Chef Christopher Artrip of The Black Pearl in Dunedin, Florida, was recognized as “Best Overall Chef 2025” by Creative Loafing, adding to the restaurant’s accolades for the year.
The Black Pearl, located at 315 Main St. In Dunedin, also received Creative Loafing awards for “Best Waitstaff,” “Best French Restaurant,” “Best All Around Restaurant,” and “Best Date Night Restaurant” in 2025. The restaurant, which currently holds a 4.3 rating on TripAdvisor with 311 reviews, has been a culinary fixture in Pinellas County since 1996.
Originally a barbershop in 1905 and later the mayor’s office, the building was transformed into a restaurant in 1946. Today, The Black Pearl features a dining room with only 12 tables, described as offering an “intimate” experience with “outstanding” service and food. The restaurant is known for its Black Pearl salad and lobster risotto, according to OpenTable reviews.
Artrip, also named “Best Chef, Critics Pick 2019” by Creative Loafing, leads a kitchen team that includes Sous Chef Ian Gow. The restaurant is currently offering an eight-course prix fixe dinner in celebration of Valentine’s Day, priced at $135 per person, from February 6th through February 19th. Wine pairings are available at an additional cost, with prices subject to change.
A Facebook post from October 20, 2025, highlighted Artrip’s ability to deliver “an unforgettable fine-dining experience that balances creativity, precision, and bold coastal flavor.”
