News Summary
Ocean Ink Raw Bar, a new seafood restaurant in Tampa’s Ybor City, introduces an innovative menu featuring bycatch from deep-sea fishing, curated by Executive Chef Curtis Brown. The restaurant emphasizes sustainable sourcing and aims to make high-quality seafood accessible to everyone. With a unique cocktail menu and a focus on local ingredients, Ocean Ink Raw Bar sets the stage for a fresh culinary experience in the vibrant Tampa dining scene.
Tampa Welcomes Ocean Ink Raw Bar, A New Culinary Venture
Tampa is now home to Ocean Ink Raw Bar, a newly launched seafood restaurant concept by Ken Emery, who is also the owner of the local establishment Barterhouse. This new addition to Ybor City aims to provide a unique and exploratory seafood dining experience, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a diverse menu that caters to a range of price points.
Innovative Seafood Menu with a Focus on Bycatch
At the heart of Ocean Ink Raw Bar’s menu is a standout item called “Little Cleo”, which incorporates bycatch from deep-sea fishing. This category of fish includes squid, octopus, and various crustaceans that are often discarded. The restaurant’s philosophy emphasizes creativity, using these lesser-known seafood options in dishes such as ceviche, rather than wasting them.
Executive Chef and Culinary Philosophy
Chef Curtis Brown, who oversees the culinary operations at Ocean Ink Raw Bar, advocates for a minimalist approach to dressing seafood, aiming to enhance the natural flavors of the dishes. Signature items from the menu include dishes like a Key West shrimp roll and fresh Gulf oysters, both of which highlight the quality of the ingredients.
Cocktail Offerings and Ambiance
The cocktail menu is managed by Ryan Yount, a seasoned mixologist previously associated with Pluma in St. Petersburg. The cocktails are noted for their smoothness and craftsmanship, which complements the restaurant’s relaxed yet refined ambiance. The establishment is designed to be welcoming and exploratory, aligning with the overall mission of making high-quality seafood accessible to a broader audience.
Commitment to Local Sourcing
Ocean Ink Raw Bar particularly focuses on local sourcing, offering a premium option on the menu called “Make it Key West & Boutique.” This choice features products sourced from family-run fisheries and local fishermen, reinforcing a commitment to supporting the regional fishing industry. This makes for a reliable and sustainable seafood dining option that also enhances the culinary landscape of Tampa.
Future Developments in Tampa’s Dining Scene
Ken Emery has further ambitions beyond Ocean Ink Raw Bar, with plans to introduce a modern steakhouse named Tommy’s Chophouse. This new establishment is set to feature lighter portion options, making it suitable for date nights and upscale dining experiences. Emery’s enthusiasm for food and the culinary scene in Tampa is evident in his ongoing efforts to enhance the local dining offerings.
Background on Ybor City’s Culinary Scene
Ybor City, noted for its historic significance and vibrant culture, is experiencing a culinary evolution, with new eateries like Ocean Ink Raw Bar contributing to the area’s reputation as a gastronomic destination. The blend of traditional and contemporary dining experiences offered by Ocean Ink Raw Bar aligns with the neighborhood’s changing dynamics, making it an exciting addition to Tampa’s culinary landscape.
As Ocean Ink Raw Bar opens its doors, it invites both locals and visitors to explore its innovative seafood offerings while educating them on the value of quality ingredients and sustainable practices within the seafood industry.
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Additional Resources
- 83 Degrees Media: Ocean Ink Raw Bar Joins Ybor Food Scene
- Wikipedia: Seafood
- 83 Degrees Media: Midtown East Gets Its Close Up
- Google Search: Tampa culinary scene
- 83 Degrees Media: Ocean Allies Leads Big Cleanup of Clearwater Florida
- Google Scholar: Sustainable seafood
- 83 Degrees Media: Bunkr Life Launches to Protect Consumer Information
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Culinary Arts
- 83 Degrees Media: Popup Art
- Google News: Ybor City food scene
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
