We love having a walkable downtown, and the Pinellas Trail is an absolute dream for cyclists, but this time of year with summer heat and daily downpours, it’s nice to find experiences that don’t expose us to the elements.
Inspired by our friends at Suncoast Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM (8755 Park Blvd) after they helped us get back in the driver’s seat this summer, we’re taking a look at some of the best drive-thru experiences in St. Pete. Not only do these accessible outposts keep us in the AC, but there’s something classically Old Florida about these charming drive-thrus – every bit as nostalgic as they are tasty.
ADVERTISEMENT
And if you’re in the market for a new vehicle to get you into the queue at these great drive-thrus, we highly recommend visiting Suncoast CJDR. They’ve been one of St. Pete’s most successful (and popular) family-owned businesses over the last half-century. Owned and run by the Schmidt family since opening in 1975 (with two generations now working at the dealership every day), 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Suncoast CJDR serving the community.
We know this isn’t a full list of every drive-thru in the area (and we’ve omitted fast food chains), but this is certainly a great starting point. And if you think there’s a great one we missed or a hidden gem we should try, we would love to hear about it! Email us at info@ilovetheburg.com.
St. Pete drive-thru experiences
Cafe Mozart German Bakery – 6754 4th Street North
Beloved for its tasty Apple Strudel and fresh-baked goodies, Cafe Mozart is run by the Hipfl family, who spent a combined 40 years baking across central Europe before moving to St. Pete in 1998. Today, they bake everything in-house daily, using ingredients imported from Europe.
Chopstick Express – 3946 4th Street North
The 4th Street hub for Chinese food makes it easy to get a hot, tasty and filling lunch or dinner without even leaving the car. From General Tso’s Chicken and Mongolian beef to crab rangoons and creative sushi rolls, they have it all, on the go.
Fray’s Donut House – 5236 16th Street North
A local favorite for more than 30 years, the original Fray’s location is the quintessential drive-thru donut shop. You’ll feel like a kid again begging for more donut holes (only $1.99 for a dozen!) and maybe a chocolate milk – though these days we prefer a hot cup of Joe and maybe even a breakfast sandwich. With nearly four dozen styles and flavors of donuts, we recommend checking out the menu before you hit the drive-thru.
Greenlane – 8001 4th Street North
So far we’ve been decadent, but perhaps not the healthiest. Yet another 4th Street drive-thru, Greenlane is a lighter option (perfect for summer) that still delivers all the flavor you could want. The popular salad-focused restaurant has a wide variety of creative options, as well as non-salad offerings like wraps and pretzel sticks.
Kahwa Cafe – 6601 4th Street North
The name Kahwa is synonymous with coffee in St. Pete, as the local roaster has exploded in popularity over the last decade. But its drive-thru 4th Street cafe is unlike any other location in the area. Constructed from repurposed shipping containers, this isn’t your average coffee shop.
Pete’s Bagels – 2439 4th Street South
The newest addition to St. Pete’s drive-thru scene is also one of its most popular. Pete’s has become a fast favorite since debuting in Uptown, and having their famous bagels and bagel sandwiches available on the go is a boon. Plus, the location near Old Southeast makes it a much-needed option for the area.
Pineapple Espresso – 3045 MLK Jr. Street North
Who doesn’t love Pineapple Espresso? Last on the alphabetical list, but No. 1 in our hearts, Pineapple Espresso is beloved for amazing coffees and teas, as well as tantalizing breakfast sammies, toasties, salads, and their wildly popular stuffed avocados. Take this as your reminder to visit soon.
If this was enough to whet your appetite (or at least convince you it’s time for a coffee), then it’s time to hit the road and pick something up today. And be sure to visit our friends at Suncoast Chrysler if you need help finding the right set of wheels to do it!
