Wonderful Waterfront Dining

Around this time of year, the weather starts to warm up a bit and locals begin coming out of hibernation from the winter. Waterfront dining along the Gulf waters and intercoastal can be only be enjoyed at a number of establishments.

Try one of our favorite waterfront dining spots and let us know what you think:

• Sea Critters Cafe

Wind down after a long day at Sea Critters Cafe on Pass-A-Grille. Pub style appetizers are offered along with soups, salads and sandwiches. Plates like the Sea Critters Combo Platter (beer battered grouper, crab cake, conch, shrimp, scallops and onion rings) are large enough to share. Drink options are endless with an extensive selection of wine plus the regular and beer and liquor offerings.

• The Wharf on Pass-A-Grille

Seafood is their game and The Wharf is their name. Both surf and turf options are available at this waterfront gem. The 1 lb. New York Strip steak is a favorite as well as the Oysters Rockefeller. There's plenty more where that came from; other menu items range from tuna and crab to ribs and the 1/2 lb. Colossal Dog. 

• Latitudes on Madeira Beach

In the heart of Madeira Beach is Latitudes. They note the "casual waterfront dining" on their website, so bring on the flip flops. Mussels, shrimp and clams top the list of seafood starters while there are other items like wings or the veggie basket to choose from. Entrees range from the Lobster Pasta to the Gulf Coast Chicken (topped with provolone and sauteed veggies).

• Salt Rock Grill on Indian Shores

One of the most well known establishments to enjoy waterfront dining at its finest is Salt Rock Grill. Three bars are available to grab a drink from, prior to being seated. A hefty menu with endless options will keep tastebuds tantalized. Appetizers like the Lobster Bisque and the Oysters Bienville (topped with crab, shrimp and mushrooms then broiled with parmesan cheese) are a fresh start. Entrees range from steak and chicken to pasta and seafood.

• The Pub on Indian Shores

Waterfront dining can be enjoyed at The Pub with three outdoor decks to choose from. The Pub boasts a menu with a little something for every one. To start, there are items like the crab cakes, wings or black angus sirloin tips. Soups and salads are also up for grabs. Entrees include the Tomato Basil Mahi (fresh mahi baked with tomato basil topping) and the Filet Mignon (6 or 8 oz). Sandwiches, baskets and pasta are also available for the taking.