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St. Petersburg Welcomes New Seafood Restaurants

New seafood experiences await at Cheeky's and The Oyster Bar in St. Petersburg.

News Summary

In May 2025, St. Petersburg’s Grand Central District will see the opening of two new seafood restaurants: Cheeky’s and The Oyster Bar. Cheeky’s, featuring a casual ambiance with a New England oyster bar vibe, offers a diverse menu highlighted by fresh oysters and local specials. The Oyster Bar is set to return in a larger location, emphasizing sustainability efforts and community engagement. Both restaurants are expected to enhance the culinary landscape of the area and cater to seafood enthusiasts excited about fresh offerings and unique dining experiences.

St. Petersburg Welcomes Two New Seafood Restaurants in Grand Central District

St. Petersburg’s Grand Central District is set to become a culinary destination for seafood lovers with the opening of two new restaurants in May 2025. Cheeky’s officially opened its doors on May 7, while The Oyster Bar plans to reopen in a new, larger location later in the month.

Cheeky’s: A New Seafood Experience

Located at 2823 Central Ave, Cheeky’s marks the first solo venture of owner Nate Siegel, who is also known for his popular Tampa restaurant, Willa’s. Cheeky’s brings a casual ambiance reminiscent of New England oyster bars and Southern fish shacks, featuring vintage memorabilia, bright red plastic cups, and nautical decorations like fishing rods and vintage photos.

Menu Highlights

The restaurant’s menu prominently features a selection of oysters sourced from renowned locations, including Long Island’s Blue Points, Massachusetts’ Katama Bays, and Florida’s Indian River Oyster Company. In addition to oysters, diners can enjoy a variety of dishes such as:

Smoked fish dip
Fried seafood po-boys
Chowder
Maine lobster rolls
Burgers
Salads

Heading the kitchen is Chef Philip Cleary, who brings prior culinary experience from Omaha and Tampa. The beverage program will offer a range of cocktails, frozen drinks, and a selection of natural wines. Future plans for Cheeky’s include providing lunch, a weekend brunch, happy hour specials, and live music events.

The Oyster Bar: A Return with Expansion

Just a few blocks away, The Oyster Bar is preparing to make a comeback at 2245 Central Ave. After being closed since August 2023, the venue is transforming the space previously occupied by Zoey’s into a seafood-focused establishment that is three times the size of its former location. The new Oyster Bar will feature a raw bar, dining room, and cocktail bar.

Sustainability and Community Focus

Owner Josh Cameron has dedicated the new establishment to sustainability efforts, partnering with Tampa Bay Watch to help restore oyster reefs in the area. Cameron’s team has already shucked over one million oysters, significantly contributing to local environmental initiatives. The new location is expected to enhance the community vibe of the Grand Central District, creating an inviting environment for both locals and visitors alike.

Looking Ahead

The anticipation for these openings reflects a growing interest in seafood dining options within St. Petersburg. Local residents are eager to explore the fresh offerings and unique experiences that both Cheeky’s and The Oyster Bar promise to bring. With their commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, these establishments aim to make a lasting impact in the vibrant culinary scene of the Grand Central District.

As the May opening dates approach, seafood enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars for what promises to be an exciting development in St. Petersburg’s dining landscape.