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Welcome to Doc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille at the picturesque St Pete Pier, where vibrant flavors meet a laid-back tropical vibe. Inspired by the adventures of local author Randy Wayne White's character, Doc Ford, this restaurant offers a diverse menu that highlights fresh seafood and comfort food. Enjoy signature dishes like Achiote Redfish and Panfried Crab Cakes while soaking in stunning waterfront views from the outdoor seating. With a stellar selection of beers, cocktails, and live music, Doc Ford's is perfect for family gatherings or casual evenings. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere—this gem embodies the heart of St. Petersburg dining.Photos
Amenities & More
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Live music
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Reviews for Doc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille St Pete Pier
Review highlights
Based on 4,362 reviewsDoc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille at St Pete Pier is widely praised for its scenic waterfront location, offering diners picturesque bay views that complement a diverse and flavorful menu. Guests frequently highlight the quality of seafood dishes such as fish tacos, crab cakes, and lobster bisque, alongside well-executed sandwiches and burgers. The lively atmosphere, enhanced by live and curated music, adds to the overall dining experience. While service is generally noted as friendly and attentive, some reviews mention occasional delays or lapses during busy periods. Despite minor service inconsistencies, the combination of excellent food, inviting ambiance, and stunning views make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Excellent waterfront restaurant and bar, with beautiful bay views and excellent food. This is a crazy busy place at times, so service can be spotty. We asked for extra napkins and didn't get them until after we finished our meals, and none of our drinks were ever refilled. However, we had some of the best fish tacos (grouper), and shrimp tacos ever, so there are pros and cons.
I'm a fan of the Doc Ford book series, so when my daughter came to visit we took her there for lunch. It's located on the famous pier and every seat has a water view. Our server was friendly and attentive. I ordered the cheese burger and it was cooked perfectly. My daughter loved the Cuban sandwich. The shrimp wrap was also delicious. My lobster bisque was on special and was outstanding. Interestingly, the prices are very reasonable. 13 for a great burger on the water!!! If you visit St. Pete, you must check this place out. They also sell the books that started the whole thing.
Food is absolutely phenomenal. Must try the crab cakes, best I've ever had in my life. I went there 4 days in a row and tried all sorts of things on the menu and haven't had one bad thing yet. Atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the St. Pete theme. Music is amazing and artist sing great modern/classic songs. HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
I took my hubby out for his birthday to this location (our weekend getaway). It was busy, because of valentine's day but the entire staff was moving quickly (you didn't feel rushed). Our server, Bryan, was friendly, knowledgeable of the menu and attentive to his customers. The food he recommended was delicious and nice portions. The live music and the audio music was great. The views of the St. Pete Pier was amazing. I highly recommend this location.Update: We came back the next night and sat at the bar. Ethan and Dan were great, they worked as a team. Food was great!!
Love Doc Fords. This was our first time at the St. Pete restaurant. Beautiful views. For some reason there was a mix up after they sat us down. Waiters & waitresses kept just walking by. I finally flagged down someone that worked there. I believe it was a floor manager, who was not very apologetic. After that we did get to order and the food was great, waitress was good.
Laid back place with good views of the water from the outdoor seating. Location is great! Around the area is very nice to walk around in before or after stopping by. Food options were good! Drinks were not bad. Service was very nice and attentive. Paid parking in the area but plenty of it.
One of the best to-go spots in St. Pete. Oysters are immaculate and the tacos are delicious. Our server Skyler was top notch. A random surprise appearance from a Pittsburgh Reggae Band MSJR shocked us. Incredible music. If there was a way to leave more than a 5 star review, I would happily do so. Beautiful views inside and out paired with live music along the bay.
We had an amazing experience thanks to our server, Christian! From the moment we sat down, he was incredibly attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. He made great recommendations, kept everything running smoothly, and truly went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic meal. His positive attitude and professionalism made our visit even more enjoyable. If you’re dining here, definitely ask for Christian!
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday (Today) 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Friday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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