Drift - Opal Sol Resort — Restaurant in Clearwater

A Pleasant Surprise with Whipped Feta, Thoughtful Plates, and a Charming Vibe

We stopped into Drift for a late lunch (closer to dinner, really) and were pleasantly surprised by the overall experience. The menu is minimal, but each dish feels considered — a sign that the kitchen is focused on quality over quantity.

We started with the whipped feta, which was creamy, tangy, and just indulgent enough. The focaccia crisps that came with it had a nice herbaceous seasoning, though they do tend to crumble a bit and make a mess on the table — a small nuisance, but nothing that took away from the enjoyment.

The octopus was a generous portion and came with a flavorful sauce. I’ve had versions elsewhere that were a bit more tender or charred, but this was still very good and plated with care.

The standout dish for me might’ve been the chicken tagliatelle with butter-poached mushrooms. The sauce was rich but not heavy, and the mushrooms added an earthy depth that worked really well with the pasta. We appreciated being able to order a half portion — just the right size to enjoy without overdoing it.

Service was warm and attentive, and while we sat outside, we peeked into the dining room — the interior looked sleek, intimate, and thoughtfully designed. There’s a sense of integrity in how Drift presents itself — a quiet confidence that doesn’t need to shout.

All in all, this is the kind of place I’d absolutely return to. Refined, relaxed, and...

So if you find yourself in Clearwater Florida you must try Drift in the Opal Hotel! I promise you won’t be disappointed!!! Not only is the ambience lovely the sunsets are to die for!! We were greeted right away by our server Katie who was phenomenal!!!! She couldn’t have been anymore attentive or given better menu suggestions!!! We started with the whipped Feta Cheese appetizer which was delicious!!!! The Beet and Burrata salad was the perfect size and amazing. I loved that I was able to get a 1/2 portion of the pappardelle Bolognese which was a 10 out of 10!!! It was the perfect night in the perfect restaurant with the perfect server!!!! Thank you Katie for all your hard work with a smile!!! You made an already great night that much better!!!!!...

DO NOT MISS THIS! I can only imagine the couple of negative reviews here were when this restaurant first opened and they were figuring out the business model….We visited in September several months after they opened in the spring. The service was 10/10. Ned was absolutely amazing, the type of service you find in fine dining establishments. Service was impeccable, and the meal…. Oh my goodness. We had the beef tenderloin with the lobster bisque for starter. We’re well travelled and this meal was exceptional—kudos to the chef, the flavors were perfection. Do not sleep on having a meal at Drift, and splurge on some of the fancier options…. This was the best meal we had at Clearwater...