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There’s no time of the year quite like Summer in St. Pete, and St. Pete Pier is your destination for all-day fun for the whole family. Whether you’re visiting in the morning for a peaceful morning workout, enjoying the sunshine during the day or watching the sunset turn into night, the sparkling water creates the perfect backdrop for some al fresco summer dining, no matter if you’re looking for something bubbling full of fresh flavor or bubbling in a flute.

Driftwood Café, Teak and Pier Tiki

Located at the focal point of the St. Pete Pier, Teak, Pier Teaki and the Driftwood Café have the perfect options for everyone no matter what kind of Summer dining you’re looking for. Check out our favorite Summer dining trends and where you can find them.

Breakfast sandwich and coffee at Driftwood Café

Early Birds

For those arriving to the Pier early in the morning, you’ll be greeted by lower crowds, cooler temps and sweet parking! Stop by on the weekends for one of several free exercise workshops presented at the Pier, or just enjoy a nice morning stroll down the walk. Driftwood Café features a full coffee bar with gourmet beans and fresh pastries.

Ice Cream at Driftwood Café

Beat the Heat

We all love the Florida Sunshine, but sometimes you just need something cold to help cool you down on those hot Summer days. Located on the second floor of the Pier between Driftwood Café and Pier Teaki, Teak is an air-conditioned sit-down restaurant that’s guaranteed to give you a welcome respite from the heat with some delicious dishes to boot. For those looking to cool down another way, did you know that the Driftwood Café features over a dozen flavors of ice-cream, all made in house daily, as well as an extensive selection of shaved ice flavors. Check out them all on the Driftwood Café menu: https://driftwoodcafestpete.com/

Light and Fresh Ahi Tuna Salad

Light and Fresh

Sometimes you want something fresh and refreshing to enjoy when it’s warm outside, and we have a variety of light options to keep you fueled and ready for your next Summertime activity. Teak features a wide variety of light dishes including flatbreads, crab cakes and citrus-spiced mahi tacos, and salads that can be topped with a variety of proteins including fresh fish. Pier Teaki’s menu features multiple lighter options as well, in addition to bar bites designed to be shared amongst friends.

Customizable Picnic Basket from Driftwood Café

Al Fresco Dining

Nothing beats dining outside, and there are several ways to bring your dining outside at St. Pete Pier. In addition to sweeping indoor views of the waterway, Teak has several outdoor tables that allow al fresco dining. Above Teak, Pier Teaki features an expansive outdoor terrace that’s partially covered to keep out the Sun. If you’d prefer to explore while you are, grab a picnic basket from Driftwood Café or a to-go cocktail from Pier Teaki and take it anywhere on the Pier.

Hula Hope you can finish this massive punch bowl (we’re sure you’ll share!)

Summer Sips

Speaking of cocktails, sometimes you just need a nice cold beverage, and we have your hookup. Enjoy rotating seasonal beers and craft cocktails at Teak and at Teak’s attached bar. It’s the only time you’ll see seagulls above you and not feel the need to take cover! The energetic bar area is a great place to people watch, as well as admire the beautiful teak artwork. Upstairs, Pier Teaki has perfected the art of putting modern twists on classic Tiki cocktails. Try a Rum Rummer, a Florida Hemingway, or some delicious Frozé. View the full menu at: https://pierteaki.com/.

Enjoying that Golden Hour! Photo: @starlilycreations

Sunset Sights and Warm Nights

As the sun begins to set, take in a view of the gorgeous sunset from your table at Teak, or from upstairs at Pier Teaki. For Teak, make sure you book your table in advance and check the sunset time to make sure you’re seated for the full show. You can join the waitlist in advance of your arrival here: https://teakstpete.com/. We also recommend simply grabbing a frozen cocktail at Pier Teaki and sipping until the color of the sky matches your orange-red drink.

Whether you spend the morning, afternoon, evening or whole day at St. Pete Pier, there are delicious decisions to be made around every corner. We hope these tips are beneficial to you as you plan your perfect day at the Pier. We hope they lead you to discovering your next favorite Summer dish!