St. Pete & Clearwater, FL, Decided.
Every decision that matters, on one page.
✦ Stay: The Don CeSar ($$$-$$$$)
✦ Eat: Bella Brava — book walk-in-friendly — a casual Beach Drive standby; reservations are taken and help at peak dinner / weekend, but it's a drop-in patio spot. The play: a patio table for wood-fired pizza/pasta and Beach Drive people-watching before or after the museums.
✦ Stay: Opal Sands Resort ($$$-$$$$)
✦ Eat: Frenchy's — book walk-in — a casual beach institution; expect a wait at prime lunch/dinner and in high season. The play: a grouper sandwich (the signature) at whichever location fits — Rockaway Grill is on the sand, the Original Cafe is the classic. Confirm hours/locations on site.
✦ Stay: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection ($$$-$$$$)
✦ Eat: Il Ritorno — book days-to-weeks in high season — reserve ahead for a prime downtown St. Pete dinner. The play: go for the house-made pasta tasting/à la carte; it's a modern-Italian evening, not a quick bite.
✦ Stay: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach ($$$)
✦ Eat: Bob Heilman's Beachcomber — book reserve ahead — a special-occasion classic, dinner only (from 5pm daily), busiest in high season. The play: the "Back to the Farm" fried chicken or prime rib + a bottle from the deep cellar; a multigen or celebration dinner. Confirm current hours on site.
When to go: March, April, October, November.