Eat Like a Local: 5 Burger Spots You Can’t Miss in St. Petersburg

If there’s one thing St. Pete locals know how to do right—besides sunshine and sunsets—it’s burgers. Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger or something a little more gourmet, our city’s got you covered. And lucky for guests of the Crystal Bay Hotel, some of the best burger joints in town are just a short stroll or scenic drive away. We’ve rounded up five must-try spots where you can sink your teeth into mouthwatering patties, from cozy neighborhood favorites to creative, chef-driven bites. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in.

1. Dead Bob's: Burgers, Beers, and Old-School Vibes Just Minutes Away

• Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~1 mile
• Google Rating: 4.5 stars
• Address: 6716 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33707
• Website: deadbobsstpete.com

​Dead Bob's is a local institution where you can catch the game, listen to music, or simply enjoy a no-fuss burger with a cold beer. The atmosphere is casual and full of character—think local dive and a jukebox playing your favorite old-school hits. Their "Philly Bob Burger" is a must-try: topped with shaved sirloin, grilled onions, and gooey American cheese. Bonus points for the stuffed tots, which are like tiny bites of heaven. This is comfort food with a old-school twist, just a mile from your room at Crystal Bay.

2. Engine No. 9: Gourmet Burgers with Game Day Energy

• Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~6 miles
• Google Rating: 4.7 stars
• Address: 56 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
• Website: engine9stpete.com

Engine No. 9 serves up bold burger creations in a lively sports bar setting. The walls are filled with sports memorabilia, and the energy is infectious—perfect for a pre-game bite or casual dinner. The menu is stacked with inventive burgers, like “The 504,” featuring peanut butter and apple-smoked bacon (don’t knock it ‘til you try it), or “The Saint,” piled high with short rib and brisket, Muenster cheese, fried chicken, a potato pancake, and Creole mustard. It’s indulgent, over-the-top, and 100% delicious.

3. V9 Eats: A Comfort Food Classic in a Converted Garage

• Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~2 miles
• Google Rating: 4.8 stars
• Address: 5800 9th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
• Website: v9eats.com

V9 Eats has transformed a former gas station into one of the coziest comfort food hangouts in west St. Pete. The vibe is warm, the people are friendly, and the burgers are made with love. Their Double Smashburger is everything a burger should be—crispy edges, melty cheese, and stacked with fresh toppings. They also offer hot dogs mac-n-cheese, and fried shrimp po-boys, making it an inclusive stop for all kinds of diners. With its quirky charm and homemade flair, it’s easy to see why locals keep coming back.

4. The Bier Boutique: Midwest-Inspired Burgers and Unforgettable Sides

• Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~7 miles
• Google Rating: 4.7 stars
• Address: 465 7th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
• Website: thebierboutique.com

This cozy neighborhood spot brings a bit of the Midwest to sunny St. Pete. The Bier Boutique focuses on quality, scratch-made food and great beer. Their McKraken Burger is a crowd favorite—featuring a bison patty, jerk seasoning, cheddar cheese, candied jalapenos, and black garlic aioli on a brioche bun with all the fixings. Pair it with fresh-cut Idaho fries or their famous Momma’s Cheezy potatoes (seriously, don’t skip it). The laid-back atmosphere and Florida craft beer list make this a weekend must.

5. Wild Child: A Tropical Take on the Classic Cheeseburger

• Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~4.5 miles
• Google Rating: 4.6 stars
• Address: 2710 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
• Website: wildchildstpete.com

Wild Child is a Grand Central District gem with serious island vibes. With a menu full of fresh, seasonal ingredients and house-made sauces, this isn’t your average burger stop. Their Cheeseburger features caramelized onions, American cheese, bibb lettuce, house pickles, and special sauce on a toasted brioche bun. The cocktail list is equally impressive, with tropical concoctions that pair perfectly with their dishes. Grab a seat on the patio, soak in the sun, and enjoy the elevated flavors.

Bonus Bite: Grab a Burger and Stay Awhile at Crystal Bay Hotel
After a day of exploring St. Pete’s tastiest burger joints, there’s no better place to unwind than the historic Crystal Bay Hotel. Guests rave about the hotel’s vintage charm, friendly staff, and complimentary breakfast (no burgers, but still amazing!). Located just minutes from all the eateries mentioned above, it’s the perfect home base for your foodie adventures.

The hotel’s veranda rooms offer cozy charm and peaceful views, and the tropical courtyard and sparkling pool are ideal for relaxing post-burger coma. Whether you’re a local doing a weekend burger crawl or a traveler in search of great eats, Crystal Bay Hotel puts you close to the action—and the flavor.

So go ahead—sink your teeth into St. Pete’s best burgers, and come home to Crystal Bay.

Hungry for more local favorites? Check out our guide to 7 must-do hidden gems.