Love on a Plate: 9 Must-Try Date Night Spots in St. Pete

Best Date Night Restaurants in St. Petersburg

Picture this: the sun is setting over the sparkling waters of St. Pete, the air is warm with a gentle breeze, and you’re staring the love of your life in the eyes.

St. Petersburg, Florida, offers excellent options for romantic evenings. The city features waterfront views, a lively arts scene, and outstanding restaurants, making it ideal for memorable date nights. This guide lists the best date night restaurants in St. Petersburg, including cozy bistros, rooftop dining spots, and elegant steakhouses, ensuring great ambiance, delicious food, and enjoyable experiences.

Why St. Petersburg is Perfect for a Romantic Dinner

St. Petersburg, located in the Tampa Bay area, is known for its sunny weather and beautiful coastal scenery. The city boasts a variety of activities, from strolling along the St. Pete Pier to exploring its thriving downtown filled with art galleries and museums. With its reputation for world-class dining, it’s no surprise that St. Petersburg is home to some of the best date night restaurants in Florida.

What Makes a Restaurant Perfect for Date Night

The best date night restaurants in St. Petersburg offer great food, cozy settings, and thoughtful details. Dim lighting, soft music, fresh flowers, and elegant table arrangements create a romantic atmosphere. Excellent service and unique menus complete the experience, making these venues perfect for a memorable evening.

• Ambiance: Restaurants with romantic settings, soft lighting, and an intimate atmosphere were prioritized.

• Food Quality: Only venues with high-quality menus, fresh ingredients, and creative dishes are included.

• Service: Attentive and personalized service was essential for creating memorable dining experiences.

• Unique Features: Special elements like waterfront views, rooftop seating, or artistic presentation added value.

Top 10 Date Night Restaurants in St. Pete

1. Spinners Rooftop Grille

• Overview: Located 12 floors above the St. Pete Beach shoreline, Spinners Rooftop Grille offers stunning 360-degree views.

  Guests arrive via a private elevator from Bellwether’s lobby, stepping into a unique space with a gently rotating floor that enhances the dining experience. With its relaxed atmosphere and exceptional setting, Spinners redefines dining in St. Pete Beach, offering a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence.

• Highlight: An elegant seafood restaurant offering 360-degree views from its rotating dining area.

• Menu: Beurre Blanc, Gorgonzola Cream, Candied Shallot Demi-Glace

• Signature Dish: Lobster Mac and Cheese

• Location: 5250 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

  

2. Parkshore Grill

• Overview: Situated on Beach Drive, Parkshore Grill is renowned for its contemporary American menu, featuring premium steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.

  Choose between the chic indoor dining area or the inviting patio. Its sophisticated ambiance, impeccable service, and picturesque location make it a favorite for romantic dinners or celebrating special moments with a loved one.

• Highlight: The picturesque setting pairs with exceptional service, making it ideal for date nights and special occasions.

• Menu: Contemporary American cuisine featuring seafood, steaks, and vegetarian options.

• Signature Dish: Surf 'n' turf, "The Parkshore," with filet mignon and lobster tail in lemon caper butter sauce.

• Location: 300 Beach Dr NE #104, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

  

3. Il Ritorno

• Overview: Il Ritorno redefines modern Italian dining in St. Petersburg. Located on Central Avenue, it features a seasonal menu with handmade pasta and fresh seafood, offering innovative dishes like charred octopus and porcini mushrooms.

  The rustic-industrial decor enhances the upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a creative culinary experience on their date night.

• Highlight: Chef creates a seasonal menu featuring handmade pasta and fresh seafood.

• Menu: Porcini mushrooms, charred ciabatta, crispy salsify, and seafood entrees.

• Signature Dish: Charred octopus with crispy Brussels sprouts and pancetta vinaigrette.

• Location: 449 Central Ave N #101st, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

  

4. Allelo

• Overview: Found on Beach Drive, Allelo delivers a Mediterranean-inspired menu emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for its house-made burrata and outstanding service, this intimate venue offers an exceptional dining experience. With its cozy ambiance and artfully crafted dishes, Allelo is the perfect spot for couples looking to enjoy a romantic evening in St. Petersburg.

• Highlight: Exceptional service and artfully crafted dishes deliver a memorable romantic experience.

• Menu: Small plates, seafood tower, and raw bar.

• Signature Dish: House-made burrata with seasonal accompaniments.

• Location: 300 Beach Dr NE #128, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

  

5. Juno & The Peacock

• Overview: Located on Beach Drive, Juno & The Peacock blends contemporary American cuisine with a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere. Highlights include Wagyu beef carpaccio and a 16oz Dean & Peeler Ribeye, paired with stylish décor and exceptional cocktails. Whether it's a first date or a special celebration, this upscale spot promises an unforgettable night out.

• Highlight: Creative cocktails and standout dishes like Wagyu beef carpaccio and espresso martinis add to the unique experience.

• Menu: Wagyu beef carpaccio, California crunch, Crab Louie, and Oysters Rockefeller.

• Signature Dish: 16oz Dean & Peeler Ribeye with truffle mashed potatoes.

• Location: 400 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

6. Rococo Steak

• Overview: Set in a beautifully restored 1920s mansion, Rococo Steak brings a luxurious touch to date night dining in St. Petersburg.

  Known for its grass-fed beef, seafood, and extensive wine list, the romantic ambiance with dim lighting and impeccable service creates the perfect setting for a special evening. Signature dishes like ribeye steak with black pepper sauce are sure to impress.

• Highlight: Guests enjoy creative dishes like crab fritters and honey lavender cheesecake for a sweet finish.

• Menu: Crab fritters, ribeye steak with black pepper sauce, and honey lavender cheesecake.

• Signature Dish: Ribeye steak with black pepper sauce and wild mushrooms.

• Location: 655 2nd Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

7. In Between Days

• Overview: In Between Days offers a one-of-a-kind date night experience as Florida’s first craft sake bar. This Tokyo-inspired listening room is located on 1st Avenue South and features minimalist décor, curated music, and tranquil vibes.

  Ideal for intimate conversations over unique sake cocktails, it’s a must-visit for couples seeking a quiet and memorable night out in St. Petersburg.

• Highlight: The tranquil atmosphere, minimalist decor, and speakeasy vibes make it ideal for meaningful conversations.

• Menu: No traditional menu, with an emphasis on curated music and drinks.

• Location: 2340 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712

8. Pia’s Trattorial

• Overview: Pia’s Trattoria in Gulfport combines the warmth of rustic Italian dining with a cozy, romantic atmosphere.

  Known for dishes like grilled calamari and traditional seafood specialties, this charming spot is perfect for couples seeking an authentic Italian experience. Its inviting ambiance and attention to detail make Pia’s a standout choice for a relaxed and delightful date night.

• Highlight: The warm atmosphere and attention to detail make it a local favorite.

• Menu:Calamari, traditional seafood specialties, and hearty meat options.

• Signature Dish: Grilled calamari with fresh herbs and lemon.

• Location: 3054 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707

9. Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant

• Overview: Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant, located on Beach Drive NE, offers a lively yet intimate setting for a casual date night.

  Shareable Spanish-inspired tapas like seafood paella and tuna tartare pair perfectly with sangria and a robust wine selection. Its laid-back atmosphere and bold Mediterranean flavors make it a popular choice for couples seeking something unique and flavorful.

• Highlight: Tapas and sangria create a cozy and flavorful dining experience.

• Menu: Seafood paella, tuna tartare, and sangria.

• Signature Dish: Seafood paella with shrimp, mussels, and saffron-infused rice.

• Location: 332 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

  

Other Things You Can Do In The Area

• Pair your dinner with a stroll along the St. Pete Pier for beautiful sunset views.

• Visit the Salvador Dalí Museum or Imagine Museum before your meal.

• Consider booking a table during golden hour for breathtaking views at restaurants like Spinners Rooftop Grille.

• End your night with cocktails at one of St. Pete’s rooftop bars for a memorable finish.

St. Petersburg has top date night restaurants with great food, ambiance, and service. Plan your next romantic night here.