About
Middle Grounds Grill stands out in Treasure Island for its fresh, locally caught seafood and juicy steaks, in a setting that blends comfort and style.
The Coover family transformed Robby's Pancake House, which operated in the 1970s, into a seafood-and-steak house. Founded in 2005, they have grown into a staple in the St. Petersburg area.
Owner Dan Coover led this evolution. He embraced its Gulf-to-table identity since its name refers to the "Florida Middle Grounds." This reef is about 100 miles from shore and is brimming with fish.
Additionally, the polished but approachable setting is another draw. While the vibe is upscale enough to celebrate life's big moments, it's also laid-back enough to attract vacationers.
Its proximity to St. Petersburg makes it the perfect dining spot after a day of sightseeing. For instance, after exploring TheDali Museum and St. Pete Pier, you're only a short drive away from fresh seafood, wet-aged steaks, and refreshing beverages.
Additionally, the Early Dining Menu, available from 4:30-6:30, offers budget-friendly deals for those who like to beat the crowds.
Middle Grounds Grill is a time-tested eatery where creative cuisine and a vibrant ambiance will enhance your dining experience.
Vibe
With its inviting facade, coastal colors, captivating signage, and patio lights, Middle Grounds Grill delights the senses. Its curbside appeal is one reason it's become a hotspot in the Tampa area.
The Floridian vibe flows indoors, where rich woods, nautical details, and soft lighting create a cozy but upscale atmosphere.
A noteworthy feature is the lengthy faux aquarium that runs above a row of booths. While it may appear genuine at first glance, the artwork adds a refined look to the dining space.
While these elements make the dining room feel upscale, the vibe is laid-back. It's the type of place where a celebratory dinner fits right in, but a casual meal with friends is also suitable.
The expansive bar adds yet another element to consider when choosing where to sit. Flat-screen TVs will appeal to those who want to watch the game, while the dim lighting sets the mood for intimate conversations. Nightly live music adds yet another level to this charming area.
With its easygoing yet elegant vibe, Middle Grounds Grill captures the spirit of a Florida getaway, making it easy to relax and unwind.
Middle Grounds Grill: Menu & Drinks
With a menu that seemingly shouts "something for everyone," the selections will appeal to seafood and meat lovers and even vegetarians.
Among the most talked about is the Mango Nut-Crusted Grouper. It features fresh Florida grouper crusted with macadamia nuts, pistachios, and walnuts. A mango Beurre Blanc sauce connects the flavors and textures, while the coconut basmati rice is the perfect accompaniment.
The vegetarian pasta is a fresh option with arugula, artichokes, tomatoes, roasted red peppers, edamame, and asparagus. Add the Gouda cheese, whole-wheat penne pasta, and toss in a saffron vegetable broth, and you have a heavenly entrée.
The Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin is another winner, with a demi-glace and a zip-zap sweet balsamic and burgundy reduction. It comes with garlic mashed potatoes, making it the ideal hearty meal after a day at John's Pass Village & Boardwalk.
If you're not in the mood for seafood, try any of the wet-aged Angus Beef. All steaks are seared on a cast-iron skillet and finished on the grill to your liking. All steak dinners come with your choice of garlic mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or herb or basmati rice.
The beverage menu is just as impressive, with craft cocktails like the
The Key Lime Pie Martini. This "dessert-in-a-glass" features vanilla vodka, key lime liqueur, and a cream finish, served in a glass with a graham cracker rim.
Dining at Middle Grounds Grill is more than just another vacation meal. It will become part of the destination, perfect for families or couples looking to savor the Gulf Coast.
Local Tips
- Reservations are strongly encouraged.
- Happy Hour is daily from 4:30 to 6:30 at the bar.
- Visit on Wednesday for ½ price bottles of wine!
- Book the Private Dining Room for your special event.
- The kids' menu makes it family-friendly.
