Doc Ford’s wins St. Petersburg-Clearwater Besties Award for best waterfront restaurant

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille in Jungle Terrace is St. Petersburg-Clearwater’s best waterfront restaurant, winning the Visit St. Pete-Clearwater 2025 Besties Award. A favorite spot for taking in spectacular sunsets, the restaurant is nestled along a long bayou and offers docks for boat-in customers.
Doc Ford’s, with a second location on the St. Petersburg Pier, was named best restaurant last year in the awards program, which is determined by nominations and voting by the public.
“Receiving a Besties Award is especially meaningful because locals and visitors determine the winners,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group, the parent company of Doc Ford’s. “These are our customers who are voting for us based on their experiences at our restaurants. Winning for a second consecutive year makes it even more special.”
Presented by BVK and Miles Partnership, the Besties tallied a record 280 nominations in 34 hospitality-related categories – from best beach and beach bar to best local shop and festival.
“Congratulations to all of our award winners for standing out among a crowded field of incredible venues and experiences for our visitors and residents to enjoy,” said Brian Lowack, president and CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.