Tantō Tampa: Lush Sips & High-End Flair

Address: 306 W Palm Ave., Tampa, Florida 33602.

Tantō emerges as Tampa’s newest Japanese cocktail lounge. The ethos of this elevated lounge lies in its name. Tantō is a nod to the samurai’s sword.

Here, ritual meets new.

Created by the team behind the Michelin-starred Kōsen, Tantō provides a sleek, ultra cool backdrop for those who enjoy reveling in refined spaces.

This is the place. The one for tastemakers, culinary and spirits aficionados.

Guests can expect cocktails crafted around Japanese spirits and redefined classics infused with matcha, teas, and fresh herbs & spices.

Small bites include Caviar service, wagyu, and my personal recommendations: the crispy chicken sandwich with kimchi, and the chirashi dish.

I visited with my sister and one of our girl friends, for an early Saturday cocktail and small bite moment. We wanted to bring in the first of September in a stylish, elevated way. The end of summer is that feeling when summer simmers into a sophisticated and serene night out at an ambient lounge downtown. This time of year is a prelude of what’s to come…might as well turn those blank pages into maximalist myth making, verbal mood boards, and dreaming out loud, over a round of crafted Japanese cocktails, dimmed light, and tasteful pairings. Ah, extra long shadows, and a blend of tradition and newness.

It’s safe to say Tantō was the right choice to start our girls’ night out.