Tampa’s waterfront dining scene might boast plenty of flashy spots, but sometimes the best treasures come in the humblest packages.
Big Ray’s Fish Camp proves that exceptional seafood doesn’t need elaborate décor or white tablecloths – just fresh ingredients and genuine passion for the craft.
This tiny counter-serve shack on Interbay Boulevard has been reeling in devoted locals since 2015, transforming from a forgotten building into one of Tampa’s most beloved seafood destinations. 🐟
How Big Ray’s won local’s hearts
The story of Big Ray’s Fish Camp begins with pure determination and a $50 bank account.
Owner Raymond “Nick” Cruz acquired the abandoned Chubasco seafood building in 2015 with a vision to recreate the authentic Florida fish shacks of the 1950s and 60s.
A fifth-generation Tampa native, Cruz grew up learning to fish from his grandfather at nearby Ballast Point Pier, spending countless summer days cleaning and cooking fresh catches just blocks from where his restaurant now thrives.
Within months of opening, Cruz’s grouper sandwiches, conch fritters, and peel-and-eat shrimp had captured the attention of Tampa Bay Times food critic Laura Reiley.
This recognition catapulted the humble fish shack into the newspaper’s top 50 restaurants in Tampa Bay, cementing its reputation among locals who appreciated genuine, no-frills seafood.
The restaurant’s authentic approach – using reclaimed fence panels for tables and serving only the freshest available fish – resonated with diners hungry for something real in an increasingly corporate food landscape.
Food Highlights
- Grouper Sandwich: The crown jewel that put Big Ray’s on the map, featuring fresh Gulf grouper prepared grilled, blackened, or fried with lettuce, tomato, onion, and housemade tartar sauce. Food Network featured this award-winning creation on their bucket list for Tampa’s best grouper sandwich.
- Lobster Corn Dog: The signature dish that really put us on the map, according to Cruz. A whole six-inch lobster tail is split, powdered with flour, bathed in cornmeal batter, and deep-fried to golden perfection – a creative twist that’s become legendary among locals.
- Conch Fritters: Light, crispy golden orbs studded with generous pieces of conch, served with the perfect tangy-spicy dipping sauce. These aren’t dense, doughy disappointments but rather textural masterpieces with satisfying crunch giving way to tender, aromatic interiors.
- Grouper Cheeks: Sweet, tender nuggets of grouper that melt in your mouth, available with various seasonings including the popular Thai Chile preparation. These delicate morsels showcase the chef’s skill with often-overlooked cuts.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Hand-cut fries tossed with fresh garlic, cilantro, and parmesan cheese that have earned their own devoted following. Reviewers consistently praise these crispy, flavorful accompaniments that perfectly complement the seafood offerings.
- Key Lime Pie: Authentic Florida key lime pie featuring tart, creamy filling with a graham cracker crust – the perfect palate cleanser after indulging in fried seafood. This dessert represents the restaurant’s commitment to genuine Florida flavors.
Atmosphere
Big Ray’s Fish Camp embraces its throwback fish shack aesthetic with weathered wood, nautical memorabilia, and a cozy interior that feels like stepping into a beloved fishing boat cabin.
The original location features limited indoor seating with just a few wooden tables, encouraging guests to enjoy their meals at outdoor picnic tables under shade structures. 🏖️
The menu is handwritten on a chalkboard, changing based on daily fresh catches, while fishing photos and maritime artifacts line the blue-paneled walls.
Staff members greet regulars with genuine warmth, creating the kind of neighborhood vibe that makes first-time visitors feel like longtime locals.
Bottom Line
Big Ray’s Fish Camp offers an authentic taste of old Florida in Tampa’s bustling restaurant scene. Fresh, expertly prepared seafood served in a genuinely charming atmosphere makes this tiny shack a must-visit destination.
The creative menu items like lobster corn dogs provide unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere. Consistently friendly service and reasonable prices keep locals coming back weekly. This is where Tampa goes for real seafood.