đź“Ť 5119 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33603
🗓️ Visited Saturday, November 1 at 1:30 PM
First Impressions
Duff’s Tampa sits in an older building full of character — exactly the kind of place that tells you you’re in for a laid-back, local experience. True to its description, the restaurant is casual, relaxed, and family-friendly, with sports on every TV and Buffalo pride everywhere you look. Jerseys, memorabilia, and even a mounted bison head set the unmistakable sports bar vibe.
Our server was friendly and knowledgeable, though she seemed to be juggling quite a few tables. Duff’s offers Labatt’s on draft — a nice touch for anyone craving an authentic Buffalo experience.
We visited with our youngest grandson and were given a high chair that, unfortunately, was in dire need of cleaning — easily the dirtiest I’ve seen. Still, the place was busy and the staff was kind, so we rolled with it. As luck would have it, our server was from Buffalo and answered every question with hometown pride.
I ordered the Beef on Weck with a side of cheese fries for the table (the default side is chips).
The Beef on Weck
The sandwich arrived quickly — though our wings actually came out first. The beef was warm, tender, and juicy without being soggy, perfectly cooked and served on a classic weck roll. The roll itself was well-baked, and the salt and caraway seeds held firm right to the last bite.
Presentation could have been neater — a bit more “casual” than I’d prefer — but the flavor made up for it. The au jus was a touch thin, which slightly detracted from the sandwich, but the horseradish was surprisingly good (especially for Florida). A few pickles on the side rounded it out nicely.
BOW Score: 9/10
The Side
I’ve said it before: chips don’t impress me. So, I went for the cheese fries, and wow — I’m glad I did. These thin, almost shoestring fries were perfectly crispy, generously topped with melted cheese and real bacon pieces. Hands down, the best cheese fries I’ve ever had.
Side Score: 5/5
Ambience & Experience
Overall, the meal was excellent and the atmosphere welcoming. The service was friendly, and the food — especially the wings — was so good it felt like we’d been transported straight back to Buffalo.
Ambience Score: 9/10
Final Verdict: A Duff’s Tampa delivers the real deal — hearty food, friendly service, and authentic Buffalo flavor. Definitely worth the trip, anytime.