Doc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille St Pete Pier — Restaurant in Saint Petersburg

So this is gonna be a double review. I visit the Tampa area quite often I have never been to this restaurant. The first time we were at the restaurant, the last week of July, it was absolutely amazing. I came with my daughter-in-law and my youngest son, and we we were just walking around the Bay, went to the Tampa Bay discovery center. We were getting a little hungry, so we stopped My daughter-in-law is vegan and the waiter there was absolutely amazing that day. He made sure that she had the vegan menu. He made sure to ask her questions. Also find out if she needed any other options and she had one of your vegan options with a dressing, and it was absolutely amazing.

2nd review ... So before I left On August 1st, she asked if we could go back and I said, of course, you know, let'go back again because she absolutely loved the service, love the atmosphere and everything well, that day. You were really busy, of course, it was a Saturday. We had a little bit of a wait ( 20 min. If that. Not bad at all) which was fine and we sat outside. The young lady that was our waitress was very well rude. I don't know if she was new or just too busy for her area. But she didn't look like she was having a good day. We couldn't keep our drinks filled. And when they brought my daughter-in-law her salad, (she got the same exact thing,) my daughter-in-law asked her about the dressing because it tasted just like lime juice only. Yes I tasted it too. she goes well. . . "They must have gave you the one with cheese in it the other day?" And my daughter-in-law said, no. I'm vegan and the waiter knew this, but This tastes just like lime juice and she ( the waitress) was very hateful about it. So honestly, she stopped and didn't eat it. The chips were stale, we told her that and she just said sorry and walked away.

I was very surprised at the service. The second time again I understand I've worked in the service industry. I own a small buisness myself. I know it can be very busy and very frustrating, but if you're struggling, there should always be someone to help you. I don't want to get anybody in trouble. But the only reason why I'm given it. A 4 star review is because the first time was amazing and the second time telling my daughter, who is a vegan. Telling her that they messed up and must have gave her a non- Vegan option should have never been told to her, because she was very upset about that. So if somebody wants to contact me about it, that's fine. I would be happy to answer questions but I don't think a restaurant knowingly would serve a vegan a non-vegan option, especially when the waiter, was very content. Ensured the order and you actually have Vegan options. Stating this is not a good thing. Made my daughter-in-law felt like she was lied to and forced to eat something that she did not want to eat. I'm sure other vegans would feel the same. The lady made it feel like this is something that happened often as she walked away and didn't...

🌟 My Five-Star Take on Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – St. Pete Pier, FL 🌟

I had the pleasure of dining at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille with my family on January 7, 2024, and I’m giving the experience a solid five stars. From start to finish, everything about this visit was outstanding.

🌅 Atmosphere & First Impressions

Located right at the base of the St. Pete Pier, Doc Ford’s offers breathtaking waterfront views and a relaxed, coastal-chic vibe. We opted to sit outside, where the bay breeze and golden-hour light created the perfect setting. The space is casual enough for families but polished enough to feel like a special night out. There was live music playing just loud enough to enjoy without interfering with conversation.

🍤 What We Ate & Drank

The food blew us away. I ordered their Yucatan Shrimp—absolutely loaded with flavor and a perfect balance of buttery, garlicky, and citrusy goodness. Other family favorites included the Seared Tuna Appetizer and the Deep Water Mahi Mahi. Every dish was fresh, well-seasoned, and beautifully presented.

Their cocktails deserve a shout-out too. I had the Doc Ford’s Mojito, which was crisp, minty, and exactly what you want in a tropical setting. The drink menu leans heavily into rum-based creations, which pairs perfectly with the coastal cuisine.

💵 Pricing

I’d describe the pricing as moderate to upscale. Apps ranged from $12–$18, most entrées were in the $20–$35 range, and cocktails came in around $11–$14. Given the quality, location, and atmosphere, it felt totally reasonable—and well worth it.

👗 Dress Code & Vibe

Though it’s right on the pier, it’s got an elevated, smart-casual vibe. I noticed a nice mix of sundresses, polos, and button-downs—definitely not beachwear, but you won’t need a jacket and tie either. It’s stylish without being stuffy. Great for date nights, family dinners, or just treating yourself.

🐾 Family- & Pet-Friendly Touches

The outdoor patio is pet-friendly, which is a nice bonus if you’re dining with a dog. Also, the staff was incredibly welcoming and accommodating with our group. We had a small wait despite our reservation, but they handled it smoothly and kept things moving.

✅ Final Thoughts

Our family dinner at Doc Ford’s was a highlight of our trip. Between the fresh, flavorful food, the waterfront setting, and the upscale yet approachable atmosphere, it’s easily one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in St. Pete. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a spot that blends Florida charm with great service and delicious food.

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🗓️ Visited: January 7, 2024 🌟 Rating: 5/5

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I made a reservation for my office and I made it about 2 weeks prior. I walked in and was completely ignored by the host and some other lady who also was seating people. I was never greeted. Finally, I had to say something cause the host was about to seat a couple behind me!!! I asked the lady where the host was and she pointed to the host. She had an attitude towards me when she did that. I told I had a large party reservation and she asked if it was for 15. I told it changed to 11. She seemed pissed about that too. Again, never said welcome or thank you for choosing Doc Fords. I arrived about 10 early to get the apps ordered and meet whoever was going to be our server. Well, my table was not even ready and it was right up front by the entrance which faced the parking lot!!!! Why would they put a large party there when a water view should have been given???? They also casually put my tables together and prepped it as if they were in no hurry. I literally watched a busser put items on my tables while watching the TV!! Then, they wouldn't let me and 2 people from my party even sit! I suddenly needed to have at least half of my party present? That was never explained to me when I made the reservation. My coworkers came from the office all separately and in the pouring rain so yes few were late. Finally I noticed a young lady at the table and asked her if she was going to be our server. She said yes and we asked if the 3 of us could sit down and she obliged. Now imagine this - my table was literally literally 3 steps from where we were waiting!!! I felt like the 2 first respresentives of the restaurant could care less about my party and the money we were going to spend. My reservation was made for 2:45pm and the server "let" us sit around 3:05. Now, I will state that our server was wonderful! She was their saving grace for sure. She was attentive and had smile on the whole time. I immediately gave her our app order and details on my party and payment. And she did perfectly! As far as the food, it was fine. Some meals were better than the others. I will admit that the calamari was excellent! For the record, I spent over $600 and I won't book another office gathering there again. The awful first impression by the host, the location of our table (which had ample notice to have a water view reserved), and the rudeness from the older lady ruined it for me. I take pride in providing an experience for my office but instead I was disappointed that I had...