St. Pete is my hometown and I love living here! We have such an amazing downtown vibe, the entire city is practically dog friendly and there is a multitude of amazing dining experiences. If you are into fine dining and seafood or food trucks and vegan pop up stands – there is something here for you to sink your teeth into. This list is in no particular order – just some of my favorites that I enjoy on a monthly (sometimes weekly!) basis.
1. Engine No 9
Located in Downtown St. Pete (DTSP) Engine No 9 is an amazing burger joint! They hand craft each burger with catchy names and interesting combinations such as our personal favorites; Alice in Pain, WinO and the Demi God. What I love most is that any of the burgers can be swapped out for Impossible Burgers so even the vegans can enjoy this place. We also LOVE their pickle spears and we always get a side of sweet potato fries on the side of all our burgers. You definitely want to try this place out when you are in the area! Pictured is the Van Helsing Burger – and yes! That is an entire bulb of garlic!
2. Fresco's Waterfront Bistro
I love the vibe and waterfront views at this DTSP restaurant! You can find this bistro right smack dab in the middle of downtown by the marina. A great place to start the morning as you can leave the restaurant and explore DTSP and Beach Drive after eating. Enjoy the outdoor patio overlooking the bay while enjoying a mimosa and one of the best brunches St. Pete has to offer. I love the crab omelet and breakfast skillet. You don’t have to specifically come for brunch – their lunch and dinner menu is equally amazing.
3. Bella Brava
I’ve recently started going to Bella Brava on “date night” and I was happily impressed with their wide range of Italian dishes on their menu. If you love pasta and gourmet pizza – then this is the place for you! I will say that their dishes are a bit on the pricier side and you can drown in the wine prices ($20 a glass!) but this place is a great option when you’re casually dressed and find yourself downtown and hungry. I usually order the Ravioli Genovese which is filled with goat cheese, spinach, pine nuts and basil pesto cream!
4. The Lure
A great little spot on Central Ave in DTSP for sushi and drinks. I love the “water my lawn” drink – I could drink those forever! The sushi and vibes are really cool to. Enjoy sitting outside and people watching strolling along the sidewalks and window shopping. I love that this restaurant also has some pool tables for you to enjoy as well as microbrews on tap! All around great food and sushi and atmosphere.
5. Salt Rock Grill
If you love and want great seafood – then you need to come here! Awesome vibes and waterfront dining – amazing seafood. Here are some of my favorite dishes! The Crab Portobello Appetizer and Coconut Crusted Shrimp Bites! The Scallop Crusted Sea Bass is amazing! My mouth is watering now – definitely try this place. They even have a reduced early menu that’s amazing starting at 4pm!
6. Island Grill & Raw Bar
Located in Tierra Verde the Island Grill and Raw Bar offers happy hour and daily specials! Enjoy a laid back atmosphere, deck seating and an amazing raw oyster bar.
7. O'Maddy's
O’maddys is one of my favorite little spots in Gulfport! Their grouper sandwich is the best in the city hands down. I also really love their blackened salmon ceasar salad. I can eat here everyday and enjoy the sunset views from the restaurant. The Gulfport pier is straight across from the restaurant so you can enjoy a stroll after lunch or dinner.
8. The Getaway
Another one of my regular spots for drinks and a great atmosphere. It’s directly on the water and they’ve done a great job creating a beach vibe. I also love the fact that you can rent kayaks next door and take off to explore the mangroves just beyond the restaurant. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve see dolphins fishing here just from the sea wall. The smoked fish spread is really good and I like their fish tacos!
9. The Seahorse
A wonderful spot for breakfast in Passagrille Beach. You do need to be get here early as this place can get packed pretty quickly! This is a great way to start your day out on Passagrille Beach.
10. Noble Crust
Described as deep south Italian food – Noble Crust is a really great restaurant for casual fine dining. I love their mushroom pizza and calamari! They also have the most amazing broccoli appetizer that has goat cheese and hot peppers. It’s one of my absolute favorite dishes! I love the fact that they offer a Sunday Brunch menu which is pretty fancy and amazing. You can’t go wrong with Noble Crust – their menu is always changing with the season and I haven’t had a bad dish there.
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