Andre Lewis plays with Eric Darius.

It’s a Friday night and the Lobster Pot Bistro on north Clearwater Beach is getting its groove on.

In the martini lounge Andre is tickling the ivories. He starts off nice and easy, but as the regulars drop in he knows what they like and the big smile flashes, the rhythm machine heats up, and an instant dance floor emerges. Head bartender David whips up a few more blueberry martinis as the conversation goes from the latest Rays game to the stock market.

In the adjoining dining room, the ambience is casual bistro sophistication. Vignette tables along the walls are separated by sheer curtains to offer privacy, while large storefront windows offer great people watching along busy Mandalay Boulevard. Lobster Pot Bistro owner Fran Bartlett opened the Clearwater Beach location in October in the Shoppes of Sandpearl as a sister to the popular Lobster Pot restaurant in Redington Shores. She brought in interior designer Suzan Decker Ross to create a sophisticated ambiance.

“I wanted to create an upscale yet relaxing atmosphere that would reflect the beach and attract locals both for the fine dining and the music,” Bartlett explains. “And I wanted to give local musicians a place to perform. I have a musical background so it was important for me to bring in the best jazz performers around.”

Live jazz is offered Wednesday through Sunday, and each night brings in top-notch entertainers: veteran musician Ron Rhinehardt Sr. performs on Wednesdays, Mike MacArthur and Dani team up on Thursdays, Andre Lewis plays piano on Fridays and Saturdays, and on Sundays Peggy Morris and Kevin Wilder team up on sax and piano.

Many of the same excellent dishes served at the Lobster Pot Restaurant from seafood to steak and pasta are featured on the Bistro menu, says Bartlett, with a few specialties added.  Executive Chef Steve Callander, who oversees both kitchens, has added a Lobster Mac & Cheese which has become a house favorite. (“It’s not your kid’s mac & cheese,” quips Bartlett. “It’s addictive!”)

Chef Callander and the Lobster Pot have won many awards, including Best Appetizer in last year’s Clearwater Beach Restaurant Week and more recently winner of the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Challenge. The Bistro will be one of nearly 40 restaurants participating in this year’s Clearwater Beach Restaurant Week May 13-15, with event chair Fran Bartlett at the helm.

Since opening, Lobster Pot Bistro has become a favorite of locals – a place to enjoy intimate fine dining, special occasions, or hang out in the lounge and enjoy late-night jazz. Martini lovers will appreciate the  martini menu, with a different special each night. And, don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity or two. Musicians who perform nearby have been known to drop by for a late night jam session, especially during festivals such as Clearwater Jazz Holiday.