeye, beautiful carrots and fantastic chocolate cake. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - French onion soup - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I'm so happy I went with Driftlight for my 30th birthday dinner. The ambiance is top-tier from the moment you pull into the valet. The restaurant is located inside the beautiful JW Marriott so parking is a breeze. The private room was beautiful! Not what I was expecting for lil old me :) Our server was very helpful and patient and the food came out promptly. Everyone loved their food and had plenty of leftovers which is always a win in my book. I'll definitely be back to check out breakfast! Check out these links for more videos and pictures from dinner! Instagram: @Lady.Tanisha Full Video/Reel - https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cr-wfadgREn/?igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg== More Pictures - https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr-ArN1MYjM/?igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg== read more

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We stayed at the Marriott and came down to the Driftlight for breakfast. We were greeted by Lily. She is an incredible asset to this place, but she is also very charming and sweet. We were served by Angelica and she is just as kind. The food was delicious and the atmosphere and ambiance were incredible. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Fruit plate - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Woke up early and had breakfast here. Restaurant had a few folks walk in as I was leaving, otherwise it was pretty empty. Had filet and eggs, fresh fruit, sourdough toast and a pineapple antioxidant juice. All of it was great. Steak cooked perfectly as were the eggs. Service was friendly and courteous. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

The food and service was exceptional, but bring your wallet. The ambiance was lovely. Definitely recommend.

Food was bland and not what I would expect at a JW Marriott. Oyster app was tasteless. Scallop dish was also very disappointing. Even the salted caramel ice cream was icey and of poor quality . My expresso was great Waiter as pleasant The hostess made us wait 9 minutes to seat us as we arrived 9 minutes before our 615 reservation Strongly do not recommend read more

The ambiance is nice, and our server Jim was on point. He was attentive and accommodating, but the overall experience was not enough for 4 stars mostly because of the food. I had the 8oz filet. It was cooked slightly longer than I would prefer and had no flavor. I had to ask for salt. My wedge salad was mostly the bitter tasting core of the lettuce and I had to send it back. The food was just not impressive. Jim did his best to give us the best experience but the food was just meh. Hate to say it but we don't plan on giving it another shot. read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - 8oz filet - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Just incredible! The starters and sides steal the show. The french onion soup, white cheddar/jalapeño/duck fat corn bread, and shrimp mac & cheese are not to be missed! We also had so much fun ordering one of everything from the Driftlight Steakhouse dessert menu: carrot cake, cheesecake, key lime pie, and chocolate cake. They were all delicious and everyone had a different favorite. Personally, as someone who doesn't like chocolate too much, I LOVED the key lime pie and carrot cake. The key lime pie in particular was one of the best I've ever had. read more

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Tonight's level of service received was quite disappointing. Feedback was provided to the manager and she strongly encouraged us to write a review. When eating at 4/5 star restaurant details matter - pouring water should not splash everywhere, one should not have to ask for black pepper on a salad, one should not have to ask for spoons for desert, empty cocktail glasses remained on the table the entire time-plus there were other examples. Personally, I would not visit this restaurant again. read more

Came here for dinner at 8:45 on a Wednesday night. I was sat immediately, the service here was fantastic. Our waitress was very friendly and helpful. The restaurant itself is very fancy and aesthetic, they had a huge display of their wine selection upon walking in. I ordered an espresso martini (my favorite) This espresso martini was really good, it tasted more like coffee than anything which I appreciated. I ordered the bread as a starter, it was so good! The butter was delicious, the bread was fluffy and warm. After my meal I even ordered another bread to take to go. For the entree I ordered the ribeye cooked medium, braised mushrooms, roasted asparagus and the pommes purée. The ribeye was so tasty and flavorful, cooked perfectly. I wasn't a big fan of the braised mushrooms, and I usually adore mushrooms. I'd pass on this side, however the asparagus and the purée was delicious. The asparagus was so buttery I was surprised by how much I loved it. Although I am not the biggest fan of carrot cake, I read through other reviews that the carrot cake here was incredible, so I knew I must try it out for myself. I have to say, i can see what it is raved about so much. It was very delicate and moist, my date and I enjoyed it thoroughly. I would love to dine here again and explore more of the menu when I visit Tampa again! read more

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Sat down with my two sons. Ordered a Cosmo and two Shirley Temple, which is good. Also ordered calamari. Waiter came back a couple times we said we're gonna hold off. Then we decided to order since he came a third time. Steak showed up, never saw the Kyle Murray. The steak seems like they were frozen at some point and they were sort of damp. Cooked to order however. I used to be a broiler and so that's how I can tell the difference with meats that have been frozen. I ordered the bone and fillet and my two sons each got the fillet. Similar all around it seemed. Waiter took all the menus. I had to bring one back to order a glass of wine with the steak. On the upside, he had a whole pitcher jug of Shirley Temple for my boys. Will not be going back though. Expected more from high-end steak place. read more

Wow! If you're looking for an upscale dining experience then this is the place. Beautiful restaurant with romantic vibes. Absolutely delicious cocktail and the scallops were A-Mazing! The sauce was perfection! Service was superb! read more

Driftlight Steakhouse - Cocktail - Steakhouses Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Impressive dining experience! SERVICE: 5/5 AMBIANCE: 4/5 FOOD: 5/5 CREATIVITY: 4/5 Comfort with a taste of elegance. Restaurant is located within the JW Marriott, where you can valet (easiest) or find street parking. The food is very tasty! We thoroughly enjoyed our meals from appetizers to desserts and coffees. Try the lavender latte (my favorite!) Excellent service and great seating. Afterwards, we took a stroll on the Riverwalk. Such a perfect date night overall! read more

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We can to Driftlight for the first time during Tampa Restaurant week and the menu was very reasonably priced. We enjoyed the steak and had the beet appetizer. I was not exactly as described with arugula and the sever didn't know what the arugula was. it also did seem like the restaurant downsized the portion to accommodate the restaurant week menu, which is their prerogative but I have been at other restaurant week restaurants that gave you their regular portions even though it's restaurant week menu. So my experience was jaded by their frugal offer. read more