Stump Pass Grill

Stump Pass Grille (they spell it with an "e" on the end) is on the Intercoastal Waterway adjacent to pleasure boat docs and a couple of large boat storage buildings.   It's a few blocks west of Placida Rd.

The "building" is a "palapa"-type affair, open sides with palm-thatched roof that rests on a fairly large concrete slab.  One row of the tables (picnic tables) is at the water's edge but those fill first.  While we were there numerous boats and personal watercraft passed by and several large waterfowl waded in the water very close to the shore.  Clientele dresses very casually, with several ladies in swimsuits.  Atmosphere is probably 4-star.

You can check the menu at their website.  The  beer selection seemed more varied than the food.  We had their "specialty" fish and chips, which was 2-star.

Service was pretty good and the manager strolled by to ask if we were satisfied.

They allow smoking and there were several cigarette smokers in attendance when we had dinner.

We probably won't return, but if you're looking for a place to have a drink or two, this might be right for you, unless the smoke bothers you.  They have entertainment some nights, which might also be an attraction.  Check the calendar at their website.

Relaxing chilaxin' and maxin' out cool I was looking to enjoy a drink out by the pool, but instead we went to Stump Pass to enjoy the view of the bay, the pelicans, and the sunshine at this tiki-esk bar restaurant. We went early so grabbing a table wasn't a problem, though we weren't able to snag a seat right on the water.

I went for a "sangria" and fish 'n chips. The sangria wasn't so hot, yet it was refreshing. I would have preferred a stronger drink with fruit mixed in it instead of the couple of wedges on the top. The fish was alright, but I would have preferred a more generous fish to batter ratio as there seemed to be very little fish and a decent amount of batter. The fries were nothing to write home about and, of course, eating anything that comes in a paper basket with the wind whipping up across the table usually ends with food on the ground.

Truly, the selling point of this establishment is the opportunity to have dinner outside while in a beautiful setting. If the food and drink is improved, this place will be a home run.

Stump Pass is fine for what it is. A very casual, picnic table, bar food, kind-of-place. Nothing fancy, good beer on draft (served in plastic cups). Right on the water, you can sit and watch the boats come and go all day. Service was good. You can bring your dog. The parking was a bit of an issue.