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

Welcome to downtown St. Petersburg, FL – an emerging foodie’s paradise with a vibrant restaurant scene! As a local food enthusiast, I’m thrilled to showcase some of my favorite locally owned, gourmet restaurants that capture the eclectic tastes and flavors of this lively beach town. 

The energy of downtown St. Pete saturates the air. Food lovers scan reviews, hoping for culinary gems. Lists of lauded local eateries span several city blocks. From Asian and Mexican to Italian and seafood, downtown St. Pete brings food adventurers endless culinary delights.

Downtown St. Pete is home to renowned restaurants serving fresh Florida flavors. The local list of top eateries includes seafood spots, farm-to-table bistros, and globally-inspired cuisine. Visitors flock to sample the best of what the vibrant food scene has to offer.

In this article, we’ll discuss more interesting things about it, so stay tuned with us!

My All Time Favorite Dining Spots in Downtown St. Pete

1. Ceviche

Ceviche is a bright, citrus-cured seafood dish originating from countries along the Pacific coast of South America. A key ingredient in ceviche is fresh, high-quality fish or shellfish that is marinated in acidic fruit juices, most commonly lime or lemon. 

The acid in the juice cooks the raw seafood, changing its texture and eliminating concerns about food safety. Additional ingredients like onion, cilantro, chili peppers and tomato are often mixed in, adding nice layers of flavor. Light and fresh, ceviche makes an ideal appetizer or meal replacement.

Its popularity has spread around the world, with restaurants experimenting with variations using different types of seafood, bases and seasonal produce. Whether made traditional Peruvian-style or with creative twists, ceviche is always a deliciously memorable dining experience.

This contemporary Latin restaurant specializes in ceviche, which is raw seafood cured in citrus juice. I recommend the halibut ceviche with aji limo chilies and sweet potato puree. 

The flavorful tiger’s milk sauce beautifully cuts the richness of the fish. Their empanadas and tacos, like chipotle shrimp, also showcase Latin flavors using Florida ingredients. 

It’s an eclectic menu perfect for sharing tapas-style while enjoying a mojito from their cocktail bar.

Address: 332 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Mon – Thurs: 11:00am – 10:00pmFri & Sat: 11am – 11:00pmSun: 11:00am – 9:00pm Price: $$ Best Dishes: Casa Ceviche, Patatas Bravas, Pollo al Jerez

2. Trophy Fish 

Located right on the St. Pete Municipal Pier overlooking the ocean, Trophy Fish is known for ultra-fresh seafood since their fishing boats are docked right outside! Must-tries include their famous grouper sandwich, battered and fried golden brown on a buttery brioche bun with slaw. 

You can also build your own seafood boil by selecting shellfish and spices for an ocean-to-table meal. Pair it with a locally brewed Big Storm beer on their patio for unbeatable harbor views.

Address: 2060 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 Hours: Mon & Tues: ClosedWed & Thurs: 5pm -10pmFri: 4pm -10pmSat & Sun: 12pm -10pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Hush Puppies, Blackened Fresh Catch, Fish Tacos

3. Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Step into Mazzaro’s Italian Market and transport your senses to the old country. For nearly 60 years, this family-run specialty store has provided the city’s Little Italy neighborhood with authentic Italian groceries, imported directly from the motherland. 

Upon entering the narrow shop, customers are greeted by the sights and smells of Italy – colorful produce, barrels of aged balsamic vinegar, hanging salamis and peppers. Friendly staff are always ready to offer samples or recommendations. 

In addition to hard-to-find goods, Mazzaro’s deli counter dishes up made-from-scratch classics like eggplant parmesan and Italian heroes. Whether shopping for ingredients to recreate Nonna’s recipes or looking for lunch, this beloved market ensures the traditions and flavors of Old World Italy live on in the heart of the city.

This Italian market sells gourmet meats, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods, but I suggest grabbing a sandwich from their deli counter or a cheesy slice from their pizza shop. With over 1,500 wines and 250 beers plus an espresso bar and gelato counter, Mazzaro’s is a downtown food lover’s paradise for assembling picnic provisions!

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

4. Pacific Counter 

Don’t be fooled by this tiny 16-seat sushi bar tucked away in an alley – their innovative sushi rolls and Japanese small plates rival fine dining restaurants. 

Using market-fresh seafood and exotic ingredients like truffle oil and wagyu beef, the exacting chef-owner puts an upscale spin on traditional nigiri and sashimi. 

The dense hamachi yellowtail sashimi drizzled in truffle ponzu is a must with its decadent, earthy aromas.

Address: 660 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 9pmPrice: $ Best Dish: BYO Bowl, or the O.G.

Best Italian Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete

5. BellaBrava 

Nestled in a charming town square sits BellaBrava, an inviting pizzeria with rustic Italian charm. Walking through the arched wooden doors is like stepping into a slice of old Italy – warm wooden beams, bottiglie bottles lining rough hewn walls, and the crackle of a stone hearth oven baking Neapolitan-style pies. 

Amidst the lively bustle of the open kitchen, skilled pizzaiolos twirl dough with a flourish and top it with quality local ingredients. Customers cozy up at bistro tables or the lively bar, sipping Aperol spritzes as they savor thin-crusted pizzas with charred edges and sweet tomato sauce. 

With its authentic yet casual ambiance, BellaBrava has become a neighborhood gem, attracting loyal patrons who return time and again to experience the tastes of la dolce vita.

This homey trattoria run by true Italians specializes in handmade pastas, wood-fired thin crust pizzas, antipasti spreads and Italian wines. 

Their squid ink linguine tossed in a spicy tomato sauce is perfectly al dente with briny pops of calamari. 

For pizza, I suggest the fungi with wild mushrooms, truffle paste and burrata cheese. And don’t skip dessert – their dense Nutella stuffed calzone will satisfy any chocolate craving!

Address: 204 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11:30am-10pmFri & Sat: 11:30am-11pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Beef Carpaccio, Crostata, Prosciutto & Burrata Pizza

6. Il Ritorno 

Located in a 1920’s historic bungalow, Il Ritorno is downtown’s most romantic upscale Italian restaurant with a seasonally inspired menu. Start with the tender grilled octopus drizzled in Meyer lemon before moving on to their memorably creamy black pepper fettuccine which showcases fresh seafood like lobster and shrimp. 

For pizza, the white pie with truffles and egg is subtle yet rich. And their deconstructed limoncello cake with layers of moist lemon sponge gives it a refreshing finish.

Address: 449 Central Ave N #101st, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Sun: ClosedMon-Thurs: 5pm-9:30pmFri & Sat: 5pm-10:30pm Price: $$$ Best Dish: The seasonal tasting menu!

7. Old Northeast Pizza 

This laidback pizzeria focuses on authentic Neapolitan-style pizza cooked for just 2 minutes in a 900°F wood-burning oven. 

Housed in a nondescript building in the Old Northeast neighborhood is Old Northeast Pizza, a local favorite renowned for its signature slice. For over 30 years, this pizza parlor has been dishing out thick, Sicilian-style pies from its brick oven to hungry patrons. 

Bubbling with mozzarella and oozing with signature sauce, a single slice is enough to satisfy even the biggest appetite. The casual, no-frills shop has a loyal following that flocks here for takeout or squeezes into the few small tables to enjoy their pizza. 

Old Northeast Pizza may lack ornamentation or bells and whistles, but what it lacks in ambiance it makes up for in pure pizza pleasure. With each perfectly baked slice, it’s easy to see why this neighborhood institution is considered to have some of the best pizza money can buy.

The blistered and bubbly crust gives way to sweet, bright tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Though toppings are sparse, every bite sings with flavor. For a taste of true Italian pizza done right, Old Northeast rules.

Address: 718 2nd St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11am – 10pmFri & Sat: 11am-12am Price: $ Best Dish: Pepperoni & Banana Pepper Pizza, Hot Italian Sub and the Antipasto Salad

Best Asian Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete

8. Hawkers Street Food 

Paying homage to the open-air food markets of Southeast Asia called hawker centers, this industrial-chic eatery plates up the variety of cuisines across the region. 

The Hainan chicken rice bowl poached in stock & garlic oil is fall-off-the bone tender over fragrant coconut rice. 

For Malaysian and Singaporean specialties, the laksa noodle soup hits the spot with its tangy, herbaceous broth. An extensive beer list enhances flavors.

Address: 1235 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pmFri & Sat: 11am-11pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Chow Faan, Yaki Udon, Chinese BBQ Pork Baos

9. Buya Ramen 

Run by a Japanese ramen master, this hip ramen-ya makes everything in-house from the noodles and broths down to the roasted pork belly cheese topping. 

Their tonkotsu broth simmered pork bones for over 12 hours, yielding an extraordinarily rich, lip-smacking bowl of ramen. 

Upgrade to a Mazemen with thicker noodles that hold flavor even better. With authentic Japanese noodles rarely found stateside, Buya brings serious ramen that rivals Tokyo shops.

Address: 911 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Thurs: 12pm-9pmFri-Sun: 12pm-10pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Braised Short Rib Ramen, Seaweed Salad, Bao Buns

Best Mexican Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete

10. Red Mesa Restaurant 

Chef Michael Mina protégé Collin Autrey focuses on interior Mexican cooking with global techniques at this upscale downtown cantina. Beyond tacos and enchiladas, creative plates like coffee-rubbed lamb barbacoa or roasted chicken in adobo showcase authentic Mexican flavors. 

Don’t miss the Mexican bottarga made of Yucatan sea salt-cured gray mullet roe for a briny ocean kiss. Well-crafted margaritas starring the freshest agave tequila and mezcal cocktails keep the fiesta going.

Address: 4912 4th St. N. St. Pete, FL 33703 Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pmFri: 11am-10pmSat: 10:30-10pmSun: 10:30am-9pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Pork Carnitas, Dip Trio

11. Red Mesa Cantina 

Situated in the thriving Downtown scene lies Red Mesa Cantina, transporting guests to the vibrant streets of Oaxaca with its festive atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine. Vibrant artwork and handicrafts adorn the casual indoor-outdoor space, while traditional mariachi music plays. 

The open kitchen turns out traditional dishes using family recipes passed down for generations. Guests rave about standouts like moles, made from scratch with numerous ingredients that result in rich, complex sauces. 

Tacos filled with tender meats and fresh pico de gallo are perfect for sharing. The large patio, complete with festoon lights and palm trees, attracts locals and visitors alike who come to soak up the spirit of celebration. 

With its charming ambiance and high-quality takes on classics, Red Mesa Cantina is a premier spot to experience the flavors of Southern Mexico.

Sister restaurant to Red Mesa, the bustling Cantina focuses on traditional Tex-Mex flavors and Mexican street food, from tacos and ceviches to their epic Baja fish taco platter with handmade corn tortillas. 

Wash everything down with their cactus fruit Prickly Pear Margaritas or any of the 100+ tequilas driving stellar drink specials. With live music pouring onto the sidewalk patio, Red Mesa Cantina brings the party with bold Mexican flavors.

Address: 128 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri & Sat: 11am-11pmSun: 11am-9pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Baja Fish Tacos, Barbacoa Burrito, Tuna Ceviche and Esquites

12. Red Mesa Mercado 

For Mexican on-the-go, the Mercado is Red Mesa’s casual outpost, serving tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and tortas stuffed with all your south-of-the-border cravings.

Red Mesa Mercado is an award-winning Latino marketplace located in Denver, Colorado. It is housed in a 40,000 square foot building in the Sun Valley neighborhood, which was once a warehouse and food distribution center. 

Now it is a vibrant cultural hub celebrating Latino art, food, music and commerce. Visitors can shop for goods from over 50 local Latino-owned businesses, including clothing, artisan crafts, home goods, and more. There are also food stalls selling authentic cuisine like tacos, tamales, pupusas and churros. 

Live music performs on weekends, and cultural events like workshops and festivals are often hosted. The spacious and colorful style of Red Mesa Mercado makes it a popular destination for both the local Latino community and those wanting to experience the vibrancy of Denver’s Latino culture.

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 Price: $ Best Dish: Carnitas Burrito, Cali Burrito, Quesabirria

13. Grand Hacienda 

Grand indeed, this sprawling Mexican eatery modeled after a hacienda-style mansion prepares classic Mexican recipes like tender chicken enchiladas verdes, sizzling fajitas platters, and combination dinners ideal for family-style sharing. 

And their margaritas, sweetened with fresh orange juice and lime juice, simply can’t be missed. ¡Muy delicioso!

The Grand Hacienda is a majestic 5-star resort located along the Riviera Maya coastline in Mexico. Situated on over 13 miles of nearly private white sand beaches, the resort has an elegant Spanish colonial design inspired by old Mexican haciendas.

It has 450 rooms and suites scattered throughout the expansive jungle grounds, many with ocean views and private balconies or terraces. Amenities include four swimming pools, a full-service spa, and ten restaurants serving international and local Mexican cuisine. 

Guests can enjoy numerous activities like sailing, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and bird watching tours in the surrounding mangroves. With its beautiful landscaping, impeccable service, and choices of luxurious accommodations, the Grand Hacienda delivers an unforgettable tropical escape worthy of its name.

Address: 399 11th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Mon – Thur: 11:00am – 9:00pm Fri: 11:00am – 10:00pmSat: 9:00am – 10:00pmSun: 9:00am – 9:00pm Price: $$ Best Dish: Queso Fundido, Pollo Campero, Birria Tacos

14. Bodega 

A bodega is a small neighborhood grocery store that is common in urban areas, especially in Hispanic and Latin American communities. Typical bodegas stock basic food items like produce, meats, cheeses, canned goods, beer, and wine. 

However, they also function as a kind of convenience store— customers can find household items, over-the-counter medicines, toys, and other sundries alongside the groceries. Bodegas contributes to their neighborhoods not just as a place to pick up supplies but also as a social hub. 

Locals frequently visit their local bodega to chat with the owners and other regulars. With their modest size but large role in the community, Bodegas are unique commercial establishments that help define the character of many city streets.

By day, Bodega is a charming Cuban café slinging stellar Cuban sandwiches and snacks. But by night, it transforms into a rocking Cuban cantina pouring flavorsome mojitos and their award-winning House Margarita, flecked with orange zest and a splash of curaçao. 

Pair it with their loaded brisket nachos or Medianoche sandwich for quintessential Tampa Cuban cuisine.

1180 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, Florida 33705 Hours: Sun – Wed: 11am to 9pmThur – Sat: 11am to 11pm Price: $ Best Dish: Cuban Sandwich, Lechon Plate

Best Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete For the Experience

Beyond amazing food, what sets these downtown eateries apart is the friendly, lively ambience:

15. The Avenue Eatery 

The Avenue Eatery is a bustling neighborhood cafe located in the heart of downtown. It is known for serving fresh, homemade meals made with local and organic ingredients. Walking into the light-filled space, customers are greeted by the enticing aromas drifting from the open kitchen. 

Painted murals and hanging plants decorate the walls, providing a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Patrons can relax at one of the mismatched wooden tables, enjoying their food and drinks while chatting with friends new and old. Whether dining solo with a book or holding a business meeting, The Avenue Eatery has become a community staple, offering both quality food and a welcoming environment for customers to start their day or linger over lunch.

From the Creole-inspired interior to the Soul Food menu starring fried chicken and waffles to a lively lineup of live blues and jazz bands, The Avenue fully immerses you in New Orleans culture. 

Grab a hurricane cocktail and beignets to share on the patio as you soak up the sunshine and sounds. With outdoor games and a communal dining room, The Avenue encourages connecting over comfort foods.

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

16. Oak & Stone 

Oak & Stone is a cozy pub located in an old brick building in the bustling downtown area. It’s warm and relaxed atmosphere provides the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. Guests enter through heavy wooden doors into a dimly lit dining room with oak floors, stone walls, and an exposed beam ceiling, giving it an authentic pub feel. 

The bar, made from a reclaimed oak tree, is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike. An extensive draft beer and cocktail list pairs perfectly with staples like fish and chips, burgers and steak frites. 

On weekends, the pub comes alive with live music, trivia nights and sports on the flat screens. Whether stopping in for a quick drink or settling in for an evening, Oak & Stone has established itself as the neighborhood go-to spot.

Downtown’s ultimate gastropub, Oak & Stone, pairs bold American pub grub like massive stuffed burgers and chicken pot pie with a whopping 64 rotating craft beers on draft and 200+ whiskey labels. 

With communal picnic tables, lawn games like cornhole toss, and multiple bars, Oak & Stone is downtown’s clubhouse for beer lovers. Don’t miss their bimonthly steak nights or weekend brunch.

Address: 199 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Sun: 10am – 11pmMon – Thurs: 11am – 11pmFri: 11am – 12amSat: 10am – 12am Price: $$ Best Dish: The Farmer & Pig Pizza, Crispy Grouper BLT, Bourbon Sticky Wings

17. Doc Ford’s 

Doc Ford’s is a Key West fixture located right on the waterfront. During the day, it offers guests a perfect place to relax with a cold beverage and take in views of the harbor. At night, it transforms into one of the most popular restaurants on the island. 

Outdoor seating wraps around the pier, allowing diners to enjoy the sunset over the water. Fresh seafood Caught that day is prepared with flair by Chef Joan, who gives classic dishes her own fun, tropical twists. Entertainment is provided nightly with bands or a DJ. 

The atmosphere is always lively and festive. Whether meeting friends for an after work drink or enjoying a special dinner, Doc Ford’s embodies the laid back yet sophisticated charm that makes Key West such a beloved tropical destination.

Inspired by novelist Randy Wayne White’s fictional adventurer Doc Ford, this 2-story Caribbean-style eatery practically overhangs the downtown waterfront. 

With panoramic views of sailboats and sunsets over Tampa Bay, Doc Ford’s dishes fresh Florida seafood in tropical preparations like mango mahi tacos and green papaya shrimp ceviche. 

Sip signature rum drinks on the open-air patio, and you’ll feel transported to the Keys.

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

The Best Breakfast & Brunch Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete

18. Cassis American Brasserie 

Cassis American Brasserie is an elegant yet casual eatery located in the heart of downtown. Walking into the warmly lit dining room, guests are transported by its Old World charm – white linens, botanical prints and a pressed tin ceiling. 

The dining experience begins at the oak bar, where locals gather for oysters and aperitifs. Chef Steven then presents his creative interpretations of American classics with a French influence, using seasonal and sustainably sourced ingredients. Dishes like filet mignon frites, duck confit pasta and New England clam bakes are expertly prepared. 

Paired with an extensive wine list, each meal is a relaxing yet indulgent affair. Whether celebrating a special occasion or dropping in for a weeknight dinner, Cassis provides an upscale but comfortable ambiance perfect for both guests and locals alike.

With a chic ambience befitting Park Avenue Paris, Cassis takes brunch up a notch with their Eggs Norwegian (poached eggs over smoked salmon and hollandaise), mile-high cinnamon pecan pancakes, and textbook French omelets packed with fine herbs. 

Pair your meal with cassis – black currant liqueur – spiked to order in Blood Orange mimosas or French press coffee for a true Parisian morning.

Address: 170 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Mon – Wed: 11am – 12amThurs: 11am – 1amFri & Sat: 8am – 1amSun: 8am – 12am Price: $$ Best Dish: Croissant Sandwich, Brioche French Toast, Bananas Foster Pancakes, Ham & Cheese Quiche

19. Trip’s Diner 

Trip’s Diner is a classic American roadside diner located along Route 66. Stepping inside is a warm welcome to its cherry red seats and black-and-white checkered floor. The lunch counter, always bustling, is where regulars gather over coffee to catch up with each other and the friendly staff. 

Homestyle favorites like burgers sizzling on the grill, crispy onion rings, and milkshakes made from hand-dipped ice cream satisfy both touring travelers and locals who have been coming for generations. 

Trip’s is a staple stop for its friendly hospitality as well as its hearty, affordable fare. Its warm, nostalgic atmosphere transports guests back to a simpler time, even as the bright neon “Eat” sign beckons another generation of happy customers inside.

This quintessential diner slings monster Benedicts that are works of art. Their home baked biscuits tower impressively with sliced ham, poached eggs, and ladles of hollandaise sauce with a sprinkle of paprika. 

You’ll be sopping up every last drop. Their other specialties like gut-busting three-egg omelets and golden malted waffles will fuel your whole day.

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 Price: $ Best Dish: Burrito Buster, Hubcakes, Loaded Home Fries

20. The Wooden Rooster 

Nestled in the heart of downtown is The Wooden Rooster, a cozy wine bar and bistro. Its exposed brick walls and worn wooden floors provide a laid back setting to unwind after a long day. 

Regulars flock to the chalkboard-lined bar, along with first-timers drawn in by the enticing aromas. There, an approachable staff offers expert recommendations from an extensive wine list and craft beer selection. Small plates featuring local flavors, like seared scallops over truffle risotto or beef tartare alongside ciabatta, are perfect for sharing. 

A playful atmosphere stems from mismatched furniture and board games available for friendly competition. Whether looking to socialize over a bottle with friends or on a date night, The Wooden Rooster invites all to relax and savor the moment together over one of the city’s best kept secrets.

For down-home Southern breakfast fare, the Wooden Rooster hits the spot with golden fried chicken over Belgian waffles dripping in sweet cream and maple syrup. 

Heartier options like chicken fried chicken with eggs and grits or an iron skillet filled with potatoes, peppers, onions, cheese and sausage ensure you won’t leave hungry. 

Bottomless mimosas with fresh fruit purees don’t hurt either!

Address: 104 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Everyday 7am-7pm Price: $ Best Dish: Berrylicious, Skinny Goat, Bananella

21. Maple Street Biscuit Company 

Maple Street Biscuit Company is a beloved Southern-style eatery located in the charming downtown area. From the moment guests inhale the irresistible smells wafting from the kitchen, it’s clear this is no ordinary breakfast spot. 

A diverse crowd of customers indulge in pillowy biscuits that are works of art, sandwiching ingredients like braised pulled pork, smoked sausage gravy, or pimento cheese. Sides like sawmill gravy piled eggs and house bacon strike the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. 

The bright, airy dining room bustles both mornings and weekends as loyal patrons squeeze into worn wood booths or crowded sidewalk tables. With biscuits and a bevy of coffee drinks that are always worth the wait, Maple Street Biscuit Company is certainly not just a place to fuel up – it’s a destination worth savoring. 

This counter-serve mini chain keeps things simple, perfecting hot-from-the-oven biscuit sandwiches oozing cheese and fried chicken. 

The Squawking Goat with herbed goat cheese and fried chicken drizzled in honey is sweet and savory heaven. With quick service and addicting comfort food, Maple Street Biscuits makes an ideal on-the-go breakfast.

Address: 662 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Every Day 7am-2pm Price: $$ Best Dish: The Squaking Goat, The Sticky Maple, The Five & Dime

Best Dessert Restaurants in Downtown St. Pete

Satisfying your sweet tooth has never been more fun at these creative dessert purveyors:

22. Beans & Barlour 

Nestled in the hip downtown arts district is Beans & Barlour, a cozy cafe and cocktail bar. By day, it offers locals a relaxed atmosphere to work or meet for coffee and homemade pastries. Rich espresso drinks are artfully crafted with care, utilizing specialty beans from local roasters. 

In the evenings, the space transforms with twinkle lights and cocktails featuring house-infused syrups and seasonal ingredients. The mismatched couches and funky art adorning the walls provide the perfect setting for comfortable conversation. 

On weekends, a DJ spins tunes as regulars lounge. Whether stopping by for a midday pick-me-up or gathering after dusk, Beans & Barlour has become a neighborhood favorite—an inviting community space to work, socialize and unwind any time of day.

This “desserterie” concocts crazy desserts like their famous Crack Pie, oozing buttery filling from a brown sugar crust and the Lord of S’mores with chocolate ganache, torched marshmallows, and homemade graham crackers sandwiched between cookie layers. 

With 24 types of hot fudge, outlandish milkshakes, boozy floats for adults and delicious coffee, Beans & Barlour fires on all cylinders. Don’t miss their ice cream nachos piled high with toppings!

Address: 407 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Sun-Thurs: 8:00am-3:00pm Fri & Sat: 8am-10pm Price: $ Best Dish: Tiramisu, Almond Joy, Chocolate Factory

23. Paciugo Gelato 

Tucked away in a charming corner storefront is Paciugo Gelato, transporting customers to the Italian countryside with its enticing aromas. Artisanal gelato is crafted in small batches using local dairy and the freshest seasonal fruits. 

Upon opening the sunny front door, guests are greeted by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of gelati displayed like works of art. Classic flavors such as stracciatella or pistachio sing of tradition, while more innovative options like olive oil or ricotta keep taste buds on their toes. 

Whether enjoying a mid-afternoon gelato to escape the heat or savoring the last few bites as the sun sets, Paciugo’s creamy treats provide the perfect excuse to slow down and appreciate simple pleasures.

Made from exotic ingredients like Vietnamese coffee, Sicilian pistachio, and Indian masala chai tea, Paciugo’s gelatos and sorbets put an international spin on the old Italian frozen favorite. 

Their creamiest mainstream flavors still astound – the Stracciatella mimics bittersweet chocolate chips to perfection. 

For the ultimate experience, order their signature waffle gelato cones holding flavorful swirled soft serve. It’s basically dessert stuffed WITH dessert!

Address: 300 Beach Dr NE #120, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hours: Mon – Thurs: 12:00pm – 10:00pmFri: 12:00pm – 11:00pmSat: 11:00am – 11:00pmSun: 11:00am – 10:00pm Price: $ Best Dish: Bacio, Cannoli, Pistachio, Affogato