Peanut Butter Martinis, Seafood Dreams & a Dessert Called… Wait, What?!
If you’ve never been to Malio’s Beach House in St. Pete, prepare yourself — because this place will slap your taste buds and your dignity in the best possible way. I came for a quiet dinner. I left in a food-induced haze, clutching a Peanut Butter Cup Martini and questioning why every restaurant doesn’t serve dessert with a side of Amaretto and innuendo.
Let’s get this out of the way: The "No Name" dessert drink? Oh, honey. Formerly called The Orgasm (which tells you everything you need to know), this adult milkshake of Amaretto, dark crème de cacao, banana liqueur, and sheer emotional satisfaction had me making noises at the table that were not approved by the table next to us. Pair it with the Peanut Butter Cup Martini and boom — therapy canceled, serotonin restored.
Now to the food. We started with the Applewood Smoked Bacon — by the slice. Yes, this is the kind of place that sells bacon by the slice, and you’ll order six and regret nothing but your cholesterol. Then came the Jumbo Shrimp Theresa, which I assume was named after a woman who said, “Garlic butter me up and don’t hold back.” Theresa, wherever you are, thank you.
I also had the Prime Filet Meatballs, because I enjoy luxury in spherical form, and my friend ordered the Burrata & Heirloom Tomato Caprese, which was so fresh it practically mooed and introduced itself. The Crab Cakes were the size of hockey pucks and ten times more enjoyable — crisped to perfection with lemon basil aioli that I considered putting in my coffee (I didn’t. But I thought about it).
We split the Cioppino, because it was Wednesday and Malio’s isn’t just serving soup — they’re starting seafood symphonies. Mussels, shrimp, clams, and scallops all soaking in a brothy hot tub of flavor. Ten out of ten. Would bathe in it.
The Sea Bass came grilled and practically swam onto the plate begging us to eat it — buttery, flaky, and honestly kind of seductive. I couldn’t make eye contact with the waiter after that.
Dessert? We ordered the Triple Layer Chocolate Cake, and I’m still talking about it in therapy. Rich, decadent, and probably illegal in five states. Bananas Foster was flaming and fabulous, like a Vegas act on a plate.
And can we talk drinks? Because the after-dinner cocktail list reads like a love letter to people who don’t want the night to end. Espresso Martinis. Chocolate Martinis. And the Café Old Fashioned made me feel like I was in an old gangster movie, but like, in the best-dressed way.
In conclusion: If you like seafood, desserts with a secret identity, adult milkshakes with strong feelings, and bacon that comes a la carte like a designer handbag — Malio’s Beach House is your new happy place.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go walk off four martinis and figure out why I tried to tip the...
Read moreThis is just what we needed. A premier steakhouse with outstanding food and impeccable service. I had the filet with a lobster tail and mashed potatoes, my wife had the seabass. Please allow me to back up. The server was quick and attentive. Our cocktails were well proportioned, no skimping in this place! The complementary bread was hot and delicious, you won't loose fillings or crowns on the bread. The atmosphere was laid back, elegant, and you knew you were in a first class establishment! The owner, Derek came by and introduced himself and asked if we were being taking care of? We said yes and our server was ready to take our order. Several times before our food came out, Derek would stop by and want to know if we needed anything. I noticed that he frequently went around the corner into a hallway from us. I'll explain later. Our food came out, HOT, and cooked to perfection. The filet was melt in your mouth delicious as was the lobster tail. The mashed potatoes were so creamy smooth, and the asparagus had a slight char to it and was also a big hit. We were extremely pleased with our first encounter to this restaurant and can assure you it won't be our last. We will spread the word that you don't have to go to St. Petersburg or Tampa for Prime steak, or first class restaurant. We have our very own, in St. Pete Beach. Remember I said Derek was constantly walking by checking in with us and walking around the corner? I had to wash my hands and he came into the men's room and checked everything out. First off, the mens room, you could have eaten off the floor. He was in and out of that place making sure it was impeccable. I don't know any food establishment owner's who physically, interact with customers and check on the restrooms. You just don't see that level of personal pride anymore in the service industry. If you want QUALITY food at an affordable price, look no further than Malio's Beach House. 05/23/2025. Had res. for my wife's birthday. I bought Derek the owner one of his favorite cigars (Pedron, 1964 El Presidente) I know he smokes them so I got one for him. Very accommodating host and owner. He makes you feel like family. My wife had the 1 1/2lb lobster, I had the 10oz filet and mashed potatoes along with asparagus. Let me stop right here. I could have ordered two servings of the asparagus and been completely satisfied. They were the BOMB. Char was spot on and were cooked with just a little snap. Lobster was way too big for the birthday girl, I helped make it go away. My steak was grilled to perfection. We paid the bill and walked outside with our drinks. A few moments later, Alex our guy, brought out a comp dessert for my wife. It was the best dessert we ever had. Hats off to the entire staff of Malio's Beach House. Don't forget to get Derek a...
Read moreI have absolutely no words. We’re from New England and our standard of service is food is pretty high. Experiences down in Florida (even in the south, really), have been sub par. We randomly scored a reservation here last minute (probably a cancellation) and I could not be happier with everything about our meal.
We were sat promptly, and our server Cory immediately greeted us. We were given water instantly and then time to browse. We were told the specials and the menu was explained in detail since this was our first time. His recommendations were spot on and we ordered most of them. The bread to start was incredible. Best bread ever, seriously. We had a beer & the Blueberry Gin drink for this course. You can tell all their ingredients are fresh.
Next, we had the scallops app. Wow. Flavor explosion in your mouth. My husband’s beers never went empty, and waters never got less than half full. This is also when the manager stopped by to check on us and shake our hands.
I inquired about a glass of wine for my steak and I was instantly brought a wine menu, as well as a recommendation from Cory based on my cut of meat. Of course I ordered it, and of course it was incredible. Perfect pairing. My husband got the Ribeye, and I got the New York Strip both Pittsburg style. I literally have no words, that’s how perfectly they were cooked. We also got the Potatoes Malio and Jalapeño creamed corn. I will definitely be dreaming of the potatoes for the next week.
We finished up with a glass of Amaro to digest. Stunning after drink menu, may I add.
This experience was wholeheartedly the best we have had in years, and we are snowbirds who have travelled the United States. We are seasoned foodies. I am a hospitality professional of 15 years. I am at a loss for words. The entire meal all we did was talk about how amazing it was. We’re stunned. As someone who has worked in the restaurant industry for almost two decades, I wouldn’t have done anything different. Timing, etiquette, presentation, hospitality, ALL perfect. I do not say that lightly. We will be regulars from here on out. 100000 stars! Thank you Cory for an...
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