Finding a great place to eat in Clearwater Beach isn’t hard, but choosing the best one can be.
With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
That’s why we’ve narrowed it down to the best spots you won’t want to miss.
From legendary local favorites to hidden gems, these restaurants serve up incredible food with unbeatable views.
Ready to dig in?
Here are the best restaurants in Clearwater Beach, Florida that deserve a spot on your must-visit list!
1. Beach Comber
Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber is a classic, old-school restaurant perfect for special occasions or date nights.
This upscale spot blends casual fine dining with a vintage atmosphere, offering delicious food and stiff drinks just steps from the beach.
For plant-based diners, the menu includes West Coast pasta, gourmet pizza, and an Impossible burger.
Desserts are just as impressive, with a triple-layer chocolate cake or seasonal fruit compote rounding out the experience.
If you love timeless charm, exceptional service, and a touch of nostalgia, Beach Comber is a must-visit.
2. Clear Sky Cafe
Located on Mandalay Avenue, Clear Sky Cafe is known for serving gourmet food at affordable prices.
It’s been voted the best place to dine at any time of the day, making it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The restaurant’s bloody mary bar on weekends is a big hit, and their Sunday brunch menu is packed with delicious options.
Seafood lovers can enjoy crab, salmon, or lobster eggs Benedict, omelets, and seafood crepes.
For plant-based eaters, Clear Sky offers a variety of choices, including a beet salad, falafel with pita, Beyond Burger, wild mushroom dumplings, sesame vegetable platter, and a burrito.
Ask for Juan—he’s an excellent server who knows the menu inside and out.
3. Ocean Hai
Situated inside the Wyndham Grand Hotel, Ocean Hai is an upscale Asian-fusion restaurant with a reputation for excellent service, elegant dishes, and stunning Gulf views.
The restaurant sources fresh, local ingredients to create vibrant, flavorful meals.
One standout dish is the Asian Sea Bass, which is perfectly paired with forbidden rice and microgreens.
The breakfast buffet and dim sum at lunch are also highly rated, and their outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy sushi while watching the sunset.
A full vegetarian menu is available, with options like an Asian green salad, hearts of palm salad, heirloom beet salad, fried Brussels sprouts, vegetable sushi roll, vegetable fried rice, and a vegetable hot pot.
For an upscale dining experience with breathtaking views, Ocean Hai is a must-visit.
4. Basimo Cafe
If you’re looking for a healthy, organic meal, Basimo Cafe is the place to go.
This quaint café on Mandalay Avenue is known for its high-quality, health-conscious ingredients and relaxed vibe.
Popular menu items include avocado toast, fresh fruit, hummus, and vegan donuts.
They also serve organic coffee, smoothies, oatmeal, and a house-made veggie burger.
Tucked away on the second floor of a building, Basimo Cafe is a great spot to grab a quick breakfast or a light lunch before heading to the beach.
5. Taco Bus
For authentic Mexican food with generous portions at reasonable prices, Taco Bus is a local favorite.
Their made-to-order dishes are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
The menu includes several plant-based options, such as portobello rancheros, vegan empanadas, a vegan quesadilla, and tacos with chipotle-seasoned protein.
They also offer vegan VioLife cheese, so you can enjoy a fully dairy-free meal.
6. Palm Pavilion
Palm Pavilion Beachside Bar & Grill has been a Clearwater Beach staple since 1926.
Located right on the sand, this laid-back restaurant is perfect for enjoying fresh seafood, local craft beers, and live music with a sunset view.
There are no reservations here, but the wait is worth it.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists.
The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood options, including grilled Island Mahi-Mahi served with rice and mango-avocado salsa.
For plant-based diners, options include chips and salsa, guacamole, a garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette, and a garden wrap.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t leave without trying their “Almost Famous” Key Lime Pie with whipped cream and raspberry sauce.
7. Marina Cantina
For a fun, lively atmosphere with incredible views, head to Marina Cantina.
This rooftop bar and restaurant serves Mexican fusion cuisine with a fresh seafood focus.
Located right by the marina, it offers one of the best sunset views in town.
Start your meal with the Ahi Tuna Tostada before diving into one of their flavorful dishes, like the Cantina Bowl, Grouper Quesadillas, or Al Pastor Tacos.
Plant-based options include crispy cauliflower tacos and roasted plantains, making it a great choice for all diets.
Pair your meal with a handcrafted cocktail, sit back, and enjoy the unbeatable harbor and Gulf views.
8. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
A visit to Clearwater Beach isn’t complete without a stop at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill.
This open-air beachfront restaurant has been a local favorite since 1981, serving up fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood with a relaxed, toes-in-the-sand vibe.
They are best known for their World Famous Grouper Sandwich, which comes in 4-, 6-, or 8-ounce portions and can be blackened, grilled, or fried.
Pair it with their garlic crab fries, a decadent side featuring beer-battered fries tossed in garlic butter, topped with aioli, bay seasoning, and fresh snow crab.
If you’re craving a bowl of something warm, the she-crab soup is a must-try.
For plant-based options, they offer a garden salad or a Beyond Burger.
Live music, vibrant beach colors, and ocean views make Frenchy’s a top pick.
9. Columbia Restaurant
Located in Sand Key, Columbia Restaurant is a historic gem known for its Cuban and Latin-inspired cuisine.
With roots dating back to 1905, it’s one of the most iconic restaurants in the area.
Request a window seat in the Mediterranean-style dining room to enjoy breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
If you prefer dining al fresco, their outdoor patio offers a scenic, relaxed setting.
Signature dishes include the famous 1905 Salad, vegetable paella, sea bass a la rusa, and stuffed salmon.
Pair your meal with a pitcher of their house-made sangria for the full experience.
Vegetarian options include vegetable paella and black bean soup.
10. Tate Island Grill
For a casual beachfront bar with tropical drinks and great food, Tate Island Grill is a fantastic choice.
Located by the pool at the Sandpearl Resort, this relaxed spot is perfect for grabbing a bite while soaking up the beach atmosphere.
The Traditional Grouper Sandwich is a fan favorite, served grilled or blackened for a fresh, flavorful meal.
Plant-based options include a Beyond Burger, vegetable quesadilla, and hummus vegetable wrap.
With live music, Gulf views, and a laid-back atmosphere, Tate Island Grill is an ideal place to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand.
You don’t have to be a resort guest to dine here, but if you’re looking for a luxurious stay, Sandpearl Resort is a top pick.
11. Caretta’s on the Gulf
Caretta’s on the Gulf, located in the Sandpearl Resort, is Clearwater’s only AAA-Four Diamond restaurant.
This elegant dining spot is known for its breathtaking Gulf views, impeccable service, and seasonally inspired dishes.
If you’re visiting for dinner, try to arrive before sunset.
Watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a perfectly prepared meal adds to the unforgettable experience.
On Sundays, Caretta’s offers a champagne brunch, which receives rave reviews.
The menu highlights include an inventive sushi selection, featuring dishes like surf and turf rolls with fresh lobster and beef tenderloin, as well as a sashimi sampler with tuna, king salmon, and yellowtail.
For those craving steak, options include premium cuts paired with organic vegetables, Havarti potato soufflé, or fingerling potatoes.
Although there are no dedicated vegan dishes on the menu, the chef is happy to customize meals upon request.
Options include grilled tofu with quinoa, fresh vegetable platters, and vegetable sushi rolls.
Caretta’s delivers a fine dining experience with a romantic, coastal ambiance, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.
12. Sea-Guini
Located inside the Opal Sands Resort, Sea-Guini blends a casual atmosphere with gourmet-quality food.
This restaurant is a favorite among seafood lovers and features handmade pastas, pizzas, and fresh local seafood.
The outdoor terrace provides a stunning setting for a meal, allowing you to enjoy the ocean breeze and unbeatable views of the Gulf.
The decor inside is modern and sophisticated, yet the vibe remains welcoming and relaxed.
Some standout dishes include the baked artichoke fonduta and the rustic pizza, both of which showcase bold flavors and high-quality ingredients.
For plant-based diners, spaghetti aglio e olio and vegetable lasagna are available.
13. Sandbar
If you want to sit by the water without stepping onto the beach, Sandbar is the place to go.
Located on the outdoor deck of the Opal Sands Resort, this oceanfront bar and restaurant offers an unbeatable view of the Gulf.
With its sand-covered floors, large tiki hut, and tropical drinks, Sandbar has the ultimate laid-back beach vibe.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a colorful cocktail while watching the sunset.
Guests can order chips and salsa, guacamole, or plant-based meals from Sea-Guini’s vegan menu.
14. Island Way Grill
If you love fresh seafood, sushi, and fine dining with a waterfront view, Island Way Grill is a must-visit.
Known for its extensive wine list (over 350 bottles!), sushi bar, and award-winning Sunday brunch, this restaurant is perfect for both casual meals and special celebrations.
Their Sunday brunch is a standout, featuring a bloody mary bar, carving stations, fresh seafood, omelets, waffles, French toast, eggs benedict, sushi, oysters, shrimp, crab, and more.
The brunch also includes a complimentary mimosa.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong with the Wood Fire-Grilled Black Grouper, served with potatoes and pineapple salsa.
Other must-try dishes include the Coconut Shrimp Bites and Grilled Octopus.
For plant-based diners, options include vegetable pasta or a veggie stack.
If the weather is nice, ask for a table on the back deck, where you can relax by the water and spot dolphins swimming in the bay.
15. The Salty Crab Bar & Grill North Beach
If you’re looking for a casual, family-friendly restaurant with great seafood, burgers, and pizza, The Salty Crab Bar & Grill is a solid choice.
Located near the beach, it offers beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a laid-back meal.
The seafood pasta is one of their most popular dishes, featuring shrimp, mussels, and scallops tossed in a flavorful sauce.
Their menu is approachable, making it a great spot for groups with different tastes.
Because of its prime location and great food, The Salty Crab is one of the busiest restaurants in Clearwater Beach, so expect a wait during peak hours.
But with its chill beach vibes and classic menu, it’s worth it.
16. . OCC Road House & Museum
If you love motorcycles, live music, and comfort food, OCC Road House & Museum is a must-visit.
This restaurant isn’t just about food—it’s an immersive experience, featuring handcrafted American motorcycles, memorabilia, and a live concert venue.
The motorcycle-themed decor makes it a unique dining spot, attracting both bike enthusiasts and casual diners looking for something different.
The menu offers a wide range of dishes, so there’s something for everyone.
For starters, try the Beer Cheese Soup—a rich, creamy dish with bold flavors.
If you’re in the mood for finger foods, the Fried Gator Tail is a local favorite, or go for a basket of chicken wings with OCC BBQ sauce and Chimichurri & Goat Cheese sauce.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, but it can also get noisy and crowded, especially on weekends.
Some visitors have noted that service can be slow or inconsistent, so patience may be needed during peak hours.
If you’re looking for a touristy, one-of-a-kind dining experience in Clearwater, this place delivers.
17. Cabanas Coastal Grill
For breathtaking water views and a relaxed outdoor setting, Cabanas Coastal Grill is a fantastic choice.
Located right on the beach, this casual, open-air restaurant is ideal for those who want to dine with a view.
The restaurant’s coastal-inspired menu focuses on fresh, vibrant flavors, making it a top pick for seafood lovers.
It is a little pricier than some other local spots, and parking can be a challenge during peak hours, but the experience is worth it.
Start with the Signature Crab Cake for a rich, flavorful appetizer, then enjoy a classic Caesar Salad for a refreshing contrast.
For the main course, the Coconut Shrimp is a must-try, offering a perfect balance of crispy texture and tropical sweetness.
If you’re looking for a laid-back dining spot with ocean breezes and fresh seafood, Cabanas Coastal Grill is a solid choice.
18. Poke Havana
For a fast, fresh, and customizable dining experience, Poke Havana is a top pick.
This counter-service eatery inside Marina Cantina specializes in made-to-order poke bowls, allowing guests to build their perfect bowl from a selection of fresh ingredients.
The setup is simple and efficient—all the ingredients are laid out in front of you, making it easy to see your options and customize your meal.
If you’re new to poke, the OG Poke Signature Bowl is a great introduction, offering a balanced mix of fresh seafood, veggies, and flavorful sauces.
For those who love healthy, customizable meals, Poke Havana is one of the best places to eat in Clearwater Beach.
19. Rumba Island Bar & Grill
If you’re in the mood for Jamaican flavors, tropical cocktails, and a laid-back island atmosphere, Rumba Island Bar & Grill is the place to go.
This tiki bar-style restaurant features an open-air design that makes it a great spot for hanging out with friends.
The menu is packed with Caribbean-inspired dishes, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Start with the Caribbean Crab Mac and Cheese, a creamy, indulgent appetizer with a tropical twist.
For the main course, the Freshest Grouper Sandwich is a top choice—served grilled with a side of slaw, it’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy Florida’s best seafood.
The relaxed ambiance, colorful decor, and delicious island-style food make Rumba a go-to spot for casual dining and fun evenings out.
20. Another Broken Egg Cafe
For one of the best breakfast and brunch spots in Clearwater Beach, Another Broken Egg Cafe is a must-visit.
This southern-inspired eatery is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
Start with something sweet like the Strawberry Pound Cake French Toast, a rich and indulgent dish that’s perfect for breakfast lovers.
If you prefer a savory option, the Crab Cake Benedict is a standout, featuring perfectly poached eggs over flavorful crab cakes with hollandaise sauce.
21. Salt Cracker Fish Camp
For laid-back dockside dining with fresh seafood and unbeatable Gulf views, Salt Cracker Fish Camp is a must-visit.
Located next to Marina Cantina, this casual restaurant offers outdoor seating right by the water, making it a favorite spot to enjoy fresh seafood and sunset views.
The Low Country Seafood Boil is one of their most popular dishes, packed with shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes for a hearty, flavorful meal.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the Cracker Cracker Shrimp paired with their homemade buffalo sauce is a great choice.
Salt Cracker Fish Camp also has an all-day happy hour, featuring $10 for two cocktails, making it an ideal place to relax with a drink.
If you’re looking for an authentic Florida dockside experience, this is one of the best spots in town.
22. Lenny’s Restaurant
If you’re searching for the best all-day breakfast in Clearwater, Lenny’s Restaurant is the place to go.
This classic American diner has been serving hearty comfort food since 1958, making it a local favorite.
The retro New York diner decor, complete with turquoise booths and vintage chandeliers, creates a warm, nostalgic atmosphere.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll be greeted with friendly service and generous portions.
For a unique breakfast, try the BLT Benedict, which features crispy bacon, perfectly poached eggs, and golden potato cakes instead of the usual English muffin.
If you prefer something sweet, the Chicken Waffle Benedict with a side of pancakes is another standout choice.
Lenny’s is one of Clearwater’s most beloved breakfast spots, so expect a wait on weekends—but the food is well worth it.
23. Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza
For some of the best thin-crust pizza in Clearwater, head to Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza.
This family-run Italian restaurant, owned by three brothers from Italy, serves authentic coal-fired pizzas, fresh paninis, and house-made gelato.
The atmosphere is quaint and intimate, making it a great spot for date nights or a relaxed dinner with friends.
The outdoor patio is beautifully lit with fairy lights, creating a charming dining experience.
The Quattro Formaggi pizza is a must-try, offering a perfect blend of four cheeses on a thin, crispy crust.
Finish your meal with a scoop of Mascarpone Gelato, a refreshing and creamy way to end the night.
Cristino’s is widely considered one of the best pizzerias in the Gulf area, so if you’re craving an authentic Italian meal, this is the place to go.
24. Badfins Food + Brew
Located inside the Wyndham Grand Resort, Badfins Food + Brew is a family-friendly spot offering seafood, Mexican-inspired fare, and craft beer.
The restaurant’s low-key vibe and outdoor seating make it a great place to hang out, enjoy great food, and sip on one of their 34 craft beers on tap.
It was even voted the “Best Mexican Seafood Restaurant in Clearwater Beach.”
Start with the Tortilla Chips with Avocado Hummus and the Tuna Tostada before diving into their famous tacos.
The Sweet Tuna Tacos are a highlight, featuring ahi tuna tossed in sweet soy, topped with pineapple pico, guacamole, and tomatillo salsa verde.
If you’re looking for a casual, fun place to enjoy inventive tacos, fresh seafood, and a great beer selection, Badfins is a solid pick.
25. Ristorante Acqua Alta
For authentic Italian cuisine with a modern touch, Ristorante Acqua Alta delivers a true taste of Venice in Clearwater Beach.
Owned by Patrizia and Paolo, this elegant yet welcoming restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create traditional Italian dishes with a contemporary twist.
The warm decor, beautiful tile floors, and contemporary artwork set the stage for an intimate and enjoyable dining experience.
The Bresaola, Rucola e Grana Padano is a standout appetizer, featuring cured beef, arugula, and Parmesan for a light yet flavorful start to your meal.
Every dish at Ristorante Acqua Alta is crafted with authentic Italian techniques and passion, making it a great choice for those who appreciate high-quality Italian food in a cozy, refined setting.
26. Blinkers Beachside Steakhouse and Lounge
For a blend of top-quality USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood, Blinkers Beachside Steakhouse and Lounge is an excellent choice.
Bringing a taste of Kentucky to Clearwater Beach, this restaurant offers a modern setting with cozy booths and a menu filled with bold, flavorful dishes.
The Ahi Tuna with Bok Choy is a must-try.
The combination of cucumber, sweet soy, and perfectly seared tuna creates a well-balanced dish that highlights the restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients.
Blinkers provide a high-end dining experience without feeling overly formal.
The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make it a great spot for both special occasions and casual nights out.
27. Chez Colettes French Bistro
For authentic French cuisine in a charming, intimate setting, Chez Colettes French Bistro is the place to go.
Located in Belleair Bluffs, this cozy bistro combines classic French dishes with artistic decor and warm wood accents, making it an inviting escape for lovers of European flavors.
Their Duck Foie Gras, paired with sweet mango chutney, is a standout dish, offering rich, buttery flavors balanced with a hint of sweetness.
The beef bourguignon is another favorite, slow-cooked to perfection and full of deep, hearty flavors.
With friendly service and a carefully curated menu, Chez Colettes is ideal for those looking to enjoy a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
28. Grahames Gourmet Cafe
For a casual and cozy spot serving breakfast and lunch, Grahames Gourmet Cafe is a hidden gem in Clearwater.
This charming eatery focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is both wholesome and flavorful.
One of their most popular menu items is the Cuban Panini, packed with savory meats, melted cheese, and tangy mustard.
If you’re looking for a delicious meal without the tourist crowds, Grahames Gourmet Cafe delivers great food at reasonable prices.
29. The Bait House Tackle & Tavern
For a truly local dining experience, The Bait House Tackle & Tavern is a must-visit.
This small, dockside fish shack doubles as a tackle shop, offering some of the best fresh seafood in Clearwater Beach.
With only about 20 tables, this spot fills up fast, but the overwater deck views and laid-back atmosphere make it worth the wait.
The restaurant is covered in dollar bills left by past visitors, adding to its unique and lively charm.
Known for its fresh, locally caught seafood, the menu changes seasonally.
If you’re lucky, you might even get to watch the catch of the day being brought in.
Pair your meal with one of their local craft beers, and enjoy a true taste of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The Bait House is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and weekends can be quite busy, so plan accordingly.
Live entertainment, a relaxed atmosphere, and waterfront dining make this a top pick for seafood lovers.
30. Pauls Chicago Pizza
For authentic Chicago-style thin-crust pizza, Pauls Chicago Pizza is one of Clearwater’s best spots for a satisfying slice.
Using freshly made dough and quality ingredients, this family-owned pizzeria prides itself on delivering bold flavors with every bite.
Their Chicken Ranch Dip is a standout appetizer, offering savory, creamy goodness that pairs perfectly with any pizza.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cheese, meat-lovers, or veggie-loaded pies, Pauls Chicago Pizza serves up thin, crispy crusts topped with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
With friendly staff and a casual, welcoming atmosphere, this is the perfect place to grab a pizza with friends or enjoy a relaxed family meal.
31. Poppas BBQ
If you’re craving authentic Memphis-style barbecue, Poppas BBQ delivers bold flavors with a focus on slow-cooked, oak-smoked meats.
The rich aroma of smoking oak wood greets you before you even walk through the door, setting the stage for a comforting, no-frills barbecue experience.
The ribs are the star of the show—seasoned to perfection and so tender they fall off the bone.
True to Memphis tradition, they don’t even need sauce.
Each bite is packed with smoky, well-balanced flavor that speaks for itself.
Inside, the setting is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to gather with family or friends after a long day at the beach.
32. Rusty’s Bistro
For a refined dining experience with bold Caribbean and Southwest flavors, Rusty’s Bistro at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere.
The menu, crafted by Chef John Harris, showcases fresh ingredients with a tropical twist.
The crab-stuffed salmon is a standout dish, perfectly balancing the richness of fresh seafood with delicate seasonings.
For those who prefer steak, the bacon-wrapped filet is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Rusty’s Bistro is a great choice for a romantic evening or a special occasion, combining elevated flavors with a warm, welcoming ambiance.
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent and full of Caribbean-inspired flair, this restaurant is a must-visit.
33. The Black Pearl of Dunedin
Located just outside Clearwater Beach, The Black Pearl of Dunedin is an elegant seafood restaurant that takes fine dining to the next level.
Known for its commitment to fresh, local ingredients, this spot offers a high-end yet intimate dining experience.
The Filet Mignon with merlot demiglace is a menu highlight, featuring a perfectly tender steak drizzled with a rich, flavorful sauce.
Every dish is carefully prepared, ensuring a memorable meal from start to finish.
With its upscale atmosphere and impeccable service, The Black Pearl is ideal for date nights, celebrations, or any time you want to enjoy an extraordinary seafood dinner.
34. Umai Cafe
For those who love fresh seafood and authentic Japanese flavors, Umai Cafe is a fantastic choice.
This inviting sushi spot offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
One of the must-try dishes is the Golden Beach Roll, a delicious fusion of king crab and mango, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
With its welcoming ambiance and commitment to fresh ingredients, this spot is a go-to for sushi lovers in Clearwater Beach.
35. Wildflower Café
A beloved local gem since 2000, Wildflower Café blends upscale elegance with cozy charm, making every visit feel special.
Known for its fresh ingredients and creative dishes, this café is a favorite for breakfast and brunch.
The Honey Chicken Salad Croissant is a must-try, offering a light, flavorful mix of chicken, honey, and crisp greens inside a flaky croissant.
For a sweeter option, the Wildflower Baked French Toast is an indulgent favorite, topped with brown sugar syrup and whipped cream.
