Are you worried about bringing your significant other to your office party or dinner with your parents? Does the thought of dating them for the next few months make you nervous? If so, you might want to plan a relationship exit strategy before things get seriously awkward. Dumping your girlfriend or boyfriend is hard. No matter if you want to remain friends or never want to see that person again, no one wants to look like the bad guy or cause hurt feelings. If you're looking for the best places in Tampa to break up with your boyfriend or girlfriend, make reservations ahead of time at one of the places below,  and you'll be single and ready to mingle in time for the weekend. Cheers and good luck!

Sacred Pepper

Right on Dale Mabry in the heart of Carrollwood is Sacred Pepper, a Contemporary American restaurant known for their stylish décor and made-from-scratch pasta. With food like Pistachio Crusted Fried Brie and Honey Goat Cheese Baklava, your soon-to-be ex-girlfriend or ex-boyfriend might be too busy eating to really care that this is your last meal together. 

Ciccio's Water

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Located on South Howard Avenue, Ciccio's Water offers everything from sushi to California inspired bowls. Order you and your date a SLAM-GRIA, a giant glass of homemade red, white, or champagne sangria, and your break-up conversation will go a lot better than you originally thought. Afterwards, you can walk down the street to CVS and eat your feelings in candy to help you get over it! 

Ciro's Speakeasy & Supper Club

Hidden in plain sight, right on Bayshore Boulevard and Howard Ave, is Ciro's Speakeasy. If the craft cocktails and throwback vibe aren't enticing enough, the best thing about Ciro's may be the lighting. Being a speakeasy, it's pretty dark inside and perfect for breaking up with someone when you never want to see them again. Pro tip: call ahead for the password and to reserve a table. 

Timpano Italian Chophouse

For over a decade, Timpano has been a Hyde Park staple. Known for their delicious Italian cuisine and raw bar, Timpano is the perfect place to break up with someone. It's crowded but never loud and the lounge is filled with friendly neighborhood regulars at happy hour. Make a reservation on a Tuesday when they host Ladies' Night and after you have your breakup dinner, head to the bar for a cocktail. You might end up with a new date by Wednesday!

The Independent Bar and Cafe

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The name might be appropriate for what you're about to do, but that's only one reason to visit The Independent Bar and Café in Tampa's historic Seminole Heights neighborhood. Known for their wide selection of local craft beers and one of the best-grilled cheeses in the area, "The Inde" has a cool, laid-back vibe that will give your break up conversation a lets-be-friends feel. Heck, afterward you all might be on such good terms that you head to The Refinery or Mermaid Tavern for a nightcap before going your separate ways.

Carne Chophouse

Located on 7th Avenue, in the heart of historic Ybor City sits Carne Chophouse. Enjoy the full bar and order a traditional Palomilla Steak or Ropa Vieja. Bonus: Carne is super reasonable so your break-up steak won't also break your bank. When the hardest part is over, your now ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend can leave to explore the Ybor City nightlife and leave you to enjoy your steak in peace!

Miguel's Mexican Seafood & Grill

The only thing better than newfound freedom is a well-made taco. Located on Kennedy Boulevard, Miguel's has tacos that do not disappoint. Toast the end of your relationship with a Mexican beer and an authentic burrito. This will be the easiest, most fun break up you've ever had. Plus, you're right near downtown, Hyde Park Village and South Howard, so finding a new date to your co-worker's birthday party will be a snap! 

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Cover Photo courtesy of Unsplash.