St. Petersburg’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, offering diverse experiences for every palate. While iconic waterfront restaurants like Parkshore Grill remain beloved staples, new spots are emerging, adding exciting dimensions to the dining landscape. Perched high above the vibrant Edge District, Sparrow, a rooftop restaurant and lounge atop the Moxy hotel, presents a unique and energetic alternative. If you’re considering your dining options in St. Pete, and perhaps weighing a familiar favorite like Parkshore Grill, let’s explore what Sparrow brings to the table.
Sparrow offers a different kind of St. Pete dining experience. Forget white tablecloths and hushed tones; Sparrow is all about vibrant energy and chic sophistication. As you step into the Moxy hotel and make your way to the dedicated elevators, you’re already entering a different world. Ascending to the seventh floor, you’re greeted by a stylish host and ushered into a sprawling space that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor seating. With room for up to 250 guests, Sparrow is undeniably popular, buzzing with a lively atmosphere, especially on weekend evenings. Securing a reservation, particularly for a coveted outdoor table with skyline views, is highly recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
The design of Sparrow is a key element of its appeal. Edgy interior touches create a trendy and modern backdrop for your dining experience. Inside, you’ll find a range of seating options, from intimate tables for two to larger arrangements for groups, including comfortable armchairs and couches for a more relaxed lounge setting. The outdoor area is where Sparrow truly shines, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the St. Petersburg skyline – a stark contrast to the ground-level, though beautiful, waterfront views offered by establishments like Parkshore Grill. Two bar areas, one indoors with a marble countertop and another outside, cater to those who prefer a more casual experience or haven’t made a reservation.
The ambiance at Sparrow leans heavily towards a lounge, setting it apart from a traditional restaurant like Parkshore Grill. From Thursday to Saturday, a DJ sets the mood with energetic music, creating a high-spirited and lively environment. This vibrant atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and energetic night out, perhaps before or after exploring the Edge District, but it’s worth considering if you prefer a quieter, more intimate dining setting like you might find at Parkshore Grill. If you’re in search of a place to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a buzzing atmosphere, Sparrow is definitely your spot.
Sparrow’s menu further solidifies its identity as a bar and lounge with a focus on shared plates, differing from the more structured, entree-focused menus often found at restaurants like Parkshore Grill. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu, explaining that dishes are designed for sharing and will arrive as they are ready. This approach encourages a more social and interactive dining experience. Given the smaller table sizes, ordering a couple of dishes at a time is a smart strategy.
The culinary offerings are described as Asian-inspired, spanning several sections: small plates, large plates, a dedicated sushi corner, bao buns, and sides. This contrasts with the more broadly American and seafood-centric menu at Parkshore Grill. Sparrow’s beverage menu is equally creative, categorized into sections like “Cruise Control” for tropical classics and “Adventurous” for unique, tiki-inspired concoctions. This thoughtful menu format simplifies the cocktail selection process and encourages exploration.
During a recent visit, the “Gentleman Kaiju,” a gin-based cocktail with green chartreuse and nori, proved to be a standout – savory and spirit-forward, appealing to those who appreciate complex flavors. The “Kodama’s Groove,” a rum-based drink with Midori and matcha, offered a brighter and more refreshing option. Just like Parkshore Grill boasts an extensive wine list and classic cocktails, Sparrow carves its own niche with innovative and globally-inspired drinks.
The food at Sparrow is designed to complement the drinks and social atmosphere. The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, featuring crispy fried shrimp with a tangy chili sauce and pickled slaw, were a definite highlight – easy-to-eat street-style tacos with a balanced flavor profile. The Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna Tartare, while visually appealing, leaned slightly chewy rather than crispy, and the serrano chili was a bit overpowering. Moving to the sushi section, the Hamachi Roll, unfortunately, was underwhelming, lacking in presentation and flavor. However, this might be an isolated experience, and exploring other sushi options on future visits is certainly warranted.
In conclusion, Sparrow offers a distinct dining experience in St. Petersburg that contrasts with established favorites like Parkshore Grill. While Parkshore Grill provides a classic, elegant waterfront setting with a focus on American cuisine, Sparrow delivers a high-energy rooftop lounge atmosphere with Asian-inspired small plates and innovative cocktails. Sparrow is ideal for those seeking a trendy and vibrant night out, perfect for sharing plates and enjoying drinks with friends against the backdrop of the city skyline. If you’re looking for a fresh and exciting alternative to the traditional St. Pete dining scene, Sparrow is definitely worth checking out, offering a different, yet equally compelling, experience compared to the more established and traditional charm of Parkshore Grill.
