October 13, 2025 by Ester Venouziou

a Facebook post from Datz. Text reads: Dear Datz Family,As we continue our journey through time, we can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for all the incredible moments we've shared together at our beloved Tampa location. Today, we want to take a moment to honor and acknowledge the countless special memories that have been created right here at Datz. ✨ From heartwarming first dates and laughter-filled celebrations to unforgettable gatherings with friends and family, each moment holds a special place in our hearts. Share your favorite Datz memory with us! Whether it's a touching love story that started over a candlelit dinner, a surprise proposal that left everyone in awe, or a long-awaited reunion that warmed hearts, we want to hear it all! Your stories are what make Datz a truly extraordinary place. To make this celebration even more special, we invite you to share your cherished Datz photos along with your stories! Please email them to marketing@datzgroup.com, and let's create a beautiful collection of memories together. Thank you for being a part of our journey; your presence and stories have made Datz a place unlike any other. 🍔 We look forward to creating many more unforgettable experiences with each and every one of you. With love and appreciation, The Datz Teama Facebook post from Datz. Text reads: Dear Datz Family,As we continue our journey through time, we can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for all the incredible moments we've shared together at our beloved Tampa location. Today, we want to take a moment to honor and acknowledge the countless special memories that have been created right here at Datz. ✨ From heartwarming first dates and laughter-filled celebrations to unforgettable gatherings with friends and family, each moment holds a special place in our hearts. Share your favorite Datz memory with us! Whether it's a touching love story that started over a candlelit dinner, a surprise proposal that left everyone in awe, or a long-awaited reunion that warmed hearts, we want to hear it all! Your stories are what make Datz a truly extraordinary place. To make this celebration even more special, we invite you to share your cherished Datz photos along with your stories! Please email them to marketing@datzgroup.com, and let's create a beautiful collection of memories together. Thank you for being a part of our journey; your presence and stories have made Datz a place unlike any other. 🍔 We look forward to creating many more unforgettable experiences with each and every one of you. With love and appreciation, The Datz Team Datz closed its final location, the one in St. Pete.
Screenshot via Facebook

Datz, once one of Tampa Bay’s most recognizable restaurants, has permanently closed its downtown St. Petersburg location, ending a 16-year run for the brand.

A sign taped to the door and signed by owners Suzanne and Roger Perry announced the closure:

“An ending to an era! It’s been a great and memorable journey throughout the years. Unfortunately, we have finished our final chapter in our Datz story.”

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The Perrys launched Datz in South Tampa in 2009 and expanded to St. Pete a decade later with a 5,000-square-foot restaurant at 180 Central Ave., next to the James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art. The original location closed in 2023, followed by the Riverview outpost last year.

The couple also operated Dr. BBQ in St. Pete’s EDGE District, but sold the property in 2022.

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No one knows more about small businesses in Pinellas County than Ester Venouziou, founder of LocalShops1 and Shopapalooza Festival. Send her your business tips and news at ester@localshops1.com.

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