Clearwater Beach Has A Rustic Dock Seafood Restaurant With The Best Drunken Shrimp You’ll Ever Taste

Fishing lures on one side, mind-blowing seafood on the other.

That’s The Bait House Tackle & Tavern in Clearwater.

Born as a 1940s bait shop, this floating marvel now doubles as Clearwater’s most genuine waterfront eatery.

Push through the tackle shop entrance and you’ll find some truly delicious meals waiting for you. Just claim your seat over shimmering waters and watch boats cruise by as you feast on seafood pulled fresh from those same waters hours earlier.

Menu Must-Tries

Drunken Shrimp: This legendary appetizer deserves its own spotlight. It truly is a must-try dish.

These perfectly cooked shrimp come bathed in a flavorful Cajun-style sauce that will leave you contemplating a second order.

The dish is substantial enough to serve as a light meal, paired with the restaurant’s soft, chewy ciabatta bread for soaking up every drop of that incredible sauce.

Fresh Catch Reuben: Forget everything you know about Reubens.

This innovative sandwich swaps traditional corned beef for the catch of the day (often mahi-mahi or wahoo) and creates an unexpectedly perfect marriage with sauerkraut and perfectly pan-toasted bread.

Even guests who don’t typically enjoy certain fish varieties find themselves devouring every last bite.

Seafood Cake Sandwich: Served on the same delicious ciabatta bread that appears throughout the menu, this well-seasoned cake comes very generously portioned. And while it might get a bit messy to eat, the taste is worth the extra napkins.

Fish Tacos: These tacos are a Clearwater classic done right. They’re typically served mahi-mahi when available, but you can get them with other options too.

Either way, these tacos showcase the kitchen’s knack for blackening and seasoning.

Smoked Fish Spread: An absolute standout appetizer served with an ingenious hot pepper jelly that elevates the already exceptional spread. This Florida favorite gets special treatment here with a depth of flavor that might have you wanting to come back again the next day for more.

Key Lime Tart: Does it get more Florida than this?

It’s the perfect dessert finisher after a seafood feast. It’s also well sized for sharing if you’re with your significant other or out with friends.

Location & Atmosphere

Waterfront Wonder: The open-air deck seating places you directly over the water. This creates an immersive dining experience where you can watch boats cruise by while enjoying your meal.

The restaurant’s position on the marina provides panoramic views that enhance every bite.

Rustic Charm: This isn’t your typical polished restaurant, in fact it’s not even close to that.

The Bait House embraces its origins with a wonderfully authentic “wooden shack” feel.

You’ll walk through an actual bait shop to reach the restaurant. It feels very “old Florida” so keep this in mind before visiting.

Intimate Setting: With just 11 tables and 6-7 bar seats, this tiny venue creates a small yet laid-back atmosphere that feels worlds away from the typical tourist establishments.

The small size contributes to its character but this also means that seats can fill up quickly.

Local Feel: Despite being in a touristy area, The Bait House maintains a distinctly local vibe. The unpretentious ambiance feels like a truly secret spot on the beach where locals go to escape the crowds.

Other Considerations

Pricing: Expect reasonable mid-range prices for high-quality seafood.

While not the cheapest option in the area, the value for fresh expertly-prepared seafood makes it well worth every dollar spent.

Wait Times: Due to its small size and popularity, prepare for a wait. Especially during peak dining hours.

They’ll often offer you a drink while you wait though! But if you can get in for an early lunch or early dinner you’ll be able to beat those long wait times.

Beverages: The Bait House features an impressive selection of local craft beers with 15+ options on tap. They serve beer and wine but do not have mixed cocktails. Non-alcoholic options include sodas and lemonade, and of course water is never out of style.

Location Access: The restaurant is conveniently accessible by the trolley, which has a stop near the marina. It’s also within walking distance from many beach accommodations so it’s relatively easy to reach despite being slightly off the beaten path.

Bathroom Situation: There are no restrooms inside the restaurant itself. Public marina restrooms are located just outside, so this is also worth keeping in mind before you visit.

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The Bait House Tackle & Tavern
📍 45 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767
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