Indian Rocks Beach, a gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers more than just stunning sunsets and pristine sands. It’s a haven for food lovers, boasting a diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. As a content creator for rockscapes.net and a local food enthusiast, I’m excited to share my curated list of must-visit Indian Rocks Beach restaurants, bakeries, and even the town’s first craft brewery.
Whether you’re seeking a casual beachfront bite, a family-friendly seafood feast, or a romantic dinner spot, Indian Rocks Beach restaurants promise a delightful dining experience. This guide will walk you through the best local eateries, ensuring you eat where the locals love, whether you dine in, grab takeout for your vacation rental, or enjoy a picnic on the beautiful beach.
Indian Rocks Beach Florida Welcome Sign
Finding Indian Rocks Beach: Your Coastal Dining Destination
Nestled on the picturesque Florida Gulf Coast, Indian Rocks Beach is a charming town just south of Clearwater Beach. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible, being approximately 45 minutes from Tampa International Airport and 30 minutes from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. This accessibility, combined with its laid-back atmosphere and incredible dining options, makes Indian Rocks Beach a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or a delicious day trip. You might recognize Indian Rocks Beach as a fantastic family Spring Break destination or a wonderful day trip from Tampa. For more insights into local attractions and activities, explore Things to Do in Indian Rocks Beach.
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this guide – my personally curated list of the best Indian Rocks Beach restaurants, complete with menu recommendations. When you visit these local favorites, be sure to mention you discovered them through rockscapes.net!
Keegan’s Seafood Grille: A Local Seafood Staple
For an authentic taste of the Gulf, Keegan’s Seafood Grille is a must-visit. Known for its incredibly fresh seafood, Keegan’s Seafood Grille is a local institution that consistently delivers quality and flavor. My top recommendation is always the blackened grouper, prepared to perfection. Beyond the grouper, Keegan’s menu is filled with unique and tempting options you won’t find everywhere in IRB, like flavorful conch fritters, tender octopus, and a rich she crab soup. Make sure to save room for dessert; their homemade key lime pie and locally sourced rum cakes are the perfect sweet ending to a seafood feast.
Beach Waves Grill: Grouper Sandwiches and Beach Vibes
If you’re craving the quintessential Florida grouper sandwich, look no further than Beach Waves Grill. Beach Waves Grill has rightfully earned its place among the Best Grouper Sandwiches in Florida. Located on 23rd Avenue, in the spot formerly occupied by Thai Pan Alley, Beach Waves Grill offers a relaxed, beachy atmosphere. I particularly enjoy their outdoor seating in the afternoon sun, especially when paired with their incredible $2 draft beer specials and a comforting bowl of corn and crab chowder. Of course, the star of the show is their blackened grouper sandwich or platter – always a satisfying choice.
Blackened Grouper Sandwich at Beach Waves Grill Indian Rocks Beach Florida
Rockscapes.net Local Tip: Don’t leave without trying Beach Waves Grill’s key lime pie; it’s another local favorite that rivals even their grouper!
Guppy’s On the Beach: Upscale Seafood with Gulf Views
For a slightly more upscale dining experience with breathtaking Gulf views, Guppy’s On the Beach is an excellent choice. Guppy’s On the Beach in Indian Rocks Beach specializes in fresh Florida lobster and, you guessed it, grouper! While their menu boasts an array of tempting dishes, I consistently find myself drawn to their grouper offerings. The grouper piccata and grouper tacos are personal favorites, showcasing the versatility of this local fish. Although I’m a creature of habit when it comes to grouper at Guppy’s, their shrimp and grits, oysters, and other dishes look equally amazing. What are your go-to dishes at Guppy’s? I’m always open to new recommendations!
Grouper Tacos at Guppy's Indian Rocks Beach Restaurant
Jake’s Coastal Cantina: Tacos, Margaritas, and Daily Deals
For a fun and lively atmosphere with fantastic daily specials, Jake’s Coastal Cantina is the place to be. Jake’s Coastal Cantina is known for its 2-for-1 drink specials and delicious, affordable food. My favorite daily deals include $2 Taco Tuesday, $5 Quesadilla Monday, and half-price Burrito Wednesday – perfect for a casual and budget-friendly meal. Jake’s has recently moved across the street from its original location into the former Lulu’s building, offering a fresh, new vibe and an expanded menu. You’ll now find a wider selection of specialty cocktails and a build-your-own margarita option, adding to the fun atmosphere. However, the classic salsas and chips that everyone loves remain a staple with every order.
Outdoor Seating Area at Jake's Coastal Cantina Indian Rocks Beach
Daily Specials Sign at Jake's Coastal Cantina IRB
Everyone loves Jake’s, and the new location is definitely worth checking out. The expanded space and menu offer even more reasons to enjoy this Indian Rocks Beach favorite.
Rockscapes.net Local Tip: Just a short two-minute walk from Jake’s, you’ll find a charming small public park at the 5th Ave beach entrance. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy your takeout order from Jake’s while soaking in the beach atmosphere.
The Original Crabby Bill’s: An Indian Rocks Beach Icon
For a truly iconic Indian Rocks Beach dining experience, The Original Crabby Bill’s is a must. Crabby Bill’s is a long-standing favorite known for its lively atmosphere and extensive menu. During my visits, I particularly enjoyed the Nashville hot grouper sandwich – a flavorful and slightly spicy twist on a local classic. Crabby Bill’s cole slaw is another highlight; in my opinion, it might just be the tastiest in IRB, and I often choose it over the fries. Beyond grouper, Crabby Bill’s offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including oysters, local catches, catfish, salmon, and much more, making it a great choice for families, groups, and couples alike. The restaurant features a lively outdoor dining and drinking area, along with a large indoor dining room centered around a U-shaped bar. If you’re feeling indecisive, a salad topped with blackened grouper is always a solid and satisfying choice.
Festive Decorations at Crabby Bills Indian Rocks Beach
Crabby Bill’s also has a location a few miles south in St. Pete Beach, and the Crabby Bill’s family manages several other great local restaurants, including Jake’s Coastal Cantina and Seabreeze Island Grill.
Kooky Coconut: Cuban Flavors and Sweet Treats
For a taste of Cuban cuisine with a tropical twist, Kooky Coconut is a unique and delicious option. Kooky Coconut is located in a charming tiki hut-themed building on 8th Avenue. Their Cuban sandwiches are the star of the show, with half a dozen varieties to choose from. I personally recommend the traditional Tampa Cuban version. In addition to Cuban sandwiches, Kooky Coconut offers tacos, quesadillas, burritos, burgers, and hot dogs. And for a sweet treat, they boast over 30 flavors of locally homemade ice cream – perfect for cooling down after a beach day.
Humorous Sign at Kooky Coconut Indian Rocks Beach
Groupers on the Gulf: Seafood with a Second Chance
Groupers on the Gulf, tucked away in a strip mall, is a restaurant that deserves a second look. Groupers on the Gulf has had a bit of an up-and-down reputation in the past, but it seems they’ve made positive changes to their menu and possibly management. While past experiences with their peel-and-eat shrimp and grouper tacos were just “OK,” my most recent visit in January 2025 was a pleasant surprise. The blackened grouper platter was fantastic – we ordered two, one with redskin potatoes and one with broccoli, and both were excellent, complete with a side of cole slaw. I’m glad I gave Groupers another chance, and I recommend you do too. (Just maybe skip the key lime pie – it was a bit skimpy on a previous visit!).
Sandy’s: Classic Breakfast and Lunch Spot
For classic and comforting breakfast and lunch fare, Sandy’s is a reliable and friendly option. Sandy’s is a great spot for a hearty and satisfying start to your day or a midday meal. I particularly love their breakfast home fries, seasoned with thyme, which adds a unique and delicious touch to a breakfast staple. Paired with a hearty omelet, it’s a perfect breakfast combination. The servers are consistently friendly and experienced, the coffee and tea are always good, and the diner-style decor is charming and welcoming. Sandy’s is conveniently located in the same small center as Beach Waves Grill and Cafe de Paris Bakery.
Pajano’s Pizza: Pizza for Takeout
When pizza cravings strike in Indian Rocks Beach, Pajano’s Pizza is a top contender for takeout. While their Indian Rocks Beach location is primarily for carryout, I’m also a fan of their sister location four miles south in North Redington Beach, Pajano’s Pizza and Taphouse. The North Redington Beach location offers a better dine-in experience and boasts an impressive selection of two dozen craft beers on tap. However, for convenient and delicious pizza to enjoy at your vacation rental or on the beach in Indian Rocks Beach, Pajano’s Pizza is a solid choice.
Slyce Pizza Bar: Artisan Pizza and Brunch (Currently Closed for Renovations)
Rockscapes.net Local Note: Please be aware that the Slyce IRB location sustained significant hurricane damage and is currently closed for renovations. However, their Madeira Beach location, just a short drive south, is open and ready to serve you.
Normally, Slyce Pizza Bar is a popular spot in IRB, known for its artisan stone oven pizzas. Slyce offers a diverse menu beyond pizza, including salads, sandwiches, strombolis, and calzones. Their brunch menu, featuring Belgian waffles and breakfast pizzas, is also worth exploring when they reopen in IRB. Slyce’s individual slices are generously sized – large enough to spill over a regular plate, which is just how I like them!
Large Pizza Slice from Slyce Pizza Bar Indian Rocks Beach
Cafe de Paris Bakery: Authentic French Pastries
For a taste of France in Indian Rocks Beach, Cafe de Paris Bakery is a delightful stop. Cafe de Paris Bakery, located next to Beach Waves Grill, offers authentic French artisan treats. Enjoy sweet and savory options like crepes, quiche, croissants, and a variety of other traditional bakery items, along with soups and salads. The owners and chefs bring 20 years of bakery experience from France to Indian Rocks Beach, ensuring an authentic and high-quality experience.
Pipo N Betty’s Bakery: Morning Pastries and Coffee
Pipo N Betty’s Bakery is a welcome addition to the Indian Rocks Beach bakery scene. Pipo N Betty’s Bakery, located in Jake’s Coastal Cantina’s former space, is the perfect place to start your day or enjoy a mid-morning treat. Stop in for morning tea or coffee and a pastry – I recommend the pistachio muffin! If you have more time, try a breakfast sandwich on a croissant or their unique cloud bread. It’s a great spot to grab something delicious before heading over the bridge to the mainland.
Pipo n Bettys Bakery Indian Rocks Beach Exterior
Anecdote Brewing Company: Indian Rocks Beach’s First Craft Brewery
Craft beer lovers rejoice! Indian Rocks Beach finally has its own craft brewery – Anecdote Brewing Company. Anecdote Brewing Company offers a rotating menu of unique and eclectic brews, so there’s always something new to try. On my last visit, they even had a taco-themed lager on tap! New in 2024, Anecdote has added a small kitchen, focusing on paninis and wings to complement their craft beers. It’s fantastic to have a local brewery in IRB, saving me a trip to Mad Beach when I’m craving a fresh, locally brewed pint.
Colorful Manatee Mural at Anecdote Brewing Company IRB
Rockscapes.net Local Tip: Consider purchasing an Anecdote Brewing gift card – you can often save 10%, making it a great deal for yourself or a fellow beer enthusiast! And if you’re interested in exploring more local breweries, check out other Florida Gulf Coast Craft Breweries.
Exploring Restaurants Near Indian Rocks Beach
While Indian Rocks Beach itself boasts a fantastic array of dining options, there are also some excellent restaurants just a short drive away that are worth considering. Venture a little beyond IRB and you’ll discover even more culinary gems to enhance your Gulf Coast dining experience.
Indian Rocks Beach Restaurants Banner Image
Feeling hungry yet? I hope this guide to Indian Rocks Beach restaurants has inspired you to explore the diverse and delicious dining scene IRB has to offer. Please let me know which Indian Rocks Beach restaurants are your personal favorites, especially if I missed any hidden gems! I’m always eager to discover new local hotspots.
