As of Aug. 1, Coco Coronado can be found in the courtyard of the Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Beach at 317 Coronado Drive. Visitors of the casual outdoor eatery have already dubbed it a “hidden gem,” according to Coco Coronado General Manager Michael Dias.
“We wanted a new concept, something with a real open-air patio,” Dias says. “It is really laid-back and something Clearwater Beach doesn’t have. It is the only window service-style restaurant with alcohol on the beach.”
Ideal for those enjoying a day on the water, Coco Coronado allows diners to walk up to the order window without the hassle of changing out of their beach attire. The restaurant’s Mediterranean-style patio features palm trees and picnic tables, with room for up to 150.
Once the weekend rolls around, guests also have the option of table service.
Greek-inspired dishes — which the restaurant’s Greek owner, Pete Karamountzos, knows a thing or two about — drive the food menu. Karamountzos previously owned Greektown Grille and Diner 60 West in Clearwater. Though both are no longer open, they accumulated many’a solid review one.
Classics such as spanakopita, gyros, dolma (stuffed grape leaves) and chicken pitas are available, as is a selection of more traditional fare, including burgers and salads. A diner favorite, however, has been the sweet and savory crêpes.
What’s there to drink? Eight taps, one of which is reserved for a rotating local brewery and another that’s dedicated to a Moscow Mule made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, are in the spotlight.
“A lot of locals who live on the beach really complain about the overpricing,” says Dias. “They come out and they want to find a great value, a great environment — somewhere they can go relax to have a couple drinks, have something to eat and conversate with their people.”
With that in mind, the restaurant offers a 50 percent discount to military personnel and first responders, plus five cans of Corona for $13 all day, every day. Deals can be found during the weekday happy hour, too, which kicks off at noon.
Live music on weekends and games like Jenga and beer pong round out the entertainment. But be on the lookout for an in-the-works projection system that’ll allow for sports programming.
Coco Coronado is open from noon to 3 a.m. Monday through Sunday.
