Whereas some of the other restaurants on Shoal Line Blvd feels like home for the locals, Upper Deck has is the most “tourist-y” restaurant in Hernando Beach. This is probably due to the fact that is is located right next to Weeki Wachee’s kayak rental place.

The restaurant is casual and relaxed, but still classy enough that you feel like you’re somewhere special. As for the food—well, let’s just say that it’s phenomenal.

My personal favorite is their gator bites: fried alligator served with a tangy sauce that will have your taste buds singing “hallelujah.” They also have some amazing burgers on their menu (Brian’s favorite is their patty melt), as well as sandwiches, salads—you name it! Everything tastes amazing and feels like home-cooked goodness. This is the wedge salad we recently got – it’s a little piece of heaven.

The view of the water is amazing— you are literally sitting on the Weeki Wachee River so lots of kayakers to watch if you like to people watch, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a manatee while having your meal!

It’s hard not to feel like this place is one of those places where everyone knows your name and they’re happy when you come in the door. Everyone there was so friendly!

We absolutely love this place we go here pretty frequently when we’re in town.

Hidden Bar Downstairs

Only the locals know this usually – but Upper Deck has a downstairs outdoor bar area, as well as the upstairs main restaurant. Walk right through the stairs (don’t go on them) to access the downstairs bar. They have a full menu here, and there are some tables right on the water – gives you a better view of the manatee if it swims by!

Our Recommendation

For seating, we always ask to sit by the railing outside if possible.

As for food, if you’ve never had gator meat before, this would be a great place to try it! For apps try their clams if you like shellfish, or share a wedge salad if you’re feeling less adventurous.

Nobody has a better patty melt than Upper Deck – literally a 1/2 pound angus ground beef with grilled onions and melted cheese with choice of bread (go with the rye!)

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