The Sacred Pepper: A Taste of Tampa’s Contemporary Dining Scene

Inside The Sacred Pepper, a stylish Tampa restaurant blending contemporary American dining, Italian influences, cocktails, and comfort food.


Have you ever walked into a restaurant and immediately knew you were going to pay for an experience? Well, I’m here to tell you, it’s worth every brown cent. From the house sides to the main attractions, everything on the menu lives up to its name: sacred.


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Upon entry, the vibe is very upscale and intimate. The lights are dim, and there’s live music— a contemporary social club, to say the least. Whether you’re going on a romantic date or on your way home from work and want to wind down with a smooth drink to set the tone, you’ll be sure to enjoy The Pepper.

As this place is very popular among the mature crowd, you’ll want to make a reservation in advance. Or if you live life on the edge and want to try your luck, I can assure you that not only is it worth the dollar, it’s also worth the wait.

As far as dress goes, this contemporary American attraction, paired with a taste of Italy, leaves room for authenticity. It is an upscale establishment, so you’d want to add a little bit of posh to your casual; no need to show up in a full suit and tie. Unless that’s your jam.

If you’re a drinker, there’s a happy hour special every day. YAY. From 4–6:30, you can enjoy dollar drafts, $6 wines, and $5 bottom-shelf liquors. The gag is, unless you’re some sort of drink connoisseur, you won’t be able to tell the difference.


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If you are a connoisseur and prefer the top shelf, there’s a gorgeous selection for you. Fine wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir Blanc, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, and Napa Valley are a few choices on the high-end list.

When it comes to cocktails, the tail of the cock is endless! You can choose from a long list of the most beautiful and sensual drinks, such as the Midnight Martini, Fregola Feels, Morning in Italy, Little Miss Beauregard, and a Smoked Old Fashioned.

If you’re like me—from the world of beer—you'll enjoy select drafts like Stella Artois, Floridian Funky Buddha, Goose Island IPA, or a good old-fashioned Bud Light. There’s something for everyone, I promise!

The Menu

The menu is very trim and easy to read, which is a plus. One of the most overwhelming things in the world is going to a restaurant and not knowing what to order. I like to think the owner, Candy DeBartolo, took that into consideration when preparing these delicious delicacies.

Divided into sections, the menu offers a diverse range of soups and salads, main courses like steaks and pastas, house sides, and delicious desserts. There’s even an enjoyable palette for young adults.


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So, whether you want to enjoy a nice, juicy burger, a steak straight off the cow, a hefty plate of pasta, something from the cold bar, a shrimp or fish dinner, or my personal favorite: a jumbo crab cake with a side of corn salsa, there’s an option for you.

The Sacred Pepper is a taste of home away from home. Wherever that home may be. Even if the culture is different, the food here will give you that eye-rolling feeling of nostalgia that makes you do a little dance with each bite.

The Public Note Everything’s Worth Noting

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