Clearwater’s got that easy Florida energy with sun, salt, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. But what really hooked me here wasn’t the beach…it was the food. I’ve spent days bouncing between fish shacks and rooftop lounges, chasing the perfect bite, and let me tell you… this city delivers. One minute you’re eating a grouper sandwich straight off the dock at Frenchy’s, the next you’re sipping a bourbon cocktail over a Gulf sunset that doesn’t even look real.
From no-frills seafood joints to date-night-worthy spots downtown, Clearwater’s got flavor and attitude in equal measure. These are the 17 places that kept me coming back for seconds, and sometimes thirds.
- 👉 My Pro Tip: Maximize your Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet Cruise experience! Enjoy stunning views, a delicious buffet, and unlimited rum punch. After dancing the night away, explore Clearwater’s nightlife with a visit to a beachfront bar or cozy seafood spot. Blend sunsets, flavors, and fun for an unforgettable evening!
Unique Restaurants in Clearwater FL: 17 Incredible Clearwater FL Eateries
We’ll take you on a journey to spots where the food and atmosphere are unlike anywhere else. Get ready to explore what makes dining in Clearwater a must-do experience!
1. Clear Sky on Cleveland
- 📍 Location: Downtown Clearwater (Cleveland Street)
- 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic Global / Modern American
- 🔥 Standout Features: Diverse menu with global influences, craft cocktails, and extensive wine list.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Downtown diners, brunch lovers, and groups seeking variety.
Expect the unexpected at Clear Sky on Cleveland! This downtown hotspot offers a culinary passport with its eclectic global menu, blending influences from Asia, Latin America, and modern American cuisine. It’s a world of flavor on one street!
Dive into creative dishes. Their tuna tataki with a wasabi aioli is a popular starter. For mains, flavorful street tacos (like Korean beef or blackened shrimp), or perfectly cooked steak frites with truffle fries, are excellent. Their brunch is legendary.
2. Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza
Ask a local where to get real pizza, and odds are they’ll point you to Cristino’s. This hotspot mixes old-school Italian charm with a touch of coastal casual. The coal oven gives their pizzas that unforgettable crispy, blistered crust – classic Margherita is flawless, but the pistachio pie will win over any foodie. Don’t miss the house-made gelato; the pistachio flavor is basically famous. There’s a sweet little patio under the trees and twinkling lights, which is perfect for date nights or friends catching up. I love that you can walk from here to the Clearwater Historical Society or just meander around the charming “Old Clearwater” neighborhood.
3. Pierogi Grill
- 📍 Location: Clearwater (Gulf to Bay Blvd area)
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Polish / Eastern European
- 🔥 Standout Features: Handmade pierogies (sweet/savory), traditional Polish dishes, European comfort food.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Pierogi fanatics, Eastern European food, authentic homestyle cooking, budget-friendly comfort food seekers.
Get ready for a dumpling deluge at Pierogi Grill! This Clearwater gem serves authentic, handmade Polish pierogies and other Eastern European comfort food classics that’ll warm your soul. It’s like a hug from a Polish babcia!
Indulge in pillowy pierogies. The potato and cheese (ruskie) are a must-try. Sauerkraut and mushroom, or sweet fruit-filled pierogies like blueberry for dessert, are also fantastic. Don’t miss hearty goulash or savory stuffed cabbage rolls (gołąbki).
4. Tin Can Cafe
If retro diners are your thing, Tin Can Cafe scratches the itch. It’s got this old-school, cheerful vibe – vintage signage, checkered floors, and classic booths. The breakfast menu is massive, and the cinnamon swirl pancakes might actually change your life. Everything comes out fast and hot, just like a diner should, and the coffee is always fresh. The best part? Prices are old-fashioned, too. Located right in downtown Clearwater, you can stroll over to Cleveland Street’s boutiques or catch an afternoon show at the historic Capitol Theatre. I love how no one rushes you here – it feels like a throwback to simpler times.
5. Columbia Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Sand Key, Clearwater Beach
- 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Historic Spanish / Cuban
- 🔥 Standout Features: Florida’s oldest restaurant family (est. 1905), Spanish decor, famous “1905” Salad prepared tableside, authentic paella/Cuban sandwiches.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Spanish/Cuban food lovers, history buffs, tableside service, and special occasions.
Step into a century of Spanish culinary tradition at Columbia Restaurant! As Florida’s oldest restaurant family, the Columbia delivers an unforgettable experience with its stunning Spanish architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and legendary dishes. It’s a taste of history!
The absolute must-try is their famous Original “1905” Salad, tossed tableside with their signature garlic dressing. Indulge in authentic Paella “a la Valenciana”. A classic Cuban sandwich or refreshing Sangria are also essential. With waterfront views, it’s definitely one of the most beautiful places to see in FL.
6. Our Place Restaurant
Our Place Restaurant is that under-the-radar spot where locals gather for impossibly friendly service and the “best breakfast in town.” The vibe is homey and wonderfully unpretentious – think checkered tablecloths, coffee mugs that never empty, and servers who remember everyone’s name. Must-tries are the corned beef hash (made in-house) and the overstuffed omelets, plus their homemade pies are a sweet reward. The location is conveniently central to Clearwater’s neighborhoods, and it’s quietly tucked away from the touristy bustle. What I love most here is the feeling that you just became part of the family.
7. Salt Cracker Fish Camp
- 📍 Location: Clearwater Beach Marina
- 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Casual Florida Seafood / Southern
- 🔥 Standout Features: Waterfront views, casual “fish camp” vibe, fresh local seafood.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Seafood lovers, waterfront diners, boaters, casual Florida vibe fans, and sunset drinks.
Get hooked on fresh, no-frills Florida seafood at Salt Cracker Fish Camp! Located right on the Clearwater Beach Marina, this spot serves up the catch of the day in a super casual, laid-back “fish camp” atmosphere. It’s where locals go for good seafood.
Enjoy simple yet delicious preparations. Crispy fried grouper sandwiches are a highlight. Peel-and-eat shrimp by the pound, or flavorful smoked fish dip with crackers, are also fantastic. Grab a cold beer and enjoy the marina views.
8. Badfins Food + Brew
Badfins Food + Brew is pure beachfront energy – think bold murals, surf-inspired décor, and a bright, laid-back patio overlooking the water. The Baja fish tacos here are epic, as is their signature Gulf Coast ceviche loaded with lime and fresh local seafood. Their draft list is heavy on Florida breweries, with frozen cocktails for when the sun’s blazing. It’s smack in the middle of Clearwater Beach’s waterfront strip, so after your meal you can stroll the promenade or check out Pier 60’s street performers. If you go for sunset, grab a patio table early – the view is unreal and everyone’s in a great mood. In my book, this is Clearwater’s most fun lunch stop.
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9. Lenny’s Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Clearwater (US Hwy 19 N)
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Diner / Breakfast Focus
- 🔥 Standout Features: Legendary breakfast spot (since 1950s!), huge portions, famous “Danishes,” “Home of the Free Basket of Danish.”
- 🎯 Perfect For: Breakfast/brunch enthusiasts, big eaters, diner fans, and free Danish lovers.
Prepare for a breakfast of champions at Lenny’s Restaurant! This iconic Clearwater diner has been serving massive portions of classic American breakfast and lunch fare since the 1950s. It’s a local legend for a reason! You get a complimentary basket of Danishes!
Tackle one of their enormous omelettes, like the “Western” or “Greek.” A stack of fluffy pancakes, or their famous country fried steak with eggs and gravy, are also great. And yes, you really do get a free basket of their delicious assorted Danish pastries.
10. Thai Coconut and Sushi
Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you – Thai Coconut and Sushi is a flavor bomb. Inside, it’s welcoming with warm woods and a laid-back, family-run feel. The spicy basil chicken is always on point, but regulars rave about the rainbow sushi roll and their vibrant curries. The real kicker is the coconut rice, which will completely wreck your standards for all future rice. Great for groups or a casual date, and the prices are friendlier than most. It’s set in a stretch of local shops, ideal for a post-dinner wander. Every time I eat here I’m surprised by how much care goes into every plate.
11. Ocean Hai
- 📍 Location: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
- 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Asian Fusion / Seafood
- 🔥 Standout Features: Stunning Gulf views, Asian fusion dishes, fresh seafood/sushi.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Special occasions, sushi connoisseurs, romantic dates, and luxury resort diners.
Experience Asian fusion with an oceanfront view at Ocean Hai! Located in the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, this upscale restaurant offers refined dishes blending Asian flavors with fresh, local seafood, all served in an elegant setting overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
Indulge in beautifully plated dishes. Delicate sushi and sashimi selections, like a chef’s choice platter, are popular. Creative pan-seared scallops with Asian-inspired sauces, or a perfectly cooked miso-glazed sea bass, are also fantastic. The stunning views make it special.
12. Mirage Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Clearwater (Gulf to Bay Blvd)
- 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern (Often Greek/Lebanese focus)
- 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Mediterranean/Middle Eastern cuisine, belly dancing, exotic decor, and flavorful kebabs.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Middle Eastern food fans, entertainment seekers, and mezze lovers.
Prepare for a Mediterranean mirage of flavor at Mirage Restaurant! This Clearwater spot offers an authentic taste of the Middle East, complete with vibrant belly dancing performances and live music that transport you to another world. It’s a feast for all senses!
Savor classic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Succulent shish kebabs (lamb or chicken) are a must-try. Creamy hummus with warm pita, flavorful falafel, or rich lamb shank slow-cooked with vegetables are also excellent.
13. The Bait House Tackle and Tavern
- 📍 Location: Clearwater Beach Marina
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Ultra-Casual Seafood Shack / Dive Bar
- 🔥 Standout Features: Over-water shack vibe, fresh “hook-and-cook” local seafood.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Seafood seekers, dive bar fans, sunset drinks, and local hangouts.
It doesn’t get much more “Clearwater authentic” than The Bait House Tackle and Tavern! This tiny, rustic shack perched over the water at the marina is the epitome of a casual, local seafood joint. It’s where the fishermen go!
Enjoy incredibly fresh, simply prepared local seafood. Perfectly steamed shrimp by the pound are a highlight. Delicious smoked fish spread with crackers, or a simple grouper sandwich (grilled or fried), are also fantastic. Grab a cold beer and watch the boats.
14. Caretta on the Gulf
- 📍 Location: Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater Beach
- 💲 Price range: $60 – $120+ per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Fine Dining Seafood / Steakhouse
- 🔥 Standout Features: AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Gulf of Mexico views, beachfront dining, premium seafood/steaks.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Fine dining splurges, sunset dinners, celebrations, and high-end seafood/steak.
Indulge in award-winning elegance at Caretta on the Gulf, in the luxurious Sandpearl Resort. As Clearwater’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, expect impeccable service, exquisite cuisine, and an unforgettable beachfront setting. This is fine dining with a Florida sunset.
Savor expertly prepared dishes. Premium seafood like pan-seared diver scallops or fresh Florida grouper are must-tries. Perfectly cooked prime steaks, such as a filet mignon or ribeye, or their popular lobster mac and cheese, are also fantastic.
15. Salty’s Island Bar & Grille
- 📍 Location: Clearwater Beach (Near the roundabout)
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Casual Seafood / American Beach Bar
- 🔥 Standout Features: Live music, fresh local seafood dishes, tropical cocktails.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Beach day casual eats, live music, seafood lovers, sunset cocktail seekers, and beach people-watching.
Get your dose of salty air at Salty’s Island Bar & Grille! Located right on Clearwater Beach, this lively spot offers fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and live music, all with that quintessential Florida beach bar vibe. It’s where the sun, sand, and sips meet!
Enjoy casual beach fare. Tasty grouper tacos, grilled or blackened, are a popular choice. A classic shrimp po’ boy, or fresh oysters on the half shell, are also fantastic. Grab a colourful tropical cocktail and listen to some tunes.
16. Another Broken Egg Cafe
- 📍 Location: Clearwater (Multiple FL locations)
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Breakfast / Brunch / Lunch
- 🔥 Standout Features: Creative twists on breakfast/brunch classics, Southern-inspired dishes, signature benedicts/omelettes.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Brunch lovers and Southern-inspired meals.
Start your day with a crackin’ good meal at Another Broken Egg Cafe! This popular spot takes breakfast and brunch to a whole new level with creative twists on classic dishes and delicious Southern-inspired fare. It’s not just another breakfast joint!
Indulge in unique creations like their cinnamon roll French toast. A variety of inventive Eggs Benedict options (try the “Lobster & Brie Benedict”) or fluffy Sweet Potato Pancakes are also fantastic. Their shrimp and grits are a savory favorite.
17. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grille
- 📍 Location: Clearwater Beach (Gulf-front)
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Casual Florida Seafood / Beach Bar
- 🔥 Standout Features: Grouper Sandwiches, open-air beachfront dining, live music, funky decor.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Grouper sandwich fans, beachfront diners, live music lovers, casual seafood enthusiasts.
No trip to Clearwater Beach is complete without Frenchy’s Rockaway Grille! This iconic local chain is legendary for its fresh grouper and laid-back, colourful atmosphere. It’s a Clearwater classic! With open-air dining right on the sand and live music, it’s pure beach bliss.
You should try one of their famous grouper sandwiches – grilled, fried, or blackened, they’re all delicious. Also enjoy fresh She-Crab Soup. Stone crab claws (when in season) or their popular garlic crab fries are also must-haves.
- Read also: My Guide to Florida’s Most Unique Airbnbs
