The Tampa Bay Area is great for food lovers. There's something for everyone, and popular areas like Downtown St. Pete and Clearwater are a food junkie's heaven.

Ditch the fast food chains and #EatLocal. Next time you find yourself in Tampa Bay, stop by these restaurants for a taste of the best local fare the area has to offer.

Breakfast

1. Doe-Doe's Diner

As one of my personal favorites, Doe Doe's Diner provides excellent breakfast fare at a price that won't break your wallet. Offering weekday and weekend specials, the diner provides all your favorites just like Mom made it. Make sure you try the hashbrowns and pair with pancakes or French Toast for a meal that won't disappoint.

2. Lighthouse Donuts

Lighthouse Donuts is situated right across the street from an Indian Rocks Beach access. Grab a donut for only $0.90 and add a cup of coffee to enjoy a perfect morning in the Florida sunshine. Offering a wide variety of donuts, bagels, and treats, this small shop is the perfect place to go to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Note: This shop takes cash only.

3. Sweet Sage Cafe

The Sweet Sage Cafe is a cute brunch spot located on Madeira Beach, serving up their own twists on well-known breakfast classics. The restaurant is best known for it's Waffledaffle, a huge Belgian Waffle split into four pieces with powdered sugar and fresh fruit layered on top. Make sure to ask to sit on the back porch to get the full Sweet Sage Cafe experience.

4. The Seahorse Restaurant

This small restaurant has been serving breakfast since 1938. With rustic decor and a delightful porch on the side, guests can take in the history of Pass-A-Grille while munching on their favorite morning classics. This is a spot you won't want to miss.

Lunch & Dinner

1. Zom Hee Chinese Restaurant

Arguably offering the best Chinese food in the area, the Zom Hee Chinese Restaurant has been family owned and operated since 1985. Dine in for an authentic Chinese experience (the dining space is beautifully decorated), or take out your favorites if you're in a hurry.

2. Greek Village Restaurant and Deli

Located right next to Seminole's new City Center, the Greek Village Restaurant can be easily overlooked. Consider dining in this hidden gem for the ultimate Greek experience with belly dancers on Saturday night or take out your favorites if you want to enjoy the meal at home. I highly recommend the chicken breast strips or gyro on pita with Greek Salad and a piece of their heavenly Triple Chocolate Cake for dessert.

3. Frenchy's Rockaway Grill

My friend introduced me to Frenchy's about a year ago. The restaurant originally opened in a different location as Frenchy's Original Cafe in 1981 and its instant popularity led to the opening of four other locations over the last 30 years. Be sure to try their famous Super Grouper Sandwich and watch the sun set on Clearwater Beach. Lines can get long on weekend nights, but the food is definitely worth the wait.

4. Carmelita's Mexican Restaurant

Carmelita's have been serving up authentic Mexican fare since 1983. Be sure to try the chicken flautas or if you are feeling more traditional, the tacos can't be beat. Carmelita's also offers you a free meal on your birthday. For the ultimate Mexican dining experience, come in on a Saturday night for a performance by their own mariachi band. You'll leave this restaurant full, happy, and satisfied.

There are so many more local restaurants to try in the Tampa Bay area. Next time you visit, #EatLocal.