Inspired by the Riviera Maya town of Tulum, Sal Y Mar’s (Salt and Sea) casual yet sophisticated vibe adds a unique flavor to the mix of dining offerings in Midtown, with a setting and menu rich in old-world influence. With 360-degree views of the Tampa, Westshore, and St. Petersburg skylines, Sal Y Mar offers an unconventional rooftop experience, where guests can mingle effortlessly with residents and neighbors against an unrivaled backdrop.
I’m a huge fan of rooftop venues. Not just for the typical ambiance of a dreamy “top of the world” feeling but in today’s climate it allows us an opportunity to “go out” but to stay outdoors which provides a bit more a sense of “safety” when it comes to the virus.
Sal Y Mar is located in Midtown Tampa which is an area of Tampa that is in the midst of being built up. That being said, when our Uber drove us up to the Aloft hotel where Sal Y Mar rooftop bar is we were a little taken back by the “desolate” area. It’s a low-lit area with a lot of empty buildings and parking structures. I was glad we took an Uber as I am not sure I would have felt as comfortable parking and walking to the front of the building with just my girl friends. I mention this in comparison to Downtown Tampa being obviously very built up as well as the areas of Soho, Hyde Park Village, etc.
We took the elevator to the 7th floor and stepped out to the Sal Y Mar entry. To the left you’re able to enter the indoor dining / restaurant section and straight ahead leads you to the rooftop bar area. The right side of the rooftop bar is for “walk-ups” and the left side of the rooftop is for “reservations only”. We were able to walk around the “reserved” area (and I must note, it was empty) but we weren’t able to sit there without a reservation. The far left side of the rooftop is actually the hotel’s rooftop pool which was an interesting element to the space and I think could be a really fun setting once the weather is a bit warmer.
We headed back to the bar to order drinks and enjoy the sunset with the 365 degree views of Tampa Bay. The drinks were delicious (I ordered a spicy margarita and it did not disappoint.) The bartenders were both friendly and very attentive with quick service.
I’d love to return, maybe once some of the construction downstairs has completed, and this time with a reservation to eat as the food we saw passing by to other patrons looked absolutely amazing.
SUMMING IT UP.
〰️ MAKE A RESERVATION
Although the dining and rooftop looked fairly empty without a reservation you’re unable to sit, drink or order in the “reservation only” area.
〰️ LAID BACK VIBE
Definitely a low-key relaxed rooftop experience. Mellow music and chill atmosphere makes this spot great for happy hour or a first stop on a bar hop.
〰️PARKING
Since the area surrounding is still under construction (and I think will be amazing upon completion) the parking was a little confusing. We had an Uber and were dropped off following the Valet signs.
Visit their site to check out their menu!
