A new waterfront hangout has arrived in West St. Pete, bringing fresh seafood, tropical
cocktails, live music and front-row sunset views to Boca Ciega Bay. Boca Ciega Waterfront Bar & Grill has officially made its debut at 8790 Bay Pines Blvd., bringing coastal-inspired dining and drinks to the neighborhood.
Boca Ciega opened in mid-August and has been serving diners daily for lunch and dinner inside the reimagined new digs formerly home to Doc Ford’s. The menu features a wide range of coastal-inspired dishes, highlighted by stars like the Coconut Crusted Snapper topped with a sweet chili piña colada sauce, and the Shrimp Burger made with chopped jumbo shrimp, applewood-smoked bacon and sweet red pepper jam. Fresh seafood, cold drinks, and a Florida sunset? Sounds like the perfect Florida evening to us.
The new spot is from the HM Restaurant Group, which is also the team behind regional star Doc Ford’s. While fans may recognize the group’s seafood-forward roots, Boca Ciega Waterfront Bar & Grill is entirely its own concept. Think casual waterfront neighborhood hangout, with a menu featuring everything from fresh seafood and sandwiches piled high to crisp salads and shareable appetizers. Between it all, there’s something for everyone at the table.
One of the best aspects is the daily live music. Local acts take the stage every weekday at 5 pm, plus afternoon shows on Saturdays and Sundays. The performances are free and only add to the laid-back, coastal vibes.
Boca Ciega takes its inspiration not only from local Florida fare, but from the flavors of the Caribbean and Central and South America. From Yucatan shrimp and grouper sandwiches to salmon, oysters, shrimp fritters and shrimp scampi, the coastal influence is clear. For land-based diners, the dry-rubbed ribeye, Buffalo wings, cheesesteak and Yucatan chicken sandwich keep the options varied.
HM Restaurant Group designed the new concept to reflect the history, waterfront lifestyle and neighborhood character of Boca Ciega Bay through its menu, design and relaxed atmosphere. Named for the bay it overlooks, the restaurant pays tribute to the area’s waterways, coastal heritage and laid-back Florida lifestyle. Updated interiors and design elements draw inspiration from the natural beauty and history of Boca Ciega Bay, creating an inviting setting for lunch, dinner, cocktails and waterfront gatherings.
“Boca Ciega Bay has such a distinct identity, and we wanted to create a restaurant that feels genuinely connected to this location and the surrounding community,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group. “From the menu and design to the atmosphere and hospitality, every element has been developed to celebrate the waterfront experience.”
Boca Ciega Waterfront Bar & Grill (8790 Bay Pines Blvd.) is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm for lunch, dinner and cocktails. To see the full menu and find more information, visit bocaciegawaterfront.com.
