El Cap (3500 4th St N) is one of the best old school restaurants in the city, and a must-try for all St. Pete residents. Even under new ownership, this local haunt retains all that has made it a family favorite for decades.

Since 1964, El Cap has served no-nonsense fare that locals crave. If you want a cold beer, a true cheeseburger (the Daily Double is perfect), and a decent seat to watch the Lightning, Bucs, and Rays play, El Cap is the place to go.

A beloved burger and hotdog spot in St. Pete

The banter from regulars replaces blaring music, and the servers greet you as if you’re an old friend. Memorabilia on the walls will harkon back to multiple bygone eras in St. Pete. It is as much a time capsule as it is a burger joint.

They offer chicken finger baskets for kids, broccoli cheddar bites and mozzarella sticks for the table, and burgers topped with grilled onions, giant pickles, and mayo. Their fries are addictively good.

Pet-friendly seating, and tons of TVs

El Cap has ample outdoor seating that is pet-friendly, plenty of big screens inside, and a few small screens outside. While 4th Street’s restaurant roster has grown, El Cap’s iconic red sign remains a true marker of St. Pete’s best cuisine.

Keep up with El Cap on Facebook and Instagram.