23 Best Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete, FL – A Local’s Guide

St. Petersburg, Florida is a true foodie’s paradise, with an unmatched restaurant scene that will leave you craving more. In this vibrant city, you’ll discover incredible dining options at every turn, making it nearly impossible to settle for a boring chain restaurant. 

With a diverse array of locally-owned, gourmet eateries within walking or biking distance, downtown St. Pete offers a culinary adventure like no other. From Mexican to Asian, fancy to hole-in-the-walls, the city’s restaurant landscape caters to every palate. 

Prepare to embark on a delectable journey as we unveil the 23 best restaurants in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida.

Map of the Best Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete

Top Favorite Restaurants

1. Ceviche

Topping the list of favorites is Ceviche, a tapas restaurant that has firmly cemented its place in the heart of downtown St. Pete. Situated on the iconic Beach Drive, this establishment exudes a vibrant ambiance that perfectly complements its exquisite Spanish cuisine. The menu is a true celebration of tapas, offering an array of small plates that encourage sharing and exploration.

• Address: 332 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Mon – Thurs: 11:00am – 10:00pm, Fri & Sat: 11am – 11:00pm, Sun: 11:00am – 9:00pm
• Website: ceviche.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Casa Ceviche, Patatas Bravas, Pollo al Jerez

2. Trophy Fish

If you’re a seafood enthusiast, Trophy Fish is an absolute must-visit destination in downtown St. Pete. This restaurant is renowned for its commitment to serving the freshest catches of the day, creating a menu that changes based on the latest and most succulent offerings from the sea. From hush puppies and ceviche to fresh catches prepared with your choice of seasoning, sides, and sauces, Trophy Fish promises a dining experience that will transport you to the heart of the ocean.

• Address: 2060 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
• Hours: Mon & Tues: Closed, Wed & Thurs: 5pm -10pm, Fri: 4pm -10pm, Sat & Sun: 12pm -10pm
• Website: trophyfish.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Hush Puppies, Blackened Fresh Catch, Fish Tacos

3. Mazzaro’s Italian Market

For an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of St. Pete, look no further than Mazzaro’s Italian Market. This iconic establishment has reigned as the #1 restaurant on TripAdvisor for many years, and for good reason. Offering a delightful fusion of a market and a restaurant, Mazzaro’s is a one-stop shop for all things Italian. From freshly made pasta and artisanal cheeses to an array of prepared meals and a cozy outdoor patio, this place has it all.

• Address: 2909 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
• Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am – 5pm, Sat: 9am – 2:30pm, Sun: Closed
• Website: mazzarosmarket.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Hot Italian, Grilled Caprese, Gelato, and any of the fresh pastas

4. Pacific Counter

Craving a taste of Hawaii in the heart of Florida? Look no further than Pacific Counter, a culinary oasis that serves up delectable poke bowls and sushi burritos. With a commitment to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere, this restaurant offers a refreshing escape from the everyday. Customize your own bowl or try one of their signature creations – either way, you’re in for a flavor-packed experience that will transport your taste buds to the Pacific islands.

• Address: 660 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 9pm
• Website: pacificcounter.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: BYO Bowl, O.G.

Best Italian Restaurants

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5. BellaBrava

If you’re seeking an authentic Italian dining experience in downtown St. Pete, look no further than BellaBrava. This restaurant seamlessly blends American-Italian flavors with more traditional Italian dishes, offering a diverse menu that caters to every palate. From classic Caesar salads and chicken parmesan to beef carpaccio and black truffle pasta, BellaBrava’s menu is a testament to the versatility of Italian cuisine. And let’s not forget their wood-fired pizzas – a true highlight that will have you craving more.

• – Address: 204 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• – Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11:30am-10pm, Fri & Sat: 11:30am-11pm
• –
• Website: bellabravastpete.com
• – Price Range: $$
• – Best Dishes: Beef Carpaccio, Crostata, Prosciutto & Burrata Pizza

6. Il Ritorno

For a modern twist on Italian cuisine, Il Ritorno is a must-visit destination in downtown St. Pete. This contemporary eatery prides itself on offering a seasonal menu that showcases the freshest produce available. With a focus on creativity and quality, Il Ritorno’s dishes are a true departure from the traditional, offering a unique and elevated dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a culinary adventure, this restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression.

• Address: 449 Central Ave N #101st, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Sun: Closed, Mon-Thurs: 5pm-9:30pm, Fri & Sat: 5pm-10:30pm
• Website: ilritornodowntown.com
• Price Range: $$$
• Best Dish: The seasonal tasting menu

7. Old Northeast Pizza

When it comes to the best pizza in downtown St. Pete, Old Northeast Pizza reigns supreme. This cash-only establishment, tucked away in the charming Old Northeast neighborhood, serves up authentic New York-style pizza that will have you craving more. From cheesy and greasy perfection to a variety of hot and cold subs, wings, and salads, Old Northeast Pizza is a hidden gem that locals and visitors alike simply can’t get enough of.

• Address: 718 2nd St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11am – 10pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-12am
• Website: oldnortheastpizza.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Pepperoni & Banana Pepper Pizza, Hot Italian Sub, Antipasto Salad

Best Asian Restaurants

8. Hawkers Street Food

Stepping into Hawkers Street Food is like embarking on a culinary journey through Asia, with each dish offering an authentic taste of the region’s vibrant flavors. This small chain, with 15 locations throughout the Southeast, has managed to capture the essence of Asian street food while maintaining a sense of intimacy and local flair. From bao buns and pad thai to fried rice and dumplings, the menu is a veritable feast for the senses.

• Address: 1235 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
• Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm
• Website: eathawkers.com/locations/st-petersburg/
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Chow Faan, Yaki Udon, Chinese BBQ Pork Baos

9. Buya Ramen

For those seeking an authentic ramen experience in downtown St. Pete, Buya Ramen is a must-visit destination. With a cozy atmosphere and a menu that focuses on delivering the best possible noodle bowls, this eatery has quickly become a local favorite. From braised short rib ramen to seaweed salad and bao buns, Buya Ramen offers a taste of Japan that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

• Address: 911 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
• Hours: Mon: Closed, Tue-Thurs: 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sun: 12pm-10pm  
• Website: www.buyarestaurants.com/buya-ramen-st-petersburg.html
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Braised Short Rib Ramen, Seaweed Salad, Bao Buns

Best Mexican Restaurants

10. Red Mesa Restaurant  

For an authentic Mexican dining experience, look no further than Red Mesa Restaurant. As the flagship location of the Red Mesa trio, this eatery offers a traditional menu featuring all your favorites, from tacos and enchiladas to burritos and unique entrees. With a cozy ambiance and a commitment to delivering consistent and delicious dishes, Red Mesa Restaurant is a beloved staple in the St. Pete community.

• Address: 4912 4th St. N. St. Pete, FL 33703
• Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pm, Fri: 11am-10pm, Sat: 10:30am-10pm, Sun: 10:30am-9pm
• Website: redmesarestaurant.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Pork Carnitas, Dip Trio

11. Red Mesa Cantina

If you’re in the mood for a lively and vibrant dining experience, Red Mesa Cantina is the place to be. With a menu that draws inspiration from Latin and Caribbean flavors, this eatery offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. From ceviches and tacos to small plates and an impressive cocktail selection, Red Mesa Cantina is the perfect spot to gather with friends and family. Don’t forget to check out their weekend brunch menu, featuring delectable options like huevos rancheros and ricotta pancakes.

• Address: 128 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: 11am-9pm
• Website: redmesacantina.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Baja Fish Tacos, Barbacoa Burrito, Tuna Ceviche, Esquites

12. Red Mesa Mercado

For a casual and delicious Mexican experience, head to Red Mesa Mercado. This vibrant eatery offers a streamlined menu focused on handhelds like burritos and quesadillas, each prepared with the utmost care and attention to flavor. With a special burrito of the day and a lively outdoor patio, Red Mesa Mercado is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite or linger over a leisurely meal.

• Address: 1100 1st Ave N. St. Petersburg, FL 33705
• Hours: Mon–Thu: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, Fri–Sat: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm, Sun: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Website: redmesamercado.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Carnitas Burrito, Cali Burrito, Quesabirria

13. Grand Hacienda

With its stunning exterior decor, Grand Hacienda instantly catches the eye of passersby in downtown St. Pete. But it’s the menu that truly shines, offering a traditional Mexican fare with a few unique twists. From ceviche and birria tacos to classic dishes like pollo campero, this eatery delivers an authentic dining experience that will transport you south of the border.

• Address: 399 11th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701  
• Hours: Mon – Thur: 11:00am – 9:00pm, Fri: 11:00am – 10:00pm, Sat: 9:00am – 10:00pm, Sun: 9:00am – 9:00pm
• Website: grandhaciendarestaurant.com/st-petersburg-restaurant
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Queso Fundido, Pollo Campero, Birria Tacos

14. Bodega

Bodega is a well-known gem in the heart of downtown St. Pete, renowned for its mouthwatering Cuban sandwich. While not strictly Mexican, this eatery’s menu, inspired by the islands of Latin America, deserves a spot on this list. From other delectable sandwiches and salads to heartier plates, Bodega offers a diverse range of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

• Address: 1180 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, Florida 33705
• Hours: Sun – Wed: 11am to 9pm, Thur – Sat: 11am to 11pm
• Website: eatatbodega.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Cuban Sandwich, Lechon Plate

Restaurants for the Experience

15. The Avenue DTSP

Sometimes, the experience of dining out can be just as important as the food itself. That’s where The Avenue DTSP shines. This lively sports bar offers a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for gathering with friends for trivia night on Tuesdays at 7pm. With a menu featuring American classics like fried pickles and buffalo wraps, The Avenue DTSP delivers a memorable dining experience that extends beyond the plate.

• Address: 330 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Mon – Thurs: 5pm – 11pm, Fri – Sat: 11am – 3am, Sun: 11am – 11pm
• Website: www.theavenuedtsp.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Fried Pickles, Basic Chick (buffalo wrap), Smoke Stack

16. Oak & Stone

If you’re a beer lover, Oak & Stone is an absolute must-visit destination in downtown St. Pete. This unique eatery boasts a self-serve beer wall with over 50 taps, allowing you to sample and savor a wide variety of local brews. But the experience doesn’t stop there – Oak & Stone also delivers on the culinary front, with a menu featuring delectable pizzas, wings, and sandwiches that perfectly complement your beer tasting adventure.

• Address: 199 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Sun: 10am – 11pm, Mon – Thurs: 11am – 11pm, Fri: 11am – 12am, Sat: 10am – 12am
• Website: oakandstone.com/location/downtown-st-petersburg
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: The Farmer & Pig Pizza, Crispy Grouper BLT, Bourbon Sticky Wings

17. Doc Ford’s

Boasting stunning waterfront views and a prime location on the newly opened St. Pete Pier, Doc Ford’s has quickly become a local favorite. With a menu that celebrates Florida’s seafood bounty, this eatery offers a range of dishes, from shrimp tacos and conch chowder to macadamia nut-crusted grouper. Whether you’re seeking a casual bite or a more upscale dining experience, Doc Ford’s delivers on both fronts, making it a must-visit destination for any trip to downtown St. Pete.

• Address: 610 2nd Ave NE, St. Pete, FL 33701
• Hours: Everyday: 11am – 10pm
• Website: www.docfords.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Conch Chowder, Yucatan Shrimp Tacos, Macadamia Nut Crusted Grouper

Best Breakfast/Brunch Spots

18. Cassis  

When it comes to brunch in downtown St. Pete, Cassis reigns supreme. This French restaurant, located on the picturesque Beach Drive, offers a cozy yet upscale ambiance that perfectly complements its delectable brunch offerings. From omelets and breakfast sandwiches to French toast and avocado toast, the menu at Cassis is a true celebration of the most important meal of the day.

• Address: 170 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701  
• Hours: Mon – Wed: 11am – 12am, Thurs: 11am – 1am, Fri & Sat: 8am – 1am, Sun: 8am – 12am
• Website: cassisstpete.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Croissant Sandwich, Brioche French Toast, Bananas Foster Pancakes, Ham & Cheese Quiche

19. Trip’s Diner

For a classic diner experience in the heart of downtown St. Pete, look no further than Trip’s Diner. This beloved establishment has been a local favorite for years, serving up hearty breakfast fare in a cozy, retro-inspired setting. From the Burrito Buster to the famous Hubcakes, Trip’s Diner offers a menu that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning breakfast enthusiasts.

• Address: 2339 Martin Luther King Jr St N., St. Petersburg, FL 33704
• Hours: Mon – Fri: 7 am – 9 pm, Sat: 7 am – 9 pm, Sun: 7 am – 3 pm
• Website: tripsdiner.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Burrito Buster, Hubcakes, Loaded Home Fries

20. The Wooden Rooster

Nestled in the heart of downtown St. Pete, The Wooden Rooster offers a unique breakfast and lunch experience that is sure to delight your senses. With a menu focused on crepes, sandwiches, and salads, this eatery showcases the best of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory breakfast sandwich or a sweet, fruit-filled crepe, The Wooden Rooster delivers on flavor and quality.

• Address: 104 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Everyday 7am-7pm
• Website: thewoodenrooster.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Berrylicious, Skinny Goat, Bananella

21. Maple Street Biscuit Company

If you’re a fan of biscuit sandwiches, Maple Street Biscuit Company is an absolute must-visit destination in downtown St. Pete. This popular chain has earned a reputation for delivering delectable, fork-and-knife-worthy creations that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. From sweet to savory, simple to wild, their menu offers a diverse range of options to suit every palate.

• Address: 662 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Every Day 7am-2pm
• Website: www.maplestreetbiscuits.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: The Squaking Goat, The Sticky Maple, The Five & Dime

Best Dessert Spots

22. The Yard Milkshake Bar

Indulge your sweet tooth at The Yard Milkshake Bar, a newly opened dessert haven in the heart of downtown St. Pete. With a menu that features a mile-long list of milkshakes, cups, cones, and pops, this establishment is sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. From classic flavors to unique combinations, each treat is a work of art, piled high with decadent toppings and sure to be an Instagram-worthy moment.

• Address: 111 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Sun-Thurs: 12:00pm-10:00pm, Fri & Sat: 12:00pm-11:00pm
• Website: www.theyardmilkshakebar.com
• Price Range: $$
• Best Dishes: Milk & Cookies, Peanut Butter Brownie Bliss, Old School Banana Split

23. Paciugo Gelato  

No visit to downtown St. Pete would be complete without a stop at Paciugo Gelato. This beloved gelateria, located on the iconic Beach Drive, offers a delightful array of flavors that are sure to transport your taste buds to Italy. From classic favorites like pistachio and bacio to innovative creations like cannoli and affogato, each scoop is a testament to the art of gelato-making.

• Address: 300 Beach Dr NE #120, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Hours: Mon – Thurs: 12:00pm – 10:00pm, Fri: 12:00pm – 11:00pm, Sat: 11:00am – 11:00pm, Sun: 11:00am – 10:00pm  
• Website: paciugostpete.com
• Price Range: $
• Best Dishes: Bacio, Cannoli, Pistachio, Affogato

Conclusion

With its vibrant culinary scene and an array of locally-owned, gourmet restaurants, downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, is a true foodie’s paradise. From Mexican and Italian to Asian and seafood, this city offers a diverse range of dining experiences that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. 

Whether you’re seeking a casual bite or a fine dining adventure, the best restaurants in downtown St. Pete have something to offer for every palate and occasion. 

So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more of this beautiful city’s flavors. With so many incredible options to choose from, the only challenge will be deciding where to dine next.