Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille

There are waterfront restaurants, and then there is Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille — a 10,000-square-foot celebration of island life perched at the southern end of the St. Pete Pier with views that stretch across Tampa Bay and back toward the downtown skyline. Named after a fictional character from Randy Wayne White's popular novel series set in Southwest Florida, the restaurant brings bold Caribbean-inspired cuisine to the table alongside one of the most impressive rum selections you will find on the Gulf Coast. The menu leans into the flavors of the islands — the signature Yucatan Shrimp, wild-caught pink shrimp sautéed in a citrus-garlic butter sauce, is the dish that keeps regulars coming back, while fresh fish tacos, grilled mahi, and hearty seafood platters round out a lineup built for long, leisurely meals by the water. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between relaxed island vibe and lively energy, with both indoor and open-air seating that takes full advantage of the Pier setting. Live music adds to the atmosphere on select evenings. Whether you are finishing a walk along the Pier, watching dolphins play in the bay, or simply in search of a memorable meal with a view, Doc Ford's delivers one of downtown St. Pete's most enjoyable waterfront dining experiences.