See St. Pete-Clearwater from the Top with Gabrielle Troyer (@RooftopCollective)
Boutique hotel lover. Espresso martini connoisseur. Rooftop enthusiast.

Whether she’s scouting the best martini in the city or planning the perfect girls' weekends, Gabrielle Troyer knows how to do St. Pete-Clearwater in style. As the curator behind @RooftopCollective, Gabrielle brings an eye for aesthetic, a love of good vibes, and a passion for creative cocktails. Her ideal day includes a rooftop brunch, an afternoon of boutique exploring, and finishing the night with elevated views and unforgettable flavors.
Standout Coffee Spots
- Daycation Coffee: Step into a creative escape with Daycation Coffee, where Asian-inspired flavor profiles meet top-tier barista artistry. Think matcha yuzu lattes, black sesame cold brews, and vibrant seasonal specials you won't find anywhere else.
- Intermezzo: A local legend, Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails transitions effortlessly from sunlit café to moody nightspot. During the day, fuel up with a flawless cortado or a silky flat white amid minimalist-chic decor and a buzzing social scene. As the sun sets, the space transforms into a stylish cocktail bar—perfect for rounding out your day with a velvety espresso martini or other craft concoctions.
- The Library: The Library offers a tranquil and refined escape. With interiors inspired by the George Peabody Library, this space is a blend of intellectual charm and modern luxury. It’s ideal for long conversations over brunch, quiet mornings with a book, or working remotely with a latte in hand.
Downtown Pop-Up Markets
Gabrielle’s ideal day doesn’t have an agenda. Wandering through St. Pete often leads her to vintage pop-ups, artisan booths, surprise food trucks, or impromptu art displays. Whether it’s First Friday or a spontaneous weekend stroll, she lets the city guide her. Expect to find one-of-a-kind jewelry, retro threads, and locally made candles or ceramics.
Indian Shores & St. Pete Beach
When she’s craving sunshine and saltwater, Gabrielle heads for a low-key beach day at Indian Shores or St. Pete Beach, where the vibe is always relaxed and the scenery never disappoints. Want to elevate it? She’s a fan of using Resort Pass to access luxe amenities—think beachfront cabanas, poolside service, and towel service at iconic St. Pete-Clearwater resorts.
Foodie Favorites
- Allelo: For Gabrielle, Allelo is her top pick when she's in the mood to treat herself or entertain out-of-towners in style. Known for its Mediterranean-influenced menu served family-style, Allelo is the kind of place where sharing is half the fun. The must-order? Without question, the crispy, golden french toast sticks—decadent, nostalgic, and elevated all at once.
- Social Roost: If bold flavors and big brunch energy are what you’re after, Social Roost delivers. With a globally inspired menu, vibrant cocktails (yes, even during the day), and a lively atmosphere, it’s where Gabrielle heads for a fun, flavor-packed start to her weekend.
- Sauvignon Wine Locker: Cozy, romantic, and slightly off the radar, Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria is a tucked-away gem for those who crave comfort and elegance. Gabrielle swears by their pasta, and it has a cozy vibe - hidden above the bar scene right downtown.
- Trophy Fish: Tucked in an outdoor oasis with palm fronds, picnic tables, and string lights, its seafood shack meets tropical bar. The rotating fresh catch and tiki-inspired cocktails make every visit feel like a mini vacation. Don’t skip the smoked fish dip—and if it’s happy hour, you’re in the right place.
Pre-Dinner Drinks: Set the Vibe
- Taverna Costale: The night kicks off with refined coastal charm at Taverna Costale, where the ambiance feels like a chic Mediterranean escape. Gabrielle’s go-to? The dirty martini—shaken cold, perfectly briny, and elevated with just the right flair.
- Wild Child: If you’re looking for bold and bright, Wild Child brings the heat. Known for its vibrant cocktail program and creative dishes, this is where mezcal and tequila shine. Whether it’s a spicy margarita or a smoky mezcal negroni, Gabrielle knows she’s in good hands here.
- Fortu: For a luxe, moodier start, Fortu offers an upscale edge to your evening. Think dim lighting, plush textures, and a menu of globally inspired small plates and cocktails. Gabrielle loves it for sipping something sophisticated—like a Japanese whisky highball or a lychee martini—while snacking on elevated appetizers before dinner.
Rooftop Lounge Lineup: End on a High Note
- Sparrow at The Moxy: Trendy, sleek, and full of energy, Sparrow is the newest darling of St. Pete’s rooftop scene. With panoramic views and a fashion-forward crowd, it’s where Gabrielle heads for a stylish toast. The cocktails are as good as the skyline—and the DJ sets only elevate the mood.
- The Canopy at The Birchwood: No St. Pete evening is complete without a stop at The Canopy. Perched above The Birchwood, this iconic rooftop comes alive at sunset, when the sky glows pink and the waterfront sparkles. Sip champagne in a cabana, or grab a craft cocktail at the bar—it’s a scene that never gets old.
- Pluma Lounge: For a more intimate, elevated finale, Pluma Lounge on Beach Drive is Gabrielle’s choice for a classy nightcap. With rich interiors, velvet textures, and a menu of refined cocktails (think espresso martinis and aged rum sips), it’s the ideal space to wind down and reflect on a night well spent.
The Dalí Museum & Museum of Fine Arts
Gabrielle’s perfect day begins with a stroll through The Dalí’s surrealist masterpieces and the elegant galleries of the Museum of Fine Arts. A light lunch at the museum café and great conversation make it a cultured, feel-good start to the day.
Downtown Scooter Tour
She loves grabbing a scooter and seeing where it leads—through boutique-lined streets, mural-filled alleys, and scenic waterfront paths. It’s her favorite way to mix movement with discovery and spontaneity.
Sandbox VR (On Her List!)
On her radar for the next group hang: a fully immersive VR experience at Sandbox. With cinematic storytelling and full-body gameplay, it’s a techy adventure she can’t wait to try.
Where She Stays
- The Birchwood (Beach Drive): Ideal for a downtown girls' trip. Clawfoot tubs, Bay views, rooftop bar access, and walking distance to everything.
- The Saint Hotel (St. Pete Beach): Boutique, poolside, and just the right amount of extra for a beach-centric escape.
- The Vinoy Resort (24-hour dream pick): Breakfast at Lottie, a stroll through North Straub Park, and maybe even a yacht charter from the marina.
Book Your Stay Now
Gabrielle’s Local St. Pete-Clearwater Guide
Category |
Top Picks |
Why Gabrielle Loves It |
Stay | The Birchwood, The Saint Hotel, Saints Lounge Airbnb, The Vinoy | Boutique luxury, group-ready vibes, waterfront charm, rooftop convenience |
Morning Coffee | Daycation Coffee, Intermezzo, The Library | Creative drinks, vibey interiors, and espresso transitions into cocktails |
Foodie Favs | Allelo, Wild Child, Social Roost, Sauvignon Wine Locker | Bold menus, beautiful plating, and a mix of comfort and sophistication |
Day Activities | Beach day, Resort Pass, Downtown markets, Trophy Fish | Casual, sun-soaked fun with a cocktail or vintage find at every turn |
Evening Drinks | Taverna Costale, Fortu, CellarMasters, Pluma Lounge | Great martinis, moody lighting, rooftop views, and wine recs from friendly experts |
Rooftop Hangouts | The Canopy, Sparrow, Pluma Lounge | Perfect mix of glam, views, and cocktail artistry |
Museums & Culture | The Dalí Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, scooter adventures | Immersive, beautiful, and ideal for a culture-forward afternoon |