Following the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, several Tampa Bay area restaurants, including Caddy’s, Capogna’s, Frenchy’s, and Rod & Reel Pier, face ongoing closures due to extensive storm damage.
The back-to-back hurricanes hit the region with severe flooding, high winds, heavy rain, and power outages, significantly affecting local businesses and residents. While many restaurants and bars have resumed operations, others remain closed due to critical repairs or face indefinite closures as restoration efforts continue. So, here’s a look at restaurants affected by the storms:
Caddy’s Bradenton Riverwalk
Hurricane Milton inflicted severe damage to the Caddy’s location on the Bradenton Riverwalk, including the destruction of the tiki hut at one of its bars. This location is now permanently closed, as noted on the company’s website. Caddy’s other four locations in Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, John’s Pass, and Indian Shores are temporarily closed.
Capogna’s Dugout
The Clearwater institution, open for more than 50 years, announced its permanent closure after Hurricanes Milton and Helene. “After 52 years of serving our Clearwater community, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors,” the owners shared in a Facebook post, citing the hurricanes’ toll and economic challenges as reasons for closure.
Cena
A staple in downtown Tampa for over a decade, Cena recently closed its doors. The restaurant experienced closures during and after the hurricanes, and a decline in sales following flooding on nearby Davis Islands. The departure of chef and partner Michael Buttacavoli added to the challenges, partner Ken Stoltenberg told the Tampa Bay Times.
Frenchy’s
Most Frenchy’s locations in northern Pinellas County are temporarily closed for recovery. Only the Frenchy’s Outpost Bar & Grill on Causeway Boulevard in Dunedin remains open to serve customers.
Lido Beach Pavilion
The Lido Beach Pavilion and its concession stand remain closed to the public, as restoration efforts are underway following the storms.
Rod & Reel Pier
This beloved Anna Maria seafood spot was entirely destroyed by Hurricane Milton. In the storm’s aftermath, only a few pilings and boards were left standing. Owner Oliver Lemke, a German-based restaurateur, hopes to rebuild and has launched a GoFundMe campaign with a $300,000 goal to restore the pier. “We will do everything within our means to rebuild, but there are many challenges ahead,” he shared with the Anna Maria Island Sun.
Vela
Vela, an Italian restaurant in Tampa’s Westshore Marina, announced its closure after Hurricane Milton. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closing of Vela. The combination of recent hurricane damage and other challenges has made it impossible to continue serving you,” the owners posted on Facebook.
As Tampa Bay rebuilds, many affected restaurants are working hard to restore their operations, though some may not return.
(Image credit: Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill)






Leave a comment