Ulele, is all good vibes! The food is so delicious and the drinks are amazing. I love the outside seating as well you get that nice breeze since it's right on the water. They have complimentary valet, tips are appreciated, I love the modern take on some many traditional dishes. I always order the flank steak with fingerling potatoes! The service is always so accommodating as well. read more

Ulele - Flank Steak 8 oz. - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

In all honesty totally worth the wait and having to make a reservation 3 days in advance. Our water and the bartender were amazing they were super attentive and helpful. The place is very elegant and the outside is very nice. Now the food what an amazing taste and presentation. We were over all extremely satisfied with everything we will be returning. read more

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Great service, moody lighting, and good food! Fun fairy tale sculptures and historic sculptures to take pictures with outside.

I chose this place to be away from downtown Tampa traffic. However, there is no free parking on the street. I ordered Blackened Redfish for dinner. The fish was well-prepared with great flavor. Some of the French bean was not the same color, which made doubt about the freshness of this seasonal vegetable. Some of the wild rice was not fully cooked. I would have given them a five-star rating if it was due those minor imperfections. read more

Ulele - Blackened Redfish - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Seen excellent reports of this place, and been wanting to go for awhile. Finally got there with some foodie friends from out of state. Not disappointed. The Native Chili is tremendous! Everyone happy down to the desserts. Atmosphere delightful, open-air. read more

Heard this place was wonderful to dine at. Sat outside and the scenery was nice. Plenty of different sculptures around the area. Menu had a lot of different combinations of foods. For appetizers I got to try the okra fries. It was delicious and good amount of saltiness. I would order that again. It was hard to choose an entree, but I ended up getting the mahi mahi "mr Henry" which was blacken and topped with green papaya slaw, corn salsa and garlic spinach. Wow, everything tasted so good. A lot of different flavors in one dish. I loved it. As for dessert I got to try the key lime stack and that was delicious as well. Not to sweet and the meringue added a nice touch. The waitress took a while to refill my drinks and to come by and gave the check. It was decent service, but food took forever to come. Check this place out if you haven't yet! read more

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First time and certainly not the last time. I have heard about this place and walked past it numerous times and we finally went tonight with friends and loved it. First, the outside area is special, with all kind of neat statues, seating areas, a bar, etc. I ordered a lemon drop martini at the outside bar and it was very good. We had a reservation and were seated quickly. The atmosphere is very modern, with interesting things to see everywhere. There is a great wine "cellar". The menu is interesting, with a variety of choices from land and sea. I wanted a glass of wine with dinner, and they had a large wine list from which to choose. Our server, Jacqueline, was excellent! She wasn't intrusive, yet she was there when we needed her. She was training someone else, and unfortunately I don't remember her name, but if she learns from Jacqueline, she will do well. The four of us started out sharing Alligator Hush Puppies and Crab Mac and Cheese. Our order came quickly and everything was hot and presented well. BTW, the plates are Fiestaware, which is what we have at home and I love the colors!!! I LOVED the hush puppies. Could I taste the alligator.... NO, but they were tasty and the sauces that came with them were excellent. The Mac and cheese was also very good, with lots of flavor. For my entree I ordered the short ribs, which came with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans. I loved that they waited until we were done with our appetizers, and then took our entree order, as I hate being rushed. Our entrees came quickly, and again were presented well, and my food was hot. My short ribs were so big that it looked like a filet mignon. It was sitting on a bed of mashed potatoes, which were excellent. The ribs were so tender that you could break them apart with a fork. The sauce on them was excellent. I am not a huge vegetable person so I didn't eat many of the green beans, but the few I ate were good. Overall, I loved the vibe, and service and food were excellent. read more

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Definitely one of the best restaurants in Tampa. It has a beautiful view, great ambiance, and the food is always A1.

The menu that is on Yelp and Ulele's website is NOT what they give you at the restaurant. They do not have sandwiches, lobster rolls or poboys. If you enjoy grilled fish, then this place is for you. If you are not into fish, this probably isn't going to be something you will enjoy. I ordered the meatloaf. It definitely was not a southern version of meatloaf (Kinda bland), mashed potatoes and grave helped the taste. The greenbeans were practically raw and tough. The Tabasco fried onions were not crispy. They're fried onions were very chewy (Good taste but not crisp). Not a place I would return to by choice. read more

Ulele - Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean and Tabasco fried onions. - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

This restaurant was on my, must visit list. We had a group of 4 and reservations for an early dinner on Wednesday night. Ulele is uniquely decorated and the water views are a plus. Our waitress was friendly and I excitedly ordered an Alligator appetizer. All I can say is salty. The pieces were thicker, I wanted it to be amazing, however it was so salty it hurt my lips. I ordered the Snapper, it said pan seared , when I asked I was told blackened so I went with it. The fish was a bit crunchy, overcooked in spots and so incredibly salty it was hard to eat. The rice wasn't very warm and I was disappointed. I can say my side of spinach was delightful. My coworker told me he thought the alligator was very salty to, it wasn't just me and that his chicken was very salty also. Maybe the cook accidently over salted or whomever prepped the spices for the night doubled the salt. I did drink lots of water, so much we needed two carafes. The service was great, the food needs to be edible. I boxed mine so I wouldn't offend our partner who thought I would love this restaurant. I just said I was full. I did toss the meal in a trash receptacle, I just couldn't eat it. For the price it really wasn't worth it. I wish it had been. read more

Ulele - Overcooked Snapper and salty - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Came here with my boyfriend for a celebration dinner! We had been recommended by several people so we were very excited to check it out. It's pretty easy to find and there's a complimentary valet for parking! We arrived a little early for our reservation so we walked along the riverwalk until they could seat us. Highly recommend checking out the area and Armature works! To start, we ordered the alligator hush puppies. They were absolutely delicious and LOVED the sauces the came with. I had the Ring of Fire (it's got big jalapeno and pineapple flavors and had the right amount of kick) while my boyfriend had the Native summer (a little too botanical for both our tastes) drinks. For dinner, we had the Pork Shank and the Florida Pompano. Both were cooked very well (the pork was literally falling off the bone) and the veggies/sides were good as well. Both of us felt ok about the sauces paired with each (the pork shank had a cranberry sauce that felt very Thanksgiving-y and the fish was paired with a beurre Blanc sauce that was super rich). Still tasty dishes, just interesting flavors. For dessert, we had the Pineapple Upside down bread pudding. SO DELICIOUS!! Topped with homemade coconut ice cream, we demolished this dessert. Overall, we had a really nice night at Ulele and I'd say it lives up to the hype. Our server was awesome, we loved the fact they donate part of your bill to a charity of your choice and send you home with a postcard, and it's clear that a lot of thought and care went into this establishment. Definitely check out if you're looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion! read more

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Ordered: Pina Con Fuego (~$12): Añejo tequila infused with fresh charred pineapple, lemon juice, pineapple juice, Tres Agaves Organic Agave Nectar Oyster Baker Dozen (~$24): from the Gulf Coast Charbroiled Oysters (~$15): half dozen oysters Barbacoa grilled, garlic butter, grated parmesan and Romano cheeses Fresh Calamari (~$15): crispy fried calamari, Amarillo chili lemon dressing Seafood Risotto (~$32): pan-seared Gulf of Mexico shrimp and sea scallops, butter-poached lobster claw, fresh lump crab, saffron risotto, charred corn cream sauce Aya's take: First stop in Tampa and it was amazing! First of all, the rustic-religious-vibrant vibes was super unique. Super spacious and perfect for lunch. The oysters are delicious but the charbroiled ones are a must! The Seafood Risotto is a super popular dinner item (but you can also order it for lunch; just ask!). My only complaint about it was that it was a bit too salty. Otherwise, it was filled with seafood. Everything was well-priced and well-made! You have to check them out! read more

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We picked Ulele because it was rated high in Yelp. We were not disappointed. We arrived shortly after opening and picked a covered outside table. Inside was nice, but the weather was great and so was the area. The wait staff were all professional and helpful. We ordered the Native chili, muffins, chargrilled oysters, grouper sandwich with fries, barbecue shrimp, and split the bourbon butter ale with homemade ice cream. Everything was fantastic. Even the drinks were top notch. I had their lager special and my wife loved it. Thank goodness she left me some. I would highly recommend this restaurant even if you find parking somewhat a pain. read more

Ulele - BBQ Shrimp - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Yeahhhh I wasn't a fan. Came here with a group of friends for a birthday. The place is huge and it seems like a good vibe in Armature Works, but I didn't love the food at all. There are plenty of other nearby restaurants that are better. read more

We had an tremendous, 5-star experience at Ulele. And hey, the perfect weather helped. 80's, sunshine, zero (or close enough) humidity. The service at Ulele is outstanding in that they truly do work as a team. Hostesses, managers, and servers all help each other help YOU. While teamwork may sound elementary, most restaurants can't find the winning formula. Ulele makes zero excuses for being short staffed or rushed. They deliver. Ulele's bar area feels wide open and you'll easily kill 30 minutes while you're drinking and waiting for your table. Ulele takes their time and let's the (already seated) patrons enjoy their meal. And yes, you'll be able to enjoy your meal too. The fake grass/turf is easy on your feet and looks aesthetically pleasing. Everyone has enough room to operate and enjoy themselves. We were seated in the corner after the first dinner rush and enjoyed the space around us. Appetizers and entrees were on point. We ordered two crab mac & cheeses and were off to the races! Cheesy and not too fishy tasting. The flank steak was well seasoned and tasted even better when dunked in the "Jimmychurri" sauce. The meatloaf was "softer" packed and different than we're used to, but tasted great and complimented the mashed potatoes (our fave that night) well. We could have easily ordered another plate! We look forward to our next river walk, sunset, cold drinks, and great meal. read more

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This place is so cool! Love the outdoor space. Waitstaff is great. Both the beer and the food were amazing! Definitely a must do when in Tampa! read more

Everyone's food was delicious. The ambience is gorgeous for a date night or girls night out. Even the bathroom is cute! Servers are very knowledgeable and accommodating with quick service. Sometimes a little wait even with a reservation, but worth it. read more

I found the food to be excellent and served hot with quality with ingredients and the service was excellent. I made a reservation that morning and only outside seating was available but my wife and I enjoyed a beautiful sunset and some great people watching with our meal. read more

I have wanted to eat at this restaurant for the longest time. Well this was the time. I was in Tampa with Mrs. E visiting some family and very good friends. We had a break between visits so we booked a lunch here. First they have valet parking which I love but today I opted for a pay to park parking lot just a block away. We were early but they accommodated us anyway. Our waiter was James and he was great. We stated with the broiled oyster's. EXCELLENT. My wife had the Flank steak which she loved. I had the Pork Shank which was absolutely amazing. Oh yes, we originally asked to be seated outside but since we were early there were no outside tables so they sat us just inside at the edge of the restaurant. PERFECT. Loved everything about Ulule's, and glad I finally got the chance to eat here. Next time I'm in Tampa I will definitely visit again. read more

Ulele - Lunch - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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The last time I visited Ulele, we didn't have a pleasant experience, although not terrible it did not meet expectations. However, I decided to give it another chance and I'm happy to say our experience was astonishing. My girlfriend ordered the Barry's Tomahawk Pork Chop which was recommended at medium temp. Nobody likes over cooked pork because it's dry and tough, but this pork chop was super juicy and tender, cooked to perfection. Aside from the pork chop, what mostly stood out from this dish was the guava demi-glace, a perfect balance between sweet and salty. If they sold it in a bottle then I would have taken it with me to go. I ordered the Short rib which was meltingly tender deliciousness. They gave me a knife but to be honest I didn't even need it because it broke down so easily. Our server Zach was the best, he was attentive and very knowledgeable on the menu. The bar didn't have the wine bottle we initially wanted but he accommodated by recommending another bottle with similar taste and aroma. He also made the recommendation to cook the pork chop at medium which made the it so juicy. Overall, I loved it and I am excited to come back. I do want to thank Zach and the wonderful team at Ulele for providing an exceptional dinner experience, especially for my girlfriend's bday. read more

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Ulele had several interesting menu options with many featuring alligator as the primary ingredient. We tried the alligator hush puppies and thought they were amazing. I also had the ring of fire signature cocktail, which I thought was just okay -- I was expecting more spice. For the main, I had the vegetarian three sisters stuffed portobello mushroom and a side of native chili. The mushroom dish was delicious but only had one mushroom, which was a little disappointing. The outdoor space was very beautiful with lots of greenery, statues, and art dedicated to Princess Ulele. But, in the hot Florida weather it was more practical to sit inside. Upstairs, the decor was kind of surprising -- it was completely decked out with sports decor, which didn't at all fit in with the theme of Ulele. The tables were also a bit rickety and old considering the fine dining-level prices. Most entrees were in the $30 range. In my experience, Ulele was reminiscent of an upscale sports restaurant rather than a fine dining experience. The food was solid, although higher prices than I thought it was worth, and the service was also good. I would probably select a different restaurant on my next trip to Armature Works. read more

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Great atmosphere, good food. A little on the salty side. It is super loud in there! Could add the egg crate foam, painted white, on the ceiling to dampen the sound. If it is warm, sit outside. It is amazing and quieter. read more

Ulele - Pirate with original owner's face - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Parking: Plenty, reserved lot for Customers only Sitting: Plenty Open-air restaurant with openings to external sitting area, relaxing and inviting. Stone-crab season, perfect timing! At market price of $65 for 3 claws; if you're a seafood fan, then get it. Otherwise, it's not necessarily the best thing on the menu for you Fried okra was differently prepared, surprisingly a great twist of taste and preparation. Oysters: Fresh as expected. Charbroiled oysters: Tasty but I've had better. You're not missing out much if not ordered. read more

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I love this place. Been here mostly for celebrations and catching up with friends. Ulele has become one of my favorite restaurants in tampa. First of all, location, location, location. They picked the perfect place for this restaurant. It's across from Armature works, so finding a parking is quite easy. The staff are amazing, very courteous and sweet. I love taking a stroll after my meal, great way to enjoy tampa bay. Aside from Alligator hush puppies, the apps are all great. I would recommend the Scallops, okra fries and Native chilli, all amazing. Ring of fire is one fantastic drink option. Omg, so damn good. The jalapeño and caramelized pineapple, yumm! For entrees: must have the Sliced Ahi tuna salad and Grilled chicken. The chicken was so good the first time, i had it again on my second and 3rd visit. You must sample their pineapple upside down bread pudding as dessert. OH MY GAUD! Thanks all i am going to say. You must have it! Overall, fantastic every time. read more

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Great food, We had alligator with some type of aïoli. The seafood risotto came recommended from our server, and it was by far the best dish that we tasted. We were seated in the far corner by the window, which was nice because it was a little bit quieter , this is a very lively and quite noisy place. Everybody look to be having a good time the food delicious and the setting wonderful. read more

Excellent food- everything done perfectly and timed right. Service at the bar is great. This is a great place to kick back and enjoy after a long day. The overall atmosphere here is that it's very social and bustling with people and activity. Great place for a meetup! read more

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I've been there twice. Had an excellent experience each time. Food was very good. It's been quite a while since I've been back because I don't live in Tampa read more

Amazing local restaurant ! I highly recommend trying out this place ! It offers a great quality of seafood and meats. Very accommodating and helpful service. The waterfront location adds highlights the dining experience read more

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The food was great and the service is on point. The place has so much history and all the information on everything. Our waitress was so friendly and informative. I will be returning read more

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Great Food & Drink, Great setting, Great feel, Great Service. Can't define it any different !

Customer service was awesome. Jen Y was so friendly and nice. The ambiance is an open space. It was clean and not too crowded. The Gator Tails were so delicious The sauce with it had fresh garlic and so tasteful. Highly recommend visiting. Early Appetizer with a beer. read more

Ulele - Fried Gator Tail with sauce. Scrumptious licking good - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

fantastic place great food restaurant was exceptional. The was a performance by every writer or waitress and as I said before, the food was great and I'm gonna recommend this place to all of my friends and we'll go back in the area. read more

Food was delicious Service was great Hostess was very nice Cocktails were great We will be back read more

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Stopped by here on a early Friday afternoon for lunch. Food was delicious. Service was great. Ambiance was pleasing! I approve this place. Our server Joe gives Adam Sandler vibes and today was his first day! He did amazing. read more

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Incredible food and service. The jalapeño corn muffin along with the chili is a must.

This is our favorite date night spot. My partner gets seafood risotto and I get okra fries. I'm vegan, he does whatever he wants. Ginger teas with lemon for the win too! Such a good vibe and they know us by face and order. We never get tired of Ulele read more

We recently went to Ulele after enjoying a show at the straz. We were looking forward to it based on the reviews. Our experience was a bit of a let down and did not live up to our expectations. -the overall ambience...it was extremely loud (we couldn't hear each other and could barely have a conversation, and the bathroom was not as clean as you would hope. the building is pretty nice and the outdoor space is very cool. -we waited for an extremely long time for our food, while watching other tables get their meals, finish and leave, all while we were just sitting and waiting for ours. -the food was a mixed bag...oysters were delicious, the seafood risotto was meh-there were only 2 scallops on the plate and although they were cooked to perfection there should have been a few more as you can see by looking at all the photos. the shrimp were delicious, the risotto was very watery, more like soup and there was no lobster claw. the flavor of the risotto was nice, but the consistency was off putting, the vegetable was seasoned well but slightly undercooked. I would have liked to order dessert but by the time our food came and we finished eating we had been there so long we just wanted to get home. overall it wasn't terrible, but not great and for the cost it isn't a place that we will be rushing to go back to. It's more hype than execution. read more

I made a reservation through open table. The girl I checked I. With at the hostess stand canceled me because I had 1 of my people back out. I did eat at the bar outside and had the grouper with Gouda bure blanc. Which was magnificent. What was not was my service from the staff not only being cancelled even though I ate, the bartender was very inattentive. Cudos to the kitchen Rudo's to the staff! I can't complain through open table Because I was cancelled. I'm not sure if I got the point across that I was cancelled by the hostess. read more

Ulele - Grouper with amazing sauce - New American Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Florida dining at its best! With its unique menu and beautiful atmosphere on Riverwalk, Ulele is always a treat to visit. For starters/sides I recommend trying the hush puppies and corn beer muffins...because anything involving both bread and corn has my heart. Also tasty was the gator tail! I was not expecting to like it since it's a little more adventurous than I'm used to, but it was so nicely breaded & seasoned and tasted like chicken. As far as entrees go, the seafood risotto and meatloaf are works of art and two of our favorite (repeat) choices! read more

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Had the opportunity to eat here while in Tampa. Saw the restaurant while on a boat tour and heard great things about it. Was excited to try a few things on the menu. The crab mac and cheese was amazing. A great amount of crab was in the dish. So flavorful! The seafood risotto was spectacular! The crab claw was so good it doesn't even make sense! The scallops were tasty, all in all an awesome dish! The outside decor of children's fairytale's was pretty cool. Love the area the restaurant is at, it's the perfect place to watch a sunset. The restaurant was packed, it took about 40 minutes to get a table. Once seated, everything was efficient. Order was taken quickly and food arrived within a reasonable amount of time. Would eat here again when in the area. read more

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