Doc Fords Rum Bar and Grille St Pete Pier - A Flavorful Waterfront Dining Experience

Welcome to Doc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille at the picturesque St Pete Pier, where vibrant flavors meet a laid-back tropical vibe. Inspired by the adventures of local author Randy Wayne White's character, Doc Ford, this restaurant offers a diverse menu that highlights fresh seafood and comfort food. Enjoy signature dishes like Achiote Redfish and Panfried Crab Cakes while soaking in stunning waterfront views from the outdoor seating. With a stellar selection of beers, cocktails, and live music, Doc Ford's is perfect for family gatherings or casual evenings. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere—this gem embodies the heart of St. Petersburg dining.

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible car park
- Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
- Has outdoor seating
- On-site services available
- Offers takeaway
- Serves dine-in
- No delivery
Highlights
- Has fast service
- Has great beer selection
- Serves great cocktails
- Serves great dessert
- Has great wine list
- Has live music
- Good for watching sport
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves alcohol
- Serves beer
- Serves cocktails
- Serves coffee
- Serves comfort food
- Serves happy-hour drinks
- Serves healthy options
- Serves late-night food
- Serves small plates
- Serves spirits
- Serves wine
Dining options
- Serves brunch
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Has catering
- Serves dessert
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has bar on site
- Has toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Good for groups
- Popular with tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually has a wait
Payments
- Accepts credit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs available
- Has kids' menu
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed

jay victor

Apr 16,2025

Excellent waterfront restaurant and bar, with beautiful bay views and excellent food. This is a crazy busy place at times, so service can be spotty. We asked for extra napkins and didn't get them until after we finished our meals, and none of our drinks were ever refilled. However, we had some of the best fish tacos (grouper), and shrimp tacos ever, so there are pros and cons.

Michael C. Delapena

Apr 13,2025

I'm a fan of the Doc Ford book series, so when my daughter came to visit we took her there for lunch. It's located on the famous pier and every seat has a water view. Our server was friendly and attentive. I ordered the cheese burger and it was cooked perfectly. My daughter loved the Cuban sandwich. The shrimp wrap was also delicious. My lobster bisque was on special and was outstanding. Interestingly, the prices are very reasonable. 13 for a great burger on the water!!! If you visit St. Pete, you must check this place out. They also sell the books that started the whole thing.

Andy Kiesler

Mar 29,2025

Food is absolutely phenomenal. Must try the crab cakes, best I've ever had in my life. I went there 4 days in a row and tried all sorts of things on the menu and haven't had one bad thing yet. Atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the St. Pete theme. Music is amazing and artist sing great modern/classic songs. HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Shawn Turner

Mar 25,2025

I took my hubby out for his birthday to this location (our weekend getaway). It was busy, because of valentine's day but the entire staff was moving quickly (you didn't feel rushed). Our server, Bryan, was friendly, knowledgeable of the menu and attentive to his customers. The food he recommended was delicious and nice portions. The live music and the audio music was great. The views of the St. Pete Pier was amazing. I highly recommend this location.Update: We came back the next night and sat at the bar. Ethan and Dan were great, they worked as a team. Food was great!!

Brenda Lonzo

Mar 21,2025

Love Doc Fords. This was our first time at the St. Pete restaurant. Beautiful views. For some reason there was a mix up after they sat us down. Waiters & waitresses kept just walking by. I finally flagged down someone that worked there. I believe it was a floor manager, who was not very apologetic. After that we did get to order and the food was great, waitress was good.

Willie Ruiz

Feb 18,2025

Laid back place with good views of the water from the outdoor seating. Location is great! Around the area is very nice to walk around in before or after stopping by. Food options were good! Drinks were not bad. Service was very nice and attentive. Paid parking in the area but plenty of it.

Zach sierocki

Jan 25,2025

One of the best to-go spots in St. Pete. Oysters are immaculate and the tacos are delicious. Our server Skyler was top notch. A random surprise appearance from a Pittsburgh Reggae Band MSJR shocked us. Incredible music. If there was a way to leave more than a 5 star review, I would happily do so. Beautiful views inside and out paired with live music along the bay.

Cassandra Lemieux

Jan 20,2025

We had an amazing experience thanks to our server, Christian! From the moment we sat down, he was incredibly attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. He made great recommendations, kept everything running smoothly, and truly went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic meal. His positive attitude and professionalism made our visit even more enjoyable. If you’re dining here, definitely ask for Christian!