Whether you're meeting someone for the first time and hoping to spark a special bond or spending the evening with a long-time companion in hopes of firing the flames that burn between you, turn to one of these special restaurants to set the mood. Stylish decor, exquisite views and mouthwatering menus will make you savor every minute of your meal and your special connection.
Located next to Clearwater Beach and consistently voted Tampa Bay's favorite, Columbia is family-owned and has a stately pedigree - its sister in Tampa's Ybor City is Florida's oldest restaurant. The restaurant offers terrific waterfront dining, whether you choose to sit in the indoor dining room and look out over the Intracoastal Waterway or opt for a more casual spot on the outdoor deck. Enjoy an ice-cold pitcher of Sangria or Mojitos as you gaze into one another's eyes, then savor century-old Spanish-style family recipes like Paella a la Valencia, Filet Mignon Columbia and fresh seafood specialties. You don't need to dress up here, but that doesn't mean you won't get the royal treatment.
The Salt Rock Grill is a landmark restaurant located in Indian Shores that provides lovely views of the inter-coastal and emphasizes great food and drink. It's particularly known for hand-cut U.S.D.A. prime and choice grade beef, fresh dayboat caught seafood, a raw bar and a top-notch wine cellar. Come here for beef that's been aged then grilled over their natural oak and citrus wood pit fire. The wine list, a Wine Spectator "award of excellence" winner, includes popular wines as well as many lesser-known ones. Whatever you order, you're in for an exceptional experience.
This marvelous beach restaurant couldn't be more different from the yummy dive bars with sandy walks that edge other areas of the waterfront. No, the Maritana Grille, located at The Don CeSar (aka the "Pink Palace") offers up modern elegance and a menu with a wow factor that's in keeping with its landmark setting. Expect excellent fresh snapper and grouper with Mediterranean and Floribbean touches,mouthwatering desserts and an excellent wine list. The presentation inside is pretty spectacular, but you're also just steps away from the stunning sunsets outside.
You might be tempted to hold hands while you're sipping a cool cocktail or frozen drink at the laid-back Bongos Beach Bar and Grille located in the Grand Plaza Hotel & Beachfront Resort on St. Pete Beach - the water vista will stir your passions as you lounge by the romantic fire on deep sofas and chairs, and the live music will, no doubt, amp up romantic sentiments. But wait - there's another way to feed your senses: Put your toes in the sand while watching the sun set and munching on delectable light bites like coconut crusted fish or mango-glazed scallops. Other delicious fare: fish tacos, pasta dishes and seasonal salads.
For duos who relish an air of sophistication along with award-winning food, Marchand's Bar & Grill in the Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club in downtown St. Pete fits the bill. Leaded arched windows and extraordinary hand-painted ceilings and walls forge a rich, luxurious setting while locally sourced ingredients given a unique spin by a creative chef charm your tastebuds. Here, you'll find both classical dishes and comfort food with Mediterranean flair. To add extra spice to your already spectacular evening, get a drink for you and your honey at the bar, head out to the Verandah's wide porch, take a seat on one of the wicker loveseats and do some stargazing.
Set the tone for your romantic evening with a sensational sunset and a cocktail at the 360 Rooftop Bar overlooking stunning St. Pete Beach, located on the top level of this restored Mediterranean-style hotel. After the sun has dipped below the horizon, head back downstairs for a culinary adventure inspired by flavors of the world’s most exciting coastal seaports. Order an array of shareable small plates or go all-in with specialties such as Seared Diver Scallops or Duck Confit. Finish with a night-cap and cozy up in the dimly lit lounge area flanked with plush gathering nooks.
