Hey fellow food lovers! If you’re on the hunt for the best Downtown St Pete Restaurants, you’ve come to the right place. As a content creator for pets.edu.vn and a dedicated foodie who’s called Tampa Bay home since 2017, I’ve made it my delicious mission to explore every corner of St. Pete’s vibrant culinary scene. Trust me, this city is a foodie paradise waiting to be discovered!
Downtown St. Petersburg is truly a gem, brimming with diverse and mouthwatering dining options. From relaxed brunch spots perfect for lazy weekend mornings to top-notch sushi experiences and everything your taste buds could possibly desire in between, downtown St. Pete’s restaurant scene has it all. Whether you’re a St. Pete local or just visiting our beautiful city, each of these downtown St. Pete restaurants offers a unique and unforgettable culinary adventure that’s absolutely worth exploring.
Top Picks: Best Restaurants in Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida
1. Il Ritorno
Il Ritorno consistently hits all the right notes. This spot offers a captivating ambiance that blends rustic charm with modern sophistication, setting the stage for an exceptional dining experience. But the food? It’s simply on another level! They specialize in Italian cuisine with an innovative twist, ensuring every dish is both familiar and excitingly new.
During my visit, the octopus appetizer was a revelation – incredibly tender and bursting with complex flavors. However, the true culinary highlight was the Taleggio Agnolotti. Initially, it wasn’t my first choice, but thanks to our server’s excellent recommendation, I ventured outside my usual picks and I’m eternally grateful I did. The combination of crispy lamb belly, perfectly charred leeks, and fragrant chive oil was simply divine. This dish easily ranks as one of the most memorable I’ve savored in St. Pete!
2. Jay Luigi
Jay Luigi is another outstanding Italian restaurant in downtown St. Pete that deserves a spot on your must-try list. This restaurant manages to serve up genuinely incredible Italian fare in a wonderfully relaxed and inviting setting. While there’s no need to overdress, Jay Luigi still offers a dining experience that feels a touch more special than your everyday casual eatery.
Their menu is a testament to high-quality ingredients, evident in everything from their hand-rolled pastas to their expertly crafted Roman and Neapolitan-style pizzas. We opted for the “Mary” pizza – a delightful combination of mozzarella, creamy ricotta, savory meatballs, sweet caramelized onion, and aged parmesan. It was, in a word, incredible.
Equally impressive was the “Don’t Kale My Vibe” salad, which honestly caught me completely off guard. This salad was a total game-changer and instantly made me plan a return visit. It’s easily one of my favorite salads in the entire Tampa Bay area. If you find yourself in St. Pete, experiencing Jay Luigi is an absolute must.
3. Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro
Fresco’s is a downtown St. Pete restaurant that consistently delivers a fantastic dining experience. Their extensive menu boasts a wide array of options, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to try. In my numerous visits, I’ve always left completely satisfied!
However, if you haven’t yet experienced their blackened grouper or Ahi tuna, you are truly missing out! These are my absolute top recommendations and have never failed to impress. And whatever you do, make sure to indulge in their lobster bisque – it’s remarkably light yet intensely rich in flavor, serving as the perfect and luxurious start to any meal.
What elevates Fresco’s even further are the breathtaking waterfront views. It’s the ideal location for a leisurely lunch or a memorable sunset dinner, complete with expertly crafted cocktails.
4. Allelo
For a truly sophisticated Mediterranean-Aegean dining experience with a distinctive flair, Allelo is your destination. The atmosphere is undeniably stylish, and the cuisine is simply exceptional. From impeccably mixed cocktails to an impressive selection of wines by the glass, every aspect of the menu is designed to impress and delight!
Allelo quickly became a personal favorite when it first opened – I couldn’t get enough! They are also known for hosting exciting and unique events, so it’s always worth checking their calendar. This is one of those special spots I consistently choose when entertaining out-of-town guests for a fun and upscale day in St. Pete, along with its equally fantastic sister restaurant, Juno & The Peacock (more on that later). Both are perfect choices for creating memorable meals and wonderful experiences.
Some of my absolute go-to dishes from their menu include the fresh and briny oysters, the perfectly cooked pork chop, and honestly, any of their pasta dishes – always with extra truffle, of course!
5. The Lure
When a sushi craving strikes, make a beeline for The Lure. This restaurant offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, even featuring a pool table for those seeking extra casual vibes. However, it’s the exceptional sushi that truly keeps me coming back time and time again.
The Vesuvius roll is an absolute must-try and a true culinary experience. It’s expertly crafted with a delicious combination of crab, cucumber, cream cheese, and beautifully topped with avocado, baked dynamite, eel sauce, and spicy mayo. Trust me, it’s the perfect sushi roll and utterly satisfying. For those looking to diversify, The Lure also offers a tempting selection of tapas and exciting international dishes. It’s easily one of my favorite sushi restaurants in downtown St. Pete and a definite must-visit when you’re in the area!
6. Red Mesa Mercado
For a meal that’s both quick and unbelievably delicious, Red Mesa Mercado is the perfect solution! Operating in a fast-casual style, you simply place your order at the window, find a comfortable seat in their inviting shaded outdoor area, and anticipate the culinary magic to come.
Their taco salad is my consistent go-to choice – generously piled high with fresh ingredients and topped with a distinctive chipotle Caesar dressing that delivers just the right amount of flavorful kick. And if you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink, they always feature a delightful seasonal sangria that never disappoints! Whether you’re gearing up for a day of downtown exploration or simply need a reliably delicious meal without a long wait, this spot consistently hits the spot.
If you appreciate excellent Mexican cuisine, I also highly recommend checking out Casa Tina’s in Dunedin!
7. In Between Days
In Between Days stands out as one of the most intriguing and uniquely mysterious restaurants in downtown St. Pete. Their social media intentionally reveals very little about the ambiance, food, or cocktails, which only amplifies the allure and sense of discovery.
What I can share is that it’s a captivating Tokyo-style listening bar and craft sake house that is absolutely worth experiencing firsthand. While their menu has been updated since my last visit (definitely prompting a return trip soon), everything I’ve sampled there has been packed with incredible flavor. And their sake cocktails? They are complete game-changers, offering unique and delightful flavor profiles.
I’m intentionally keeping some mystery intact, so you’ll have to trust my recommendation and visit In Between Days to uncover its unique charm for yourself!
For those who enjoy mystery and hidden gems, be sure to also explore some of St. Pete’s fun speakeasies as well!
8. Lolita’s Wine Market
Lolita’s Wine Market had me instantly captivated from the moment I stepped inside! The atmosphere is wonderfully cozy and brimming with charm, enhanced by vibrant and colorful décor and truly top-tier service. I had an absolutely fantastic time here – plus, the staff demonstrated exceptional skill in selecting the perfect glass of wine tailored to my preferences.
The charcuterie boards are an absolute must-try, and I still frequently think about the unforgettable fire and ice ceviche – it’s genuinely unreal (and coming from someone who recently visited Colombia, that’s high praise). Just when you think you couldn’t possibly eat another bite, don’t even consider skipping the tres leches cake served in a coconut – it’s the perfect sweet ending you absolutely won’t want to miss.
If you’re a brunch enthusiast, you won’t be disappointed. Lolita’s is one of my go-to brunch restaurants in downtown St. Pete! The outdoor seating with a specialized limited menu is also a lovely touch, allowing you to sip exquisite wine while soaking up the beautiful St. Pete sunshine.
9. Copa
Copa truly lives up to the hype. Their menu reads like a heartfelt love letter to the vibrant flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean – envision tapas with a delightful tropical twist. Every single bite is so delicious, but we were particularly captivated by their perfectly seared scallops and crispy tostones!
For cocktail aficionados, their espresso martini is an absolute must-try. The presentation alone is stunning, the flavor profile is perfectly balanced, and the fact that I enjoyed it at half-price during happy hour? Even better!
They clearly possess exceptional espresso expertise because when they launched Café Copa right next door, I knew it was destined to be amazing – and, of course, it absolutely delivered. Easily one of the best coffee spots in St. Pete!
10. Parkshore Grill
If you’ve dined at Parkshore Grill before, you already understand why it consistently earns a place on lists of the best downtown St. Pete restaurants. Whenever there’s a birthday, holiday celebration, or special date night in St. Pete, Parkshore Grill is always high on the list of potential dinner destinations. Its prime location right on Beach Drive and the experience of sitting on their patio with a glass of wine just feels like the epitome of a perfect evening. While the interior is equally lovely, there’s something truly special about the patio atmosphere.
Their menu is centered around contemporary American cuisine, and they consistently offer enticing and innovative specials. However, if you appreciate surf ‘n’ turf, you absolutely must order The Parkshore. This signature dish features a perfectly cooked filet mignon and a succulent lobster tail, and let me tell you, that lobster is unbelievably tender. The accompanying lemon caper butter sauce truly elevates it to another level of deliciousness.
One of my favorite dining rituals here is sharing The Parkshore with a companion. We typically start with an appetizer or a light salad, and the staff is always gracious enough to split the entrée for us, thoughtfully plating everything separately so it still feels like a complete and satisfying meal for each person.
11. The Urban Stillhouse
Everything about The Urban Stillhouse is designed to be a complete and immersive experience. From the atmosphere to the impeccable service, the exceptional food, and the expertly crafted drinks – it’s all so incredibly good. Imagine plush leather sofas, inviting wood-burning fireplaces, a dedicated bourbon “library,” and an aroma that evokes the warmth and comfort of Christmas at home. The word “cozy” barely begins to capture the inviting ambiance.
Making a reservation is definitely recommended as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly. While my personal experience has been limited to brunch, their dinner menu also looks exceptionally appealing. For brunch, the bloody mary is an absolute must-try (they even offer the option to add a caffeine and B12 infusion for an extra boost if needed). Their perfectly fried chicken and homemade pickles? Simply unreal.
Even if you don’t typically consider yourself a bourbon enthusiast, ordering a bourbon flight for the table is highly recommended simply for the experience. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and will expertly guide you through the best way to savor and appreciate each selection. And if you have the opportunity, take a brief tour of the venue – at the very least, venture upstairs to explore “the library”!
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The Library is another one of my reliable go-to brunch or lunch spots in St. Pete! The food is consistently presented with exquisite detail, the coffee is so remarkably smooth you might lose count of how many cups you’ve enjoyed, and the entire space simply radiates the most dreamy aesthetic.
The walls are adorned with thousands of books, all thoughtfully arranged in varying shades of navy blue, and the seating features a charming mix of cozy, English den-style chairs. It’s the kind of place where you could comfortably settle in for hours and never feel the urge to leave.
The menu is updated periodically, but if you ever have the chance to try their sourdough French toast, absolutely do it. You’ll be thanking me later. This delightful spot is perfect for a relaxed girls’ brunch, a casual breakfast date, or even a stylish addition to a St. Pete bachelorette weekend.
Their sister location in Tampa, Oxford Exchange is equally as captivating and mesmerizing!
13. Red Mesa Cantina
Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, Red Mesa Cantina is always a vibe. This spot offers modern Mexican cuisine with a fun and innovative twist, and their courtyard is the perfect setting for a relaxed and enjoyable weekend brunch. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 AM to 3 PM, so if you’re craving flavorful huevos rancheros or satisfying chorizo-packed eggs, this is definitely your destination.
The drink menu is just as compelling a reason to visit as the food itself. They offer excellent bloody marys, refreshing sangrias, and margaritas in seemingly endless flavor variations. Having trouble deciding? Simply order the margarita sangria and consider your decision perfectly made!
14. Birch & Vine
Birch & Vine is one of those dining establishments that feels subtly fancy, in a way that makes you want to fully embrace the elevated experience. Located within The Birchwood hotel, it features a sleek, modern design and a breezy patio – ideal for those moments when you want to treat yourself to something a little special.
The menu showcases New American cuisine with a strong emphasis on seasonal flavors, and every dish I’ve sampled has been something I would happily order again and again. The cocktail shrimp were exceptionally fresh and flavorful, the pasta was simply chef’s kiss perfect, and if you’re in the mood for steak, theirs is phenomenal (and did you notice that generous truffle topping?!?). The salmon is also an excellent choice if you lean more towards seafood.
15. Wild Child
Wild Child is undeniably one of those downtown St. Pete restaurants that radiates effortless coolness. Their menu is brimming with fresh, seasonal dishes infused with exciting international flavors, and they are serious about crafting exceptional cocktails.
Let’s begin with the food highlights. The Korean fried chicken sandwich is simply phenomenal. It’s perfectly complemented by kimchi mayo and crisp shredded cabbage, and if you order the rosemary fries with garlic aioli on the side, you’re truly doing it right. One of the most surprisingly delightful dishes I’ve had here was their Caprese salad with strawberry and rhubarb – it might sound unconventional, but the flavors harmonize beautifully. And the tuna tostadas? Always a reliably solid and flavorful choice.
When it comes to cocktails, I always opt for the Lost Weekend. It’s a refreshing blend of fresh watermelon, lime, and agave, and you have the option to select your preferred spirit. Mezcal is the ultimate recommendation, trust me on this.
16. Beau & Mo’s
Beau & Mo’s completely blew me away the moment I walked through the door. I was anticipating a typical steakhouse atmosphere, but I was instantly proven wrong – jaw dropped. The ambiance is dimly lit, creating a super intimate setting, and honestly just exudes a sexy vibe. If you need the perfect spot for a date night or a special anniversary celebration, this is it.
We started with the goat cheese bruschetta, and oh my god, it was absolutely incredible. Then, purely by delightful coincidence, we happened to dine there on a Wednesday, which meant we were able to take advantage of their insane dinner-for-two deal – $89 for two 6-oz filets, two wedge salads (we substituted the housemade creamy garlic dressing for blue cheese, and I highly recommend making the same choice), shrimp scampi, green beans, and decadent dessert cannolis.
We were thoroughly stuffed, but when I spot limoncello cake on an Italian restaurant menu, I simply must order it. And this particular limoncello cake was, without exaggeration, the best I’ve ever tasted – incredibly light, perfectly balanced flavors, just an absolute dream of a dessert!
Oh, and before you depart? They have a box of cigars available for you to take one if you wish, along with a charming little outdoor area where you can actually enjoy it. Such a thoughtful and fun little touch!
17. Juno & The Peacock
You already know my expectations were sky-high for Juno & The Peacock given that it’s the sister restaurant to Allelo, and it completely lived up to them. They specialize in New American Coastal Cuisine with an ambiance that perfectly complements the Sunshine City. The outdoor patio is utterly adorable, and I genuinely can’t walk past it without stopping to snap a photo. It’s just too visually appealing.
Let’s get to the most important aspect – the food. I’ve dined here several times now, and if I were to curate my definitive go-to order, it would be this: Wagyu beef carpaccio, Monica’s cornbread (because it’s a must-have), and the California crunch salad to begin. Then, without fail, I always share the magnificent Dean & Peeler ribeye. That being said, every seafood dish I’ve tried has also been exceptionally delicious, so you truly can’t make a wrong choice.
Also, they craft one of my absolute favorite espresso martinis in Tampa Bay, and you know I don’t make that statement lightly. If you somehow manage to save room for dessert, absolutely do not skip the key lime tart – it’s a delightful and inventive twist on the Florida classic, and you’ll find yourself craving it for days afterward.
18. Rococo Steak
Rococo Steak takes the classic American steakhouse vibe and injects it with a completely fresh and modern energy. The ambiance is undeniably romantic, moody, and perfectly suited for a special evening out. The moment you step inside, it simply feels like you’re about to experience an unforgettable meal.
The service was truly exceptional. Our server demonstrated genuine passion for the menu, and honestly, their recommendations significantly enhanced our entire dining experience. We began with the crab fritter, and when I say it was packed with crab meat, I genuinely mean it. Then came the ribeye – incredibly flavorful, wonderfully juicy, and that black pepper sauce with the accompanying mushrooms? Completely obsessed.
Now, were we completely full? Absolutely. Did we still take home a slice of their honey lavender cheesecake? Also yes. And it was unequivocally worth it. This restaurant definitely falls on the pricier side, making it more of a special occasion destination, but if you’re seeking an unforgettable steakhouse experience in St. Pete, this is undeniably it!
19. Good Fortune
Good Fortune is truly a vibe in itself! It’s an Asian fusion restaurant uniquely located in a basement, which is virtually unheard of in Florida and instantly adds to its cool factor. The overall ambiance is simply so captivating – imagine dim lighting, a stunning canopy of flower blossoms gracefully suspended over the bar, and on weekends, a live DJ amplifying the energy even further!
Their sushi rolls? Love them. Their cocktails? Completely obsessed. I literally must order the Big Buddha every single time I visit. Oh, and if you’re in the mood for some lighthearted fun, they even have private karaoke rooms! Whether you’re searching for a trendy dinner spot or a vibrant night out, this might just be one of the most fun and engaging restaurants in downtown St. Pete!
20. Nueva Cantina
If you’re on the hunt for a fun, flavor-packed spot to enjoy with your crew, definitely check out Nueva Cantina! It genuinely offers some of the best Mexican food in St. Pete, and they make it incredibly easy to share and sample a variety of dishes. Their birria pizza is absolutely insane in the best possible way. And don’t even get me started on their queso – it has the perfect touch of spice, and I could easily make a complete meal out of just that and a pitcher of margaritas if I’m being completely honest.
Speaking of margaritas, they always have a lively and engaging theme happening! Whether it’s Christmas, Galentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day – whatever the occasion – they go all out with festive decorations and themed menus. For Valentine’s Day, they featured a margarita hilariously named the Baby Daddy that literally came with a tiny sonogram featuring a taco. I mean, I cannot. Absolutely iconic level of creativity.
Ready to Explore the Best Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete?!
Downtown St. Pete truly boasts so many incredible restaurants, but these are consistently the ones that keep me returning time and time again. Whether you’re in the mood for an elegant steakhouse, a lively and fun Mexican spot, or a cozy and intimate wine bar, there’s a dining experience here to perfectly match every vibe and craving. I sincerely hope this guide assists you in discovering your next favorite dining destination – please let me know which one you’re most excited to try!
Before you go, make sure to follow me on Instagram @guidedbydestiny and explore some of my other Florida blog posts:
Best things to do in St. Pete
Best Dunedin restaurants
