We went to Jackson's Bistro on the waterfront on the evening before surgery in Feb. 2013.  Seafood, steaks, salads, good food and really nice to sit outside overlooking the water on a warm February evening.  I felt well enough to go out to dinner on the day of surgery.  We tried The Acropolis in Ybor City (neighborhood of Tampa) which a friend had recommended to me. Great authentic Greek food.  I mostly had soup, because I had  a bit of a sore throat, but my husband enjoyed a lamb dish. Only problem was that it was a bit noisy with live music and the staff doing line dances through the restaurant and out the door periodically!  Fun, but hard to have a conversation.  

I also had dinner at Jackson's the night before surgery and highly recommend the place. Good food and beautiful views! The hotel shuttle conveniently dropped us off and picked us up right in front of the restaurant.

We also liked the restaurant at the Hyatt Hotel in Clearwater Beach for lunch ... outdoor patio overlooking the beach ... very relaxing.