By Kelly Rouse
Renee Roos, the co-founder and co-publisher of Paradise News, is credited with naming St. Pete Beach “the Sunset Capital” and she chose that moniker with good reason – we have some of the most breathtaking and colorful sunsets on any coast. Since it’s summer, it’s the perfect time to leisurely soak in a stunning sunset on the Gulf while enjoying an amazing dinner. Here are a few beachside suggestions for a fantastic meal with a lovely ambiance.
HURRICANE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Dubbed the crown jewel of historic Pass-a-Grille and located in a Victorian-style building by the waterfront, Hurricane Seafood Restaurant has been a beloved dining choice since its humble beginnings as a small family beach bar in 1977, owned and operated to this day by the Falkenstein family. Over the years, it has expanded into a three-story establishment with rooftop and beach bars, offering 360-degree views of the Gulf and spectacular sunset views. The Hurricane is open for lunch and dinner and features a different menu for all three levels, offering upscale fare on level two. The original Hurricane at ground level is a favorite spot among families who can enjoy a night of casual dining with the kiddos. The restaurants serve up an array of fresh seafood fare and steak entrees, with their grouper sandwiches, lobster bisque, and their signature “Mom’s 1945 crab cake” being particularly popular. The service is outstanding and the drinks are exceptional (I recommend the organic Partida Margarita). So, put savoring a St. Pete Beach sunset at The Hurricane on your summer to-do list today!
Sun.-Thurs. 11:30am-9:30pm / Fri.-Sat. 11:30am-10:30pm
thehurricane.com
PARADISE GRILLE
Paradise Grille is a classic American eatery, also located in the historic Pass-a-Grille neighborhood, offering walk-up counter service and patio seating. It’s a superb stop along the shore, where you can dig into an old-fashioned cheeseburger and crispy fries while enjoying live music on the weekends – they host the best in “Trop Rock” from morning until sundown. The restaurant captures beach life at its best, with its prime location near the Gulf making it ideal for taking in the sunset. They promise “good vibes” on their website, saying “life is better in flip flops!” The Paradise Grille serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, as well as a nice drinks selection. The grouper nugget platter is a standout. Check the Paradise Grille Facebook page for the weekend’s music schedule.
Mon.-Sun. 7:30am-8:30pm
paradisegrille.com
SHRIMPY’S WATERFRONT
Located in St. Pete Beach, Shrimpy’s Waterfront is a family-owned gem originally from Atlanta, Ga., that has been proudly serving guests since 2012. Blending the flavors of fresh Florida seafood with a vibrant New Orleans twist, Shrimpy’s is nestled right along the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway. Guests can expect delicious cuisine, top-notch service, lively music, and a fun atmosphere with terrific waterfront views, especially at sunset. You might even catch a glimpse of Florida’s native wildlife like dolphins, herons, or manatees as boats cruise by. Shrimpy’s has comfortable indoor seating as well and they are proud to be a friendly place where Southern hospitality shines. They serve a Nawlins brunch on the weekends, featuring Voodoo shrimp and fried green tomatoes, along with an excellent selection of benedicts and frittatas. From their late lunch/dinner menu, I suggest the Shrimpy’s signature Poboy, the shrimp-n-grits, scallops Rockefeller and the very tasty jambalaya. Make sure you save room for the Nola bread budding with bourbon sauce (it’s Grandma’s recipe).
Mon.-Tues. 3pm-10pm / Wed.-Fri. 11am-10pm
Sat.-Sun. 10am-10pm
shrimpysbluesbistro.com
BUOYS WATERFRONT
Nestled in one of the most vibrant corners of St. Pete Beach, Buoys Waterfront offers more than just a meal – it delivers a full coastal experience. With convenient boat docks welcoming seafarers straight from the water, it’s the kind of place where locals and visitors alike can effortlessly settle in for a laid-back afternoon of good eats and great vibes. Open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner, their menus showcase a thoughtful blend of island-inspired and locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both fresh and full of flavor. Favorite selections from the dinner menu include the Thai curry mussels, the seafood diavlo pasta, and the chimichurri skirt steak. Their handcrafted cocktails perfectly complement the beach setting. What really sets Buoys apart is its warm, down-to-earth character. It feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a polished tourist spot, making it ideal for families, friends, and anyone looking to unwind. With consistent quality, attentive service, and a prime waterfront location, it’s easy to see why Buoys Waterfront has earned its spot as a favorite for those craving a genuine slice of coastal Florida dining.
Sun.-Thurs. 8am-10pm / Fri.-Sat. 8am-11pm
buoyswaterfrontbar.com
