provided to The Santiva Chronicle
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille on the St. Petersburg Pier was named a world-favorite restaurant by visitors and locals. The restaurant, overlooking Tampa Bay and downtown St. Petersburg, received the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award, ranking it among the top 10% of restaurants world-wide on the international platform. The award is based on reviews and ratings collected during the last 12 months.
“Earning the Travelers’ Choice Award is an incredible validation of everything we strive for, from our culinary passion to our heartfelt hospitality and vibrant atmosphere,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group which manages Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille. “Because this honor is driven entirely by authentic guest reviews, it carries profound meaning for our team. We are deeply humbled and immensely grateful for this resounding vote of confidence from our community and visitors alike.”
The Travelers’ Choice Awards showcase the best restaurants in multiple categories and regions, based on the reviews and opinions of millions of diners from around the world. Unlike traditional industry awards that require an entrance fee or surveys, these awards are the result of real-life diners insights. The award demonstrates a commitment to hospitality excellence.
Doc Ford’s St. Petersburg Pier location earned a 4.8 out of 5-bubble rating from more than 3,350 customers.
“When I think of my favorites, I think of Doc Ford’s on St. Pete Pier,” wrote Persian K. in giving the restaurant a perfect score. “The amazing food that is so delicious, the impeccable service, the ocean views and the delicious huge assortment of unique cocktails.”
Other reviewers praise specific menu items, including the restaurant’s signature Yucatán shrimp as well as team members, the cocktail culture and the waterfront ambiance.
“The food and view from our table were both amazing,” noted Lisa P. who visited in May. “We went mid-afternoon, so it was less crowded and we got a great table.”
The restaurant is no stranger to Tripadvisor accolades. A perennial winner, it earned the global travel site’s highest honors in 2023, ranked No. 1 in the nation for Best of the Best Restaurants for Everyday Eats.
“Winning a Travelers’ Choice isn’t easy,” Tripadvisor noted. “It speaks to the exceptional hospitality you provide every guest.”
Award-winning Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is beloved for its mouth-watering sauces, spices and fresh seafood featuring Caribbean Rim flavors. A local favorite for residents and visitors, Doc Ford’s offers additional locations on Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach and is a family friendly restaurant. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Philanthropy and community outreach are engrained in HM Restaurant Group’s company philosophy. Proceeds from specialty cocktails at Doc Ford’s have raised over $140,000 for children’s hospitals in St. Petersburg and Southwest Florida. HM Restaurant Group also supports local nonprofits dedicated to conservation, community, education and the environment. The “Ding” Darling Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament, founded in 2012, has donated over $2 million for conservation and water-quality research at Sanibel’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The 15th annual tournament takes place in May 2027.
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