Friday night, giving my out of town friends a tour of downtown. We passed by Tryst walking down Beach Dr. There was such a huge crowd of people outside and what looked like a line going in. Is this place a club? It sure sounded like one w/ the thumping music. We ended up coming back because they wanted to check it out. We walked in and ok, so it's not a club. The bar was crowded, like people were lined up elbow to elbow. All of the tables had reserved signs on them, but I asked the host if we could sit and he promptly seated us at a table inside, even though I told him we were not ordering food. Sweet! Someone came by to get our drink order as soon as we sat down. I ordered the Tryst, which was good. Not too overly sweet. Only complaint about this place was the volume of the music. It was LOUD. Like, we had to yell at each other to have a conversation or to order our drinks. Service was great, we were checked on often. She even gave us 25% off our drink tab for their service industry discount. Awesome deal, and I believe she said this is every night at Tryst. Food menu looked interesting, will have to try next time. Overall, we had a good time here and it was a great way to end our night out.
(4)
Matt B.
Tryst is a great spot to hang out and relax. We enjoyed the specialty drinks, and the cheese platter.....was a nice place to stop in and chill. Great looking bar, very modern and despite a crowd seems pretty quiet And relaxed. Bartenders were friendly, but not exactly Johnny on the spot when your empty..... Although we didn't order them, looks like the giant pile of seasoned fries is the golden ticket here.
(4)
Ray S.
I admit, I have walked past this place about 20 times thinking it was a hipster/pretentious hang out. Finally the lady friend, convinced me to give it a chance (despite the sidewalk dj trying way too hard). The first thing I noticed was that every table inside had a reserved sign on it when we walked in at 9, yet no one was seated at these tables (when we left at 1030, two of those tables were occupied). The bartender(s) were very friendly. We happened to be nerds on an old-fashioned cocktail pub crawl so ordered one here. Our bartender made us some hybrid between a bourbon based old-fashioned and mojito, and I will say this was one of the best drinks I have had. We had to continue our crawl to The Canopy so I couldn't have a second (as the crowd seemed to arrive), but I probably would come back here. My only complaint (I can't comment on food) is that the dj, while live, wasn't very good. We later walked on over to The Canopy and enjoyed the music much more. That being said, I realize everyone has a different appreciation/taste in music. I love anything on Beach Dr and being close to the bay, and everyone working here seemed nice enough, so I plan on visiting again eventually.
(4)
Regina K.
Very cute and chic lounge bar in downtown St. Pete with several beers on tap and bottled and a menu of gastropub and upscale bar food. A little pricey for bar food but delicious and service was great! Definitely recommend the Breckinridge maple brown ale and the shrimp po boy!
(4)
Angelo R.
Pretty cool modern gastro pub on St Pete downtown strip. Great spot for people watching. They offer an array of house specialty concocted drinks. I tried the Chop Top martini (Grey Goose Melon, Pear Vodka, Chili Ginger Rosemary, kungfu girl Riesling). It was prepped well, a little sweet for my taste but I enjoyed the different complexities. Then I ordered the New Orleans Style Blackened Shrimp Po Boy . OMG, I was impressed! The sandwich had generous amount of shrimp which had nice texture w/ snappy crunch. The marinate was on point too. Truffle fries were tasty as well. Good crunch and not limpy. Bartenders / servers were friendly. One of them explained to me the different ingredients of their most popular drinks.
(5)
Lisbeth F.
Just a mess... Food was horrible, and the service was really rude when we told them we didn't want the food. I only had a house wine so I don't know how the drinks are, but def not a good place for a good meal. Over priced and very poor taste.
(1)
Zao Z.
I went here for drinks.. I liked the decor. The drinks were on point but the outdoor seating were so uncomfortable. Overall, it is a really chill place to go for drinks. It has a pretty chill vibe. (mostly techno) I have to go back here for drinks.
(4)
Bonita B.
The food is tasty, they have a full bar. I had the shrimp po' boy without tomatoes; it is full of favor. The fries are yummy.
(4)
Nadia E.
A friend and I decided to stop by for happy hour and dinner . Great atmosphere and perfect for both hanging out with friends or casual date . I was really happy to see that their was a labeled vegan burger on the menu . A tad pricy ($12) , but I expected it being on Beach Drive . Unfortunately , it was disappointing but a good effort on their part . The burger patty texture was mushy and in need of seasoning . The sauce was a little too runny for my liking . A thicker mayo consistency would have been perfect. The fries were thin and crisp . Absolutely delicious ! Our server was attentive , friendly and very helpful ! Would definitely return for happy hour . Half off their house brands!
(3)
Natasha D.
Friendly staff. Decent drinks. Have not had their food. The atmosphere to me feels a bit snobbish. I prefer to sit outside with the dog patrons. Just be wary of Gary who is sweet but always there. He's harmless yet intrusive. Good ladies night specials. It would be a fun date night place. Very dark inside at night, but great decor. I like this place!
(3)
Zachary H.
The vibe on Beach drive is awesome especially with great places like Tryst. The service here is awesome most recent visit I was there I shared a bottle of wine which was reasonably priced. The server checked back frequent keeping our water glasses charged. I can also highly recommend the hangover Mary. I did not have any food per say, but The hangover Mary includes a cheeseburger slider perched among the rest of the accouterments. They occasionally have a DJ or live music. Highly recommend as a great spot to sit and watch the hustle and bustle of Beach drive as the day slips away from you
(5)
Ken K.
Great signature drinks, nice upscale atmosphere & tasty deserts. Techno DJ music is just right. They are Yelp friendly! Enough said.
(4)
Lo M.
Great dinner. We also went on Ladies night which consisted of half off drinks. We split the heirloom tomato caprese salad and the po boy sandwich. Everything was tasty and the service was goodnight
(4)
Laura P.
Great late night for food and drinks outside. We came back from a Rays game on a Friday night and had our dog with us. Figured we'd give Tryst a try since all the other outdoor places were closed by 11. Our server was great, dj played good music and the beef sliders were awesome.
(4)
Christian M.
I decided to give this place a shot based on the Yelp reviews and am definitely pleased with the result. We came on an evening for some appetizers and beer. The gorgonzola salad and shrimp flatbread were amazing. The server was very friendly and attentive too. The front patio was a little chilly at first but they turned on the heaters shortly after we sat down and it made for an enjoyable fall evening. The prices are a little steep but given the location and service, I think it was worth it.
(5)
Scott S.
Tough to fault this restaurant. If you're looking for great service (see Jimmy) and great food and drink you want to check out tryst. We had the cheeseboard ($30) and the fig chicken salad sandwich. Super
(5)
Caitie O.
Love this place! It's a favorite for drinks after work. The appetizers are classic with a unique flair (my favorite). Drinks can be very inexpensive if you hit the happy hour. Everything is always displayed with artistic elegance and the service is supreme! Enjoy sitting outside!
(5)
Vanessa Y.
Super delicious. Maine Diver Scallops & Crispy Pork Belly (app) - AMAZING. It might be a laughable portion, but it's really tasty. Each element was cooked perfectly. Pulled Pork Sliders - mustardy, spicy, and very generously meaty. Highly recommend. Gulf Shrimp Pesto Flatbread - smallish, since it's an app, but again very very good. Creme Brulee - FINALLY, a creme brulee with a crunchy surface! It's all about that first CRACK! Lychee martini - I asked for "something sweet, strong, and girly" and this is what the server recommend. It was exactly what I was looking for and they don't skimp on the alcohol. Tasty! 10/10, would drive to St. Petersburg for this restaurant again.
(5)
Jessica P.
First timer to the St. Pete's area. Tryst was recommended by a friend. Highs- great cocktails, funky eclectic decor, awesome fried donuts- a definite must have, server very friendly Lo's - were out of mussels. Came back a couple nights later and server didn't let us know the kitchen was closing, which really sucked because we sat there for a good 45 minutes before he came around to check on us. - no fried donuts :(
Great music, great vibe, and great drinks. Love the decor and the plush french style of the booths. This is a total chill yet sophisticated lounge spot after hours on the gorgeous Beach Drive in downtown St. Pete. I would definitely recommend it for anyone looking to get a classy night started or looking for a nice spot to just grab some more drinks after dinner. Our waitress was super friendly and attentive and the place was crowded but not obnoxiously so for a Friday around 11. I'm not sure what this place is like for dinner or during the day time, but my experience was pretty excellent for what we came for.
(4)
Mike R.
People watching and drinks great place to be in downtown St. Pete and they have a bar on the sidewalk...WHAT!!! Cali needs this Plenty of selections of beers on tap and from all over the world let alone the country
I enjoy Tryst about once a month, but tonight was particularly special. They have added a dish of scallops sashimi served on a pink salt block with a strawberry mint infusion that was unique and singularly spectacular. The combination of salt and sweet and tangy and the clean delicate flavor of the scallops was a symphony for the senses. Further, the friendly and attentive ministrations of Heidi, our server, helped the meal to flow perfectly. I highly recommend a Tryst in St. Pete.
(5)
Paula W.
Found this place by accident. Pulled into St. Pete by boat @ 10 p.m on a Thursday night with 5 friends. This place stays open serving food and drinks past midnight. The staff was very accommodating and the food was very good. Prices were reasonable . We will definitely go again.
(4)
Angela O.
Updated review! Things have much improved and this is now a favorite spot! Great service and food! But was just there with a girlfriend last week, sat at bar for food and drinks. The guy who approached looked like he just woke up and was in a bad mood. Terrible service amongst dirty dishes lining the entire bar during out entire meal . They were not that busy. My friend made a comment to the young man that out flat bread was very soggy due to too much balsamic. It was gross. His reply was that at least we were honest. How about taking the item Off the bill or suggesting something else?? I'm Definatly taking a break from this place again for a while:::
(2)
Alexandra M.
An amazing place to sit and listen to live music during the week. They have delicious burgers, and their signature cocktail really adds to the whole experience. Sitting outside is really where it's at, you can people watch, listen to music, make new friends, or just fill an empty stomach all from the comfort of their shaded, air cooled couches outside. The weekends are fun as well, although it gets much busier at night, and they have a DJ outside to keep the night lively. People watching is the best on a Saturday night.
(5)
Roseann M.
Food was ok. I liked pork sliders but the special monkfish my husband had was salty! Service and kitchen were a bit slow. 4 hostesses seems a bit much, and no manager on duty it seemed. Restaurant was empty at 5:45 and only four people at tables when we left at 7:00; however they sat two people at a reserved table and rudely asked them to move. I guess a party of 8 was coming but hostess could have moved the people much more gravely - free drinks come to mind! If I worked there I would be pissed that they let my tip money walk out the door!
(3)
Mark H.
Stopped in for 2 drinks this past Friday, and I really liked the vibe. Very cool outside seating area along the street. Very chill place. Drink prices are a little high, but5 they're definitely going for the sophisticated lounge vibe, and you can't have that with cheap drinks. Initially, we attempted to sit inside. The hostess sat us and said she would get a server over to us, but no one ever came. La Chica asked again to get us a server and she apologized and again said she get one, but again no one ever came. So we went to the bar and were served immediately. Then, we went outside and enjoyed the view and House music. Would I return? Probably.
(3)
Crystal H.
We had a group of four people buy drinks inside and sit outside at a table on July 4th. The thing that drew us into Tryst is that there was a gentleman playing John (Cougar) Mellencamp songs and we were digging it. We had a waiter approach us and tell us we had to order food or leave the tables. Really? We were drinking alcohol from Tryst...that should have been enough. So, We ordered coconut shrimp and for $18 per appetizer we received 4 overcooked bland tasting shrimp. The worst coconut shrimp I have had to date. I don't plan on returning to Tryst. I will go to Birchwood, the Canopy or The Moon for drinks and just skip this place all together.
(1)
michelle l.
I'm sad and a little surprised by the negative reviews. We came to Tryst for Mother's Day lunch. It was a lovely day, and the outdoor seating might have been nice, but we opted for air conditioning inside. The decor is very nice. Modern and homey at the same time. The cocktail and beer lists were impressive. We tried the Tryst, the Walk on the Pier, and the Pear Lycheetini, and all were tasty and strong. Our table shared the coconut shrimp, which was thankfully not overwhelmingly coconut-y. It was served with an orange ginger marmalade which was too thick and glopped into one piece. The shrimp was good enough to eat alone. For my entree, I had the bleu cheese BLT, which was okay. My husband seemed to like his burger. My mother in law had the grouper sandwich, and she seemed to like it, although the chef put on the remoulade that she specifically asked to be on the side. Service was phenomenal. Brian was very attentive and over-the-top in his helpfulness. When our first appetizer (the charcuterie plate) was sold out, Brian offered us another appetizer on the house. He seemed distraught that the remoulade was served on the grouper sandwich. It was nice to see a waiter who takes his job so seriously. I'd say that the food isn't phenomenal, but it is tasty. And the cocktails were excellent, as was the service. This would be a fun place to come for happy hour.
(4)
Daniel H.
Horrible clientele, great beer selection and very knowledgeable bar staff. Will probably come back just for St.Bernard's Triple but beyond that very boushchwa crowd.
(4)
Carianne C.
Great ambience, great food, but a bit too pricey. We were there late on a Weds night, and I wished it was a little quieter, hard to have a conversation with my sweetie.
(4)
Brett N.
Why 2 stars? Because unfortunately, that is being generous. --- --- --- As I say every time I leave a bad review...I HATE doing it. I really don't have a choice after I was able to check out Tryst. I ordered a steak sandwich and my girlfriend went with the gnocchi. One more time, I will reiterate that I despise leaving such a negative review, but this is all in the name of honesty...and I can honestly say that I would compare both items to something you would order at a bowling alley or a roller rink concession stand. Her gnocchi was especially terrible...the worst either of us have ever had. Not only was it terrible, but the portion size was utterly laughable. My steak sandwich was only a slight upgrade from the Alpo that was on her plate. It really was like something you'd expect if you were to buy a steak sandwich at a movie theater. The good? They have a very nice beer selection, the service was friendly and they have a cool South Beach vibe going on. I would go back to drink, but I don't think I could ever eat at Tryst again. I do understand that a lot of the other reviewers seemed at least decently pleased with the food, so maybe they were just having a bad night. But for me, this was one of the crappiest meals I've had in months. Now...the worst part? Between those 2 meals, plus 3-4 beers...the tab was SEVENTY dollars after tip. Our meals were worth about $5 at best, so I would definitely classify this experience as regrettable.
(2)
Jessica J.
Update: I never understood all the poor reviews here but after dining on a Thursday night around 7pm .. I totally get it. The service was AWFUL. Our server never brought us bread or refills on most drinks until we asked for it. It took forever to get anything. When we wanted to order more drinks it took ages for her to mosey on back to our table. I still think the food is great. I had the ravioli which was good but it doesn't compare to other menu items so I wouldn't order it again. My friend had the pasta carbonara and everyone at our table was tasting it and raving over it. I'm only gonna downgrade them to a 4 (from a previous 5) but they are really pricey so I will only go back on a Monday or Tuesday early dinner to get the prefix. -------------------------------- This is one of the best meals I've had in Downtown St Pete!! Disclaimer: We went for an early dinner (5:30) on a Tuesday. So that may be why our experience was way more positive than some others on here. First impression - the inside is absolutely gorgeous. Fresh flowers on the tables. Beautiful couches comprise part of their table seating. Even the bathroom was spotlessly clean and smelled of fragrant eucalyptus. Service: Our server was extremely attentive (but again it was early and only a few ppl there), seemed very passionate about the food, and was very personable and funny. Price: Yes it's pretty pricey but it's quite the classy place. But they offer a prefix menu from 5-7pm for 25$ that includes full size portions of appetizer, entree, and dessert. INCREDIBLE deal. The portions were definitely full size. Many entrees are $25 so it's like getting an appetizer and dessert for free. FOOD!! AMAZING!! Appetizers: I had the baba ganoush.. extremely flavorful, though I was not a fan of the deep fried chickpeas scattered throughout. My girlfriend got the sweet corn chowder.. it was a HUGE bowl and she was blown away by it. Entrees: I had the chicken roulade which was so moist and juicy. The veggies were cooked to perfection, still a little crisp. The mushrooms were so meaty.. they seemed like some wild variety that you don't see everyday. My gf had the filet mignon brochette.. the steak melted in your mouth, didn't even need a knife. It came with the most amazing garlic butter mashed potatoes we'd ever had. Dessert: Chunky monkey (banana nut) cheesecake. I thought it was good, though my gf was again blown away, best cheesecake she ever had. So based on other reviews, perhaps your best bet is to go for an early dinner when you know service will be better. Seriously amazing food! And the happy hour specials (from 5-7) were also pretty great. Only $3 for wells. and some beers and wines were half off. Definitely recommending this place to others.
(4)
Nathan P.
Really nice atmosphere and ambiance. My wife and I went for Valentine's Day. Se ordered from their pre fix menu and I got the chicken. The entrees were excellent! We weren't too impressed with the cocktails but then ordered sangrias which were good.
(3)
Leslie S.
the service was poor. Many items where not available on the menu. The cooks in the kitchen where loud and rude and I was sitting no where near the kitchen...the crab cakes where uncooked, the scallops way over salted and to top it off served cold. Was so glad I did not bring my business client in for a meeting. way over price not even worth a groupon
(1)
Bill T.
Gastronomical nightmare for anyone who is health conscious or has any restrictions to their diet. Undercooked food served with a big side of attitude. I asked to order the pork chop that came with greens and a sweat potato mash. Since I can't eat sweat potatoes, I asked that they just give me extra greens. I was told that the chef would refuse to do that because the greens are SO salty that he has to balance the plate with sweet potatoes in order for it to work. Since they were unwilling to accommodate a customers minor request I went with the salmon. I asked that it be fully cooked and not raw in the middle. The snotty waitress said that I needed to order it medium. Again I said it needed to be cooked fully. This was the smallest piece of salmon for $25 that I ever received. The skin was burnt to a crisp but the inside was cold and undercooked. When it was mentioned to the waitress she ignored me. I picked at the cooked part of the salmon and the balance was fed to out dog who was at my feet. Overall the flavors were bland, and nothing to excite the palate. My friends had the lamb. It was over cooked, lacked flavor and was gamey. Not great for $35 for that entree. They should stick to what they know....slinging creative drinks out an old storefront window to a patio. There are so many wonderful restaurants on beach drive. This is just NOT one of them.
(1)
Stacy N.
Great food! Great drinks! Service can be hit or miss...tonight was a hit! Thanks to our server (who happens to be the GM!) we had a great meal tonight! Dog friendly...great location...a little pricey. Good to great people watching!
(4)
Tami S.
Wait service was really weak. We ordered our food and it took a long time to come out. Then when it finally arrived it was short one entree we shared our food until the finally entree showed up almost 20 minutes later. When we got our bill there was no adjustment or complimentary dessert or ......apology. Their food was good just a poorly managed restaurant. Granted Easter is a busy day in the restaurant business.
(3)
Michael D.
We stopped by for drinks and the place seems pretty nice/trendy. Our mixologist did a very good job on our drinks and then after I checked in, bam another free drink. I cant comment on the food as we were walking around after dinner, but it seemed to be pretty good. I would love to come back and try it for the food. If you want good drinks, there is nothing wrong with their bar.
(3)
Phuong N.
Sparkly atmosphere. There is a good variety of cocktails, wine and beer options. The chimichurri sauce in the Filet Brochette is delectable.
(4)
Carlos H.
We stopped here after A Taste of Pinellas. I agree with other Yelpers that the location of Tryst is great - Downtown St. Petersburg certainly has that South Beach feel. Unfortunately, we also experienced some of that South Beach pretentiousness at Tryst. We stopped in at around 4:45PM on Saturday for a drink. The bar was full and we asked for a table (we also had a kid with us) and the waitress gave us an attitude when we couldn't confirm whether we were ordering food or not - claiming tables are only for customers who eat. Nevertheless she sat us since they had over 6 empty tables. The waiter was attentive, but not very helpful to newcomers. They have a pretty large list of beverages and shifting through it was a bit difficult. My fellow diners ordered their $10 Banana Bread beer and a mixed cocktail. I went with Sea Dog Blueberry beer $5.50. The beer was good - nice and cold on a hot Florida day. We decided to order the Ceviche which was...$18? It took forever for our Ceviche to arrive at our table. We joked that they must have gone fishing for the fish because normally that dish is a quick creation. When it finally came out it was served in a small martini glass with hardly enough fish for one person. The ingredients were certainly fresh, but for $18 I expect much more than veggies and a little fish. It wasn't worth the price and it gave me too much of a reminder of dining in Miami and seeing a California Roll for $40. The shrimp cocktail appetizer (also $18) my sister's fiance ordered fared no better and was also an arm and a leg in price. The bill for 2 beers, a cocktail, and two small appetizers? $72+tip. No thanks!
(2)
Brian W.
We ate at Tryst and got a table right out in front on the patio of downtown St. Pete. The wait staff was very attentive and the place was lively. I had the special of some pork belly sliders that were delicious and a skirt steak with chimichurri for my main entree. We even had the pleasure of the head chef come out to our table, to ask how the food was. It was reasonable priced for the quality of food, service, and ambiance. This restaurant reminded me of something you would find in NYC or Las Vegas. Quaint, but really well laid out and tons of options for food, drinks, or if you wanted to catch a game at the bar.
(5)
Jane E.
It was late on a Friday night and all I wanted was some light appetizers and dessert. Since Tyrst is open late and I have walked by often, I thought to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised by the roasted vegetable flatbread. It was delicious and unexpected. The dessert was great as well, although they could have worked a bit more on cleaning it up. This is definitely a place that I will visit often and I love the fact it is open late and is a three minute walk from home.
(4)
Rafael R.
I live less than a block away from Tryst, and have always been a customer of the place. However, had a terrible experience last week with the general manager (Jimmy Brothers) which is frustrating. No flexibility, poor customer service....helpless and rude. Inevitably I have to walk by the place all the time, since it is across the street from where I live, but I will no longer spend a penny there with the management in place (and I am sure my friends who witnessed will do the same.
(2)
Pyra-Danny V.
I've often passed this swanky little place in Downtown filled with good-looking professionals laughing over drinks, appetizers and spilling over the sidewalk NOM NOMS Although you probably won't get full on the sizes, the food is like little art works of flavor. My bowl of mussels and clams was HUGE and I sopped up the buttery, faintly spiced broth with the accompanying breadstick. Well done. The other appetizers like Tuna Tartare and Coconut Shrimp each had awesome flavor surprises - fresh, melty tuna and a wasabi and jam sauce respectively - both excellent and plated beautifully. My cocktail "The Tryst" didn't impress. Watery and a strange alcohol after taste. I'll forget it tomorrow. SERVICE Thanks Yelp for introducing me here. It's easy to get overlooked at the bar, but once seated, our server was quick and helpful and was great at lowering my inhibitions by telling me what to expect in a "vegetable" beer they offered--spot on. SUMMARY I'll probably stick to the drinks only here because the food prices are above my range... or go during happy hours. Cool, hip place to bring the girlfriends or if you're looking for impressive, gutsy art dishes with good taste.... and if you have cash to blow (but I won't let that subtract a review star)
(4)
Andy D.
The only reason I give this 3 stars is because of the ambience. The drinks were poorly made and muddled and the staff communicated poorly, making ordering drinks difficult and off-putting.
(3)
Max W.
Cider... And corn chowder... I'm a happy guy...
(3)
Michelle M.
The drinks are creative unique and just amazing. Food quality is superb. The lamb meatloaf sandwich is very comforting, savory and full of flavor. The meat and cheese plattet is to die for. If you're looking for quality dining.. this is the place and groovy atmosphere. Highly reccomended!
(5)
Amanda C.
I came here for a friends birthday with a group of about ten girls and we had a fabulous time! The decor is beautiful especially the bar area. The cocktail/beer menu was impressive, I am a sucker for a crafted cocktail! I had the pasta carbonara and it was very good, probably a little too filling before a night of drinking on the town, but entirely worth it! Our server was amazing. After dinner our limo broke down so one of the manager/owners drove us to the bars himself, talk about incredible service! It was a bit pricey I definitely wouldn't be able to eat there often but it is great for a special occasion. If I didn't live so far I would be going weekly for ladies night I hear they have some great deals!
(5)
Tay W.
I've been to Tryst a few times and I love it. Yeah, it has the best of that south beach feel, but I didn't experience any pretentiousness. All of the staff were extremely friendly and attentive, even though the bar is always packed. The cocktails are a bit pricey, but they're about 10 times as good as any other drink I've had since moving to Tampa. I've only eaten one meal there. I had the duck and it was fantastic. I highly recommend taking a trip down here on a warm evening.
(5)
Anna K.
Great service. Loved the pickled veggies. Hangover Bloody Mary two thumbs up. Nice wine selection. I will be back!
(4)
Sarah M.
Awesome service staff! We visit Tryst on a regular basis and it's always top notch! Love the hummus, shrimp flatbread, and crab cakes!
(5)
Eric S.
Ah, this South Beach vibe with humans sitting on either side of the busy sidewalk allows a stud like me to see and be seen with my young lass in tow. NIBBLES FOR MY TONGUE I could almost hear the mussels and fish pleading for their lives in the kitchen as a seasoned chef deftly ends their life for my benefit. Fear not oh dead seafood-- death has not been in vain as i enjoy the fresh flavors. The accompanying broth of my mussels did not drown out Mr. Mussel's flavor but rather add a buttery side taste. Ah-- and the portion was larger than expected. Other appetizers contain a nice crunch of equally fresh ingredients-- but I don't mourn the death of vegetables as much. DRINK UP ME LADS Even from the sidewalk filled with humanity's wanderers, the bar stuffed with its generous taps and a pyramid (kid you not) of liquors are my siren after walking zombie-eyed after work. The bartenders are "arteests" and seem to have been allowed a recent freedom to experiment with whatever cocktail design they have in mind-- and luckily the alcohol is in the hands of an "alcohol chef" and not some recent grad who can't spin a bottle. Strong alcohol tastes but dances on my tongue. I COULD BE A POOR MAN Freakin' heck I know this is Downtown but why must everything around here eat my wallet. Including Tryst. Ah me-- just visit during happy hour to attain the same pleasure as me.
(4)
Michael Z.
Good food and good drinks were offset by small portion sizes and an inflated bill, something which is to be expected at such a trendy lounge. A good spot for those in search of a chic night out in downtown St. Pete.
(3)
Lisa C.
Tryst is a beautiful bar. Beach Drive needed something like it and especially a place that stays open until 3. I went on a Thursday night. The place is beautifully appointed and very upscale. Amazing beer cooler with an incredible wide and varied selection. Cocktails were well thought out when they created the menu. I had 2 very nice cocktails with muddled fruits and nice ingredients. Steep cocktail price of $10 so it keeps you more in check than I prefer. We ordered 1 salad and 2 sharing tapas. We had the Beef Carpaccio and the Eggplant Caprese. Came in for dinner and at $15-17 per sharing tapa, I expected to be full. We walked out still hungry. With that said, food was very delicious and fresh. Nice wait staff from what we encountered. I will come back but not when I want a big dinner. I think the place will be great for drinks when the weather starts turning for "fall" and we can sit outside. Nice option to have that in St. Pete. Food wise tasty but more for a small (and expensive) bite. We did not encounter it being loud like Michael stated on a Thursday. 2 drinks, 2 apps, 1 salad - $70.00 before tip Overall - could be a romantic place for a "tryst" or great for a girl's night to catch up.
(4)
Charlotte S.
I'm surprised to read so many poor reviews because my Tuesday night visit here was excellent. The general manager was serving us and he did a fantastic job of making us feel taken care of without hovering while we ate. The Mon and Tues "Prix Fix" $25 three course meal option was a good deal. I had a goat cheese and beet salad, salmon as a main course paired with spinach and red potato mash and finished with the almond cheesecake. Everything tasted great and the portions were descent. (I actually couldn't finish all of my salmon). My boyfriend had the pita and hummus, roasted duck with wild rice and spinach and chunky monkey cheesecake. The outside seating is perfect on a nice cool night and I like the decor all around.
(4)
Dan R.
My wife and I enjoyed a few cocktails and some lunch. Service was great from Jessica and the Shrimp Pesto flatbread was delicious. If you are a fan of mojitos, these are top notch. Cool atmosphere, good food, good drinks and good service. Perfect!
(5)
Katie M.
After hearing amazing things about their drinks I've been wanting to try Tryst for awhile. So while bar hopping for my birthday this past weekend I decided to lead our group to Tryst. I had heard it was a little pricey so the $10 price tag for a martini didn't phase me all that much, but it is still a bit steep. I had the signature Tryst martini, which was delicious. I definiately could have drank those all night. Although the drink was good and the decor fun in a flashy way, we all felt like we had been transported to South Beach...in a bad way. There were no seats left at the bar and a few of my friends wanted to sit so they sat at one of the (many) empty tables. I guess they only let people who are eatting sit at the tables because they were quickly told they couldn't sit there. I can understand that, but really?? It was past 10 p.m. and there were plenty of tables open if someone had wanted to come in and eat. After that we felt like we were being given the stink eye. We didn't fit in with their South Beach clientle, but I'd think we'd be welcomed a bit more since we were a group of 10 and spending money at their establishment. I may come back here for another drink, but it's hard to say. They do seem to have a good happy hour deal with half off martinis and apps on Wednesdays. But judging by some other reviews the food seems to be of the avoidable kind.
(2)
Jo B.
We spent our New Years Eve at Gastro and had a wonderful time. Friendly waitstaff and bartenders, relatively cheap drinks, and a wonderful atmosphere with great music. Gastro is clean, gorgeous, and also has delicious good. It is small, but doesn't pack people in, so there is definitely enough room to order drinks and dance. A great place!
(5)
Clyde S.
I almost didn't want to leave a review since friends of friends own it and naturally, I don't want to be a black sheep for being honest... however. A lot of reviewers stated the same thing, 'welcome to SOBE'. That is how the lounge is laid out and the vibe it gives off. I'll give them credit. For the size of the location, the way the inside/outisde part of the bar is situated and the fact you can sit outside, they did a good job. I wont say I disliked the experience, but for how much you pay, it definitely was lacking. True that there are some odd menu items and a selection that some foodies would appreciate, but it seemed they were all over the place. Italian. Seafood. Steak. Asian. What was disappointing was that there were very limited selections in each group. If you wanted a steak, you had one option. That option did come with sides, but it was still more expensive and more lackluster than the equivalent at Ruths Chris. I realize I am comparing a 'lounge' to a 5 star restaurant, but if you are going to charge 5 star prices, then expect the same as far as critics are concerned. Wait staff was friendly. The attention they pay you is commensurate with the # of people at your table and how much it seems you are spending. Bigger tables, get 4 times the 'how are things' than if you are just two people enjoying an evening in DTSP. I get it - bigger spenders, more tips, etc... but don't judge a book by its cover. Would I go back? Not proactively. If I did, I would probably eat before hand and just have some drinks. 3 stars for both food/atmospher.
(3)
Robin B.
I have only had drinks here a few times but I love the creative cocktails and the SOBE vibe. Reminds me of back in the day living in Miami. I am very picky about my dining out experiences so based on the other reviews here I think I'll pass. Besides, I found my fave in that area and I'm sticking with it! So, for a creative, lovely cocktail, Tryst gets my vote!
(3)
Paul K.
Two places in one - both hoping Thursday through Sat - loud enough and long enough into the nights that the folks living in the apartment just west of it, frequenly complain. The inside is very chique - a great mix of color and texture in art, furniture and wall coverings. Service was great; food was good. The only things I'd change is the menu - some of items appear to have two names...this or the supporting description text does not seem to tie back to item title. Outside is lounge time: great seating, cool lighting and music (live or DJ). On select nights they run a red carpet to raise money for local charity's. That said, the clientele could stand to be a little more genuine - just my take. The average customer seems (to me) to hang longer then at other outdoor patios.
(4)
Phil D.
Great spot. Excellent staff and great management. Delicious drinks. Never disappointed here.
(5)
S G.
The server was rude and pretentious, the food moderate for the price. The tortillas on the mahi mahi were not even warmed and were raw and doughy. Only saving grace was the large craft beer choice. If you like over priced food served with attitude, you wll love this place.
(1)
Sylvester M.
Lots of pretty people, great drinks, and a great beer selection. The do also sell food, imaginative small plates. A little pricey, but worth it. Always a great place to people watch for pretty ladies.
(4)
Jennifer D.
Why do I feel like I am alone in leaving a poor review on this place???? I think I had a bad experience in St. Pete overall and I really hoped every time I sat down to a meal it would be the saving grace.... Stumbled upon this place while walking around downtown. It was raining so ducking into Tryst without having to wait for a table was a quick plus. We were seated at a table where the air was blowing very heavily, we quickly moved to the bar. The bar is outstandingly beautiful both in the tiles that were selected and the beautiful selections of beers on tap and the bottles winking at you from the cooler. WE asked the bartender if they had a tasting menu for the beers, why wouldn't you have a beer flight with over 25 beers on tap? It was such an ordeal that we quickly just asked for water. I ordered carrot and ginger soup, a salad and a few other apps. I watched the wait staff goof off with each other and pick up and study a salad that was in the window at least 3 times and put it back in the window. The soup just didn't hit it for me, I don't often order soup out as they are over flavored with salt or oil. I took a few bites and pushed it away. The pita bread that came with it was slightly stale but I dipped it in my soup because I was bored as I waited to take some bites of my mother's salad. It's just got to a point in our meal that we were not satisfied and wanted to leave. My mom went to use the restroom and left me with her credit card to pay the bill...but wait our bartender was in the corner chatting with his buddy and I sat and waited, and continued to wait, then finally asked someone else for the bill. This place, I agree with other Yelpers, has a South Beach feel and does tend to feel pretentious but I can't understand why, the service sucks and the food is lame. I don't know how or why they use the term gastro lounge, this leads me to believe the food will be delicious and like nothing I have had before, as well as enjoying some yummy beer or wine. (Another Yelper mentioned the list was overwhelming, and in fact they are and the service doesn't seem to know how to guide you through it).
(2)
Bill B.
A little touch of South Beach has come to Beach Avenue. We sat outside on the couches and had drinks and some appetizers. Relaxing, surprisingly good food, nice servers. Relaxing way to enjoy an evening. Give it a try.
(3)
Joy T.
Wonderful atmosphere, and excellent food! We ordered the lump crab, artichoke dip, but unfortunately they sold out of it, so we ordered the crab cakes and they were so delicious! My fiance ordered the AM burger and I ordered the shrimp po boy, neither of us were left disappointed with this trip. I would highly recommend! Service was great, drinks were awesome!
(5)
Mariana R.
We went there only for a drink after having lunch... And we saw the ahi tuna and it looked delicious!!.. Then we decided to try it, and it was Awesome!!.. I didn't try the rest of the menu, but the appetizers looked good, and the drinks were incredible!!... We had a great time there!!
(4)
Vanessa V.
Tryst is a hidden gem in DTSP. It is a great place to have a drink and enjoy great food. The outdoor sitting is always happening. You can see interesting characters walking by or just simply enjoy sitting inside at the bar. The inside decorations overwhelmed me, but if you get past that, you can find a great selection of craft beers, full liquor bar and great food. What is else can you ask for? If you go, ask for a Logan special...
(3)
Jim B.
No complaints, praise for the staff, draft beer selection and hummus. Live acoustic music on Tue and Wed nights was nice. Jesse and Will get high marks for excellent bar service and welcoming demeanor. You had me at Stone IPA on tap... Thank you!
(5)
Matt G.
Had only appetizers but were very fresh, and flavorful.
(5)
Angela F.
Cool atmosphere, great customer service.
(4)
Steve A.
Great atmosphere, very stylish. Very Good Food and Service. Like it a lot. Awesome Ceviche. Will be back.
(4)
Mike R.
I love this place! I believe the chef is from the Ritz Orlando. I have been here several times for dinner including their first night open and also for lunch. The food is always great and our servers have all been cute and knowledgeable about the menu. I would recommend everything! Ha ha The atmosphere is cool and hip and the copper tile wall is magnificent. I think it is a little pricy but so far it has been totally worth it! I have had the pleasure of meeting the owners as well and they actually thanked my partner and I for being there! Imagine, a restaurant owner actually being appreciative for your business...what a novel concept. Try lunch, it works! Sit in Rodney's or Danny's sections...they're great
(4)
Sebastian F.
Half the bartenders are incompetent, and the other half are awesome. So there is a 50/50 chance of having a not so good experience. For what it offers the prices are too high.
(2)
Meg C.
We sat on the patio on one of the most beautiful early evenings Florida has to offer. Our waiter was very friendly, funny and knowledgable. We shared a salad with beets, arugula and chevre with pine nuts and a balalmic dressing, wonderful!! We followed that with the Grouper sandwich that was so fresh and tasty that it is second on my list of favorite Grouper sandwiches I have ever had. Our waiter said that it was red grouper that had been swimming in the gulf only days ago. I love the feel of this area in downtown St. Pete and it is a fun place to people watch and enjoy the scenery.
(5)
Erin S.
You will notice that the owner or manager commented on my review. My issue with this is that he stated "our prices are clearly marked". Did I complain about the prices? Not in themselves. I do not mind paying more for good food. My complaint is that the food is not worth what they are charging. I have an issue paying about $18 for an Italian sub for my husband only to listen to him say "man I wish I was eating a Publix sub." That is all. __________________________________________________Â_____________ Why oh why did I not listen to my fellow yelpers??? Tryst wass everything I hoped it wouldn't be, but was forewarned that it would be. I was brave because I REALLY wanted to like this place AND I had a Groupon AND I got the Groupon for half price with a credit I had on my account. Here's how my experience went down (notice the familiar echoes of yelpers past): -It is very chic and nicely decorated. I've never been to South Beach, but I can definitely see why people are saying it's a SOBE style restaurant. The bar is beautiful and the inside catches the eye. The bathrooms are a little odd. The sink is positioned very low, even my 4'10'' mother-in-law had to stoop down to reach the sink. It's like it was built for toddlers. My husband said it was the same in the men's restroom. -We ate outside on a nice, Sunday afternoon. The service was so ridiculously slow, I would have thought they were weeded, but they weren't. They were busy, but not swamped. There seemed to be two servers working the outside area. They acted as if they dead, as they were just leisurely strolling about checking on their tables. I ordered a water and didn't get it until the end of meal, after reminding the waiter several times. So, so slow. I can't reiterate that enough. -The food was hardly what I would call "decent" - especially for the prices. I had the $18 lamb meatloaf sandwich. It was rather dry. My husband had the Italian sandwich and he said he would have rather had a Publix Italian sub (which would have also cost about $11 less). -After the $40 Groupon was taken off the check (which was originally $57), we still owed $29. Why? Because the automatically charge a 20% service fee. The servers are guaranteed to get a good tip, so why put forth the effort? I didn't feel like waiting for the server to take his sweet time getting back to our table, so I took the bill and our credit card in to pay. The receipt printed offered another line to give additional tip. I laughed at the idea and put a nice big "$0". Why in the world would I give extra money to a lazy server who already received a 20% tip on the original bill, for a meal that I was not impressed with? Needless to say, we will not be back!
(1)
Kristin K.
The only thing positive about this place is the location and decor.the sevice was horrible.the food was mediocre....not at all what I expected...the place is very pricey, which is not an issue if the sevice and food are good.after I asked for my check I realized why service was non existent...they charge 20% service charge...lol... it was a big disappointment overall
(1)
Kevin M.
Known primarily for its Bar & Single Scene. This place actually has really Good Food! Your gonna pay though! Beach Drive Prices! Fun Place, Good Staff, Amazing Food. :)
(4)
Frank D.
Nice selection of beers on draught. Server Bill has a penchant for good beers and made some nice recommendations. Lamb burger: delicious but my wife's whole shrimp on arugula with the Israeli couscous was even better
(4)
MB V.
I celebrated my birthday at Tryst and they have tons of beer and drinks selection. One of my favorite drink which I can't stop talking about it is called green ivy. It's such a refreshing drink. Volka, cucumber and basil. It's so delicious.
(5)
Charles b.
Beautiful lounge. Love the sharable plate, finally a place that doesn't confuse quality for quantity. Food isn't cheap but a 75 year old aged balsamic vinegar isn't cheap either. To me it's by far the best restaurant downtown. P.S. The restaurant is close on Sunday night and Monday, avoid the Friday and Saturday the place is so busy you may not enjoy your dining experience to it's fullest.
(5)
Shai J.
Great atmosphere for enjoying cocktails. I didn't have dinner there, but I'd certainly return for drinks and appetizers. The dinner menu seems a bit pricey.
(4)
Thomas P.
On a street littered with restaurants, this little Gastro is a nice spot to grab some drinks and maybe a bite to eat. A decent sized bar is the center of attention and it extends outside with a few spots to sit. Half of the seating is outside on the sidewalk. The dinner menu is small but has some interesting dishes. We tried the corn chowder that had a little warm crab salad. Taste was good and it hit the spot with a little bread on the one cold and windy night we were there. The Roasted Duck breast had some crunchy skin and was nicely cooked. It came with sauteed spinach and steamed wild rice, all in one small pile. The Pan seared scallops were cut in half (4 halves) and served ontop of corn and poblano relish with a little bacon scattered around. Both of the appetizer plates were very small for the $14 price point. Apps and entrees ranged from $12 to $35. We also tried the Peach Cobbler and Chunky Monkey cheesecakes, whcih were very good. They also have beer, wine, and specialty drink menus which we didn't get into much. We thought we would save that for another trip! Service was excellent and should be on a Monday night. Overall, a great experience.
(4)
Joe H.
I would say this could be the best new restaurant addition to downtown saint petersburgs growing treasure of eateries. Our server was excellent and our foods was even better. That along with great company made for a great experience and evening. Also the decor really enhanced the atmosphere.
(5)
Keith B.
Tryst has a great location on busy Beach Drive. The outside tables are very inviting on a nice evening. Inside is nicely decorated and has a fun vibe. We were there just at opening, and the service had a little trouble getting into gear. But after a bit of a confusing start, things started to gel and they did a good job. The food was delicious. Standouts were the corn chowder, the duck breast appetizer, and the scallop appetizer. The food is very rich and filling. So those items plus a salad and another appetizer were more than enough for two of us. We would have been fine sharing the chowder, the salad, and an appetizer each. The drinks were also very good. Our favorite was the signature "Tryst" cocktail. I look forward to our next visit.
(4)
Kylin B.
Everything about this spot is genius... The people, the staff, the owners, the drinks, the food.... No mistakes were made! I am a true fan.... I will be here often!!! Thanks Tryst for a fabulous spot in Dtsp!!! You have elevated Beach Drive:-)
(5)
Michael G.
What I like: Large selection of craft beers (5 IPAs alone) about 20-30 total on tap. Nice trendy aesthetic. (Fainting couches line one wall). Full bar. Youthful bar staff. What I don't like: So loud that I would not go there to eat. It is for drinking even though there is a menu. Their specials are very expensive (compared to regular menu items). Ask for the prices as it is a surprise since their specials are not written down and the wait staff does not tell you unless asked (this is a trend game that I dislike about American restaurants). Their regular menu is not as expensive but imagine seeing an item labelled "Seared Scallop" for around $15? Seems pricey for a scallop. Specials are read to you by the waiter or waitress with no price information given. Since it is so loud you miss every other word so difficult to determine what is being offered. Beer selection was wide, but beer temperature was quite warm (This is Florida, not London, England). Wait staff, while youthful and attractive, seemed novice and perhaps a little full of themselves. Recommended for: Friday happy hours, girls' nights out and those who are not concerned about dining value. Avoid if having a date night and you want to have a conversation. Perfect to take a boring person to as there is no way they can speak loud enough to bore you.
(2)
betty k.
I practically eat here every weekend when I'm in St. Pete. Great small bites, good wine list outside seating and nice staff. Perfectly nice
(5)
Chris V.
A little pricey for what you get. Captain and cokes were light on the Captain. Overall it was a nice environment and the food is good.
(4)
Jay C.
Great staff. High end cocktails and decent wine selection. Many beers on tap and in the bottle. On street bar rocks and the lounge on the sidewalk is very cool. Staff very friendly and service outstanding. Great mixed crowd young and old. Cool place to meet new friends.
(5)
Kyle S.
Nice cozy place with a decent beet and wine selection. Definately interested in coming back to the place, and as a completely strange compliment the counter tops rock.
(4)
Tami S.
A gorgeous spot with delicious food and lovely cocktails! I love the ambience, especially so much outdoor dining and lounging area. I'm working my way through the menu, and have really enjoyed everything I've tasted - the ingredients are fresh and interesting. Happy hour is great, and I love sitting at the outside bar - the perfect combination of outdoors and inside. Definitely worth a try!!
(4)
Teresa B.
First, the good. We ate outside which was nice. The food we ordered was very good. The bad. You are given a tiny menu with food that states its to share and prices for sharing. We ordered the special which was a dinner (THERE ARE NO DINNER PRICES ON THE MENU) and there is a reason for this. I had sea bass to the tune of $38 my date had Veal $42. The portions were very small. We are not big people. Do not go here if you are hungry or on a budget. This restaurant is way, way, over priced. You can do alot better elsewhere. My biggest complaint though is they are not forthcoming with the prices. If you order dinner you better ask what it will cost or risk heart failure when you get the bill.
(2)
Fatima A.
This place is cute with a pretty great menu. But I felt that the food looked great on paper but wasn't as impactful when actually served. It's the only time I've been so it may have been an 'off' day. We ordered a couple burgers and thought them average, as was the smoked fish dip. The cool thing about this place are the out of the ordinary dishes. The day we went the special was camel.
(2)
Trent A.
Sat at the bar, not very crowded for about fifteens minutes. No acknowledgement no service. Don't waste your time here.
(1)
Peter S.
I've been hear about 5 or 6 times. I've not really tried their food, but their mixed drinks are creative and spectacular. My favorite is the cucumber drink (forget what it is called). The atmosphere is chic-casual. Indoor and outdoor seating. Great location on beautiful Beach Drive.
(4)
Catherine P.
Enjoyed a bite and delicious cocktails last night at Tryst. The Bramble and the St Germaine were fabulous. The St Germaine is so light and refreshing, and a generous pour. I could drink it all day long. We subbed fresh veggies for corn chips w the crab dip appetizer and it was great! Perfect portion for two. Check in on yelp for a free signature cocktail! Loved the outdoor seating and lounge dj. However, this area was poppin and the inside was a little slower. Would love to come back and sit outside!
(4)
C G.
Not only a beautiful evening with excellent food but our server Samantha was top notch. She will truly make your evening. Normally I'll post about the meal, ambiance, setting, but not this time. I would come back for the service we received and I do hope management appreciates what they have. Some people are just not irreplaceable! Food possibly. BTW, This was shared by surrounding tables.
(4)
Danielle D.
Trendy, downtown place. Came for drinks with a group and would have stayed longer because I loved the vibe, but there was no air since all the doors are open. Would definitely come back here when it is cooler. Club-like feel with young professional crowd. Great for drinks at night. Bartender was friendly and made strong drinks!
(4)
Matt B.
Service great. Place is very LOUD and full off drunks. We showed up at 6:30 on a Sunday evening for dinner and everyone in the bar was wasted. Really wasted. Food was good. Great beer menu. A little over priced. I won't come back. It's not my style.
(2)
Willy V.
one of my favorite spots to meet up with friends, nice interior design, cool & friendly bartenders, just wish the outside seating is more organized, they have such a way to tell a 2 hours waiting for a seat outside that 2 empty tables are reserved then some group were setting inside the bar got out & just sat with no problem, other than this food was great service was good except you have to ask for another drink while they can see that you have an empty glass in hand, but I gave the servers the excuse for being really busy.
(3)
Wes B.
Very original menu: i highly recommend the shrimp flatbread and the chicken & waffles sandwich... Chocolate bread pudding:Yummo!
(4)
Melissa Z.
Great service, great food, awesome ambiance. We tried several different small plates and the sliders and they were very all very good. I recommend sticking with the small plates or sliders. Seems like people who were less than pleased with their meal ordered entrees. The food we got was all good quality ingredients and well prepared. The ambiance is quite unique; a very seductive scene with padded headboards adorning the walls of reminiscent of a French boudoir. Love it. My only complaint is that with such a sexy looking restaurant, there should be more tables for couples. When we went on a Saturday night it was all groups and big parties inside. So it was not as intimate as i wanted. I think they may have outgrown themselves. Anyway, I suggest making reservations and request a table along the left wall. From the hostess to the waiter to the manager, they were all friendly, prompt and accommodating. We made reservations, which I highly recommend doing, and were say outside but we felt and trickle of rain and they moved us in when they could.
(5)
Jonathan A.
Yummy little place on Beach Drive. Excellent staff of bartenders- hilarious and engaging. Food was superb for a gastro restaurant. Would recommend this to visitors. Hours could be expanded for lunch...
(5)
Erik M.
Thought we were going to a nice restaurant, but the overall feel was douchey club. Jimmy was a great server, the food was on point, but the whole vibe was very douchetastic. There was a 4 year old sitting at the bar. I'm not kidding. He may have been 3. Seems like they cater to douchebags and whores. Too bad because the food is good, and at least Jimmy is a good server.
(3)
Sonny K.
If you're into rich / bankrupt perverted married brodudes that listen to shitty disco trance, then this is your place! I actually like the place- if no one showed up. Well. Nvm.
(1)
Nina M.
I had a good first time experience here after the place being recommended by a friend. However, we only went for drinks. They have specialty drinks and a good selection of craft beer. I was in the mood for an Irish coffee and although it wasn't on the menu, the bartender made one for me anyway. He was very friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is "upscale" which isn't really my style, but I liked the experience here and would be willing to try the place again.
(4)
Ben W.
Food is fine, but by no means amazing. Service is not all that attentive, but nice when he shows up. Their bloody Mary with burger on top thingie that they claim is only available sat/sun until 3pm is vodka plus zing Zane Bloody Mary mix. It's fun for a photo, but by no means a signature item. There are enough interesting looking places in the neighborhood, that I don't think I'll return.
(3)
Pamela M.
We sat at the bar on the sidewalk and it was next to impossible to get their attention without practically throwing something at them. The bartender complaining how busy it had been all weekend...no one wants to sit at bar and listen to all that. If you don't like making money and being busy find another job. The guys were snobbish and "bitchy" if you know what I mean....if you didn't look to them like you drove there in a BMW or Mercedes, you got the cold shoulder. Meanwhile my friend lives on Beach Dr. and I work for a luxury watch company. So there...no thanks!
(2)
Trish B.
I actually thought the food was good. The grouper sandwich came on a pretzel roll. It was a really cool combination of flavors. The portions were small - which I like so I don't over eat. But I did think it was over priced for the amount of food you got. The service was good - and they have a great drink selection.
I had been waiting a while to try this place, and glad we were able to hit it up. There were twelve ladies, and we were comfortably accommodated. We had walked in for our reservation with mostly empty drinks from our previous bar hop, but got no complaints. Well done! Thanks for letting us enjoy our last sip while contemplating our next here with you! With a large party, gratuities are included at 20% (which is nice because when places impose a 15% gratuity for 20% service, you really feel like you cheated the waitstaff- you could leave more, but you just ate an entire moose-you can't think straight!) I ordered an extra dry cappuccino after my meal that was very well done. I had the spring rolls, two tuna tartares that I shared, a spinach dip, and "med plate" apparently. (think that was a salad I didn't care to try @ 18.00) My tab was over 100.00, but I really loved the food, and you can't mess up RAW. My party loved the bramble, and the service (Chandra) was impeccable from start to finish. I had a drink dropped on my foot in the bathroom and bled all over my new shoes, but that's not their fault, just an accident. The staff brought a band aid out right away. Wish I had saved a few bucks for new heels not caked in blood and Tryst's signature Tryst drink which was blood colored, actually. heehee
(4)
John R.
Service was pretty slow. Sat at the bar outside...there were three people at the bar and 2 bar tenders. They spent most of the time chatting with each other and ignoring the customers. Then, the female bartender wearing a sleeveless shirt picked up the bar towel and wiped off her dirty, sweaty underarms off with it. As if that's not bad enough, she continued to use the bar towel to dry her hands, wipe the bar, and then put the towel next to the vegetables that were being sliced up. Disgusting. Won't find me here ever again.
(1)
Jillian K.
The Tryst is one of many reasons to go to Downtown St Petersburg. It is across the street from The Museum of Fine Art. Service is always friendly but can be really slow on overcrowded late nights. Inside and outdoor dining options are wonderful. The cheese tray with a bottle of wine is one of my favorite items to share.
(4)
Michael A.
Misleading a bit, it is not a tapas bar. But great food non the less. Pretty loud so don't bring the hard of hearing. The fish tacos were delicious as well as the cheese platter. I suggest going all out on appetizers cause it's a great variety. Good selection if drinks and the cocktails I did see looked great although that's not really my thing. Live music thurs-sat I believe. All in all cool spot, great food, good drinks and perfect location.
(4)
Li C.
Not a place I'd go for foods but the drinks are great. The foods are mediocre and isn't up to its price. Interior is beautiful and very lively, cute little lounge with a New-York vibe. Definitely a perfect place to go have drinks and chill.
(3)
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Address :240 Beach Dr NE
Saint Petersburg, FL, 33701
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Music : DJ Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Thuyen B.
Friday night, giving my out of town friends a tour of downtown. We passed by Tryst walking down Beach Dr. There was such a huge crowd of people outside and what looked like a line going in. Is this place a club? It sure sounded like one w/ the thumping music. We ended up coming back because they wanted to check it out. We walked in and ok, so it's not a club. The bar was crowded, like people were lined up elbow to elbow. All of the tables had reserved signs on them, but I asked the host if we could sit and he promptly seated us at a table inside, even though I told him we were not ordering food. Sweet! Someone came by to get our drink order as soon as we sat down. I ordered the Tryst, which was good. Not too overly sweet. Only complaint about this place was the volume of the music. It was LOUD. Like, we had to yell at each other to have a conversation or to order our drinks. Service was great, we were checked on often. She even gave us 25% off our drink tab for their service industry discount. Awesome deal, and I believe she said this is every night at Tryst. Food menu looked interesting, will have to try next time. Overall, we had a good time here and it was a great way to end our night out.
(4)Matt B.
Tryst is a great spot to hang out and relax. We enjoyed the specialty drinks, and the cheese platter.....was a nice place to stop in and chill. Great looking bar, very modern and despite a crowd seems pretty quiet And relaxed. Bartenders were friendly, but not exactly Johnny on the spot when your empty..... Although we didn't order them, looks like the giant pile of seasoned fries is the golden ticket here.
(4)Ray S.
I admit, I have walked past this place about 20 times thinking it was a hipster/pretentious hang out. Finally the lady friend, convinced me to give it a chance (despite the sidewalk dj trying way too hard). The first thing I noticed was that every table inside had a reserved sign on it when we walked in at 9, yet no one was seated at these tables (when we left at 1030, two of those tables were occupied). The bartender(s) were very friendly. We happened to be nerds on an old-fashioned cocktail pub crawl so ordered one here. Our bartender made us some hybrid between a bourbon based old-fashioned and mojito, and I will say this was one of the best drinks I have had. We had to continue our crawl to The Canopy so I couldn't have a second (as the crowd seemed to arrive), but I probably would come back here. My only complaint (I can't comment on food) is that the dj, while live, wasn't very good. We later walked on over to The Canopy and enjoyed the music much more. That being said, I realize everyone has a different appreciation/taste in music. I love anything on Beach Dr and being close to the bay, and everyone working here seemed nice enough, so I plan on visiting again eventually.
(4)Regina K.
Very cute and chic lounge bar in downtown St. Pete with several beers on tap and bottled and a menu of gastropub and upscale bar food. A little pricey for bar food but delicious and service was great! Definitely recommend the Breckinridge maple brown ale and the shrimp po boy!
(4)Angelo R.
Pretty cool modern gastro pub on St Pete downtown strip. Great spot for people watching. They offer an array of house specialty concocted drinks. I tried the Chop Top martini (Grey Goose Melon, Pear Vodka, Chili Ginger Rosemary, kungfu girl Riesling). It was prepped well, a little sweet for my taste but I enjoyed the different complexities. Then I ordered the New Orleans Style Blackened Shrimp Po Boy . OMG, I was impressed! The sandwich had generous amount of shrimp which had nice texture w/ snappy crunch. The marinate was on point too. Truffle fries were tasty as well. Good crunch and not limpy. Bartenders / servers were friendly. One of them explained to me the different ingredients of their most popular drinks.
(5)Lisbeth F.
Just a mess... Food was horrible, and the service was really rude when we told them we didn't want the food. I only had a house wine so I don't know how the drinks are, but def not a good place for a good meal. Over priced and very poor taste.
(1)Zao Z.
I went here for drinks.. I liked the decor. The drinks were on point but the outdoor seating were so uncomfortable. Overall, it is a really chill place to go for drinks. It has a pretty chill vibe. (mostly techno) I have to go back here for drinks.
(4)Bonita B.
The food is tasty, they have a full bar. I had the shrimp po' boy without tomatoes; it is full of favor. The fries are yummy.
(4)Nadia E.
A friend and I decided to stop by for happy hour and dinner . Great atmosphere and perfect for both hanging out with friends or casual date . I was really happy to see that their was a labeled vegan burger on the menu . A tad pricy ($12) , but I expected it being on Beach Drive . Unfortunately , it was disappointing but a good effort on their part . The burger patty texture was mushy and in need of seasoning . The sauce was a little too runny for my liking . A thicker mayo consistency would have been perfect. The fries were thin and crisp . Absolutely delicious ! Our server was attentive , friendly and very helpful ! Would definitely return for happy hour . Half off their house brands!
(3)Natasha D.
Friendly staff. Decent drinks. Have not had their food. The atmosphere to me feels a bit snobbish. I prefer to sit outside with the dog patrons. Just be wary of Gary who is sweet but always there. He's harmless yet intrusive. Good ladies night specials. It would be a fun date night place. Very dark inside at night, but great decor. I like this place!
(3)Zachary H.
The vibe on Beach drive is awesome especially with great places like Tryst. The service here is awesome most recent visit I was there I shared a bottle of wine which was reasonably priced. The server checked back frequent keeping our water glasses charged. I can also highly recommend the hangover Mary. I did not have any food per say, but The hangover Mary includes a cheeseburger slider perched among the rest of the accouterments. They occasionally have a DJ or live music. Highly recommend as a great spot to sit and watch the hustle and bustle of Beach drive as the day slips away from you
(5)Ken K.
Great signature drinks, nice upscale atmosphere & tasty deserts. Techno DJ music is just right. They are Yelp friendly! Enough said.
(4)Lo M.
Great dinner. We also went on Ladies night which consisted of half off drinks. We split the heirloom tomato caprese salad and the po boy sandwich. Everything was tasty and the service was goodnight
(4)Laura P.
Great late night for food and drinks outside. We came back from a Rays game on a Friday night and had our dog with us. Figured we'd give Tryst a try since all the other outdoor places were closed by 11. Our server was great, dj played good music and the beef sliders were awesome.
(4)Christian M.
I decided to give this place a shot based on the Yelp reviews and am definitely pleased with the result. We came on an evening for some appetizers and beer. The gorgonzola salad and shrimp flatbread were amazing. The server was very friendly and attentive too. The front patio was a little chilly at first but they turned on the heaters shortly after we sat down and it made for an enjoyable fall evening. The prices are a little steep but given the location and service, I think it was worth it.
(5)Scott S.
Tough to fault this restaurant. If you're looking for great service (see Jimmy) and great food and drink you want to check out tryst. We had the cheeseboard ($30) and the fig chicken salad sandwich. Super
(5)Caitie O.
Love this place! It's a favorite for drinks after work. The appetizers are classic with a unique flair (my favorite). Drinks can be very inexpensive if you hit the happy hour. Everything is always displayed with artistic elegance and the service is supreme! Enjoy sitting outside!
(5)Vanessa Y.
Super delicious. Maine Diver Scallops & Crispy Pork Belly (app) - AMAZING. It might be a laughable portion, but it's really tasty. Each element was cooked perfectly. Pulled Pork Sliders - mustardy, spicy, and very generously meaty. Highly recommend. Gulf Shrimp Pesto Flatbread - smallish, since it's an app, but again very very good. Creme Brulee - FINALLY, a creme brulee with a crunchy surface! It's all about that first CRACK! Lychee martini - I asked for "something sweet, strong, and girly" and this is what the server recommend. It was exactly what I was looking for and they don't skimp on the alcohol. Tasty! 10/10, would drive to St. Petersburg for this restaurant again.
(5)Jessica P.
First timer to the St. Pete's area. Tryst was recommended by a friend. Highs- great cocktails, funky eclectic decor, awesome fried donuts- a definite must have, server very friendly Lo's - were out of mussels. Came back a couple nights later and server didn't let us know the kitchen was closing, which really sucked because we sat there for a good 45 minutes before he came around to check on us. - no fried donuts :(
(3)Bill T.
Great food. Friendly staff. Extremely eclectic décor. Yummy drinks. Nice music mix (currently very 80s heavy--my cup o' tea). Keeps me coming back. I'm being told that my review is "shorter than most", but I'm not a big talker. Give it a whirl, and get a Bramble while you're at it.
(5)Kelly Q.
Great music, great vibe, and great drinks. Love the decor and the plush french style of the booths. This is a total chill yet sophisticated lounge spot after hours on the gorgeous Beach Drive in downtown St. Pete. I would definitely recommend it for anyone looking to get a classy night started or looking for a nice spot to just grab some more drinks after dinner. Our waitress was super friendly and attentive and the place was crowded but not obnoxiously so for a Friday around 11. I'm not sure what this place is like for dinner or during the day time, but my experience was pretty excellent for what we came for.
(4)Mike R.
People watching and drinks great place to be in downtown St. Pete and they have a bar on the sidewalk...WHAT!!! Cali needs this Plenty of selections of beers on tap and from all over the world let alone the country
(5)Alex P.
Been twice, both times it stunk of cigar smoke. Great décor, good atmosphere, better outside than inside.
(3)Mike B.
I enjoy Tryst about once a month, but tonight was particularly special. They have added a dish of scallops sashimi served on a pink salt block with a strawberry mint infusion that was unique and singularly spectacular. The combination of salt and sweet and tangy and the clean delicate flavor of the scallops was a symphony for the senses. Further, the friendly and attentive ministrations of Heidi, our server, helped the meal to flow perfectly. I highly recommend a Tryst in St. Pete.
(5)Paula W.
Found this place by accident. Pulled into St. Pete by boat @ 10 p.m on a Thursday night with 5 friends. This place stays open serving food and drinks past midnight. The staff was very accommodating and the food was very good. Prices were reasonable . We will definitely go again.
(4)Angela O.
Updated review! Things have much improved and this is now a favorite spot! Great service and food! But was just there with a girlfriend last week, sat at bar for food and drinks. The guy who approached looked like he just woke up and was in a bad mood. Terrible service amongst dirty dishes lining the entire bar during out entire meal . They were not that busy. My friend made a comment to the young man that out flat bread was very soggy due to too much balsamic. It was gross. His reply was that at least we were honest. How about taking the item Off the bill or suggesting something else?? I'm Definatly taking a break from this place again for a while:::
(2)Alexandra M.
An amazing place to sit and listen to live music during the week. They have delicious burgers, and their signature cocktail really adds to the whole experience. Sitting outside is really where it's at, you can people watch, listen to music, make new friends, or just fill an empty stomach all from the comfort of their shaded, air cooled couches outside. The weekends are fun as well, although it gets much busier at night, and they have a DJ outside to keep the night lively. People watching is the best on a Saturday night.
(5)Roseann M.
Food was ok. I liked pork sliders but the special monkfish my husband had was salty! Service and kitchen were a bit slow. 4 hostesses seems a bit much, and no manager on duty it seemed. Restaurant was empty at 5:45 and only four people at tables when we left at 7:00; however they sat two people at a reserved table and rudely asked them to move. I guess a party of 8 was coming but hostess could have moved the people much more gravely - free drinks come to mind! If I worked there I would be pissed that they let my tip money walk out the door!
(3)Mark H.
Stopped in for 2 drinks this past Friday, and I really liked the vibe. Very cool outside seating area along the street. Very chill place. Drink prices are a little high, but5 they're definitely going for the sophisticated lounge vibe, and you can't have that with cheap drinks. Initially, we attempted to sit inside. The hostess sat us and said she would get a server over to us, but no one ever came. La Chica asked again to get us a server and she apologized and again said she get one, but again no one ever came. So we went to the bar and were served immediately. Then, we went outside and enjoyed the view and House music. Would I return? Probably.
(3)Crystal H.
We had a group of four people buy drinks inside and sit outside at a table on July 4th. The thing that drew us into Tryst is that there was a gentleman playing John (Cougar) Mellencamp songs and we were digging it. We had a waiter approach us and tell us we had to order food or leave the tables. Really? We were drinking alcohol from Tryst...that should have been enough. So, We ordered coconut shrimp and for $18 per appetizer we received 4 overcooked bland tasting shrimp. The worst coconut shrimp I have had to date. I don't plan on returning to Tryst. I will go to Birchwood, the Canopy or The Moon for drinks and just skip this place all together.
(1)michelle l.
I'm sad and a little surprised by the negative reviews. We came to Tryst for Mother's Day lunch. It was a lovely day, and the outdoor seating might have been nice, but we opted for air conditioning inside. The decor is very nice. Modern and homey at the same time. The cocktail and beer lists were impressive. We tried the Tryst, the Walk on the Pier, and the Pear Lycheetini, and all were tasty and strong. Our table shared the coconut shrimp, which was thankfully not overwhelmingly coconut-y. It was served with an orange ginger marmalade which was too thick and glopped into one piece. The shrimp was good enough to eat alone. For my entree, I had the bleu cheese BLT, which was okay. My husband seemed to like his burger. My mother in law had the grouper sandwich, and she seemed to like it, although the chef put on the remoulade that she specifically asked to be on the side. Service was phenomenal. Brian was very attentive and over-the-top in his helpfulness. When our first appetizer (the charcuterie plate) was sold out, Brian offered us another appetizer on the house. He seemed distraught that the remoulade was served on the grouper sandwich. It was nice to see a waiter who takes his job so seriously. I'd say that the food isn't phenomenal, but it is tasty. And the cocktails were excellent, as was the service. This would be a fun place to come for happy hour.
(4)Daniel H.
Horrible clientele, great beer selection and very knowledgeable bar staff. Will probably come back just for St.Bernard's Triple but beyond that very boushchwa crowd.
(4)Carianne C.
Great ambience, great food, but a bit too pricey. We were there late on a Weds night, and I wished it was a little quieter, hard to have a conversation with my sweetie.
(4)Brett N.
Why 2 stars? Because unfortunately, that is being generous. --- --- --- As I say every time I leave a bad review...I HATE doing it. I really don't have a choice after I was able to check out Tryst. I ordered a steak sandwich and my girlfriend went with the gnocchi. One more time, I will reiterate that I despise leaving such a negative review, but this is all in the name of honesty...and I can honestly say that I would compare both items to something you would order at a bowling alley or a roller rink concession stand. Her gnocchi was especially terrible...the worst either of us have ever had. Not only was it terrible, but the portion size was utterly laughable. My steak sandwich was only a slight upgrade from the Alpo that was on her plate. It really was like something you'd expect if you were to buy a steak sandwich at a movie theater. The good? They have a very nice beer selection, the service was friendly and they have a cool South Beach vibe going on. I would go back to drink, but I don't think I could ever eat at Tryst again. I do understand that a lot of the other reviewers seemed at least decently pleased with the food, so maybe they were just having a bad night. But for me, this was one of the crappiest meals I've had in months. Now...the worst part? Between those 2 meals, plus 3-4 beers...the tab was SEVENTY dollars after tip. Our meals were worth about $5 at best, so I would definitely classify this experience as regrettable.
(2)Jessica J.
Update: I never understood all the poor reviews here but after dining on a Thursday night around 7pm .. I totally get it. The service was AWFUL. Our server never brought us bread or refills on most drinks until we asked for it. It took forever to get anything. When we wanted to order more drinks it took ages for her to mosey on back to our table. I still think the food is great. I had the ravioli which was good but it doesn't compare to other menu items so I wouldn't order it again. My friend had the pasta carbonara and everyone at our table was tasting it and raving over it. I'm only gonna downgrade them to a 4 (from a previous 5) but they are really pricey so I will only go back on a Monday or Tuesday early dinner to get the prefix. -------------------------------- This is one of the best meals I've had in Downtown St Pete!! Disclaimer: We went for an early dinner (5:30) on a Tuesday. So that may be why our experience was way more positive than some others on here. First impression - the inside is absolutely gorgeous. Fresh flowers on the tables. Beautiful couches comprise part of their table seating. Even the bathroom was spotlessly clean and smelled of fragrant eucalyptus. Service: Our server was extremely attentive (but again it was early and only a few ppl there), seemed very passionate about the food, and was very personable and funny. Price: Yes it's pretty pricey but it's quite the classy place. But they offer a prefix menu from 5-7pm for 25$ that includes full size portions of appetizer, entree, and dessert. INCREDIBLE deal. The portions were definitely full size. Many entrees are $25 so it's like getting an appetizer and dessert for free. FOOD!! AMAZING!! Appetizers: I had the baba ganoush.. extremely flavorful, though I was not a fan of the deep fried chickpeas scattered throughout. My girlfriend got the sweet corn chowder.. it was a HUGE bowl and she was blown away by it. Entrees: I had the chicken roulade which was so moist and juicy. The veggies were cooked to perfection, still a little crisp. The mushrooms were so meaty.. they seemed like some wild variety that you don't see everyday. My gf had the filet mignon brochette.. the steak melted in your mouth, didn't even need a knife. It came with the most amazing garlic butter mashed potatoes we'd ever had. Dessert: Chunky monkey (banana nut) cheesecake. I thought it was good, though my gf was again blown away, best cheesecake she ever had. So based on other reviews, perhaps your best bet is to go for an early dinner when you know service will be better. Seriously amazing food! And the happy hour specials (from 5-7) were also pretty great. Only $3 for wells. and some beers and wines were half off. Definitely recommending this place to others.
(4)Nathan P.
Really nice atmosphere and ambiance. My wife and I went for Valentine's Day. Se ordered from their pre fix menu and I got the chicken. The entrees were excellent! We weren't too impressed with the cocktails but then ordered sangrias which were good.
(3)Leslie S.
the service was poor. Many items where not available on the menu. The cooks in the kitchen where loud and rude and I was sitting no where near the kitchen...the crab cakes where uncooked, the scallops way over salted and to top it off served cold. Was so glad I did not bring my business client in for a meeting. way over price not even worth a groupon
(1)Bill T.
Gastronomical nightmare for anyone who is health conscious or has any restrictions to their diet. Undercooked food served with a big side of attitude. I asked to order the pork chop that came with greens and a sweat potato mash. Since I can't eat sweat potatoes, I asked that they just give me extra greens. I was told that the chef would refuse to do that because the greens are SO salty that he has to balance the plate with sweet potatoes in order for it to work. Since they were unwilling to accommodate a customers minor request I went with the salmon. I asked that it be fully cooked and not raw in the middle. The snotty waitress said that I needed to order it medium. Again I said it needed to be cooked fully. This was the smallest piece of salmon for $25 that I ever received. The skin was burnt to a crisp but the inside was cold and undercooked. When it was mentioned to the waitress she ignored me. I picked at the cooked part of the salmon and the balance was fed to out dog who was at my feet. Overall the flavors were bland, and nothing to excite the palate. My friends had the lamb. It was over cooked, lacked flavor and was gamey. Not great for $35 for that entree. They should stick to what they know....slinging creative drinks out an old storefront window to a patio. There are so many wonderful restaurants on beach drive. This is just NOT one of them.
(1)Stacy N.
Great food! Great drinks! Service can be hit or miss...tonight was a hit! Thanks to our server (who happens to be the GM!) we had a great meal tonight! Dog friendly...great location...a little pricey. Good to great people watching!
(4)Tami S.
Wait service was really weak. We ordered our food and it took a long time to come out. Then when it finally arrived it was short one entree we shared our food until the finally entree showed up almost 20 minutes later. When we got our bill there was no adjustment or complimentary dessert or ......apology. Their food was good just a poorly managed restaurant. Granted Easter is a busy day in the restaurant business.
(3)Michael D.
We stopped by for drinks and the place seems pretty nice/trendy. Our mixologist did a very good job on our drinks and then after I checked in, bam another free drink. I cant comment on the food as we were walking around after dinner, but it seemed to be pretty good. I would love to come back and try it for the food. If you want good drinks, there is nothing wrong with their bar.
(3)Phuong N.
Sparkly atmosphere. There is a good variety of cocktails, wine and beer options. The chimichurri sauce in the Filet Brochette is delectable.
(4)Carlos H.
We stopped here after A Taste of Pinellas. I agree with other Yelpers that the location of Tryst is great - Downtown St. Petersburg certainly has that South Beach feel. Unfortunately, we also experienced some of that South Beach pretentiousness at Tryst. We stopped in at around 4:45PM on Saturday for a drink. The bar was full and we asked for a table (we also had a kid with us) and the waitress gave us an attitude when we couldn't confirm whether we were ordering food or not - claiming tables are only for customers who eat. Nevertheless she sat us since they had over 6 empty tables. The waiter was attentive, but not very helpful to newcomers. They have a pretty large list of beverages and shifting through it was a bit difficult. My fellow diners ordered their $10 Banana Bread beer and a mixed cocktail. I went with Sea Dog Blueberry beer $5.50. The beer was good - nice and cold on a hot Florida day. We decided to order the Ceviche which was...$18? It took forever for our Ceviche to arrive at our table. We joked that they must have gone fishing for the fish because normally that dish is a quick creation. When it finally came out it was served in a small martini glass with hardly enough fish for one person. The ingredients were certainly fresh, but for $18 I expect much more than veggies and a little fish. It wasn't worth the price and it gave me too much of a reminder of dining in Miami and seeing a California Roll for $40. The shrimp cocktail appetizer (also $18) my sister's fiance ordered fared no better and was also an arm and a leg in price. The bill for 2 beers, a cocktail, and two small appetizers? $72+tip. No thanks!
(2)Brian W.
We ate at Tryst and got a table right out in front on the patio of downtown St. Pete. The wait staff was very attentive and the place was lively. I had the special of some pork belly sliders that were delicious and a skirt steak with chimichurri for my main entree. We even had the pleasure of the head chef come out to our table, to ask how the food was. It was reasonable priced for the quality of food, service, and ambiance. This restaurant reminded me of something you would find in NYC or Las Vegas. Quaint, but really well laid out and tons of options for food, drinks, or if you wanted to catch a game at the bar.
(5)Jane E.
It was late on a Friday night and all I wanted was some light appetizers and dessert. Since Tyrst is open late and I have walked by often, I thought to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised by the roasted vegetable flatbread. It was delicious and unexpected. The dessert was great as well, although they could have worked a bit more on cleaning it up. This is definitely a place that I will visit often and I love the fact it is open late and is a three minute walk from home.
(4)Rafael R.
I live less than a block away from Tryst, and have always been a customer of the place. However, had a terrible experience last week with the general manager (Jimmy Brothers) which is frustrating. No flexibility, poor customer service....helpless and rude. Inevitably I have to walk by the place all the time, since it is across the street from where I live, but I will no longer spend a penny there with the management in place (and I am sure my friends who witnessed will do the same.
(2)Pyra-Danny V.
I've often passed this swanky little place in Downtown filled with good-looking professionals laughing over drinks, appetizers and spilling over the sidewalk NOM NOMS Although you probably won't get full on the sizes, the food is like little art works of flavor. My bowl of mussels and clams was HUGE and I sopped up the buttery, faintly spiced broth with the accompanying breadstick. Well done. The other appetizers like Tuna Tartare and Coconut Shrimp each had awesome flavor surprises - fresh, melty tuna and a wasabi and jam sauce respectively - both excellent and plated beautifully. My cocktail "The Tryst" didn't impress. Watery and a strange alcohol after taste. I'll forget it tomorrow. SERVICE Thanks Yelp for introducing me here. It's easy to get overlooked at the bar, but once seated, our server was quick and helpful and was great at lowering my inhibitions by telling me what to expect in a "vegetable" beer they offered--spot on. SUMMARY I'll probably stick to the drinks only here because the food prices are above my range... or go during happy hours. Cool, hip place to bring the girlfriends or if you're looking for impressive, gutsy art dishes with good taste.... and if you have cash to blow (but I won't let that subtract a review star)
(4)Andy D.
The only reason I give this 3 stars is because of the ambience. The drinks were poorly made and muddled and the staff communicated poorly, making ordering drinks difficult and off-putting.
(3)Max W.
Cider... And corn chowder... I'm a happy guy...
(3)Michelle M.
The drinks are creative unique and just amazing. Food quality is superb. The lamb meatloaf sandwich is very comforting, savory and full of flavor. The meat and cheese plattet is to die for. If you're looking for quality dining.. this is the place and groovy atmosphere. Highly reccomended!
(5)Amanda C.
I came here for a friends birthday with a group of about ten girls and we had a fabulous time! The decor is beautiful especially the bar area. The cocktail/beer menu was impressive, I am a sucker for a crafted cocktail! I had the pasta carbonara and it was very good, probably a little too filling before a night of drinking on the town, but entirely worth it! Our server was amazing. After dinner our limo broke down so one of the manager/owners drove us to the bars himself, talk about incredible service! It was a bit pricey I definitely wouldn't be able to eat there often but it is great for a special occasion. If I didn't live so far I would be going weekly for ladies night I hear they have some great deals!
(5)Tay W.
I've been to Tryst a few times and I love it. Yeah, it has the best of that south beach feel, but I didn't experience any pretentiousness. All of the staff were extremely friendly and attentive, even though the bar is always packed. The cocktails are a bit pricey, but they're about 10 times as good as any other drink I've had since moving to Tampa. I've only eaten one meal there. I had the duck and it was fantastic. I highly recommend taking a trip down here on a warm evening.
(5)Anna K.
Great service. Loved the pickled veggies. Hangover Bloody Mary two thumbs up. Nice wine selection. I will be back!
(4)Sarah M.
Awesome service staff! We visit Tryst on a regular basis and it's always top notch! Love the hummus, shrimp flatbread, and crab cakes!
(5)Eric S.
Ah, this South Beach vibe with humans sitting on either side of the busy sidewalk allows a stud like me to see and be seen with my young lass in tow. NIBBLES FOR MY TONGUE I could almost hear the mussels and fish pleading for their lives in the kitchen as a seasoned chef deftly ends their life for my benefit. Fear not oh dead seafood-- death has not been in vain as i enjoy the fresh flavors. The accompanying broth of my mussels did not drown out Mr. Mussel's flavor but rather add a buttery side taste. Ah-- and the portion was larger than expected. Other appetizers contain a nice crunch of equally fresh ingredients-- but I don't mourn the death of vegetables as much. DRINK UP ME LADS Even from the sidewalk filled with humanity's wanderers, the bar stuffed with its generous taps and a pyramid (kid you not) of liquors are my siren after walking zombie-eyed after work. The bartenders are "arteests" and seem to have been allowed a recent freedom to experiment with whatever cocktail design they have in mind-- and luckily the alcohol is in the hands of an "alcohol chef" and not some recent grad who can't spin a bottle. Strong alcohol tastes but dances on my tongue. I COULD BE A POOR MAN Freakin' heck I know this is Downtown but why must everything around here eat my wallet. Including Tryst. Ah me-- just visit during happy hour to attain the same pleasure as me.
(4)Michael Z.
Good food and good drinks were offset by small portion sizes and an inflated bill, something which is to be expected at such a trendy lounge. A good spot for those in search of a chic night out in downtown St. Pete.
(3)Lisa C.
Tryst is a beautiful bar. Beach Drive needed something like it and especially a place that stays open until 3. I went on a Thursday night. The place is beautifully appointed and very upscale. Amazing beer cooler with an incredible wide and varied selection. Cocktails were well thought out when they created the menu. I had 2 very nice cocktails with muddled fruits and nice ingredients. Steep cocktail price of $10 so it keeps you more in check than I prefer. We ordered 1 salad and 2 sharing tapas. We had the Beef Carpaccio and the Eggplant Caprese. Came in for dinner and at $15-17 per sharing tapa, I expected to be full. We walked out still hungry. With that said, food was very delicious and fresh. Nice wait staff from what we encountered. I will come back but not when I want a big dinner. I think the place will be great for drinks when the weather starts turning for "fall" and we can sit outside. Nice option to have that in St. Pete. Food wise tasty but more for a small (and expensive) bite. We did not encounter it being loud like Michael stated on a Thursday. 2 drinks, 2 apps, 1 salad - $70.00 before tip Overall - could be a romantic place for a "tryst" or great for a girl's night to catch up.
(4)Charlotte S.
I'm surprised to read so many poor reviews because my Tuesday night visit here was excellent. The general manager was serving us and he did a fantastic job of making us feel taken care of without hovering while we ate. The Mon and Tues "Prix Fix" $25 three course meal option was a good deal. I had a goat cheese and beet salad, salmon as a main course paired with spinach and red potato mash and finished with the almond cheesecake. Everything tasted great and the portions were descent. (I actually couldn't finish all of my salmon). My boyfriend had the pita and hummus, roasted duck with wild rice and spinach and chunky monkey cheesecake. The outside seating is perfect on a nice cool night and I like the decor all around.
(4)Dan R.
My wife and I enjoyed a few cocktails and some lunch. Service was great from Jessica and the Shrimp Pesto flatbread was delicious. If you are a fan of mojitos, these are top notch. Cool atmosphere, good food, good drinks and good service. Perfect!
(5)Katie M.
After hearing amazing things about their drinks I've been wanting to try Tryst for awhile. So while bar hopping for my birthday this past weekend I decided to lead our group to Tryst. I had heard it was a little pricey so the $10 price tag for a martini didn't phase me all that much, but it is still a bit steep. I had the signature Tryst martini, which was delicious. I definiately could have drank those all night. Although the drink was good and the decor fun in a flashy way, we all felt like we had been transported to South Beach...in a bad way. There were no seats left at the bar and a few of my friends wanted to sit so they sat at one of the (many) empty tables. I guess they only let people who are eatting sit at the tables because they were quickly told they couldn't sit there. I can understand that, but really?? It was past 10 p.m. and there were plenty of tables open if someone had wanted to come in and eat. After that we felt like we were being given the stink eye. We didn't fit in with their South Beach clientle, but I'd think we'd be welcomed a bit more since we were a group of 10 and spending money at their establishment. I may come back here for another drink, but it's hard to say. They do seem to have a good happy hour deal with half off martinis and apps on Wednesdays. But judging by some other reviews the food seems to be of the avoidable kind.
(2)Jo B.
We spent our New Years Eve at Gastro and had a wonderful time. Friendly waitstaff and bartenders, relatively cheap drinks, and a wonderful atmosphere with great music. Gastro is clean, gorgeous, and also has delicious good. It is small, but doesn't pack people in, so there is definitely enough room to order drinks and dance. A great place!
(5)Clyde S.
I almost didn't want to leave a review since friends of friends own it and naturally, I don't want to be a black sheep for being honest... however. A lot of reviewers stated the same thing, 'welcome to SOBE'. That is how the lounge is laid out and the vibe it gives off. I'll give them credit. For the size of the location, the way the inside/outisde part of the bar is situated and the fact you can sit outside, they did a good job. I wont say I disliked the experience, but for how much you pay, it definitely was lacking. True that there are some odd menu items and a selection that some foodies would appreciate, but it seemed they were all over the place. Italian. Seafood. Steak. Asian. What was disappointing was that there were very limited selections in each group. If you wanted a steak, you had one option. That option did come with sides, but it was still more expensive and more lackluster than the equivalent at Ruths Chris. I realize I am comparing a 'lounge' to a 5 star restaurant, but if you are going to charge 5 star prices, then expect the same as far as critics are concerned. Wait staff was friendly. The attention they pay you is commensurate with the # of people at your table and how much it seems you are spending. Bigger tables, get 4 times the 'how are things' than if you are just two people enjoying an evening in DTSP. I get it - bigger spenders, more tips, etc... but don't judge a book by its cover. Would I go back? Not proactively. If I did, I would probably eat before hand and just have some drinks. 3 stars for both food/atmospher.
(3)Robin B.
I have only had drinks here a few times but I love the creative cocktails and the SOBE vibe. Reminds me of back in the day living in Miami. I am very picky about my dining out experiences so based on the other reviews here I think I'll pass. Besides, I found my fave in that area and I'm sticking with it! So, for a creative, lovely cocktail, Tryst gets my vote!
(3)Paul K.
Two places in one - both hoping Thursday through Sat - loud enough and long enough into the nights that the folks living in the apartment just west of it, frequenly complain. The inside is very chique - a great mix of color and texture in art, furniture and wall coverings. Service was great; food was good. The only things I'd change is the menu - some of items appear to have two names...this or the supporting description text does not seem to tie back to item title. Outside is lounge time: great seating, cool lighting and music (live or DJ). On select nights they run a red carpet to raise money for local charity's. That said, the clientele could stand to be a little more genuine - just my take. The average customer seems (to me) to hang longer then at other outdoor patios.
(4)Phil D.
Great spot. Excellent staff and great management. Delicious drinks. Never disappointed here.
(5)S G.
The server was rude and pretentious, the food moderate for the price. The tortillas on the mahi mahi were not even warmed and were raw and doughy. Only saving grace was the large craft beer choice. If you like over priced food served with attitude, you wll love this place.
(1)Sylvester M.
Lots of pretty people, great drinks, and a great beer selection. The do also sell food, imaginative small plates. A little pricey, but worth it. Always a great place to people watch for pretty ladies.
(4)Jennifer D.
Why do I feel like I am alone in leaving a poor review on this place???? I think I had a bad experience in St. Pete overall and I really hoped every time I sat down to a meal it would be the saving grace.... Stumbled upon this place while walking around downtown. It was raining so ducking into Tryst without having to wait for a table was a quick plus. We were seated at a table where the air was blowing very heavily, we quickly moved to the bar. The bar is outstandingly beautiful both in the tiles that were selected and the beautiful selections of beers on tap and the bottles winking at you from the cooler. WE asked the bartender if they had a tasting menu for the beers, why wouldn't you have a beer flight with over 25 beers on tap? It was such an ordeal that we quickly just asked for water. I ordered carrot and ginger soup, a salad and a few other apps. I watched the wait staff goof off with each other and pick up and study a salad that was in the window at least 3 times and put it back in the window. The soup just didn't hit it for me, I don't often order soup out as they are over flavored with salt or oil. I took a few bites and pushed it away. The pita bread that came with it was slightly stale but I dipped it in my soup because I was bored as I waited to take some bites of my mother's salad. It's just got to a point in our meal that we were not satisfied and wanted to leave. My mom went to use the restroom and left me with her credit card to pay the bill...but wait our bartender was in the corner chatting with his buddy and I sat and waited, and continued to wait, then finally asked someone else for the bill. This place, I agree with other Yelpers, has a South Beach feel and does tend to feel pretentious but I can't understand why, the service sucks and the food is lame. I don't know how or why they use the term gastro lounge, this leads me to believe the food will be delicious and like nothing I have had before, as well as enjoying some yummy beer or wine. (Another Yelper mentioned the list was overwhelming, and in fact they are and the service doesn't seem to know how to guide you through it).
(2)Bill B.
A little touch of South Beach has come to Beach Avenue. We sat outside on the couches and had drinks and some appetizers. Relaxing, surprisingly good food, nice servers. Relaxing way to enjoy an evening. Give it a try.
(3)Joy T.
Wonderful atmosphere, and excellent food! We ordered the lump crab, artichoke dip, but unfortunately they sold out of it, so we ordered the crab cakes and they were so delicious! My fiance ordered the AM burger and I ordered the shrimp po boy, neither of us were left disappointed with this trip. I would highly recommend! Service was great, drinks were awesome!
(5)Mariana R.
We went there only for a drink after having lunch... And we saw the ahi tuna and it looked delicious!!.. Then we decided to try it, and it was Awesome!!.. I didn't try the rest of the menu, but the appetizers looked good, and the drinks were incredible!!... We had a great time there!!
(4)Vanessa V.
Tryst is a hidden gem in DTSP. It is a great place to have a drink and enjoy great food. The outdoor sitting is always happening. You can see interesting characters walking by or just simply enjoy sitting inside at the bar. The inside decorations overwhelmed me, but if you get past that, you can find a great selection of craft beers, full liquor bar and great food. What is else can you ask for? If you go, ask for a Logan special...
(3)Jim B.
No complaints, praise for the staff, draft beer selection and hummus. Live acoustic music on Tue and Wed nights was nice. Jesse and Will get high marks for excellent bar service and welcoming demeanor. You had me at Stone IPA on tap... Thank you!
(5)Matt G.
Had only appetizers but were very fresh, and flavorful.
(5)Angela F.
Cool atmosphere, great customer service.
(4)Steve A.
Great atmosphere, very stylish. Very Good Food and Service. Like it a lot. Awesome Ceviche. Will be back.
(4)Mike R.
I love this place! I believe the chef is from the Ritz Orlando. I have been here several times for dinner including their first night open and also for lunch. The food is always great and our servers have all been cute and knowledgeable about the menu. I would recommend everything! Ha ha The atmosphere is cool and hip and the copper tile wall is magnificent. I think it is a little pricy but so far it has been totally worth it! I have had the pleasure of meeting the owners as well and they actually thanked my partner and I for being there! Imagine, a restaurant owner actually being appreciative for your business...what a novel concept. Try lunch, it works! Sit in Rodney's or Danny's sections...they're great
(4)Sebastian F.
Half the bartenders are incompetent, and the other half are awesome. So there is a 50/50 chance of having a not so good experience. For what it offers the prices are too high.
(2)Meg C.
We sat on the patio on one of the most beautiful early evenings Florida has to offer. Our waiter was very friendly, funny and knowledgable. We shared a salad with beets, arugula and chevre with pine nuts and a balalmic dressing, wonderful!! We followed that with the Grouper sandwich that was so fresh and tasty that it is second on my list of favorite Grouper sandwiches I have ever had. Our waiter said that it was red grouper that had been swimming in the gulf only days ago. I love the feel of this area in downtown St. Pete and it is a fun place to people watch and enjoy the scenery.
(5)Erin S.
You will notice that the owner or manager commented on my review. My issue with this is that he stated "our prices are clearly marked". Did I complain about the prices? Not in themselves. I do not mind paying more for good food. My complaint is that the food is not worth what they are charging. I have an issue paying about $18 for an Italian sub for my husband only to listen to him say "man I wish I was eating a Publix sub." That is all. __________________________________________________Â_____________ Why oh why did I not listen to my fellow yelpers??? Tryst wass everything I hoped it wouldn't be, but was forewarned that it would be. I was brave because I REALLY wanted to like this place AND I had a Groupon AND I got the Groupon for half price with a credit I had on my account. Here's how my experience went down (notice the familiar echoes of yelpers past): -It is very chic and nicely decorated. I've never been to South Beach, but I can definitely see why people are saying it's a SOBE style restaurant. The bar is beautiful and the inside catches the eye. The bathrooms are a little odd. The sink is positioned very low, even my 4'10'' mother-in-law had to stoop down to reach the sink. It's like it was built for toddlers. My husband said it was the same in the men's restroom. -We ate outside on a nice, Sunday afternoon. The service was so ridiculously slow, I would have thought they were weeded, but they weren't. They were busy, but not swamped. There seemed to be two servers working the outside area. They acted as if they dead, as they were just leisurely strolling about checking on their tables. I ordered a water and didn't get it until the end of meal, after reminding the waiter several times. So, so slow. I can't reiterate that enough. -The food was hardly what I would call "decent" - especially for the prices. I had the $18 lamb meatloaf sandwich. It was rather dry. My husband had the Italian sandwich and he said he would have rather had a Publix Italian sub (which would have also cost about $11 less). -After the $40 Groupon was taken off the check (which was originally $57), we still owed $29. Why? Because the automatically charge a 20% service fee. The servers are guaranteed to get a good tip, so why put forth the effort? I didn't feel like waiting for the server to take his sweet time getting back to our table, so I took the bill and our credit card in to pay. The receipt printed offered another line to give additional tip. I laughed at the idea and put a nice big "$0". Why in the world would I give extra money to a lazy server who already received a 20% tip on the original bill, for a meal that I was not impressed with? Needless to say, we will not be back!
(1)Kristin K.
The only thing positive about this place is the location and decor.the sevice was horrible.the food was mediocre....not at all what I expected...the place is very pricey, which is not an issue if the sevice and food are good.after I asked for my check I realized why service was non existent...they charge 20% service charge...lol... it was a big disappointment overall
(1)Kevin M.
Known primarily for its Bar & Single Scene. This place actually has really Good Food! Your gonna pay though! Beach Drive Prices! Fun Place, Good Staff, Amazing Food. :)
(4)Frank D.
Nice selection of beers on draught. Server Bill has a penchant for good beers and made some nice recommendations. Lamb burger: delicious but my wife's whole shrimp on arugula with the Israeli couscous was even better
(4)MB V.
I celebrated my birthday at Tryst and they have tons of beer and drinks selection. One of my favorite drink which I can't stop talking about it is called green ivy. It's such a refreshing drink. Volka, cucumber and basil. It's so delicious.
(5)Charles b.
Beautiful lounge. Love the sharable plate, finally a place that doesn't confuse quality for quantity. Food isn't cheap but a 75 year old aged balsamic vinegar isn't cheap either. To me it's by far the best restaurant downtown. P.S. The restaurant is close on Sunday night and Monday, avoid the Friday and Saturday the place is so busy you may not enjoy your dining experience to it's fullest.
(5)Shai J.
Great atmosphere for enjoying cocktails. I didn't have dinner there, but I'd certainly return for drinks and appetizers. The dinner menu seems a bit pricey.
(4)Thomas P.
On a street littered with restaurants, this little Gastro is a nice spot to grab some drinks and maybe a bite to eat. A decent sized bar is the center of attention and it extends outside with a few spots to sit. Half of the seating is outside on the sidewalk. The dinner menu is small but has some interesting dishes. We tried the corn chowder that had a little warm crab salad. Taste was good and it hit the spot with a little bread on the one cold and windy night we were there. The Roasted Duck breast had some crunchy skin and was nicely cooked. It came with sauteed spinach and steamed wild rice, all in one small pile. The Pan seared scallops were cut in half (4 halves) and served ontop of corn and poblano relish with a little bacon scattered around. Both of the appetizer plates were very small for the $14 price point. Apps and entrees ranged from $12 to $35. We also tried the Peach Cobbler and Chunky Monkey cheesecakes, whcih were very good. They also have beer, wine, and specialty drink menus which we didn't get into much. We thought we would save that for another trip! Service was excellent and should be on a Monday night. Overall, a great experience.
(4)Joe H.
I would say this could be the best new restaurant addition to downtown saint petersburgs growing treasure of eateries. Our server was excellent and our foods was even better. That along with great company made for a great experience and evening. Also the decor really enhanced the atmosphere.
(5)Keith B.
Tryst has a great location on busy Beach Drive. The outside tables are very inviting on a nice evening. Inside is nicely decorated and has a fun vibe. We were there just at opening, and the service had a little trouble getting into gear. But after a bit of a confusing start, things started to gel and they did a good job. The food was delicious. Standouts were the corn chowder, the duck breast appetizer, and the scallop appetizer. The food is very rich and filling. So those items plus a salad and another appetizer were more than enough for two of us. We would have been fine sharing the chowder, the salad, and an appetizer each. The drinks were also very good. Our favorite was the signature "Tryst" cocktail. I look forward to our next visit.
(4)Kylin B.
Everything about this spot is genius... The people, the staff, the owners, the drinks, the food.... No mistakes were made! I am a true fan.... I will be here often!!! Thanks Tryst for a fabulous spot in Dtsp!!! You have elevated Beach Drive:-)
(5)Michael G.
What I like: Large selection of craft beers (5 IPAs alone) about 20-30 total on tap. Nice trendy aesthetic. (Fainting couches line one wall). Full bar. Youthful bar staff. What I don't like: So loud that I would not go there to eat. It is for drinking even though there is a menu. Their specials are very expensive (compared to regular menu items). Ask for the prices as it is a surprise since their specials are not written down and the wait staff does not tell you unless asked (this is a trend game that I dislike about American restaurants). Their regular menu is not as expensive but imagine seeing an item labelled "Seared Scallop" for around $15? Seems pricey for a scallop. Specials are read to you by the waiter or waitress with no price information given. Since it is so loud you miss every other word so difficult to determine what is being offered. Beer selection was wide, but beer temperature was quite warm (This is Florida, not London, England). Wait staff, while youthful and attractive, seemed novice and perhaps a little full of themselves. Recommended for: Friday happy hours, girls' nights out and those who are not concerned about dining value. Avoid if having a date night and you want to have a conversation. Perfect to take a boring person to as there is no way they can speak loud enough to bore you.
(2)betty k.
I practically eat here every weekend when I'm in St. Pete. Great small bites, good wine list outside seating and nice staff. Perfectly nice
(5)Chris V.
A little pricey for what you get. Captain and cokes were light on the Captain. Overall it was a nice environment and the food is good.
(4)Jay C.
Great staff. High end cocktails and decent wine selection. Many beers on tap and in the bottle. On street bar rocks and the lounge on the sidewalk is very cool. Staff very friendly and service outstanding. Great mixed crowd young and old. Cool place to meet new friends.
(5)Kyle S.
Nice cozy place with a decent beet and wine selection. Definately interested in coming back to the place, and as a completely strange compliment the counter tops rock.
(4)Tami S.
A gorgeous spot with delicious food and lovely cocktails! I love the ambience, especially so much outdoor dining and lounging area. I'm working my way through the menu, and have really enjoyed everything I've tasted - the ingredients are fresh and interesting. Happy hour is great, and I love sitting at the outside bar - the perfect combination of outdoors and inside. Definitely worth a try!!
(4)Teresa B.
First, the good. We ate outside which was nice. The food we ordered was very good. The bad. You are given a tiny menu with food that states its to share and prices for sharing. We ordered the special which was a dinner (THERE ARE NO DINNER PRICES ON THE MENU) and there is a reason for this. I had sea bass to the tune of $38 my date had Veal $42. The portions were very small. We are not big people. Do not go here if you are hungry or on a budget. This restaurant is way, way, over priced. You can do alot better elsewhere. My biggest complaint though is they are not forthcoming with the prices. If you order dinner you better ask what it will cost or risk heart failure when you get the bill.
(2)Fatima A.
This place is cute with a pretty great menu. But I felt that the food looked great on paper but wasn't as impactful when actually served. It's the only time I've been so it may have been an 'off' day. We ordered a couple burgers and thought them average, as was the smoked fish dip. The cool thing about this place are the out of the ordinary dishes. The day we went the special was camel.
(2)Trent A.
Sat at the bar, not very crowded for about fifteens minutes. No acknowledgement no service. Don't waste your time here.
(1)Peter S.
I've been hear about 5 or 6 times. I've not really tried their food, but their mixed drinks are creative and spectacular. My favorite is the cucumber drink (forget what it is called). The atmosphere is chic-casual. Indoor and outdoor seating. Great location on beautiful Beach Drive.
(4)Catherine P.
Enjoyed a bite and delicious cocktails last night at Tryst. The Bramble and the St Germaine were fabulous. The St Germaine is so light and refreshing, and a generous pour. I could drink it all day long. We subbed fresh veggies for corn chips w the crab dip appetizer and it was great! Perfect portion for two. Check in on yelp for a free signature cocktail! Loved the outdoor seating and lounge dj. However, this area was poppin and the inside was a little slower. Would love to come back and sit outside!
(4)C G.
Not only a beautiful evening with excellent food but our server Samantha was top notch. She will truly make your evening. Normally I'll post about the meal, ambiance, setting, but not this time. I would come back for the service we received and I do hope management appreciates what they have. Some people are just not irreplaceable! Food possibly. BTW, This was shared by surrounding tables.
(4)Danielle D.
Trendy, downtown place. Came for drinks with a group and would have stayed longer because I loved the vibe, but there was no air since all the doors are open. Would definitely come back here when it is cooler. Club-like feel with young professional crowd. Great for drinks at night. Bartender was friendly and made strong drinks!
(4)Matt B.
Service great. Place is very LOUD and full off drunks. We showed up at 6:30 on a Sunday evening for dinner and everyone in the bar was wasted. Really wasted. Food was good. Great beer menu. A little over priced. I won't come back. It's not my style.
(2)Willy V.
one of my favorite spots to meet up with friends, nice interior design, cool & friendly bartenders, just wish the outside seating is more organized, they have such a way to tell a 2 hours waiting for a seat outside that 2 empty tables are reserved then some group were setting inside the bar got out & just sat with no problem, other than this food was great service was good except you have to ask for another drink while they can see that you have an empty glass in hand, but I gave the servers the excuse for being really busy.
(3)Wes B.
Very original menu: i highly recommend the shrimp flatbread and the chicken & waffles sandwich... Chocolate bread pudding:Yummo!
(4)Melissa Z.
Great service, great food, awesome ambiance. We tried several different small plates and the sliders and they were very all very good. I recommend sticking with the small plates or sliders. Seems like people who were less than pleased with their meal ordered entrees. The food we got was all good quality ingredients and well prepared. The ambiance is quite unique; a very seductive scene with padded headboards adorning the walls of reminiscent of a French boudoir. Love it. My only complaint is that with such a sexy looking restaurant, there should be more tables for couples. When we went on a Saturday night it was all groups and big parties inside. So it was not as intimate as i wanted. I think they may have outgrown themselves. Anyway, I suggest making reservations and request a table along the left wall. From the hostess to the waiter to the manager, they were all friendly, prompt and accommodating. We made reservations, which I highly recommend doing, and were say outside but we felt and trickle of rain and they moved us in when they could.
(5)Jonathan A.
Yummy little place on Beach Drive. Excellent staff of bartenders- hilarious and engaging. Food was superb for a gastro restaurant. Would recommend this to visitors. Hours could be expanded for lunch...
(5)Erik M.
Thought we were going to a nice restaurant, but the overall feel was douchey club. Jimmy was a great server, the food was on point, but the whole vibe was very douchetastic. There was a 4 year old sitting at the bar. I'm not kidding. He may have been 3. Seems like they cater to douchebags and whores. Too bad because the food is good, and at least Jimmy is a good server.
(3)Sonny K.
If you're into rich / bankrupt perverted married brodudes that listen to shitty disco trance, then this is your place! I actually like the place- if no one showed up. Well. Nvm.
(1)Nina M.
I had a good first time experience here after the place being recommended by a friend. However, we only went for drinks. They have specialty drinks and a good selection of craft beer. I was in the mood for an Irish coffee and although it wasn't on the menu, the bartender made one for me anyway. He was very friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is "upscale" which isn't really my style, but I liked the experience here and would be willing to try the place again.
(4)Ben W.
Food is fine, but by no means amazing. Service is not all that attentive, but nice when he shows up. Their bloody Mary with burger on top thingie that they claim is only available sat/sun until 3pm is vodka plus zing Zane Bloody Mary mix. It's fun for a photo, but by no means a signature item. There are enough interesting looking places in the neighborhood, that I don't think I'll return.
(3)Pamela M.
We sat at the bar on the sidewalk and it was next to impossible to get their attention without practically throwing something at them. The bartender complaining how busy it had been all weekend...no one wants to sit at bar and listen to all that. If you don't like making money and being busy find another job. The guys were snobbish and "bitchy" if you know what I mean....if you didn't look to them like you drove there in a BMW or Mercedes, you got the cold shoulder. Meanwhile my friend lives on Beach Dr. and I work for a luxury watch company. So there...no thanks!
(2)Trish B.
I actually thought the food was good. The grouper sandwich came on a pretzel roll. It was a really cool combination of flavors. The portions were small - which I like so I don't over eat. But I did think it was over priced for the amount of food you got. The service was good - and they have a great drink selection.
(3)Todd B.
A fantastic find. We wanted to come here for a while, and then bam, groupon to the rescue...or maybe living social. Anyway, came here on Saturday night. Its a perfect spot - right on beach blvd in the fancy part of downtown st. pete. We were originally sat outside, but the weather didn't look like it would cooperate, so they moved us in when a table opened (and let that be your first tip boys and girls, when you make a reservation - and I would strongly suggest making one - make sure you request inside seating if its the rainy season). They don't have a huge menu, so we split 4 small plates. Girlfriend got something, I got angus beef and bacon sliders, and we split a spinach and artichoke dip and lobster rolls. Lets get past the sliders quickly - you'll want to eat 50 of them. The lobster rolls were good, but I was expecting a hot item, and they were cold like thai basil rolls. My fault for not being more careful when I ordered, but they were still good. As for the spinach dip...I worked at a Houston's Restaurant for 4 years and continued to eat there for as long as there was one in the vicinity I lived in. The Houston's spinach dip to me is the end all and be all of spinach dips and nothing has ever come close - until now. This spinach dip was fantastic. It may not have been the best, but it was so darn close. The décor is beautiful. Very romantic - my girlfriend called it like a French boudoir, and that's as good a description as any I could come up with. And while it is romantic on the inside, it isn't very romantic as in it is not intimate. The tables are set up for large parties, and though they can be separated for smaller parties, you're still going to be right on top of the one next to you. We were at a small 2 top, and we were right in the open with everyone able to stare at us (and they're always staring, and their eyes say, why in the world is that beautiful woman with you). The seating is also very limited inside, which again, is why a reservation is recommended. Outside seating would work well provided it isn't the dead of summer and about to pour. I should also point out that our server, Parker (no relation to Peter) was fantastic. He asked us if we wanted drinks, and after we said no, we checked in on yelp and saw we could get a free drink. So, of course, we got a free drink. We also told him we had the certificate from living social or groupon, and rather than treat us like a couple of cheapskates, he was terrific. Never missed a beat, food came out timely, water stayed filled, and I hope our tip reflected it. Perhaps he just realized if we checked in on Yelp, we were likely to review on yelp, or maybe he was just really good as his job. So thank you Spiderman...I mean Parker. And Tryst. We'll definitely be back (for more sliders).
(5)Gigi S.
I had been waiting a while to try this place, and glad we were able to hit it up. There were twelve ladies, and we were comfortably accommodated. We had walked in for our reservation with mostly empty drinks from our previous bar hop, but got no complaints. Well done! Thanks for letting us enjoy our last sip while contemplating our next here with you! With a large party, gratuities are included at 20% (which is nice because when places impose a 15% gratuity for 20% service, you really feel like you cheated the waitstaff- you could leave more, but you just ate an entire moose-you can't think straight!) I ordered an extra dry cappuccino after my meal that was very well done. I had the spring rolls, two tuna tartares that I shared, a spinach dip, and "med plate" apparently. (think that was a salad I didn't care to try @ 18.00) My tab was over 100.00, but I really loved the food, and you can't mess up RAW. My party loved the bramble, and the service (Chandra) was impeccable from start to finish. I had a drink dropped on my foot in the bathroom and bled all over my new shoes, but that's not their fault, just an accident. The staff brought a band aid out right away. Wish I had saved a few bucks for new heels not caked in blood and Tryst's signature Tryst drink which was blood colored, actually. heehee
(4)John R.
Service was pretty slow. Sat at the bar outside...there were three people at the bar and 2 bar tenders. They spent most of the time chatting with each other and ignoring the customers. Then, the female bartender wearing a sleeveless shirt picked up the bar towel and wiped off her dirty, sweaty underarms off with it. As if that's not bad enough, she continued to use the bar towel to dry her hands, wipe the bar, and then put the towel next to the vegetables that were being sliced up. Disgusting. Won't find me here ever again.
(1)Jillian K.
The Tryst is one of many reasons to go to Downtown St Petersburg. It is across the street from The Museum of Fine Art. Service is always friendly but can be really slow on overcrowded late nights. Inside and outdoor dining options are wonderful. The cheese tray with a bottle of wine is one of my favorite items to share.
(4)Michael A.
Misleading a bit, it is not a tapas bar. But great food non the less. Pretty loud so don't bring the hard of hearing. The fish tacos were delicious as well as the cheese platter. I suggest going all out on appetizers cause it's a great variety. Good selection if drinks and the cocktails I did see looked great although that's not really my thing. Live music thurs-sat I believe. All in all cool spot, great food, good drinks and perfect location.
(4)Li C.
Not a place I'd go for foods but the drinks are great. The foods are mediocre and isn't up to its price. Interior is beautiful and very lively, cute little lounge with a New-York vibe. Definitely a perfect place to go have drinks and chill.
(3)