I reviewed this place before and somehow it disappeared. To summarize: the entrance door (at the time) was about to fall off the hinges), the music (at the time) was Rod Stewart singing classic "romance"' songs on a boombox, my better half's food was severely undercooked- nothing says happy anniversary like raw chicken, and the serving ware was damaged. The oddest part of the entire overpriced experience was the waiter telling us he had brought the serving ware from home. Can't make this up! read more

We had a reservation for dinner. The service was excellent. We found the menu selection was limited. Food was ok, nothing special the main course was filet mignon and thought it was very salty. I know the black pearl has been in business for a long time. I think they should expand their menu and refresh it a bit. read more

While traveling to the Dunedin, Clearwater, and St. Pete area for work/real estate, we were on the hunt for a fine dining experience. Google led us to The Black Pearl, and despite it being 9 PM, they graciously accommodated us. What followed was one of the most memorable and delicious meals we've ever had! From start to finish, every course was a delight, and the atmosphere was both quaint and luxurious. The food was an 11 out of 10! We highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time, as this popular spot is known for its out-of-this-world cuisine. read more

See all

As stated in my previous review of The Black Pearl, my past experience there was outstanding...it was perfection! My sweet husband surprised me with reservations to return once again for my birthday and I was elated. Unfortunately, that lovely memory I had was now destroyed by the words & actions of one individual, the host (or perhaps manager or owner?). I can't review the food nor the service (as we didn't get that far), only the utter lack of hospitality demonstrated by this man which caused us to decide to leave the restaurant despite arriving 15 minutes early for our 8:15pm reservation. His attitude was somewhere between arrogance and apathy, but either way unacceptable and insulting. We could not have been more disappointed! And I might add, while we patiently waited for our reservation in the very small space at the doorway, we observed this host to treat other arriving guests poorly- one couple being ignored, another party requesting one add-on to their reservation and denied. No apologies to anyone as far as we could tell. Having worked in the industry for 20+ yrs, this is NOT "hospitality". read more

Found this gem on Yelp while looking for a place to dine on my 58th birthday. Located in the charming City of Dunedin, Florida. Restaurant is small, which made for a more intimate dining experience. Decor was simply elegant. We were presented with a nine course meal with wine pairing available. What a memorable way to celebrate my birthday!! The wait staff was very attentive, professional, and knowledge. The restaurant even had a sommelier. Wines by the glass and bottle were overpriced but they do pour generous portions. All food items immaculately plated with precision. So pleasing to the sight. The lobster risotto was cooked perfectly and palatable. Pork belly was crispy yet melted in your mouth. Delicious!! This is the first time I've ever raved about a salad but the Black Pearl Salad is worthy of praise. The warm vinegrette someone accentuated the taste of the salad. I wished I had more!! I had the Chilean Sea Bass. Cook on the fish was spot on!! Delicate. Flavorful. My husband opted for the Filet Mignon, medium rare. Perfectly seasoned cooked. So soft and moist. A must is the warm Figgy Pudding. Oh my!! What a great ending to a completely wonderful dining experience. Highly revommend!! read more

See all

Amazing experience service and food. If you want to treat yourself this is for sure the place to do it. Will definitely be back again next time we are visiting. read more

Reservations 6 pm on Saturday, Sept 10th. Three foodies arrive right on time on a rainy night. We enter and are greeted by the sommelier. We know the minute we walk in the door that this will be an experience and not just a meal. I can't quite put my finger on it but it just feels like home. Everyone is working together and both guest and employees all seem happy. We debate between a bottle of Cab or a Pinot. The sommelier helps us with our choice after a discussion of the menu and the winner is a medium bodied Cab that is just delicious. We ordered the lobster risotto as a starter to share. It is creamy, cheesy with pistachios that add such an interesting depth of flavor. The black pearl salad is delivered. It is perfect in its simplicity. The nutty brown bread was also delivered with complex flavors. It was soft like a muffin on this inside but crispy on the outside. The entremet is a blackberry sangria to cleanse the palate. The wait staff is bustling and it feels happy and energetic. We are eagerly anticipating the main courses of Sea bass, papperadelle and, lastly, the rack of lamb. I am fortunate to have friends that are happy to ask for sharing plates so we can appreciate everything. Appreciate is just what we did. All three are so different but oh so good. The only dig I would give is that broccoli was served with all entrees and I wish we had something else to try. The wine is still flowing and we concur that life is better with dessert. We order the bananas foster that has a twist of a banana bread base and cinnamon friend ice cream. It is just exquisite with every bite. We are happy, satiated and await the check. Wait....they bring a decadent finale of a homemade dark chocolate to finish off an amazing experience. I highly recommend this restaurant but more for an experience than just a meal. read more

See all

Very cool florida style restaurant. Just fun place to eat..All good. We are going back in a few days.

All I can say is, if you have a special occassion, this is the place to celebrate! Make sure you make reservations well in advance in that they only have 12 tables. It is well worth it! read more

Absolutely an amazing experience. This is not just great food done to perfection - it's thoughtfully prepared and every detail is considered. We experienced 3 unique dishes and each was exceptional. The lobster risotto appetizer was phenomenal - very rich. The filet was delicious & not only perfectly cooked but seasoned. To conclude this adventure we shared the black licorice ice cream with candied orange peel - it was decadent. Thank you Adam for getting us in. We will be back. Alejandra & Michael Engler read more

Hands down the BEST restaurant in Dunedin. Very small, quaint, and up scale restaurant. The servers were on it. We were there for a post graduation celebrate and they were all so delighted. Additionally, it's always hard to find restaurants that will accommodate tree nut allergies and they did! Got the filet and lobster risotto. Yummy! The best filet I've ever had. Stands up against other high end steak restaurants. Thank you to the staff for making it memorable. read more

Fantastic food. Very professional staff. The only issue is seating. This is a very small space and they are quite popular, so I recommend checking the space out to see if you will be comfortable or wish to request specific seating. The high backed shared seating was tight for us. We requested chair seating in future reservations and were fine. read more

This needs to be your go to special occasion spot Every course was exquisite We started with 2 Amuses. Grilled cheese and the pork belly tacos. Bite sized perfection. I also recommend paying extra for the homemade butter for the bread. Raspberry basil flavored. I ordered 2 appetizers - foie gras and pork belly. Foie was served with fig jam and caramelized almond bar. Served also with crackers. So good you could eat the foie gras with a spoon. 9/10 Pork belly - 3 pieces of pork belly served on top of cheese grits. Each piece paired with a different flavor and color oil. So the presentation was also immaculate. 10/10 My friend ordered the filet. It includes mashed potatoes and broccoli. She really enjoyed it. For dessert I highly recommend the bananas foster. It comes with banana bread ala mode with caramel sauce. 10/10 read more

See all

Considered by many as one of the best fine dining experiences in Dunedin, The Black Pearl provides a small intimate environment with about 10 tables. Table service is well planned and executed, they set the pace allowing ample time for each course to be enjoyed with complimentary surprises between courses to achieve a seamless transition from beginning to end. The food is a parade of appetizing and gratifying dishes. The chef delivers to each ypatron a freshly made and tediously perfected array of food. A delectable harmony of flavors and scents vibrantly displayed. A few of my favorites include the Lobster Risotto, Sea Bass Lyonaisse and the Lamb Chops. On my last visit I had a Chocolate Cake that was ambrosial and a white wine that paired with my sea bass, a silky and luscious Pouilly-Fuisse (Albert Bichot) that had legs like Betty Grable. While each table has a server, they work as a team, in concert to provide a flawless performance. The Sommelier, Adam, glides effortlessly around the room bestowing pairing advice by the glass or bottle. Add this place to your bucket list, the cost can be daunting especially with wine and bubbly pairings, however, it's a very romantic and exceptional experience to be savored to the fullest. read more

See all

Wow! The Black Pearl is a very special place. Intimate, about 11-12 tables. You'll need reservations, time to enjoy and be prepared, it's on the pricey side. We went last night for an early anniversary celebration and it was truly exceptional. The maitre-de is also a sommelier to help with wine selections. The staff was excellent. They knew the menu inside and out, timed everything perfectly, made suggestions and our meal perfect. We ordered the Raclette Fondu which is basically a bite just to start. The lobster risotto is magnificent. You really must order this if you go. It's rich, creamy and just so full of flavor. The entrees come with the Black Pearl Salad which was bright, fresh and just enough before our entrees. Wife got the Hereford filet mignon and said it was the best she's had in Tampa Bay (that's saying a lot). I had the Colorado Lamb Shank that was glorious. Rich flavor, fall off the bone meat, yummy! Dessert is always a tough call due to so many options. We went with the tried and true Apple Tarte Tatin. It was perfection. We each had a glass of chardonnay from Burgundy, France and it was just the right wine to accompany our meal. In sum, if you have a special occasion you want to celebrate and have the time, funds and palette, you will love The Black Pearl! read more

See all

Outstanding! The food was amazing and the service was excellent. It's a great date night spot. The best restaurant in Tampa Bay!

Definitely a Top 5 Tampa Bay restaurant. Every item was scrumptious. And the sommelier was spot on with suggestions. Service was mostly impeccable, though we sat for 10min with empty entree plates and needed water. A blip, however this establishment is quite special and well deserves its top rating. read more

See all

We enjoyed our meal here and understand why it gets rave reviews, especially since it's one of the few fine dining places in the area. The food was all really well prepared and well presented. And the service was impeccable. It also has some really nice touches, with the amuse bouche and the mid meal palette cleanser. The lobster risotto is a must get! We had the appetizer portion which was sizable enough. My husband and I have also gotten to sharing entrees, as we are trying to not eat so much. So we split the sea bass. For split plates, they will split the portions for you and add extra sides for a small fees. We had the chocolate cake for dessert, and it was a nice finish to our meal. Also, a quick note on corkage, if you buy a bottle off their wine list, there is no charge for corkage for the bottle that you brought. read more

See all

Perfectly low-key, elegant, and intimate. Wait staff are professionals. Best restaurant in all of Dunedin by far.

Everything about our dinner was perfect. The sommelier Adam, knew his craft and was spot on with all selections. Food was amazing and we will definitely be going back! read more

While the wine selection at this upscale restaurant was impressive, boasting a variety of flavors and regions, the overall dining experience left much to be desired. Despite the hefty price tag, the hors d'oeuvres one bite but delicious. Appetizers of lobster risotto and escargot were dreamy, out entree, failed to meet expectations, lacking in both taste and presentation. Duck (overcooked) sea bass (bland) Additionally, the unnecessary upselling of the most expensive glass of wine on the menu felt like a tactic to inflate the bill rather than enhance the dining experience. Overall, while the wine was enjoyable, the lackluster food and overpriced offerings make it unlikely that I'll return. Very unfortunate as we were recommended this establishment by several confidants. read more

My newlywed wife and I headed to Clearwater for a makeshift honeymoon when the pandemic interrupted our much larger plans. Scrambling to find somewhere to go and things to do while we were there (and that were still open) was definitely a large task. Once I settled on the location, I hit up my old friend, Yelp for some assistance. Then I asked my aunt who used to live in nearby Belle Aire for many years where she would recommend. The stars aligned with The Black Pearl. I called and got a reservation a couple days out and planned around it. While we were still driving down after the nuptials, the Black Pearl called since they had a cancellation. The opening was right as we were due to arrive. I confirmed and smacked Waze around to get me to The Black Pearl! First of all, they had just finished an interior remodel from what the staff told us so if it's been a while, you might like it more or less than last time. Outside? Not so much. It's pretty unassuming from the exterior and it's easy to overlook if you're not familiar with the location. We literally had to ask some people to move away from smoking in front of the door. Their response? Oh, there's a restaurant there? It just looks a little dated - but familiar to return guests so.... Back to the inside. Very clean and crisply elegant. It wasn't overly fancy, but it was visually obvious that, for most of us, it isn't your "it's another Wednesday family meal" location. Still, with us being in her wedding dress and me in my suit and tie, we were a little overdressed compared to most of the other diners. The waiter sat us promptly and was very friendly throughout our dining experience. I had passed along that it was our wedding date when I made the original reservations and the whole staff made sure to mention their congratulations, check in on us, and just make everything was extra special for us both. We even had another couple send over two glasses of champagne and their congratulations. Everything we ordered was delicious and amazing. Please check out my pics to see how appealing everything looked too.I will say that I was a little worried at first when they brought out a tiny appetizer (called an AMUSE BOUCHE) - JAMON SERRANO + COMPRESSED MELON. I'll admit that I was already contemplating a drive-thru on the way to the hotel. Well, it was deliciously small. I needn't have worried though since the meal items that followed were plentiful and equally amazing. From the Starters, we got the ESCARGOT. It was an amazingly delicate puff pastry with a creamy escargot interior. We each had different salads but they were very good, although I think the Black Pearl Salad is the better one of the two. The Preserved Lemon Sorbet was a perfect palate cleanser and I loved the extra crunch. For our entrees, I had the HEREFORD FILET MIGNON and she had the NEW ZEALAND RACK OF LAMB. Both were outstanding but, once again, I think the steak won the day. It was just seared to medium-rare perfection. I'm not much of a lamb person, but her dish was very flavorful. What can I tell you? This place absolutely started us off on the right path to a great honeymoon and we'll always have fond memories of the Pearl. If you're looking for somewhere similar, make this a bookmark to hit up one day! read more

We've heard great things about The Black Pearl and walked past the restaurant hundreds of times. Thankfully we finally tried it and were blown away. Cute and cozy atmosphere, incredible service from all the waitstaff and sommelier, and the food was amazing. One of the best dinning experiences we've had. Every dish was full of taste with beautiful presentation. Excellent wine list. Prices are on the higher side, but appropriate. We will definitely return again soon. read more

See all

Since moving to Dunedin, we were told about the Black Pearl for special occasions, and made a reservation for our Anniversary. Black Pearl lived up to the hype and recommendations! Very intimate interior, and with Covid restrictions, even more so. Make reservation early! Our dinner was superb! Wine selection is fantastic and we chose well. While we both enjoyed steak, everything looked delicious and I would be hard pressed to believe you wouldn't enjoy it. Absolutely will come back and way before a special event! read more

See all

For a fancy night of great food and wine, this is the place! We go about once a year to have a wonderful meal and experience. The place has maybe 15 tables or so. They definitely can do many items gluten free, as all dishes are made to order and they'll modify if needed. Try it out!! read more

The experience here is top-notch. You have a personal waiter that is very attentive to everything (if you're napkin falls, they will pick it up and put it back. If your silverware is crooked, they will fix it.) This place is so small and you definitely have to make a reservation ahead of time. The experience and the food is unlike any other place we have been. Definitely worth booking in advance for a special occasion- you'll be treated like a queen! read more

We had a lovely dinner last night at the Black Pearl for my husband's birthday. The food was excellent and the ambiance was so romantic. It's a small intimate restaurant with exceptional service. We will definitely return! read more

See all

Amazing restaurant for a romantic dinner or important date to celebrate. It's small and cozy. Same chef, same waiters, same menu. I love their risotto. It's a high end place in Dunedin and I would get a reservation because they cook for the number of the expected guests. read more

Very unique. Menu ever-changing. 12 tables and amazing service. Reasonably priced for the special experience. Adam the sommelier was very helpful and attentive. read more

The Black Pearl - New American Near Me - Dunedin, Florida

Food and service was excellent. A great place to eat if your wanting exceptional service and food with a French flair. It was our 38th anniversary and the staff made us feel very special. read more

The Black Pearl - Lobster risotto very rich. - New American Near Me - Dunedin, Florida

See all

The appetizer and salad were great but the steak and veal were mediocre. For big prices I expect great food.

We chose the black pearl as the restaurant were we wanted to celebrate our 17th anniversary. It did not disappoint. The setting was very intimate and relaxed. Wine list was great. We had such a beautiful memorable meal. Each bite was like a work of art, so flavorful and delicious. The service was great our waiter was quite attentive and knowledgeable. The Black Pearl made our experience outstanding. read more

See all

Have you ever gone to a restaurant not knowing what to expect? Well this was appropriately named "The Black Pear". It is a rare gem in an ocean of cookie cutter food restaurants. You are greeted at the door, not by the topical " How many or How many in your group?" Rather by a well-dressed, very well spoken young man. (Mental note at 63 everyone is younger than me.) Who asks you name as well as do you have a reservation. Which is suggested/needed on special occasions. You are led to your table, sat, he places your napkin on your lap then introduces your waiter. By now you are thinking, this is great. You haven't yet had the full experience. The chef is amazing with his preparation as well as presentation. The wines can be paired for you by their Somalia. They have selections from all over the world. This is an event that must be experienced. read more

There were some truly stellar bites tonight. I mean STELLAR! The homemade bread. The hibiscus butter. The Humboldt fog amuse. The pineapple entremet! I added the foie gras supplement to my filet. It was divine. Medium rare plus just like I asked The staff was fantastic. We really enjoyed our sommelier Sean and our waiter Dan. The only disappointment was I asked to meet chef Christopher. Know there's only 12 tables. He couldn't be bothered I was told. . I've met many JB recipients and Michelin starred chefs. Triple starred even! . I'll add our tab was more than $250 a person for three ppl in this little village. He has a great wine list, but he doesn't even have a tasting menu. To be honest, he is bib gourmand material at the v least. He's making great food! But as a patron, I'm extremely disappointed that he refused twice to, come out and greet his patrons. Part of the dining experience is enjoying the connection to the person who prepared the food and wanting to sponsor their creative vision by frequenting their restaurant. He kinda told me he doesn't need my patronage. Ok then. Thanks for the one off. read more

See all

Love love love this place! Food and service exceptional! Everything was special and whole staff was superb. We tried variety, it was 6 of us and everything was tasty with impeccable presentation! read more

Definitely a diamond in the rough. Very small and quaint but worth every penny. From the steak to the appetizers to the wine. It is a michelin restaurant for a reason. read more

Service was impeccable. Ambiance, very intimate. Sommelier introduced us to amazing wine options that we both loved and then some. Apps: Pork belly app always a solid choice. Squash soup, delicious. Salads: Cesar great; House, a tad to sweet and overdressed for my liking. Entrees, filet mignon beautiful/perfect. Veal, extremely under-impressed with both flavor/presentation. Bummer for the baby cow unfortunately.. I think it died in vain. Dessert, amazing. Overall, enjoyed. I'd like to see what the chef creates in the future. read more

It is definitely different type of restaurant. It is whole experience. You get a menu and you start from appetizer to final desert. Not much skipping can be done. Plus super awesome wine served here. So if you are a wine lover , please come and try it. 36 seats. About 12 tables. So make reservation ahead. All good and drinks were fantastic. Service was overwhelming! read more

First visit and we were amazed at the overall experience. The food was off the chart! Unique entrees not found anywhere... delicious! 5-STAR!!! Stellar service and a extensive wine list. This is our new favorite Resturant in Dunedin. A must stop, small with limited tables. Call for reservations to ensure you can experience this little "pearl" of Dunedin. Bon appétit! read more

17 years later, we revisited the Black Pearl for our anniversary dinner, the place that was the start of our evening before the man of my dreams asked me to be his partner in life. You would think that a fancy 10-15 (max) restaurant wOuld recognize this celebration. Nope. In fact, our wAiteer was less tHan interactive or nice. He was funny and cordial to the table of 6 regulars (read, older, probably richer), but not us. So overall, servicE was meh. So did the food make up for it? Did the atmosphere (ceiling tile old and stained, furniture original)? On both accounts, I must say no. Lobster risotto was OK, I cOuld have pulled it off in my own kitchen. The fIsh, OK, the beef also just underwhelming. The pork belly app Waac phenomenal, not offered to us, not on the menu, thank you yelp for having such great reviews for me to inquire about. Deferred desserts as it seemed that would have annoyed our server , the night wasn't madE special, so we out... read more

The Black Pearl - New American Near Me - Dunedin, Florida

See all