St. Pete Beach is famous for its white sandy beaches and stunning Gulf Coast sunsets that take your breath away. What you may not know is that it’s one of Florida’s best destinations for food and drink. And it’s not just all seafood (although the seafood restaurants are amazing if you’re a fish lover). You’ve got plenty of variety to suit all tastes, dietary requirements, and preferences.
One of the great things about St. Pete Beach is that many of the best dining spots are within walking distance or a short drive of the local apartments. So, it’s easy to try a new place or go back to your favourite find throughout your trip. If you need some inspiration, you’ll find some of the most popular places to check out in this guide.
Fresh Seafood Restaurants You Won’t Want To Miss
A trip to St. Pete Beach wouldn’t be complete without trying some of the delicious fresh seafood the Gulf Coast is famous for. From casual beach spots to fine dining experiences, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the locally caught fish, mouthwatering shellfish, and classic Florida favourites.
Snapper’s Sea Grill
Snapper’s Sea Grill is a long-standing local favourite known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and beautifully prepared seafood dishes. The menu is updated based on the freshest catches available, with everything from grouper and snapper to scallops and lobster featuring throughout the year. If you’re looking for a relaxed evening meal with attentive service and meals that show off the best local ingredients, you can’t go wrong with Snapper’s Sea Grill.
Crabby Bill’s
Crabby Bill’s is a laid-back family restaurant that has become an institution of St. Pete Beach. Located just steps from the beach, it’s the perfect place to enjoy Gulf shrimp, crab legs, oysters, or a traditional seafood basket. What better way to round off a sun-soaked day at the beach? With generous portion sizes and outdoor seating overlooking the water, it’s a popular spot with locals and tourists.
The Wharf
A little further south of St. Pete Beach in Pass-a-Grille is the Wharf restaurant, combining a relaxed coastal atmosphere with mouthwatering seafood. Overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner while watching the boats go by.
The menu boasts local seafood alongside salads, sandwiches, and other locally-inspired dishes. Making it a must-visit for those looking to experience a quieter side of St. Pete Beach.
Best Bars For Cocktails, Live Music, And Nightlife
When the sun sets after a fun-filled day of sand and swimming, St. Pete Beach comes to life with an amazing nightlife buzz. You may fancy sipping a handcrafted cocktail while watching the sun go down, or enjoy live music with friends and make the most of the lively atmosphere. No matter how you like to spend a holiday night, you’ve got options that tick all the boxes.
Jimmy B’s Beach Bar
Jimmy B’s Beach Bar is one of the area’s most iconic nightlife spots. You can’t miss it; it’s right on the sand, famous for its live music and stunning views. Grab a tropical cocktail, get the perfect beach seat, and enjoy the music. The bar plays every type of music from acoustic sets to energetic bands, so you’re sure to hear something that gets you singing along.
The Toasted Monkey
The Toasted Monkey offers a more chilled setting and is a hit with locals and tourists alike. Known for its casual beach vibe, frozen cocktails and live entertainment, it’s a great place to enjoy happy hour or settle in for an evening of music, drinks and classic American bar food.
Level 11 Rooftop Bar And Lounge
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for something a bit more sophisticated, Level 11 Rooftop Bar and Grill provides stunning panoramic views across the Gulf Coast.
It’s a great place to sit back and relax with the bar’s expertly mixed cocktails, wine, and premium spirits. Couples love this place, making it a lovely place for a romantic date night and when you want to enjoy St. Pete Beach from a different perspective.
Family-Friendly Restaurants Near Your Apartment
Going on holiday with the kids shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on great food. St. Pete Beach has a variety of family-friendly restaurants with menus that feature dishes everyone can enjoy, whether your kids are adventurous eaters or prefer to play it safe.
Buoys Waterfront Bar And Grill
Buoys is close to Pass-a-Grille and has become a popular choice for families thanks to its waterfront location, spacious outdoor seating, and a menu with plenty of options. Fresh seafood sits alongside classic American burgers, sandwiches, and salads, making it easy to find something for the kids while everyone soaks up the relaxing coastal views.
Rick’s Reef
At the heart of St. Pete Beach is Rick’s Reef, a casual spot known for its generous breakfasts, hearty lunches, and welcoming atmosphere. If you and the family are looking to fuel up for a day at the beach, you’ve got to head to Rick’s Reef for their delicious pancakes, omelettes, and traditional American breakfasts. When you’re taking a lunchtime break from the sun, they’ve got sandwiches and seafood dishes for everyone to enjoy.
Giuseppe’s Pizzeria
Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, and at Giuseppe’s you’ll find freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, and Italian classics that are perfect for families looking for a relaxed dinner with kid-friendly foods. Takeaway options are also available, making it easy to enjoy a cosy meal back at your apartment after a busy day exploring.
Make The Most Of Your Stay At St. Pete Beach
With so many great restaurants and bars to choose from at St. Pete Beach, it’s definitely worth planning in advance where possible. So, you can make the most of your trip and not miss out on somewhere you really want to go.
If you want to go to one of the beachfront restaurants for sunset, it’s best to arrive early or make a reservation ahead of time. Sunset is one of the busiest times of day, especially at weekends and during peak travel periods, with Gulf views always being in high demand.
Happy hour is a nice, casual way to experience the local food and drink scene. Many bars and restaurants offer early-evening specials on cocktails, wine, beer, and appetisers. It’s the perfect opportunity to try a few local favourites before heading out for dinner or enjoying an evening by the water.
Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the most well-known venues, either. Some of St. Pete Beach’s best dining experiences can be found in tucked-away cafés, neighbourhood restaurants, and waterfront bars that are favourites among locals. Exploring different parts of the area, including Pass-a-Grille, is the best way to discover somewhere new and enjoy a more authentic taste of Florida.
Stay Close To St. Pete Beach’s Best Bars And Restaurants
St. Pete Beach is a hidden gem in Florida, with many amazing bars and restaurants that will help you create unforgettable memories on your next holiday. If you want to be at the heart of the action, a short distance from not just the beach but also some of the most popular food spots in the local area, then Florida Stays can help.
Our beautiful, private apartment to rent in St. Pete Beach is located in the exclusive Land’s End community, on the peaceful southern tip of Sunset Beach. With direct beach access, fantastic on-site amenities and popular dining destinations just a short drive away, it’s the perfect base for a relaxing Florida escape.
Start planning your next holiday today, and get in touch for prices and availability for your chosen dates.
