2025 was another banner year for new restaurants, and it can be hard to keep track of everything if you’re not constantly dining out. It helps that it’s our job, and even we still haven’t made it to every spot we wanted to try this year.
Rather than an exhaustive list of everything that opened in 2025, we’re highlighting some staff picks, the new spots we truly enjoyed. There are several openings missing from this list, not out of displeasure, but simply because we haven’t had time yet. Isu, for example, is near the top of our list to kick off 2026.
ADVERTISEMENT
We also want to give a shoutout to the restaurants that reopened in 2025 after hurricane-related closures in 2024. We missed you while you were gone, and we’ve made it a priority to support those local stars as they bounce back. Some, like Nicko’s Pizza, even went out of their way to help others despite being shut down themselves. That’s St. Pete being St. Pete.
Without further rambling, here are some of our favorite restaurants that opened in St. Pete in 2025, listed in alphabetical order. Did we miss your favorite? Shoot us an email at info@ilovetheburg.com so we can check it out in 2026!
86 Wine Bar
2930 Dr MLK Jr St N
The smallest debut by square footage, 86 Wine Bar packs the most punch per square inch. Its curated, shareable plates have earned rave reviews, while the thoughtful wine program keeps neighbors coming back week after week.
Cheeky’s
2823 Central Ave
The long-anticipated seafood and raw bar is the latest addition to the growing dining and nightlife scene in the Grand Central District. Laid-back vibes, frozen cocktails, and fresh seafood make it a perfectly Floridian experience.
Coffee Concrete
2621 Fairfield Ave S
The Warehouse Arts District café from the team behind Sugar Baby was a hit from day one. The food is excellent, the vibes are immaculate, and the coffee is exactly what you need to power through the day.
Elliott Aster
501 5th Ave NE
The flagship restaurant at The Vinoy lived up to the hype and then some. It quickly joined the ranks of St. Pete’s best fine dining spots, with coastal flair throughout. Dinner is the star, but brunch shouldn’t be missed either.
Exquisite Bistro
397 Fifth St. S
This hidden downtown getaway technically opened at the tail end of 2024, but our first visit wasn’t until 2025, so it counts. It’s a cozy gem with strong small plates and an impressive selection of fine wines and craft beers.
Glamper
217 Central Ave
It may lean more bar than restaurant, but Glamper brought new life to one of downtown St. Pete’s best locations. With strong drinks, party vibes, and craveable chicken tenders, they’re doing it right.
Noble Tavern
1650 Central Ave
Another long-awaited opening that lived up to the hype, Noble Tavern delivers creative, flavor-packed small plates and an adventurous bar program. Add in approachable pricing and an indoor-outdoor setup, and it’s easy to get hooked.
Olivia
211 1st Ave N
Chef Chris Ponte’s modern Italian favorite has been a Tampa staple for years, and its St. Pete debut proved just as popular. The beautiful space is worth the visit on its own, while the food and drinks will keep you coming back.
Perry’s Porch
335 2nd Ave NE
Perry’s Porch is the most transformative addition to the St. Pete Pier since its 2020 debut. A chic coffee shop by day and a polished restaurant and cocktail bar by night, the space feels like the perfect welcome mat for the pier.
Shiso Crispy
226 1st Ave N
The longtime food truck favorite finally opened its first brick-and-mortar, complete with a full kitchen and cocktail bar. Whether it’s pre-concert eats or late-night bites, it’s some of the best food downtown. Don’t skip the gyoza.
Slim Charmer
2706 Central Ave
A passion project from the Wild Child team, this divey-yet-chic bar channels the Lower East Side of New York City. Moody vibes meet excellent cocktails and solid bar bites. Grab a reservation or take your chances at the bar.
The Violet Stone
2609 Dr. MLK Jr. St N
Technically, The Violet Stone has been around for a few years, but the new location is a completely different experience. With a real dining room, a bar, and all the pizza and Philly sandwiches you’ve always loved, it feels brand new.
