2025 was another banner year for new restaurants, and it can be hard to keep track of all of it if you’re not constantly dining out. It helps for us that it’s our job, and even we still haven’t been to everything we wanted to try this year.
Rather than a list of everything new that opened in 2025 (that would be exhaustive), we’re highlighting some of the staff picks for the favorite new spots we’ve truly enjoyed. There will be several new spots that we missed not out of displeasure, but because we just haven’t had time, yet. Isu, for example, is near the top of our list to kick off 2026.
We also want to give a shoutout to all the restaurants that re-opened in 2025 following closure from hurricane damage in 2024. We missed you dearly while you were gone, and we’ve made it a goal to support those local stars as they bounce back. Some of them, like Nicko’s Pizza, even went out of their way to help others despite being shut down themselves. That’s St. Pete being St. Pete.
Without further rambling, here are some of our favorite restaurants that opened in St. Pete in 2025, in alphabetical order. Did we miss your favorite? Shoot us an email at info@ilovetheburg.com so we can check it out in 2026!
86 Wine Bar
2930 Dr MLK Jr St N
The smallest debut by square footage, 86 Wine Bar packs the most punch per square inch. The shareable, curated plates have garnered rave reviews, while the stellar wine program keeps neighbors coming back every week.
Cheeky’s
2823 Central Ave
The long-anticipated seafood and raw bar is the latest entry into the burgeoning dining and nightlife scene in the Grand Central District. The laid-back vibes, frozen cocktails, and fresh seafood make it a perfectly-Floridian experience.
Coffee Concrete
2621 Fairfield Ave S
The new Warehouse Arts District cafe from the team behind Sugar Baby was a smash hit from day one. The food is amazing, the vibes are immaculate, and the coffee is exactly what you need to get through the day.
Elliott Aster
501 5th Ave NE
The new flagship restaurant at The Vinoy lived up to the hype and then some. It has immediately joined the ranks of best fine dining in St. Pete, with plenty of coastal flair. Dinner service is the star, but brunch can’t be missed, either.
Exquisite Bistro
397 Fifth St. S
Technically, this hidden getaway in downtown opened at the very tail-end of 2024, but we didn’t have our first visit until 2025. It’s a cozy gem with great small plates and an impressive selection of fine wines and craft beers.
Glamper
217 Central Ave
It may be more bar than restaurant, but Glamper has restored life to one of the best locations in downtown St. Pete. With great drinks, party vibes, and delicious chicken tenders, they’re doing it right.
Noble Tavern
1650 Central Ave
Another long-awaited new spot, Noble Tavern has also exceeded its heavy hype. The small plates pack a ton of creativity and flavor, while the adventurous bar program delights at every sip. Add in the affordable pricing and indoor/outdoor bar, and we’re hooked.
Olivia
211 1st Ave N
The modern Italian restaurant by Chef Chris Ponte has been a Tampa favorite for years, and its St. Pete debut proved just as popular. The beautiful new space is worth the visit alone, while the dining and drinks will keep you coming back.
Perry’s Porch
335 2nd Ave NE
Perry’s Porch is the most transformative new thing at the St. Pete Pier since its 2020 debut. A chic coffee shop by morning and a delightful restaurant and cocktail bar by night, the beautiful space is the perfect welcome mat for the pier.
Shiso Crispy
226 1st Ave N
The long-beloved food truck finally opened its first full-on brick-and-mortar, with a full kitchen and cocktail bar. Whether it’s pre-concert eats or late-night grub, they have some of the best food in downtown. Don’t skip the gyoza.
Slim Charmer
2706 Central Ave
A passion project from the Wild Child team, the divey-yet-chic bar transports you to the Lower East Side of NYC. The moody vibe is complemented by excellent cocktails and delicious bar bites. Snag a resy, or take your chance on grabbing a bar seat.
The Violet Stone
2609 Dr. MLK Jr. St N
OK, technically, they’ve been open for a few years. But the new spot is a completely different experience, featuring a real dining room, a bar, and all the pizza and Philly sandwiches you always loved.