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If I was still living in Florida, I don’t think I would have ever written this… a city guide for Dunedin. It’s an a quaint, little town on the Gulf Coast of Florida, but more importantly it’s where I grew up. It’s a little challenging to play tour guide in your hometown, but since I’ve moved away and revisited during the holidays, I’m finally able to see things in a different light.

Like I said, Dunedin is a small town (population, about 35,000), but so much is offered in a tiny punch. With famous Clearwater Beach right next door, most visitors don’t even know that just a few miles away is this up-and-coming coastal town. I’m here to serve as their unofficial spokesperson and fix that for you.

Where To Stay:

• The Fenway Hotel: Although there a handful of hotels near the small downtown area, this gem should be on the top of your list! Originally built in 1927, the hotel was reopened in October with a fresh new face. I had the chance to stop by while I was in town and I can’t wait to book my stay. A quiet pool area, rooftop bar, and the best views of the water are just some of the perks you’ll find while staying here.

Where To Eat:

• The Living Room: As the name implies, you’ll feel right at home at this little spot on Main Street. David and I have eaten here many times, but never once had a bad meal. The menu seems endless and everything is cooked to perfection.
• Casa Tina: This is the Mexican restaurant to end all Mexican restaurants! Even in NYC, where I have so much cuisine at my fingertips, I still think back to their enchiladas verdes.
• Sea Sea Riders: While you’re in Florida, it only makes sense to have at least one ‘Old Florida’ inspired meal. My parents have been eating here for as long as they’ve been open, so they’ve seen how much this place has changed for the better. Be sure to stop by this turquoise cracker-style house right on Main Street for a perfect example of what Florida cooking tastes like.
• Frenchy’s Outpost: A little bit up the road from the downtown area, you’ll find yourself at the Dunedin Causeway. It will lead you to one of America’s top beaches, but if you’re looking for something to eat, be sure to make it Frenchy’s. The original location is still on Clearwater Beach, but the ‘Outpost’ is where locals go to get their fill of Grouper Sandwiches and Smoked Fished Dip. Again, two more Gulf Coast staples.
• Strachan’s Ice Cream: What fun is visiting a new town if you can’t have some dessert to wash it down? If you can think of a flavor, Strachan’s can probably make that happen. Right in the heart of downtown, this place has been making the homemade ice cream of my childhood since 1999.

Where To Drink:

• Art Smart Coffee: You’ll be hard pressed to find a Starbucks in Dunedin. I think there’s only one that just opened last year. That’s okay though, because Art Smart is the best coffee you will find. I don’t know what they do to it, but I promise you their iced coffee is out of this world!
• Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar: Right back at the Fenway Hotel, is the Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar. Originally home to a local radio station, this spot gives you the most amazing views of those epic Gulf Coast sunsets that we all love. Enjoy one of their many local beers on tap, or a rum runner, and kick back to watch the colors fly.
• Dunedin Brewery: For being such a tiny town, Dunedin has a crazy number of breweries. All of them have their own flair and character, but make Dunedin Brewery at the top of your list. It’s actually the oldest microbrewery in the state of Florida, but also offers a yummy food menu and live music almost every day.

What To Do:

• Caladesi and Honeymoon Island: Like I said before, Dunedin is home to one of the top beaches in America! Caladesi Island is absolutely beautiful, but to get there you’ll have to get through Honeymoon Island. Honeymoon was “my beach” growing up. It will quickly become your favorite, especially if you want to get away from all the tourism at some of the other nearby beaches.
• Dunedin Blue Jays: Because Dunedin has perfect weather, pretty much, year round, it is also home to this minor league team. An affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, their stadium is a quick walk from downtown, but still gives you all the feels of America’s pass time for a fraction of the cost.

If you are looking for a quiet escape, Dunedin may be the perfect town for you. Every corner of this city is cared for and loved. There is just so much to explore and I can’t wait for you to get to know my hometown soon!

Love from NYC,
Katie