Iconic St. Petersburg Restaurants You Need to Try in 2025 | St Pete Certified

St. Petersburg isn’t just famous for its beaches and murals—each year, its culinary scene grows richer. In 2025, make time to visit these seven iconic St. Pete restaurants that showcase the flavors and history of the Sunshine City. From retro diners to upscale steakhouses, these spots have earned their place in local lore.

1. The Chattaway

Location: 358 22nd Ave S

Tropical garden patio with green picnic benches at The Chattaway in south St. Petersburg. — Burgers, iced tea in mason jars, and mid-century charm live on at The Chattaway since the 1950s.

Operating since the 1950s, The Chattaway delivers true Old-Florida charm. Dig into its massive Chattaburger, sip sweet tea from a mason jar, and unwind on the lush garden patio under swaying palms. Live music and retro décor keep the mid-century vibe alive.

2. Bern’s Steak House (Tampa)

Location: 1208 S Howard Ave, Tampa

Wood-paneled dining room at Bern’s Steak House in Tampa, with white-clothed tables and a stained-glass ceiling. — Presidents and wine enthusiasts have savored aged steaks at Bern’s since 1956.

A short drive across the bay rewards you with legendary aged steaks, one of the world’s largest wine cellars, and the Harry Waugh Dessert Room. Since 1956, Bern’s has hosted presidents and celebrities—this 2025 dining bucket list demands a reservation (and a cellar tour).

3. Sea Salt

Location: 183 2nd Ave N (Sundial St. Pete)

Marble raw bar and elegant interior of Sea Salt restaurant inside the Sundial complex, downtown St. Pete. — Daily Gulf catches and over 130 gourmet salts elevate dining at Sea Salt in the Sundial.

Modern seafood meets global flair at Sea Salt. Daily Gulf catches gleam on a marble raw bar alongside over 130 gourmet salts. Craft cocktails and elegant plating make it perfect for date night or special occasions in the heart of downtown.

4. Trip’s Diner

Location: 2339 Dr. MLK Jr. St N

Retro sign and palm-flanked façade of Trip’s Diner on Dr. MLK Jr. Street in St. Petersburg. — Trip’s Diner serves cinnamon-roll pancakes and comfort-food classics in a friendly retro setting.

For breakfast and brunch that feel like home, head to Trip’s. Whether you order cinnamon-roll pancakes, a stacked omelet, or a towering sandwich, the friendly staff and retro décor ensure you’ll be back—often more than once.

5. Casita Taqueria

Locations: Multiple around St. Pete

Bright orange Casita Taqueria exterior on 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, with “Beer” and “Tacos” signage and outdoor picnic seating. — House-made tortillas and bold taco creations define Casita Taqueria’s playful, mural-covered storefront.

Since 2010, Casita has served house-made tortillas and bold taco creations in brightly painted, mural-covered shops. Try the Baja fish tacos or rotating specials, then grab a seat on the covered patio and soak up the laid-back Latin beats.

6. The Oyster Bar

Location: 249 Central Ave

Corrugated-metal sign and outdoor seating at The Oyster Bar on Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg. — Fresh-shucked Gulf oysters and lively happy hours make The Oyster Bar a downtown favorite since 1999.

A downtown staple since 1999, The Oyster Bar pairs fresh-shucked Gulf oysters with inventive coastal dishes and lively happy hours. Its corrugated-metal façade, Edison bulbs, and sidewalk seating create a welcoming tavern atmosphere.

7. Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Location: 10 Beach Dr NE

Interior of Ceviche Tapas Bar on Beach Drive, St. Petersburg, with globe pendant lights, wood-beam ceiling, and diners enjoying Spanish tapas. — Rustic Spanish tapas, house-made sangria, and live music create Ceviche’s warm waterfront atmosphere.

Step into Spain on Beach Drive. Ceviche has been dishing authentic tapas, house-made sangria, and live flamenco guitar for over 20 years. Share patatas bravas, jamón serrano, and sizzling shrimp in its rustic, warm dining room.

Why These Spots Matter in 2025

These iconic St. Pete restaurants aren’t just places to eat—they’re living chapters in St. Pete’s story. From presidents dining at Bern’s to generations of backyard-style burgers at The Chattaway, each spot embodies the local spirit.

Share Your 2025 Foodie Adventures

Have a favorite dish or unforgettable meal? Tag us @stpetecertified on Instagram and TikTok—we love featuring reader photos.

For more local dining guides and hidden gems, explore our Food & Drink category or check out our Events Calendar.

Bon appétit, St. Pete!