Renzo's — Restaurant in Tampa

A Hidden Gem That Feels Like Home — A Tribute to Renzo’s Restaurant and the Unforgettable Service of Maria

There are restaurants you visit once, and then there are those that become a permanent part of your life story. Renzo’s restaurant is that place for me. From the very beginning, when the doors first opened, I’ve been a loyal guest — not just because one of my best friends, Renzo, owns it, but because it truly is one of the most exceptional dining experiences you’ll find anywhere.

Over the years, this place has become more than a restaurant — it’s become an extension of my home. I’ve held countless staff meetings and employee gatherings here, and it’s always the first spot I recommend to friends and family. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, the food is consistently excellent, and the service? Unmatched.

Speaking of service, I must give a special mention to Maria, whose attentiveness, kindness, and grace elevate every experience. Whether I’m stopping in for a casual lunch, hosting a business lunch, or sharing a celebratory dinner with family, Maria makes every guest feel like the most important person in the room. Her ability to anticipate needs, her cheerful energy, and her genuine care for the customers set a gold standard in hospitality.

Renzo himself is more than just a restaurateur — he’s a visionary and a deeply generous soul. He pours his heart into every detail of the restaurant, and it shows. From the curated menu to the carefully selected wines and the comfortable yet refined atmosphere, everything reflects his passion for food, people, and community. The fact that Renzo came to my wedding is just one example of the deep friendship we share — but his care and commitment are something every guest at his restaurant can feel, whether they’ve known him for a decade or are walking in for the first time.

The food, of course, is phenomenal. Every dish is made with the freshest ingredients, bursting with flavor and plated with care. Whether you’re enjoying a signature entrée or one of the daily specials, you can taste the love and craftsmanship in every bite. There’s a reason this place has remained my go-to for so long.

To say that Renzo’s restaurant is just a favorite would be an understatement. It’s where business deals begin, where family milestones are celebrated, and where friendships grow stronger. It’s where I feel at ease and always welcomed. It’s more than a restaurant — it’s part of my life’s fabric.

Thank you, Renzo, for creating a place that means so much to so many. And thank you, Maria, for the unforgettable service that keeps us all coming back. If you haven’t been yet, do yourself a favor — go once, and I guarantee you’ll be a...

We were a group of 6 adults with a confirmed reservation on Saturday 11/9/2024 @ 7:00pm. Location: South Tampa - Kennedy Blvd.

We promptly arrived for our reservation. Greeted by a gentleman at the front check-in area. He confirmed our reservation and stated it would be about 10 mins for our table to be available. He suggested we have a seat at the bar behind him. Only 4 seats available together. We made the best of the situation and prepared to order a cocktail. Only wine and beer sold. We decided on 5 sangrias and 1 soda. Servers behind bar (only two females and one was elderly) did not approach us for our order. We waited about 15 mins and managed to get the attention of one of the bar servers. When we began to place our order, she told us that she only prepared drinks for the tables.

After 25 mins of waiting (restaurant was very busy, but a few 4 top tables available), we noticed others who arrived after us were being seated. We asked the same gentleman how much longer we would be waiting for our table. He pointed to the back corner & stated as soon as that table became available. One group member who was speaking to another group member made a comment regarding the wait and empty tables. The gentleman overheard the conversation and rudely asked our group member what did she want him to do, that he was doing the best he could and couldn't help if the table had not become available. Another group member told the gentleman to calm down and that there was no need to be so rude. Also that we couldn't even order a drink from the bar. The gentleman offered to personally get our drinks. This gentleman, was observed as working as the host, clearing tables, bringing supplies to the bar such as ice and was likely the manager.

Eventually we received the 5 sangrias without the "frozen looking" fruits and a soda. Sangria not very good. 50 minutes later still no table, people at table still lingering and socializing. We decided to leave without a word. As we were driving away we noticed the gentleman coming out the door and looking around (it appeared that he was looking for us}. We just kept driving.

What a waste of our time. Not enough staff. Walkins being seated ahead of those of us with a reservation because the manager couldn't be bothered to join two 4 top tables.

Save yourself some grief, go somewhere else that appreciates...

I recently had an incredibly disheartening experience at Renzos Restaurant in Tampa. As a parent with a 6-month-old baby who requires a stroller for mobility, I was shocked and deeply disappointed when I was denied entry into the restaurant solely because of the stroller. It is crucial for businesses to prioritize inclusivity and accommodate the needs of all their customers, including parents with young children.

Upon reaching the restaurant, I was met with a staff member who bluntly refused to allow me and my baby inside, citing the stroller as the reason. This act of discrimination not only left me feeling humiliated and frustrated, but it also displayed a complete lack of understanding and consideration towards families with infants.

Parents rely on strollers to safely transport their babies, especially in public spaces such as restaurants. It is disheartening that Renzos Restaurant failed to recognize this and chose to disregard the needs of families with young children. Denying entry based solely on the presence of a stroller is not only discriminatory but also reflects a lack of empathy and customer service.

Additionally, the staff's behavior during this interaction was unacceptable. Their dismissive attitude and unwillingness to engage in a meaningful conversation about alternatives or potential accommodations was both unprofessional and disrespectful. Such treatment of customers is unacceptable in any establishment.

I strongly urge Renzos Restaurant to reevaluate their policies and provide proper training to their staff regarding inclusivity and understanding the needs of families with young children. It is imperative that businesses create an environment that welcomes and accommodates all customers, irrespective of their circumstances.

Based on my experience, I cannot recommend Renzos Restaurant to fellow parents seeking a family-friendly dining experience. Their refusal to accommodate the presence of a stroller demonstrates a lack of consideration and respect for their customers. I hope this review serves as a reminder for Renzos to rectify this issue promptly and prioritize the inclusivity of all patrons, including families with...