Clearwater Beach has evolved from simple beach-shack seafood joints to a genuinely excellent dining destination — the combination of fresh Gulf seafood, prime waterfront real estate, and a growing food culture has produced some outstanding restaurants. Here's where to eat.
The Icons
Frenchy's Rockaway Grille
The original Clearwater Beach institution. Frenchy's has multiple locations on the beach, but Rockaway Grill with its sand floor is the experience. The grouper sandwich is legendary — fresh local grouper on a toasted roll, nothing fancy, absolutely perfect.
Bob Heilman's Beachcomber
Open since 1948, the Beachcomber is a proper classic American steakhouse in a beach setting. The aged prime beef, tableside Caesar salads, and old-Florida hospitality are unlike anything else on Clearwater Beach.
Best Waterfront Dining
Caretta on the Gulf
The Sandpearl Resort's signature restaurant offers Clearwater Beach's most elegant dining experience — the curved terrace dining room directly faces the Gulf, and the menu focuses on Gulf seafood with sophisticated preparation.
Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill
One of Clearwater Beach's oldest and most beloved open-air restaurants, directly on the sand. Great for casual seafood, cocktails, and live music. Reliably good for the price.
Best for Sunsets
Pier 60 Area Restaurants
Several restaurants cluster around Pier 60, where Clearwater Beach's famous sunset celebration happens nightly. Island Way Grill and Columbia Restaurant Clearwater are both worth considering for sunset dining.
Upscale Options
Salt Rock Grill
Technically on Indian Shores (15 minutes from Clearwater Beach), Salt Rock Grill is worth the short drive — an outstanding waterfront seafood and steak restaurant on the Intracoastal. One of the best fine dining experiences in the entire Clearwater area.
Breakfast & Brunch
First Watch
The Clearwater Beach location of this growing chain is genuinely good for breakfast — fresh-pressed juices, quality ingredients, and a menu that goes beyond the standard pancake/egg options.
Quick Bites
- Big Storm Brewing — Excellent local craft beer + casual food
- Hurricane Restaurant — Classic beach bar atmosphere
- Clear Sky Café — All-day casual dining, beach crowd favorite