We’re turning up the fun with new hours that’ll keep your weekends smokin’! NOW Open on Sundays: Daytona Beach, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Kissimmee, Lakeland, Longwood, Tallahassee, Tampa, UCF, Winter Garden, Winter Park, Coral Springs, South Tampa, and Orange Park. All locations have extended hours on Friday & Saturday, open until 9pm Join us for smokin' good weekends. We look forward to serving you!
Founded in Florida in 2009, 4 Rivers Smokehouse is a family-owned business specializing in slow-smoked barbecue, homestyle sides, and fresh desserts made daily in our bakery. South Tampa was the tenth Smokehouse to open in the Sunshine State and is located just down the road from Raymond James Stadium, downtown, the bay, and the Florida Aquarium. It’s also located only a couple of miles from the University of Tampa.
John’s commitment to bold flavor twists and creative ingredient combinations has garnered numerous accolades for the 4R signature style of BBQ, including being named the 2020 "South's Best BBQ" joint by Southern Living.
Many customers praised the friendly and attentive service, particularly highlighting the efforts of staff members like Derek and others.
Food Quality
While some reviews praised the food as delicious and high-quality, others reported issues with flavor, temperature, and preparation, indicating inconsistency.
Cleanliness
Several customers expressed concerns about the cleanliness of the restaurant, particularly the bathrooms and dining area.
Value for Money
Some customers felt that the portion sizes did not justify the prices, while others found the family meal options to be a good value.
Atmosphere
The restaurant was noted for its spacious and family-friendly atmosphere, although some found it too loud for conversation.
WK
Wendy Knafla
2 days ago
5.0
Great food. Lots of tasty side options too. The baked beans and fried okra are delicious. Good specials too. Will be back!
RL
Roxy L
Nov 12, 2025
3.0
Visited on a Saturday evening and it wasn’t busy. Parking wasn’t an issue. Everyone was kind and helpful with ordering as this was our first visit. We loved the decor of the restaurant and it was clean. Plenty of seating options. It was a plus that college football was on. We had the brisket sandwich and it lacked flavor and was dry. The Mac and cheese and sausage was good though. Sweet tea was also great. The carrot and red velvet cakes were very disappointing. Seemed like it was frozen then thawed out and had no flavor. Overall, I wouldn’t recommend as the food was disappointing for $50.
TC
That Chef
Oct 31, 2025
3.0
Meh, the flavors weren't great. The burnt ends were almost impossible to eat, chewy and hard. Certainly not melt in your mouth as they should.
The best thing I had was the potatoes with cheese. Everything was mediocre at best
SS
Suly
Oct 26, 2025
3.0
We tried this place, but it just didn’t feel right for us. We didn’t find it very clean, and the food didn’t have much flavor. I’m sure some people might really enjoy it, but it wasn’t what we expected. Also, the way the food is served and the fact that you can see the kitchen with some dirty things didn’t help — it didn’t look clean to us, and the tables and floors felt sticky. It’s not a place we would give another chance unfortunately.
AH
allen hidalgo
Oct 25, 2025
5.0
I had an amazing experience at Four Rivers Smokehouse thanks to Derek Perez. From the moment I walked in, Derek made me feel welcome with his genuine hospitality and positive energy. He went above and beyond to answer questions, make recommendations, and ensure everything came out perfectly.
Derek knows the menu inside and out and helped me choose the perfect meal — and it did NOT disappoint. You can tell he truly cares about the customer experience, checking in without being pushy and making sure everyone is taken care of.
It’s rare these days to find someone who takes so much pride in their work, and Derek definitely elevates the entire dining experience. If you visit Four Rivers, do yourself a favor and ask for Derek. He’s the reason I’ll be coming back again!
Highly recommend!
Frequently Asked Questions About 4 Rivers Smokehouse
What are the operating hours for 4 Rivers Smokehouse in Tampa?
4 Rivers Smokehouse in Tampa is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Does 4 Rivers Smokehouse offer delivery services?
Yes, 4 Rivers Smokehouse offers delivery, same day delivery, in-store pickup, and curbside pickup services.
Can I pick up my order directly from the 4 Rivers Smokehouse location?
Yes, in-store pickup and curbside pickup are available during operating hours, Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
What payment options are accepted at 4 Rivers Smokehouse?
The restaurant accepts American Express, Apple Pay, cash, check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.
Is 4 Rivers Smokehouse family-friendly and accessible?
Yes, 4 Rivers Smokehouse welcomes families, has children's menu options, high chairs, wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, seating, and restrooms.
Does 4 Rivers Smokehouse serve vegetarian options and desserts?
Yes, the restaurant offers vegetarian dishes and daily fresh desserts in their bakery.
Is parking available and accessible for people with disabilities at 4 Rivers Smokehouse?
Yes, the location has wheelchair accessible parking and seating to accommodate customers with disabilities.
What nearby places can I visit before or after dining at 4 Rivers Smokehouse in Tampa?
You can visit Jeremiah's Italian Ice for a sweet treat, Carrollwood Dental Studio for dental care, or The Running Center if you're interested in sporting goods near the restaurant.
Are there any nearby automotive services close to 4 Rivers Smokehouse Tampa?
Yes, Honest-1 Auto Care and Goodyear Tire are nearby and can assist with auto repairs and tire services if needed when you're in the area.
Can I combine a visit to 4 Rivers Smokehouse with a wellness experience nearby?
Definitely, you can visit HALO salt. skin. spa., Renew Spa and Wellness, or YouFit Gyms located nearby for a gym workout or spa relaxation before or after your meal.