Welcome to Stillwaters Tavern, a delightful eatery that prides itself on American scratch cooking and a friendly atmosphere for you and your four-legged companion. Located on Beach Drive in downtown Saint Petersburg, the tavern offers the perfect spot to grab a bite while exploring the nearby Saint Petersburg Pier, museums, and Tampa Bay. Join Bolt and me as we dive into the delicious offerings, attentive service, and dog-friendly ambiance of Stillwaters Tavern.         

Classic American Fare with a Modern Twist:

Stillwaters Tavern showcases a menu that leans more towards American staples rather than experimental cuisine. The chef’s dedication to working with local ingredients and refining classic dishes like fried green tomatoes, burgers, steaks, and local fish is evident in their offerings. The menu features a wide range of entrees priced from $13 to $40, catering to different tastes and budgets. My personal favorites include the grilled salmon salad (around $20) and the Tavern Burger (approximately $16). It’s important to note that my most recent experience was a bit underwhelming, with the grilled salmon salad lacking flavor and my dining partner’s Tavern Burger being overcooked. However, these instances are not representative of the overall quality and taste of Stillwaters Tavern’s menu. For Bolt, they offered a Pooch Patty, an unseasoned burger patty which he enjoyed immensely. In true altruistic fashion, Stillwaters even donates $2 from each Pooch Patty to Southern Guide Dogs. The menu also includes an extensive beer list for the drinkers in our audience, along with craft cocktails and plenty of wine. For the non drinkers out there, they offer various non alcoholic drinks, including Liquid Death. While I prefer Pellegrino, Liquid Death is a decent alternative.

Accommodating Special Dietary Needs:

Stillwaters Tavern is committed to catering to special dietary needs, offering vegan and gluten-free options for guests with specific requirements. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and can provide guidance for those seeking dishes that suit their preferences.

Service and Staff:

The service at Stillwaters Tavern can be slow at times but is always friendly and knowledgeable. The staff’s dedication to making guests feel welcome contributes to the overall dining experience.

Outdoor Seating and Dog-Friendly Atmosphere:

With both indoor and outdoor seating available, Stillwaters Tavern provides a comfortable setting for guests and their canine companions. The covered outdoor seating area is equipped with fans and heaters, ensuring a pleasant dining experience regardless of the weather. Planter boxes with shrubs line the exterior and string lights hang from the ceiling, enveloping you in a magical oasis away from the bustle of the busy street. Bolt received a warm welcome and a refreshing bowl of water during our visit, adding to the charm of the tavern.

Final Thoughts:

Stillwaters Tavern is an inviting destination for those seeking classic American comfort food and a dog-friendly environment. While there is room for improvement in both service and consistency of the dishes, the overall experience is enjoyable, and the dedication to catering to special dietary needs is commendable. Drop by with your furry friend and let Bolt’s Bark of Approval guide you to a memorable meal at Stillwaters Tavern.

Bolt’s Bark of Approval:

“As a discerning canine critic, I wholeheartedly endorse Stillwaters Tavern. The inviting outdoor seating, refreshing water, and delectable pup patty made me feel like a VIP (Very Important Pup). I give Stillwaters Tavern my highest praise: a 5-paw rating for their outstanding commitment to making dogs feel welcome and valued.”