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Local picks

Food and date spots in Waterfront Arts District

Made for those who want to impress a partner by pairing a memorable meal with a walk through the city center.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Aji Ceviche Bar St. Petersburg – Peruvian Restaurant image 1
Aji Ceviche Bar St. Petersburg – Peruvian Restaurant image 2
Aji Ceviche Bar St. Petersburg – Peruvian Restaurant image 3
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Modern Caribbean style decor creates a warm and vibrant atmosphere with stylish, luxurious design elements. The space feels clean and inviting, offering a quiet, relaxed vibe especially on weekdays. A half outdoor/indoor covered patio adds a pet-friendly option with a full bar and high top seating.

Authentic Peruvian food shines with well-prepared dishes and exquisite flavors. The menu offers a consistently amazing dining experience with great service.

Flavorful dishes like tacu tacu con lomo saltado create a memorable meal. The setting suits intimate dinners for anniversaries or birthdays, making it easy to connect with a partner.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, innovative, and absolutely delicious."

"I thought the ceviche was fresh and amazing."

"The seafood here is fresh, bright, and delicious for date spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the food garage door right next to the restaurant.

2

Pay by Street Parking offers accessible parking with curb cuts near the restaurant.

3

The prices are very good considering the quality and quantity of food.

02
Red Mesa Events image 1
Banquet hall

Banquet hall offers stunning rooftop views and a breathtaking ballroom that suits both ceremonies and receptions. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a perfectly arranged setting that requires minimal decoration. Space supports seamless events with amenities like projectors and sound systems, creating a memorable experience.

Food here delivers fantastic flavors and meets high expectations. The overall experience highlights great taste that everyone enjoys.

Offers a venue where couples can have both the ceremony and reception in one spot. Welcomes out of town couples with a setting that suits special occasions.

People are saying

"The service for dinner spots was seamless and made the night memorable."

"The food here was delicious and wonderful."

"The team's expertise made planning our Date Spots stress-free and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Red Mesa Events offers all-inclusive packages that cover chairs, linens, and decor.

2

The venue allows early setup for events if no prior booking is scheduled.

3

Red Mesa Events is known for its reasonable pricing for event hosting.

03
Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria image 1

Hidden behind an alley, the restaurant offers an intimate setting with about 10 tables and a wrought iron balcony overlooking historic Central Avenue. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick and a quiet, secluded vibe despite nearby bars. Upstairs features a swanky hideaway ideal for private gatherings.

Food here is consistently exceptional and fresh with a focus on quality. The smash burger stands out as a notable dish among the delicious offerings.

A glass of wine often leads to a six-course meal featuring dishes like duck pâté. The setting encourages quiet conversation and moments that feel intimate and special.

People are saying

"The cheese boards here are an elite finishing school for your palate."

"The seafood pasta special was unforgettable and divine."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and outstanding."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed on the balcony.

2

Happy hour offers half off pastas on Thursdays.

3

On Saturdays, half off bottles of wine under $125.

04
TRY WINE Collective, DRINK+DINE+SHOP image 1

Cozy wine bar offers intimate atmosphere with eclectic interior and unique wine vending machines for sampling rare wines. Warm, relaxed energy suits date nights and casual gatherings. Food complements wine with artisan sourdough and distinctive charcuterie boards.

Freshly made dishes pair well with an extensive wine selection and a cozy wine bar setting. Food comes with clear attention and care, creating a solid food and wine experience.

Cozy and fun spot with a relaxed energy makes it great for a date night. Offers a casual vibe suited for drinks and snacks during a happy hour or a laid-back evening.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and genuinely informative about wine."

"The food here is amazing and extremely fresh."

"The staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable about the wine."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% service fee added to your bill automatically.

2

The wine tasting experience features unique vending machines for self-service.

3

Prices for wine start at $14, with options for small pours.

05
Joey Brooklyn's Famous Pizza Kitchen image 1

Small, crowded pizza joint with cozy interior and limited outdoor picnic tables creates a genuine New York vibe. Atmosphere feels lively and eclectic, especially with live music and a mix of people enjoying quick bites. Popular spot known for its authentic New York style pizza and casual, bustling energy.

Four kinds of pizza, salads, and garlic knots come with excellent quality and good prices. Food arrives hot and on time, with friendly service that keeps things moving fast.

Special pizzas mark celebrations like birthdays. Couples enjoy walking or skating there, creating a relaxed date spot vibe. Authentic New York style pizza connects with those missing home.

People are saying

"This pizza is the best I've ever had, truly authentic New York style."

"I loved the food; it was excellent and a good price."

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've had in the area."

Good to know

1

They stay open late, which is helpful for late-night cravings.

2

Expect limited seating, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

They run a special for two slices and soda for $7.00.

06
Welcome To The Farm image 1

Country-themed bar offers live country music and a lively dance floor with multiple large bars and two outdoor spaces. Atmosphere stays excited and accommodating, drawing a crowd that enjoys great music and energetic vibes.

Food comes with amazing drinks and great recommendations. The menu offers consistently great food.

Welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy time with a partner. Many couples find it a spot to connect and relax together.

People are saying

"The bartender, Blue, was super personable and always on point with drinks."

"The bartenders here are so nice and personable."

"The food here is great."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover charge on weekends.

2

Veterans receive free entry to the bar.

3

Karaoke night happens every Saturday with a fun atmosphere.

07
Bad Mother image 1
Coffee shop

Old bank building hosts a unique interior with ample seating and private conference rooms. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxing, suitable for meetings or quiet work. Specialty coffee and gourmet pastries attract both casual visitors and enthusiasts.

Great food includes an NYC sesame bagel with cream cheese and a quiche with potatoes, caramelized onions, and provolone. Baristas make helpful drinks and the coffee stands out as the best ever.

Latte and espresso-based drinks stand out here, with options like the golden milk latte appealing even to those who prefer regular coffee. The barista offers drinks to enjoy during any wait, adding a thoughtful touch.

People are saying

"I had one of the best cups of coffee I've ever had."

"The coffee here is the best I've ever had."

"The pour overs here are incredible and unique."

Good to know

1

Slow Bar Sundays feature different coffees from various roasters with unique flavors.

2

Expect to receive brewing tips during Slow Bar Sundays from knowledgeable staff.

3

Parking can be difficult to find near the coffee shop.

08
Renzo's St Pete image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers luxurious interior with simple decor and stainless steel tabletops creating a romantic, cozy atmosphere. The crowd enjoys well-seasoned steaks and professional classic cocktails in a setting that balances elegance with straightforward design.

Food here is consistently amazing with phenomenal flavors and flawless execution. The dishes pair well with carefully selected wines, creating a memorable dining experience.

Steak sharing works well here, making it a solid choice for couples. Seating happens quickly even on busy nights, and the staff keeps up good service regardless of how many people are around.

People are saying

"I found the steak here to be unbelievably flavorful."

"I loved the food here; it was consistently good."

"It's a great spot for Date Spots, especially the steak."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-7pm, offering a variety of drink specials.

2

A 22% service charge is added for parties of four or more.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

09
Isu image 1
Restaurant

Basement setting with intimate, warm lighting and tight table spacing creates a cozy yet crowded atmosphere. Energy feels stylish and welcoming, suited for quiet dinners or date nights. Known for exceptional sushi and standout cocktails, the vibe blends modern comfort with culinary artistry.

Food here offers a phenomenal atmosphere with stunning presentation that feels elevated and artistic. It completely recalibrates what sushi can be with its quality and creativity.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is melt-in-your-mouth delicious and incredibly fresh."

"The Nigiri here is the best sushi I've ever had."

"These sushi Date Spots are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the special tasting menu, which includes a mandatory 20% gratuity.

2

The total cost for two people can exceed $300 after fees and gratuity.

3

The restaurant has a creative menu featuring Japanese and Peruvian fusion cuisine.

10
Five Bucks Drinkery image 1

Bar and grill with neon lights and wood paneling offers a dive bar vibe and loud music featuring 2000s R&B and hip hop. Several TVs show sports, and outside street seating provides a top spot for people watching. The crowd skews younger, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.

Food comes in delicious and plentiful portions, especially for the price. Service stays solid even on the busiest days, making takeout a smooth option.

Mixed drinks include hard rootbeer and other options. The Texas Burger stands out as a notable dish. Ordering can be casual and relaxed, with companions joining in easily.

People are saying

"The food here is a revelation, impossibly crisp and cloud-soft."

"The bar has surprisingly big, affordable, and tasty drinks."

"The Date Spots here are so slow, we waited 40 minutes for pretzels."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers excellent deals on drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The bar gets very busy during happy hour and at night.

3

Prices for food and drinks are reasonable, with burgers at $9.99 and beers at $4.

11
Crafty Squirrel image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar with over 17 big screens and an outdoor seating area offering views of high-rise buildings. Atmosphere is lively and fun, with a dance floor and DJ playing emo and rock music. Crowd enjoys dancing late at night and watching games, creating a laid-back but energetic vibe.

Food arrives fast, hot, and flavorful with combinations that are absolutely delicious. Service stays amazing and welcoming even when busy.

Pairs well with Chardonnay and oysters for a relaxed evening. Offers a casual vibe suitable for a pre-game stop or a quiet night out.

People are saying

"This dance spot has a great atmosphere and plays a good mix of music."

"The food here is phenomenal and full of flavor."

"The oysters here are great for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Happy hour offers $1 oysters daily from 3 to 6 PM.

3

Taco Tuesday features $3 tacos with chicken or pork options.

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Waterfront Arts District, St. Petersburg

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