About
One restaurant you need to visit on a Tampa getaway is Frenchy's Rockaway Grill. This Clearwater location offers unbeatable views of the Gulf, fresh seafood, and a fun, laid-back vibe.
Our story begins in Quebec when young Michael Preston moved with his parents to Ann Arbor, Michigan. Because they were bilingual and spoke French, Michael earned the nickname "Frenchy." After a high school vacation to Clearwater, he fell in love with the area and moved to Florida, working as a dishwasher at a local restaurant.
He labored to rise through the ranks to become a manager, and after eight years in the restaurant business, set his sights on opening his first restaurant. He accomplished this goal in 1981 with the opening of Frenchy's Original Café on Baymont Street.
Preston also purchased a fleet of fishing vessels to ensure he could offer "boat-to-table" fresh seafood.
With the success of his first eatery, he dreamed of a bigger restaurant showcasing beachfront dining. In 1991, that dream became reality with the opening of Frenchy's Rockaway Grill. Here, guests have sweeping views of Clearwater Beach and front-row seats to Florida sunsets.
It's also close to area attractions, which means that you're never far from a meal and a cold drink when sightseeing. For instance, Sand Key Park is only a short drive south of the restaurant, while Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, which is north of Clearwater, offers insight into the sponge industry.
With its unique history, off-the-boat-fresh seafood, and beachside vibe, dining here is an essential part of a Tampa vacation!
Vibe
The location is a beach lover's dream come true! With its sandy "front yard" and unobstructed ocean views, this restaurant is on point for a classic beachside meal. The facade sports vibrant Floridian colors and a contemporary sign, making it easy to spot from any direction.
The exterior's colors and vibe flow into the interior, creating an uncomplicated, bright room. Wooden beams, playful signs, and nautical memorabilia add to the beach shack feel. Live music adds to the ambiance, where ocean breezes and cold beverages flow with ease.
There are plenty of seating options. Cool off indoors, grab a bar stool, or enjoy an umbrella-covered table outside. But get there early at sundown, because these fill fast with diners watching breathtaking sunsets.
The vibe is quintessential Sunshine State, with its beach shack atmosphere and oceanfront setting.
Frenchy's Rockaway Grill: Menu & Drinks
While the offerings will appeal to a wide range of palates, we'll start with its most popular pick: the Famous Grouper Sandwich. The grouper comes grilled, fried, Cajun, Caribbean, Reuben, or Buffalo-style. Every bite is proof that fresh-caught seafood makes a difference. Toss in the pickle spear and chips, and you have the perfect beachside handheld.
Another top pick is the She-Crab Soup that is creamy, filled with blue crab, and finished with a hint of sherry. It's comforting and decadent, often ordered as a main course.
Other handhelds include burgers, tacos, hot dogs, and a variety of chicken sandwiches. Specialty salads will appeal to vegetarians or those seeking a lighter meal. With the ability to add chicken, steak, and seafood to any salad, these salads become hearty meals.
Options from the grill round out the menu, with seafood, land, and combinations. A creative twist on a comfort food classic is the Seafood Pot Pie. This delicious meal features fresh grouper, crab, shrimp, scallops, and clams. Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions to the house-made cream sauce, and you've got a flaky, tasty masterpiece!
When it comes to drinks, there's plenty to enjoy. The beer and wine selections pair with every meal, while the frozen Frenchy's Rum Runner is a vacation favorite. It's a blend of Don Q Pasión Rum Dark and 151 rums, banana liqueur, and blackberry brandy mixed with tropical fruit juices.
A stop at Frenchy's Rockaway Grill adds something special to any Tampa getaway. Great food, a fun crowd, and beach views combine for a memorable dining experience.
Local Tips
- Visit during mid-afternoon to skip the rush and get faster seating.
- Ride the SunRunner bus to avoid traffic and save on parking fees.
- The clothing and products make fantastic gifts and souvenirs.
- The kids' menu makes Frenchy's family-friendly.
