A View From Atop

Chuck Prather, owner of The Birchwood, is no stranger to making history in Downtown St. Pete. The developer known for his role in resuscitating Beach Drive, has set his sights on one of St. Pete’s foremost landmarks, the all-new Pier.
After the success of renovating the historic Lantern Lane Apartments to what is now The Birchwood, an 18-room boutique hotel, Birchwood Inn, Birch and Vine Restaurant and The Canopy Rooftop Lounge, Prather has proposed his vision of three dining concepts to anchor the waterfront Pier destination. Enlisting the help of architect, Mickey Jacob, the eco-friendly establishment promises to add to the Pier’s “WOW factor,” incorporating distinctive teak and water elements in its iconic design.

The Experience: Early risers and patrons taking in the Pier’s outdoor attractions and lawn will find their home in the upscale coffee, breakfast and snack bar, Driftwood Café. Driftwood is set to offer affordable coffee, cold pressed juices, boxed lunches and other casual fare from locally sourced, fresh ingredients.

Locals and visitors in search of a hip yet comfortable vibe, while enjoying live music and views of the bay, can look forward to Pier Teaki. The second rooftop lounge in Prather’s portfolio, will be a St. Pete night-life staple with its specialty rums, local and craft beer, cocktails and a small plates style menu.

For Pier goers with upscale casual dining in mind, Prather’s final concept, Teak, plans to bring the Bay to the table with an open kitchen design, a menu of fresh fish and other recognizable items with innovative presentations in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Prather’s commitment to the community, history and future of the City of St. Petersburg makes him a perfect addition to the all-new St. Pete Pier. The hotelier and restauranteur will now bring unique dining and entertainment experiences from the Bay to the shore.

Driftwood Café, Teak, and Pier Teaki will join Randy Wayne White’s restaurant, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, at the St. Pete Pier late summer 2019.