Eatery in popular tourist destination reopens after sale, renovations

MADEIRA BEACH — Following renovations undertaken by its new owner, Sculley’s Waterfront Restaurant, a staple of John’s Pass in Madeira Beach, has reopened.

The restaurant was acquired by Sun Pubs, which also owns Caddy’s, a chain of waterfront bars and restaurants in the Gulf beach communities of Pinellas County, as well as one location in Bradenton. According to a news release, the company also plans to convert an adjoining property, known as The Hut, into a Caddy’s branded location.

“Sculley’s is a well-known restaurant on the famous John’s Pass Boardwalk, and it’s a major part of John’s Pass,” Sun Pubs Executive Director David Culhane states in the release. “John’s Pass is a true destination for tourists, and we know the popularity of the area is just going to grow. It was an opportunity we couldn't turn down.”

The improvements at Sculley’s include a new deck area, new flooring and seating and a revamped bar area, the release states. Sun Pubs coordinated with a wildlife specialist to make sure features such as outdoor lighting and windows are friendly to nearby birds and sea creatures. In addition, executive chef Joe Walsh has updated the menu with new dishes while continuing to emphasize seafood dishes that feature locally caught fish.

“Sculley’s has been a local staple for many years, and we are eager to have the opportunity to reinvigorate and uplift the brand,” Sun Pubs Director of Operations Randy Esponda states in the release. “We will be offering scratch-made cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails to create a new guest experience in John’s Pass, proudly being the only restaurant on the boardwalk to serve custom seafood boils.”