Clearwater is known for its award-winning beaches, but its food scene is just as impressive. Whether you’re grabbing coffee before a morning walk on the sand, enjoying fresh seafood for lunch, or planning a memorable dinner by the water, you’ll find plenty of excellent options throughout the area.
Staying in our Clearwater, FL, vacation rentals gives you the freedom to explore local restaurants at your own pace while enjoying all the comforts of home between meals. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat during your visit.
Coffee/Breakfast Spots
Starting your day with a quality breakfast helps set the tone for a fun day of sightseeing, beach time, or shopping.
Caffeinated Bakery
If you love fresh pastries and specialty coffee, Caffeinated Bakery is worth adding to your Clearwater itinerary. This locally loved café serves freshly baked pastries, breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and a variety of espresso drinks that make for an easy and satisfying start to the day. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before a beach walk or picking up coffee on the way to explore the area, you’ll find plenty of convenient options.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among both visitors and locals. If you’re looking for something sweet, be sure to browse the bakery case, which features a rotating selection of baked treats. With quick service and quality ingredients, Caffeinated Bakery is an excellent stop before spending the day enjoying Clearwater’s attractions.
Another Broken Egg Cafe
Another Broken Egg Cafe is well known for serving creative breakfast and brunch dishes made with fresh ingredients and generous portions. The menu goes beyond traditional breakfast fare, offering everything from omelets and pancakes to shrimp and grits, avocado toast, and specialty egg dishes. There’s also a wide selection of coffee drinks, juices, and brunch cocktails for those looking to enjoy a leisurely morning meal.
The bright, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great choice for couples, families, and larger groups alike. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, the menu offers enough variety that everyone can find something they’ll enjoy. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends when it becomes one of the area’s busiest breakfast destinations.
Breakfast & Lunch
These restaurants are excellent choices when you’re looking for a filling meal before spending the afternoon exploring Clearwater. Many of these restaurants also offer menus that transition seamlessly from breakfast into lunch, making them perfect if you’re getting a late start to your day. Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, sandwiches, burgers, seafood, or fresh salads, you’ll find a wide range of options throughout Clearwater.
Clear Sky on Cleveland
Located in the heart of downtown Clearwater, Clear Sky on Cleveland offers one of the area’s most diverse menus. Guests can choose from breakfast classics, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, seafood, burgers, and chef-inspired daily specials, making it an easy choice for groups with different tastes. The spacious dining room and modern décor create a comfortable setting for any meal.
The restaurant is especially popular because of its consistently friendly service and broad menu selection. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast before exploring downtown or enjoying a relaxed lunch after visiting nearby attractions, Clear Sky on Cleveland provides a dependable dining experience with something for everyone.
Gondolier Pizza Italian Restaurant
Although Gondolier Pizza Italian Restaurant is best known for its authentic Italian dishes, it’s also an excellent place to enjoy breakfast or lunch. Guests can choose from homemade pizzas, pasta, calzones, fresh salads, sandwiches, and classic Italian favorites prepared with traditional recipes. The generous portions make it a great option for families or anyone with a big appetite.
The welcoming atmosphere has made Gondolier a longtime favorite among both locals and returning visitors. Whether you’re dining in after a morning at the beach or grabbing a casual lunch before your next adventure, you’ll find comforting meals and friendly service that have helped make this restaurant a Clearwater staple.
Lenny’s Restaurant
Lenny’s Restaurant has earned its reputation by serving classic American comfort food in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Known for its generous portions and attentive service, the restaurant offers everything from fluffy pancakes and hearty omelets to burgers, sandwiches, homemade soups, and daily specials. It’s an ideal place for a satisfying breakfast or lunch without the wait often found at beach-area restaurants.
Many guests return year after year because of the consistently good food and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling with family or simply looking for a dependable local diner, Lenny’s delivers a classic dining experience that feels familiar and inviting from the moment you walk in.
Reefers Social Club
Reefers Social Club combines a laid-back beach atmosphere with a menu full of crowd-pleasing favorites. Breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, tacos, fresh coffee, and lighter fare make it an easy choice before heading to the beach, while the lunch menu expands to include seafood, burgers, wraps, and refreshing cocktails. Its casual setting encourages guests to relax and enjoy the coastal vibe.
Its convenient location near Clearwater Beach makes Reefers Social Club a popular stop throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a place to unwind with friends after spending time on the sand, the welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu make it a restaurant worth visiting.
Plan Your Visit
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Lunch & Dinner
Many of the best restaurants in Clearwater, FL, serve both lunch and dinner, making it easy to enjoy fresh local flavors throughout the day.
Badfins Food + Brew
Badfins Food + Brew is a popular choice for casual dining near Clearwater Beach, offering a menu filled with fresh seafood, tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and shareable appetizers. The restaurant is especially known for its fish tacos and rotating selection of craft beers, making it a favorite stop after a day on the water.
The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families, couples, and groups looking for a relaxed meal. Whether you’re enjoying lunch on the patio or stopping in for dinner, Badfins combines fresh ingredients with friendly service in a comfortable setting.
Bait House
Located at the Clearwater Beach Marina, Bait House offers fresh seafood in a casual waterfront setting. The menu features local fish, shrimp, oysters, sandwiches, and other seafood favorites, all served with beautiful marina views. Watching the fishing boats come and go adds to the restaurant’s unique charm.
Its small size creates an intimate dining experience that feels authentic and welcoming. If you’re looking for a local seafood spot away from larger crowds, Bait House is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
Clear Sky on Cleveland
Clear Sky on Cleveland is known for its extensive menu, making it easy for everyone in your group to find something they’ll enjoy. Breakfast favorites, burgers, seafood, salads, sandwiches, steaks, and vegetarian options all appear on the menu, making it one of Clearwater’s most versatile restaurants.
The modern dining room and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for any occasion. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or enjoying a relaxed dinner downtown, Clear Sky consistently delivers quality food and attentive service.
Coco’s Crush Bar & Grill
Coco’s Crush Bar & Grill offers a fun, casual atmosphere just a short walk from Clearwater Beach. Guests can enjoy seafood baskets, burgers, wraps, tacos, salads, and tropical cocktails while relaxing indoors or on the outdoor patio.
The restaurant’s colorful setting and friendly service make it a great place to unwind after spending the day in the sun. With generous portions and a menu that appeals to all ages, Coco’s Crush is an easy choice for families and beachgoers.
Crabby’s Dockside Clearwater
Crabby’s Dockside Clearwater combines fresh seafood with impressive waterfront views overlooking Clearwater Beach. The menu features crab legs, shrimp, oysters, fish tacos, burgers, and other coastal favorites, giving diners plenty of options for lunch or dinner.
Its multi-level dining areas allow guests to enjoy scenic views while watching boats pass through the marina. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy a sunset meal with family or friends after a day of exploring.
Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza
Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza has earned a loyal following for its authentic coal-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Beyond pizza, the restaurant also serves homemade pasta, salads, calzones, and classic Italian entrées.
The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it popular with both locals and visitors looking for quality Italian food. Whether you’re sharing a pizza with family or ordering your favorite pasta dish, Cristino’s consistently delivers flavorful meals.
Frenchy’s
Frenchy’s is one of Clearwater Beach’s most recognizable restaurants and has been serving visitors for decades. Best known for its famous grouper sandwich, the menu also includes fresh seafood, salads, burgers, and tropical drinks in a relaxed beach setting.
Its casual atmosphere perfectly matches Clearwater’s coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re grabbing lunch after a morning on the beach or enjoying dinner with friends, Frenchy’s offers an authentic taste of Clearwater.
Gondolier Pizza Italian Restaurant
Gondolier Pizza Italian Restaurant remains a dependable choice for guests craving traditional Italian cuisine. The menu includes pizzas, pasta, baked dishes, calzones, sandwiches, and fresh salads, with generous portions that make it ideal for families.
The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service have made Gondolier a longtime local favorite. Whether you’re dining in or picking up takeout, it’s an excellent place to enjoy comforting Italian classics during your stay.
Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest
Perched atop the Pier House 60 Hotel, Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest is one of Clearwater Beach’s best rooftop destinations. Guests can enjoy cocktails, wine, beer, and light appetizers while taking in panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding coastline.
The rooftop setting makes it especially popular during sunset, when visitors gather to watch the sky change colors over the water. It’s an excellent stop for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxing evening with unforgettable views.
Marina Cantina
Marina Cantina serves fresh Mexican cuisine in a lively waterfront setting overlooking Clearwater Harbor. The menu features tacos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, fresh seafood dishes, and handcrafted margaritas made with quality ingredients.
Its rooftop seating area offers beautiful views of the marina, creating a fun atmosphere for lunch, dinner, or happy hour. The combination of flavorful food and scenic surroundings makes Marina Cantina a favorite among visitors.
Reefers Social Club
Reefers Social Club offers a relaxed beach atmosphere with a menu featuring sandwiches, tacos, seafood, burgers, and refreshing cocktails. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch after the beach or enjoying a casual dinner, the menu includes something for every appetite.
Its friendly staff and laid-back vibe make it easy to settle in and enjoy a leisurely meal. Located near Clearwater Beach, it’s a convenient option for visitors looking to enjoy good food without venturing far from the sand.
Rumba Island Bar & Grill
Rumba Island Bar & Grill brings Caribbean-inspired flavors to Clearwater with a menu featuring jerk chicken, seafood, ribs, tropical salads, and island-inspired specialties. Colorful décor and live music on select evenings add to the lively atmosphere.
The restaurant offers a welcoming environment that’s perfect for families, couples, and groups. If you’re looking to enjoy bold flavors in a relaxed Florida setting, Rumba Island Bar & Grill is well worth a visit.
Tequilas Mexican Grill & Cantina
Tequilas Mexican Grill & Cantina serves a wide variety of authentic Mexican favorites, including tacos, enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, and combination platters. Guests can also enjoy fresh guacamole, house-made salsa, and an extensive selection of handcrafted margaritas.
Its festive atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice for both casual lunches and evening gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or simply craving classic Mexican cuisine, Tequilas offers a fun dining experience in downtown Clearwater.
Dinner
For an evening out, Clearwater features several restaurants that combine excellent food with memorable settings.
Cesare’s
Cesare’s has long been one of Clearwater Beach’s favorite destinations for authentic Italian dining. The restaurant specializes in classic recipes prepared with fresh ingredients, offering homemade pasta, seafood, veal, chicken dishes, and traditional Italian desserts. The elegant dining room creates a comfortable setting that feels perfect for date nights, anniversaries, or family celebrations.
Guests appreciate the attentive service and consistently high-quality meals that have made Cesare’s a local favorite for years. Whether you’re craving rich pasta dishes or fresh seafood with Italian flavors, the restaurant offers a refined dining experience that stands out among Clearwater’s many dining options.
Mandalay Prime
Mandalay Prime is one of Clearwater Beach’s premier steakhouses, offering an upscale menu featuring hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, premium wines, and handcrafted cocktails. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, making it an excellent choice for guests seeking a more elevated dining experience during their vacation.
The sophisticated atmosphere and attentive service make Mandalay Prime a popular choice for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Located just minutes from the beach, it’s an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing dinner after spending the day exploring Clearwater’s coastline.
Island Way Grill
Island Way Grill has built a reputation as one of Clearwater’s top waterfront restaurants thanks to its fresh seafood, sushi, and beautiful marina views. The menu features locally inspired seafood dishes, expertly prepared steaks, sushi rolls, and seasonal specialties that appeal to a wide variety of tastes.
Its spacious waterfront patio and elegant dining room provide an inviting atmosphere for lunch or dinner, while the marina views add an extra touch to every meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Island Way Grill consistently delivers excellent food and memorable service.
Final Thoughts
Clearwater’s restaurant scene offers something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, casual waterfront lunch, authentic Italian cuisine, or fresh Gulf seafood, you’ll have no trouble finding outstanding meals throughout your stay.
Book Your Clearwater Rental with Vunique Vacations
Make your next Clearwater getaway one to remember by booking with Vunique Vacations. Our Clearwater luxury rentals feature thoughtfully designed interiors, fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and exceptional amenities that elevate every vacation. Guests also enjoy professional housekeeping standards, premium linens, private outdoor spaces, and many homes with resort-style features that create an unforgettable Gulf Coast experience.
