Frequently asked questions.

What is Ocean Ink Raw Bar?

Ocean Ink is a raw bar and seafood restaurant in historic Ybor City, Tampa, offering oysters, Key West shrimp, lobster, crab, and craft cocktails. Inspired by Charleston’s raw bar tradition, Ocean Ink focuses on fresh, American-sourced seafood delivered daily and served in a polished yet approachable setting.

Lobster roll sandwich with chopped greens on a bun, yellow mustard, and a lemon wedge, accompanied by a small bowl of pickles, with a bowl of seafood pasta and a lemon wedge on a tray.

What makes Ocean Ink unique among seafood restaurants in Tampa?

Unlike many seafood spots, Ocean Ink follows a fresh-first model. Seafood is delivered daily in small batches — day one it’s served raw, day two it’s reimagined, and day three it’s fried or prepared in new ways. Nothing is frozen, and nothing is wasted.

Two men standing on a boat with fishing gear in the background, smiling at the camera.

Where does Ocean Ink source its seafood?

Ocean Ink partners with American fishermen and independent suppliers. We serve Key West “Pinks” shrimp, cold-water Maine lobster, boutique oysters from the East and West Coasts, and Gulf oysters from Florida waters.

A tray of raw oysters on display in a seafood restaurant or seafood market.

What oysters does Ocean Ink serve?

Our raw bar rotates a selection of East Coast, West Coast, Gulf, and local Florida oysters, each with its own flavor profile — from briny and salty to nutty and sweet. The lineup changes based on season and availability.

A storefront sign reading 'RAW BAR' with images of various ocean animals including an octopus, sharks, fish, and a crab.

Is Ocean Ink casual or fine dining?

We’re fancy while approachable. Ocean Ink combines upscale seafood with a relaxed atmosphere — perfect for date night, celebrations, or happy hour with friends.

Interior of a cafe or restaurant with a brown wooden wall decorated with black and white photographs of boats and a dock scene. There is a gray upholstered bench with teal pillows, small black lamps on wooden tables, a white pot with yellow flowers, and a black chair in the foreground.

Does Ocean Ink offer seafood towers?

Yes. Guests can choose between our standard tower (Gulf oysters and domestic peel-and-eat shrimp) or our premium tower (Key West shrimp, boutique oysters, and fork-ready selections). Both are designed for sharing.

Seafood platter with lobster, crab, oysters, crab legs, and various dipping sauces on a bed of ice at a restaurant.

Does Ocean Ink take reservations?

Yes. Reservations are encouraged on weekends, but walk-ins are welcome.

A person holding a cocktail garnished with a strip of seaweed and a yellow dot on top. In the background, there is a sign that reads 'OCEAN INK RAW BAR' with a stylized wave design.