St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida: Mouthwatering Adventures in Food & Drink

Enjoy a side dish of scenic beauty with a table at one of the area’s many beachfront restaurants – from relaxed tiki bars to white tablecloth establishments, all with postcard-worthy views of the Gulf of Mexico. Make your way down the beach, trying appetizers like fried alligator bites and fresh stone crab to dishes like just-caught grouper transformed into a delicious sandwich. On Clearwater Beach, melt into the laid-back vibe at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, one of the area’s most popular seafood cafes. (Hint: Order like a local and get the grouper Reuben sandwich and smoked fish dip.)

Stretching from Tarpon Springs to St. Pete, about an hour’s drive in all, is the St. Pete/Clearwater Craft Beer Trail, a collection of more than 35 craft breweries. Each brewery has its unique charms, so be sure to sign up for a tour and a tasting to talk with the brewmasters. Try a pint of the tart-and-fizzy local specialty called Florida Weisse. Brewers add their own twists to it by infusing it with tropical fruit. In Dunedin, grab a frosty mug at Woodwright Brewing Company, where you’ll find two floors of brewing production and some eight different varieties of beer to sample. (Fun fact: The brewery shares its building with a woodworking shop.) In St. Pete, try some 300 beers, many made locally, at neighborhood favorite Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe.

The city of St. Pete especially attracts foodies from around the globe – and it’s no wonder since a restaurant renaissance has taken over the city spreading chef-curated concept restaurants from downtown into the neighborhoods. Located on downtown’s restaurant-rich Central Avenue, Brick & Mortar has become a star of the local dining scene. Co-owners and chefs Jason Ruhe and Hope Montgomery have created a warm yet refined space for lovers of handcrafted food. A unique array of carefully sourced wines and craft beer complement the rustic and creative cuisine, such as the carpaccio of beef tenderloin with house-made ravioli. While you’re exploring downtown, go to the Edge District to taste flavorful smokehouse fare at Dr. BBQ, a comfortable place serving American-style barbecue with a fancy flair. Select from an array of signature meats or sandwiches, and pair them with tasty sides and sweets. Wash it down with a craft cocktail or bottle of good beer.

The St. Pete/Clearwater area is served primarily by Tampa International Airport (TPA). This gateway to paradise features services from more than 20 airlines, competitive rates and efficient facilities packed with amenities.