19 Best Downtown Clearwater Restaurants to Try in 2024
LOOKING FOR SOME MUST-VISIT DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER RESTAURANTS?
You’ve come to the right place! We have spent months eating our way through Florida, including all of the seafood we can get. Clearwater is one of our favorite foodie destinations in the state.
One great thing about traveling to a new city is that you get to explore the different downtown restaurants and the local cuisine. There are some great downtown Clearwater restaurants to try. We have created a list of restaurants with excellent food, many with outdoor dining the whole family will love.
Best Downtown Clearwater Restaurants
1. Clear Sky on Cleveland
418 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL
Clear Sky on Cleveland St. is a global bistro. Built on eclectic tastes from around the globe, this eatery is one of the best local restaurants in downtown Clearwater. Located in Clearwater’s historical Cleveland Street District, it’s a great spot to visit after taking in an event or attraction in the area.
Seafood-based and other mouthwatering appetizers fill the menu. Brussel sprouts, sushi rolls, and oysters of many varieties are available, along with sandwiches, steaks, and ribs. If you’re looking for lighter fare, soups and salads are fingertips away as well.
Not only known for its food, but the ambiance of the restaurant also reaches a whole new level of perfection over the weekend with the added bonus of live music. Clear Sky on Cleaveland has some of the best food from the award-winning Chef Bobby Shirley.
2. Jimmy’s On The Edge
505 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL
Jimmy’s on The Edge, located on the 10th floor of The Edge Hotel, is one of the most fun restaurants in downtown Clearwater. A 2500 square foot rooftop dining space, complete with picturesque views of the Gulf of Mexico, what could be better?
The rooftop restaurant is a perfect setting for a sunny lunch, a great place, and backdrop for a sunset dinner, or the perfect spot for a date under the stars. Officially Clearwater Beach’s largest rooftop bar, this restaurant features tasty island-inspired salads, sandwiches, and bowls, as well as tropical desserts.
October is a great time to visit Jimmy’s on the Edge. The restaurant features a 30-square-foot projection screen, perfect for screening football and baseball games. You can also dance the night away under the lights of Clearwater Beach. This beautiful place will fill your appetite and give you great views.
There’s no better way to cap off your evening in this part of town than with a Clearwater Sunset Cruise. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the relaxing and beautiful ambiance of Clearwater.
3. Rumba Island Bar & Grill
1800 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Rumba Island Bar & Grill is one of the best restaurants in downtown Clearwater, featuring Jamaican zest. Decorated as an island oasis, the atmosphere is complete with a tiki bar, deck, and live music.
The aim of the eatery is to guide visitors to taste the flavors of the islands, sit back and relax, and let their taste buds enjoy.
Rumba Island Bar & Grill is a seafood-forward restaurant with fresh fish coming in daily off their own fleet of boats. So you know what you order is as fresh as can be! Menu favorites include Island-Style Quesadillas, Jerk Chicken Wings, Rumba Salad with Grouper, Runaway Bay Crab Cakes, and Caribbean Pulled Pork.
4. Badfins Food + Brew
215 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Located at Wyndham Grand Resort (one of our favorite Clearwater family resorts) on Clearwater Beach, Badfins Food + Brew is a family-friendly restaurant specializing in seafood and Mexican dishes. One of the best restaurants in downtown Clearwater, this easygoing spot is unlike any other restaurant you will see in the area.
The patio seating provides amazing views of Clearwater Beach, welcoming casual beach diners or large parties. Tacos, classic pub fare & live music are some of the highlights of this local favorite.
5. Sea – Guini
430 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Located at Opal Sands Resort, Sea-Guini offers a modern, upscale eatery dining experience. Different from many of the popular beachside storefront eateries throughout Clearwater Beach, this seafood restaurant offers a more serene and pampered feel.
Sea – Guini offers a seasonal menu, with changes usually in the winter and summer. Some popular dishes like the pan-seared hogfish have been available since day one, and many will remain so as they’ve garnered great popularity.
The pan-seared hogfish is served over shrimp and smoked bacon hash, sweet corn broth, and roasted cauliflower. Don’t be surprised if you walk away, claiming it to be the best fish you’ve ever had! Don’t miss this gem in the city of Clearwater Beach.
6. Crabby’s Dockside
37 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Crabby’s Dockside is a family-friendly eatery with great food committed to serving quality food with great service at a fair price.
It’s known for its fresh Florida Grouper and Dockside Punch, but the panoramic views and open-air dining room are what really seal the deal.
A modern take on the beachy patio vibe, the ambiance here is very cool and enjoyable, making it one of the best restaurants in downtown Clearwater. With a menu stacked with seafood options, they are sure to have an entree that fits exactly what you’re looking for!
7. Caretta on the Gulf
500 Mandalay Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL
Located in the Sandpearl Resort, Caretta on the Gulf offers one of the most memorable restaurant experiences Clearwater Beach can offer. An upscale fine dining restaurant, this luxurious beachside resort eatery offers carefully sourced, sophisticated New American cuisine and is a favorite spot for many.
One of the most sought-after restaurants in downtown Clearwater, a meal at Caretta on the Gulf is sure to impress. Clearwater’s only AAA Four-Diamond Awarded restaurant, Caretta on the Gulf, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, complemented by fresh, seasonally-inspired cuisine.
Aside from the standard menu, an all-natural, organic menu is available for guests with specific dietary restrictions. Indoor and outdoor seating options are also available for this popular spot.
8. Island Way Grill
20 Island Way, Clearwater, FL
One of the most upscale restaurants on our list, Island Way Grill is the perfect place for an elegant setting to enjoy a meal. Known for its Asian twists on seafood classics, Island Way Grill is one of the most immaculate restaurants in downtown Clearwater.
Specializing in seafood and steaks, Island Way Grill also offers some memorable side items like crab bisque and truffle mac and cheese. A sushi bar, water views, and Sunday brunch make this spot a must-see for those looking for a more refined dining experience.
9. Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza
1101 S Ft Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL
Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza is boasted as the “Best Pizza in Florida,” which, of course, lands it on the list of the best restaurants in downtown Clearwater. A welcome change in the seafood landscape, swing by Cristino’s for the best Italian restaurant experience in the area.
Cristino’s is a family business owned by three brothers – Leonardo, Joe, and Marco who built a passion for pizza while growing up in Brooklyn, New York. Proud of their Italian roots, the brothers pay homage to their heritage in their work, through their use of a coal oven.
Though the pizza is the highlight, Cristino’s also offers tasty salads, pasta, and paninis. Make sure you leave room for the award-winning gelato as well!
10. Frenchy’s South Beach Cafe
351 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Bright and radiating quintessential beach vibes, Frenchy’s South Beach Cafe is one of the most fun places to eat in Clearwater. Situated on the beautiful Beach Walk, this restaurant boasts a Key West bistro atmosphere with open-air dining, a large sidewalk patio, and an unbeatable view of the sparkling ocean.
Renowned for its Super Grouper sandwich, other notable menu items include tropical chicken walnut salad, BBQ bacon-wrapped scallops, and grouper egg rolls. Don’t miss this longtime seafood shack that packs a punch of flavor!
11. Salty’s Island Bar and Grille
437 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL
Salty’s Island Bar and Grille is a relatively new addition to the local restaurant scene but has quickly become one of the best places to eat in Clearwater.
A unique spot, Salty’s Island offers an island twist to many casual beach fares. Typical for the area, the menu is heavily seafood-based, but in a fun way, offering highlights like gulf grouper tacos and ahi tuna bowls. When the time is right, you can even catch their seasonal fruit nachos – a cinnamon sugar, fruity treat!
12. Marina Cantina
25 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Marina Cantina is self-described as a Mexican fusion-inspired restaurant, elevated by fresh seafood caught directly from their own fleet of boats. Boasting the largest rooftop bar on Clearwater Beach, Marina Cantina is one of the most popular Clearwater Beach restaurants.
Dishes like grouper del sol, casa ceviche, pork belly tacos, and carne asada are just a few Cantina favorites that are prepared fresh daily. If you’re able, plan your visit around sunset to capture a beautiful view of Clearwater Beach from the rooftop.
13. Okeefe’s Tavern
1219 S Ft Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL
Just as the name would lead you to believe, Okeefe’s Tavern is reminiscent of a homeland many miles away from Clearwater, Florida. A roomy, wood-paneled Irish pub with a covered patio, O’keefe’s Tavern is one of the most unique restaurants near downtown Clearwater.
Offering a mainly American menu, even the pickiest person in your party will find something to enjoy. But if you’re looking for a more eclectic taste, never fear, Okeefe’s lives up to its namesake with Irish touches. Okeefe’s Tavern may be the only place in Clearwater where you can find Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage, and Irish Puffs.
14. Cabana’s Coastal Grill
655 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Cabana’s Coastal Grill is truly one of the best Clearwater Beach restaurants. The location couldn’t be better. You can eat in the casual dining area or on the patio, mere feet from the beach. Check this place out for the ultimate beach dining experience.
They offer the typical breakfast offerings you would expect, but their lunch and dinner menu is more elaborate. Appetizers like crab cake and seafood gumbo lead you into an extensive list of seafood, steak, and chicken-based entrees. Classic American options like burgers are also available, as well as classics with a twist – like lobster mac and cheese!
15. Sunset Grill Clearwater
2328 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater, FL
A homey yet modern environment, Sunset Grill Clearwater is renowned for its Key Lime Pie and other American comfort foods that take you back in time. Family-owned and affordable, Sunset Grill Clearwater is one of the best places to eat in Clearwater with kids.
Their menu is stacked with breakfast favorites – omelets, pancakes, and waffles. But also includes the southern flair of biscuits and gravy and also delicious steak and eggs.
Sandwich-style meals fill the lunch and dinner menu with melts, hoagies, and wraps. In classic Clearwater fashion, a seafood selection is also offered.
16. Salt Cracker Fish Camp
25 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL
If you’re looking for a real taste of Clearwater Beach, look no further than the delicious food from Salt Cracker Fish Camp! The simple storefront and cute umbrellaed patio give way to some of the freshest seafood available in Clearwater.
One of the best places to eat in Clearwater, Salt Cracker Fish Camp has you covered with raw classics like oysters and shrimp. But they also raise the bar with unique creations like Camp Fries – fries, grouper, pimento cheese fondue, smoked bacon, and scallions.
Exceptional food aside, what really sets this place apart from the other best restaurants in downtown Clearwater is their offer to take your seafood catch and prepare a memorable meal to enjoy with your family. That’s right, arrive with cleaned fish in hand, and they will take it from there!
17. Backwaters
1261 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Backwaters describes itself as a waterfront grill and tavern. With seating available on their waterfront dock (indoor tavern dining also available), you can smell the sea while enjoying your surf ’n’ turf in a laid-back atmosphere.
Touting a Caribbean-tinged menu, Backwaters offers an array of seafood and American favorites, making it one of the best restaurants near downtown Clearwater.
With such a unique selection like black and bleu salmon and seafood margarita pasta, Blackwater promises to be a restaurant you can visit time and time again, always with something different awaiting your tastebuds.
18. Columbia Restaurant Sandkey
1241 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL
Columbia Restaurant Sandkey is just one location in a staple of traditional Spanish restaurants in downtown Clearwater. This location is a branch of a local chain dating back nearly 120 years ago.
In an elegant setting, with white tablecloths and picturesque views of the water, Columbia Restaurant Sandkey is one of the top-tier Clearwater Beach restaurants.
A menu complete with all the classics you would expect from a Spanish restaurant, with a seafood twist! Sopas, ensaladas, tapas, and a variety of main entrees featuring salmon, paella, shrimp, mahi-mahi, snapper, grouper, and so much more!
More traditional, non-seafood entrees are also available. Featuring a variety of steaks and roast dishes.
19. Clearwater Family Restaurant
1844 N Highland Ave, Clearwater, FL
Known for its comfortable and laid-back environment, Clearwater Family Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Clearwater. “Family owned and family-friendly,” in an unassuming, diner-like space, this eatery promises to be a sure bet for families traveling with kids in Clearwater.
Known for their breakfast options (which are served all day), Clearwater Family Restaurant serves eggs in every variety imaginable! Typical eggs with bacon or sausage (or with their famous Pork Roll), omelets, skillets, or in a breakfast sandwich.
They also know how to work the griddle with waffles, pancakes, and french toast.
For a more savory taste, comfort food appetizers like buffalo wings and mozzarella sticks are just waiting to be devoured! Along with salads, sandwiches, wraps, and melts.
Map of Downtown Clearwater Restaurants
FAQ: Downtown Clearwater Restaurants
Yes! Eating at one of the beachside restaurants or packing a picnic for the beach is a must for your trip to Clearwater!
Yes! Explore the art and culture of Clearwater downtown, as well as many different food and dining options.
Things to Do in Clearwater
When you aren’t busy sampling all the flavors of downtown Clearwater, here are a few highlights of the city you might want to check out.
Relax at the Beach
Why do most people travel to Florida? Beaches, of course. Beautiful beaches abound in Clearwater. Enjoy some rest and relaxation, slide into a kayak, or jump on a jet ski. In Clearwater, the choices are endless.
Clearwater Beach was recently voted the #1 beach in the United States by TripAdvisor. Spend the day soaking up the sun on the soft, white sand of Clearwater Beach.
Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach
Be sure to check out Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach as well. Pier 60 features a 1,080-foot fishing pier and one of the Gulf Coast’s largest beach playgrounds. It’s heaven for all ages.
The bait house at the pier is stocked with all the fishing essentials you might need and also offers food and drink options. The pier comes alive each night at sunset, with crafts and entertainment.
Honeymoon Island State Park
Just north of Clearwater is Honeymoon Island State Park. This state park offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. Or explore the Osprey Trail, where you can get a rare look at a Florida virgin slash pine stand. When you’re done wandering here, hop on a ferry to Caladesi Island.
Caladesi Island State Park
When visiting Caladesi Island State Park, take in the pristine beaches or kayak through a mangrove forest. A nature trail walk to the historic Scharrer Homestead through the island’s interior is also a great activity when visiting Caladesi Island State Park.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
If you’re looking for indoor attractions, consider checking out Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Unlike most aquarium experiences, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a rescue facility. It features not only countless species of sea life, but also an animal hospital.
Conclusion: Downtown Clearwater Restaurants
Downtown Clearwater restaurants offer a wide variety of culinary fare. There are also some tasty places to eat in downtown St. Pete. If you’re looking to get a taste of the local flavor, many downtown eateries offer fresh seafood entrees – truly right off the boat!
If you’re looking to spice things up a bit, other downtown Clearwater restaurants offer seafood-based dishes with an island or Mexican twist. Or you could opt for an early morning meal at one of the best places for breakfast in Clearwater Beach.
We hope you will make some time to enjoy the great food Clearwater has to offer. Eating at some of the best downtown Clearwater restaurants is one of the best things you can do on a trip or as a local looking for some new tastes.
