The Chattaway - St. Petersburg, FL

Attraction: The Chattaway
Location: 358 22nd Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Industry: Restaurant
Website: https://thechattaway.com/

Picture this: You’re driving through a quiet St. Petersburg neighborhood when you stumble upon what looks like a whimsical wonderland hiding behind pink walls. Welcome to The Chattaway, where tropical Florida meets proper English charm in the most delightfully unexpected way.

This family-owned gem has been serving locals and lucky visitors since 1951, creating a dining experience that feels like discovering a secret garden where burgers and Earl Grey tea coexist in perfect harmony.

The moment you cross the little bridge from the parking lot, you’re transported into a tropical oasis that’s part nursery, part restaurant, and entirely magical.

91-year-old owner Jill Frers works seven days a week alongside her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, keeping this St. Pete institution alive with the same passion that’s made it a beloved local hangout for over seven decades.

Menu Highlights & Signature Dishes

The Famous Chattaburger: This isn’t just any burger – it’s the award-winning creation that put The Chattaway on the map and has kept locals coming back for generations. You’ll find the patties cooked to perfection with that satisfying messiness that signals a truly great burger. Don’t be surprised if you need extra napkins – that’s the hallmark of a burger done right.

Fresh Grouper Sandwich: The blackened grouper is excellent, showcasing Florida’s fresh seafood at its finest. You can taste the difference when restaurants prioritize fresh, local ingredients, and The Chattaway delivers on this promise with their perfectly seasoned fish.

Seafood Chowder: The lobster bisque and seafood chowder have earned rave reviews from visitors who appreciate hearty, flavorful soups. These warming bowls are perfect for cooler evenings when you’re settling in for live music on the patio.

Daily Specials: Monday brings Cuban sandwiches, Tuesday features fried catfish, Wednesday offers sloppy joes, Thursday is spaghetti night, and Friday showcases the chef’s choice creation. These rotating specials give you a reason to visit multiple times and experience different flavors.

Authentic English Afternoon Tea: The traditional afternoon tea service includes dainty sandwiches (including the famous cucumber sandwich), scones, crumpets, clotted cream and preserves, desserts, and unlimited English tea served on beautiful china. Owner Jillian Frers, originally from London, transformed the game room into an authentic English tearoom in 1999, complete with her prized Wedgwood collection.

Atmosphere & Décor

Tropical Garden Paradise: The outdoor patio features brightly colored tables and flowers everywhere, with pink bathtubs converted into planters lining the sidewalk and dining areas. You’ll discover many clawfoot bathtubs repurposed as planters, each painted with beautiful Florida scenes, surrounded by diverse plants and trees.

Dine Dockside At The Historic Miami Restaurant With Its Own Fishing Fleet

Discover More

Whimsical Details: Cute sculptures of woodland creatures adorn nooks and crannies throughout the space – some you’ll easily miss if you’re not looking carefully. A koi pond with a small waterfall adds to the tropical ambiance, stocked with large fish that fascinate visitors.

Live Music & Entertainment: Local music talent performs several nights a week on a quaint little stage, creating an authentic Old Florida tropical atmosphere. On cooler nights, firepits are lit, adding warmth and beauty to the already unique outdoor setting.

Indoor Tea Room: Step inside to discover the cool blues and whites of the relaxing tearoom, adorned with Jillian’s vast Wedgwood collection and ceramic plaques with witty sayings bordering the room. The cozy dining room is painted in Wedgwood blue and white with royal memorabilia lining the walls.

Other Considerations

Pricing & Value: Most dinners range from $10-15, offering excellent value for the quality and unique experience. Afternoon tea is priced at $45 for adults and $25 for those 16 and under, which includes tax and tip. The portion sizes are generous, and many visitors find themselves taking leftovers home.

Cash Only Policy: The Chattaway operates as a cash-only establishment, though they accept Venmo and have an ATM on-site for convenience. The ATM is located within the tea dining room, so you’ll hear occasional beeps during your visit as other customers use it.

Pet-Friendly Patio: The outdoor patio welcomes well-behaved dogs, making it a perfect spot for pet owners to enjoy a meal. This dog-friendly policy adds to the relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere.

Reservations & Hours: Afternoon tea requires 48-hour advance reservations and can be booked by texting Amanda Kitto at (727) 303-5776. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 11 AM to 9:30 PM, and Friday through Saturday from 11 AM to 10 PM.

Perfect for Events: The venue hosts weddings, graduation parties, baby showers, birthday celebrations, and reunions in their enchanting garden setting. The combination of tropical outdoor space and elegant indoor tearoom creates versatile options for special occasions.

The Chattaway
📍 358 22nd Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705