We believe the most beautiful restaurants in America are right here in Tampa; however we will concede that the Sunshine State is populated with stunning restaurants that all deserve their moment(s) in the proverbial sun. Trips to Discover recently published its roundup of the 15 most beautiful restaurants in America and THREE Florida restaurants made the cut. None are in Tampa, but each are worth the 3-8 hour drive.
The three restaurants that earned praise are Louie’s Backyard in Key West, Cap’s on the Water in St. Augustine, and Bayfront Bistro in Fort Myers. The selected restaurants earned their spot due to aesthetics and view, so it’s no surprise to see a spot out in Key West garner some adoration.
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A staple restaurant in Key West
“An upscale restaurant serving Caribbean/American fare with everything locally caught, it’s been the spot for alfresco dining for over a half-century with the food as spectacular as the ocean view,” wrote KC Dermody, a reporter for Trips to Discover. “The weekend brunch is to-die-for with everything from coconut-lime eclairs to Key West pink shrimp Benedict.”
Louie’s Backyard is located at 700 Waddell Avenue in Key West. In 1971, Louie Signorelli’s oceanfront Victorian home was transformed into Louie’s Backyard. The original restaurant seated only 12, and had one lone waiter. In 1983, Phil and Pat Tenney purchased and lovingly renovated Louie’s – with special attention to the maintenance of the buIlding’s historical integrity – and transformed it into the architectural delight it is today.
Exploring the views of historic St. Augustine
St. Augustine is one of the most enchanting, and historically rich city’s in America. The magnificent architecture of Flagler College, the vast expanse of St. Augustine Beach, and array fine and casual dining to accompany to the swath of walking tours make St. Augustine a splendid escape for residents and visitors. Cap’s on the Water is a local legend for good reason.
Here’s what Trips to Discover had to say: “Cap’s on the Water must be one of the world’s best places to watch a sunset, with tables spread around its vast outdoor deck and jetty which sit along the Intercoastal Waterway. The outdoor oyster bar, which is often called the sunset bar, is one of three here that offers beer, cocktails featuring local spirits, and award-winning wine.”
Cap’s on the Water is located at 4325 Myrtle Street. The restaurant serves new coastal cuisine, pairing fresh local seafood with traditional Southern and Mediterranean flavors. Handcrafted cocktails, cold beer, and an award winning wine list with over 500 selections. 
A Top 10 waterfront restaurant in the US
The final Florida shoutout comes in the form of Bayfront Bistro in Fort Myers. “Bayfront Bistro is often ranked among the country’s best waterfront eateries, bringing the chance to watch dolphins dance through the surf and the manatees swim by while dining on the outdoor terrace. After dark, the views are impressive too, with the moonlight shimmering across the water. The menu features dishes like Citrus Grouper and Asian Calamari ”
The restaurant is located at 4761 Estero Boulevard. It was recently listed as one of the top 10 waterfront restaurants in America by TripAdvisor. Bayfront Bistro is located on the back bay of Fort Myers Beach, mid-island and is accessible by land or water.
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