Guppy's On the Beach — Restaurant in Indian Rocks Beach

Amazing. There's not a better word for this place's food. Parking to get here was a bit challenging, but there's going to be a big reward once you do it.

Once parked, I managed to walk right in to a table, even though it was at late dinner. It happened to be inside. In retrospect, I should have waited or taken a table outside. The only thing that keeps this restaurant from being a five is that it is incredibly noisy. The acoustics of the dining area completely bounce the sound around making it difficult to hear yourself think, much less people with you. They have attempted to place acoustic baffles, but even so, the sound is loud.

The food itself, though, leaves nothing to be desired. They start you off with fresh baked bread and dipping oil. This bread is still warm and soft from the oven and the oil is very light, not overwhelming like some places. I managed to stuff the entire loaf in, one piece at a time before my meal came. The waiter took pity on me and asked if I wanted another one. Hey, why not? Who am I to refuse? Literally, you could make a meal out of this stuff alone. I ate too much of it, no doubt.

I placed my order which was for the Local Grouper Picatta. It came with a side of Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Broccoli. This was primo! The food had great flavor and was highly satisfying. The only deficit with it was that it was so filling I didn't get a chance to try out the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake. I'm sure that was as enjoyable as the rest, but for this trip, it's a no-go.

The location is not directly on the beach, but is across a park from it, about 100-150 yards away. You probably cannot stay in the parking spot for Guppy's and walk to it, but it's a short trip otherwise and worth the walk once you've gorged yourself.

Update: 052321 - Two visits, two weeks in a row. What's that tell you? This place is worth returning to or coming to for the first time, if that applies.

The food is always great, with a novel menu and dishes that are not quite mainstream. Both times I've been here, it's been pretty quick access and a good meal worth the wait. The first time I was seated immediately and the second took about 45 minutes, which was enough time to go and enjoy the beach across the way.

My first meal here was the Grouper Picatta and the second was the Swordfish on a bed of Jalapeno Grits. Both were incredible. I have yet to sample the desserts, filling up instead on the bread and meal, but have no doubt that they will be as good as everything else I've sampled here.

If valet parking is not your gig, there's a decent sized parking lot south of the restaurant, which I've never had an issue parking in. Even at dinner time. Give this place a shot. The food is great and the location is...

Second time we've dined here with friends and both times were amazing. Our first time was with friends that have eaten there for years. They like the Early Bird menu and choose a chicken entree and soup. I ordered ahi tuna from the Small Plates and Soups. It was seared perfectly and beautifully plated. My guy had the Early Bird Breast of Chicken Cutlet. We were seated in the rear of the restaurant in a comfortable booth.

Yesterday we met with friends (their first time at Guppy's) for lunch. We sat on the covered patio which was open air. The ceiling fans added just enough breeze. Our server promptly provided ice water and lemon while we studied the menu.

Although it was difficult decision to decide on what to have, we made our choice and the server was immediately at the table to take our orders.

Shrimp and bay scallops pasta in a red sauce served with a side of steamed broccoli garnished with a sweet red pepper slice. My friend enjoyed it immensely and plans to order again the next time she stops in.

Three of us ordered Chef Scott's Trifecta Burger which was unbelievably delightful with high accolades. The trifecta is Ground Sirloin, Tenderloin, and Short Rib. Lightly Seasoned, Char-Grilled, Bleu Cheese, Apple Wood Bacon, Hot Pepper Bacon Ham/ Brioche Bun. (Although it wasn't necessary, a side of raw sliced onion was requested and added to our enjoyment) The choice of fresh French fries or Guppy's coleslaw was offered for the side. The burgers were cooked exactly to temperature requested, were juicy and definitely a 'will be back again choice'.

This is a question we asked ourselves. As locals, how is it that we've driven past so many times. This restaurant is top notch. Service was professional, timely and friendly.

It was 1:00 on Friday and we were seated immediately where we wanted to sit. Ten minutes later, every table was filled. Note to self, make reservations in the future.

By the way, check out the dessert menu I posted. That in itself is reason to stop. And the Char Grilled Spanish Octopus seems to be calling my name.

There is ample free...

Guppies is a pretty happening spot! If you want to check out the restaurant, and I definitely recommend that you do, try and avoid the lunch hour or dinner rush. We had a party of 10+ and we made it there at just around 11 AM. The restaurant was already starting to get busy. But the hostesses were very good and even came outside to take our names and party size, and with 15 minutes, we had a table large enough to fit all of us.

The food menu has a ton of options from veggie to seafood, and even some steak for the meat lovers. The drinks are outstanding! They have a full bar and can mix up anything you’d like. The drink sizes are not shy so be careful!

I ordered the ahi tuna salad, and it was really good. It might have even been the best I’ve had! Some of my family members had the shrimp tacos, the burgers, chicken nuggets, and french fries, and a host of different things. Everybody enjoyed the food and were left very full and even had some food to take home.

If you have got young kids and need to keep them entertained, they have free Wi-Fi that you can jump on and use. They do not rate a limit your connections, with full access to the Internet. But really all you need is Netflix or Kids YouTube.

The outdoor seating area is plentyful. Think about what time you plan to eat because even with the umbrellas, you are still getting hit with the sun. There is a shaded area next to the building, but there isn’t a lot of breeze and it does get a little stifling underneath there. They do have fans to help move the air.

All in all a great place to eat with super friendly staff and incredibly good food....