Best Restaurants in Pinellas County
Bascom’s Chop House: Why Is It Ranked Among the Best Restaurants in Pinellas County?
When seeking one of those special meals — the stars aligning — you’re after somewhere that has a track record of delivering it year-on-year. Enter Bascom’s Chop House, one of the best restaurants in Pinellas County. We’ve been in business since 2002 in the Pinellas County area and are known as the local go-to. Indeed, the simple yet great reason why people come back is that we do the classics right!
From our perfectly aged steaks and fresh seafood from the coast to our cool but never snobby atmosphere, we have always been happy to call ourselves a neighborhood restaurant.
Why Is Bascom’s the Perfect Spot for a Pinellas County Power Lunch?
Bascom’s lunch is predicated on efficient, congenial dining and, above all else, deliciousness. As a result, it is the midday crossroads for corporate professionals—including neighbors at Raymond James. We are the top choice among the best restaurants in Pinellas County for those who desire a place for business or a breather during the workday.
To satisfy these midday cravings, we offer:
The Petite Filet Mignon
A steak grilled your preferred way, sized for lunch. In particular, it is soft, slender, and just right for a protein-packed block between meals.
Fresh Catch of the Day
Local seafood sourced daily. For example, at lunchtime, we are obsessed with our grilled salmon.
Classic Steakhouse Sandwiches
On the other hand, we offer heartier, filling items, including our award-winning Prime Rib Sandwich or grilled chicken breasts.
Crisp, Bright Salads
In this section, we also have our classic Chopped Salad — a mix of greens combined with your choice of any of our house dressings. Add an iced tea (unsweetened) or a nice bottle of wine, and you are good to go.
What Makes Our Evening Dining Experience Truly Relaxing?
The tone at Bascom’s obviously changes after the sun goes down. It’s warmly dark wood panelled dining rooms, immaculate white cloth table settings, and low light that all create an intimate space. Dinner is perfect for date nights, anniversaries, or simply celebrating a Friday.
What Makes Our Evening Dining Experience Truly Relaxing?
For lunch or dinner, we suggest starting your meal with one of our exclusive seafood starters. Because really, it is the beginning of any perfect me
Shrimp Cocktail
Chilled shrimp, jumbo but not so gargantuan — 12 pieces to an order; served alongside our House-made cocktail sauce, which has a little heathen bite.
Oysters Rockefeller
Fresh-baked with rich, creamy spinach/butters and gourmet cheeses.
Crab Cocktail
Finally, there is our fine sweet lump crab meat, which is accompanied by an almost tartar saucy type remoulade.
What Goes Into Our Premium Hand-Cut Steaks?
When it comes to our main courses, only eligible cattle are harvested as Certified Angus Beef® and wet-aged for a minimum of 28 days. Consequently, that gives the meat time to become meltingly tender and heavily seasoned long before they ever get on the grill.
Our selection includes:
Bone-In Ribeye
The muscle is heavily marbled, which means it should be moist inside, while the bone-in pieces keep the juices from running away.
New York Strip
On the other hand, we have this classic steakhouse specialty with a dense texture and deep-roasted beef flavor.
Filet Mignon
A super lean center-cut with melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Wagyu Ribeye
Moreover, it’s got enough marbling to nearly melt in your mouth when a special occasion calls.
Looking for Seafood, Mains, or Shareable Sides?
However, what if you are not in the mood for steak? There are other amazing replacements on the menu as well, such as our home-style seafood linguine, lobster tails, and stuffed chicken breast. Furthermore, don’t forget to try some of our larger shareable sides. In particular, the Truffle Mac & Cheese, our decadent Garlic Mashed Potatoes, or the Grilled Asparagus are perfect for the win!
What Can You Expect From Our Cocktail Program and Wine Cellar?
An awesome recipe deserves some awesomeness in the glass beside it. To achieve this, the remainder of our drink menu is a collection of tried and true items we have had over the years, along with some new renditions.
Cucumber Collins
Fresh botanicals in a gin cocktail are never wrong to take on a hot Florida night.
Smoked Old Fashioned
Meanwhile, this is a strong, darkly colored drink that enhances the smoky undertones and mysteries of premium bourbon.
Basil Lemon Martini
Tart, herbal, and wonderfully balanced—making it just right for our seafood starters.
Custom Creation
Alternatively, our bartenders are pleased to whip up something fruity or bubbly—whatever you’re feeling.
How Do We Curate Our Wine Selection?
We have curated one of the most balanced wine lists you will find in our area so you can find that perfect bottle for your night out.
- Collector’s Bottles: For the grandest occasions, we have access to limited production and high-end labels, such as the ZD Abacus Cabernet Sauvignon blend released in a solera style.
- Friendly Luxury: At the same time, you do not need to spend top dollar for a perfect bottle; hence, we maintain an enormous range of clean wines around $40–$60.
- ASK US: Need help pairing with a 28-day-aged ribeye? Simply ask your server or bartender, and they will happily guide you in the right direction.
What Does Hospitality Done Right Actually Look Like?
Of course, it doesn’t only stop at great cuisine to tell your story. Rather, that same care is what gives Bascom’s a homey feel in the end. The minute you walk through our doors, we aim to meet your needs before you even have to ask. Ultimately, it is the little details that count. For example, we will coordinate your napkin with your black outfit, refill your tea between the seconds you speak, and silently box up your leftovers.
Can We Host Your Private Events and Celebrations?
In addition to daily dining, we host exec dinners, family reunions, or even a festive office event. Our private dining rooms and banquet halls are fully equipped with plenty of room; thus, it easily handles boardroom presentations and milestone birthdays alike.
Ready to Reserve Your Table?
In conclusion, this is where mature steaks are prepared to perfection. Fresh local fish is served up with a staff that actually cares about your experience, which can leave you amazed! Find out why Bascom’s Chop House has been the community favorite for over 20 years. To dine at the top of the best restaurants in Pinellas County, simply check out our website or just pick up the phone to book a lunch or dinner table today.
Questions? Inquire Today
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the dress code?
A: We call it, you could say, Florida Casual or, if you prefer, Upscale Casual. Essentially, we just ask that guests dress smart themselves—long-sleeved shirts for men, for example—and please do not bare too much skin or wear any vulgar apparel. Consequently, most of our guests are in collared shirts, slacks, or cocktail dresses.
Q: Is there valet parking?
A: Definitely—free valet will meet you at the curb. However, if you want to drive (and park) your own car, there’s a huge free self-parking lot on-site as well. Either way, it’s really easy to get around in.
Q: Do you cater to food allergies or dietary restrictions?
A: Absolutely. We often make requests for gluten-free, vegetarian, or allergy-specific diners. Therefore, your meal is safe with us — our kitchen has a lot of experience modifying dishes because we do our own butchery and prep everything in-house.
Q: What are your hours?
A: We serve:
- Lunch: Monday through Friday, 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
- Dinner: Monday–Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM; Friday from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM; Saturday from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM; and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.