Looking for the best Anna Maria Island restaurants?
If you are traveling to Anna Maria Island soon and looking for some great places to eat then you’re in luck! Filled with some of the most fantastic restaurants in Florida you will never leave this island hungry. A short drive south of Tampa lies Anna Maria Island connected to the mainland by the Cortez bridge and the Anna Maria Island bridge.
The island has one main road through the center of it Gulf Drive, where you can find most of the best spots to eat. Additionally Bridge Street is home to several other wonderful restaurants to try.
Anna Maria Island may be very tiny but it is filled with beautiful beach views and an adorable laidback beach community, with a population of less than 1,200 you won’t find any long lines here. This beautiful island destination holds a rich cultural past and some of the best seafood in all of Florida. When you get there we highly suggest you try out our 14 Best Restaurants in Anna Maria Island for 2022! The best places to eat on Anna Maria Island here:
14 Best Restaurants in Anna Maria Island You Must Try
1. Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
Why?: This adorable beach cafe is literally on the water. Designed with a tiki bar theme and souvenir cups you can take on the beach this place is an absolute most try destination on your trip to Anna Maria Island. Want to sit on the sand and enjoy tacos or bottomless pancakes? This is your spot. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and their casual vibe and fun food will surely make for a magical afternoon.
Where?: 4000 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217, Centrally located on the main highway running down the island.
What?: When you’re at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe you absolutely must try the fish tacos! Really good cocktails as well and very reasonable prices but the fish tacos are the winner here. Excellent breakfast and brunch options. If you’re there for lunch or dinner try it is highly recommended that you try the fish and chips platter.
Lastly, you must try the all you can eat pancakes, what more do you need than pancakes and an ocean view? This fun casual menu and beautiful on the beach location make Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe an enjoyable and delicious destination while visiting Anna Maria Island.
2. Waterfront Restaurant
Why?: For an upscale seafood experience the Waterfront Restaurant on the Anna Maria Island is an exciting treat for a discerning palette.
The Waterfront provides a relaxing tropical atmosphere with a sophisticated yet inviting feel. Beautifully plated seafood dishes showcasing the local fishing and fabulous steaks with a thoughtful wine and beer menu. They even provide an option to cook your catch from the day as your entree. This unique gem of Anna Maria Island is a stop you definitely won’t regret.
Where?: 111 S Bay Blvd Anna Maria, FL 34216
What?: The menu at the Waterfront Restaurant is literally exploding with amazing seafood dishes that are to die for. Make sure you try their lobster bisque, the Keywest crabcakes, and the Grouper Tacos.
If you are looking for less surf and more turf try the Apricot Glazed Pork or the Filet Madagascar, their 8 oz center cut filet mignon. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail be sure to try their Smoked Margarita on the rocks.
You really can’t go wrong at the Waterfront regardless of what you order but if you are in the area and want an excellent meal on the beach with some great cocktails then you should definitely make your way to the Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria Island.
See more: Labelle Florida things to do
3. Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
Why?: If you’re heading to Anna Maria Island and want some of the freshest food around then you may want to head to Beach House Waterfront Restaurant. With a strong emphasis on locally sourced and farm to table ingredients this is a culinary option sure to stand out among the rest.
Beautiful views and outdoor seating, excellent drink menu and a carefully curated menu of local flavors. The Beach House Restaurant is only open for lunch and dinner but offers something for everyone even offering great vegan options and a kids menu. Come relax on their beautiful outdoor patio and enjoy a truly delicious meal.
Where?: 200 Gulf Dr N Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
What?: Some of the best options to enjoy when visiting the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant include their fish tacos, oysters, calamari, oysters rockefeller, clam chowder, coconut shrimp tropical salad and their short rib tacos.
A very fun menu especially when sharing with friends. If you are on the hungrier side be sure to try their seafood gumbo. Don’t forget to try their Beach Castle on the dessert menu for their house-made brownie covered in vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. A truly refreshing restaurant where you can literally taste the freshness in every bite, nobody will regret a stop at the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant.
4. Bamboo Island Bar
Why?: If your on the Anna Maria Island and you want to try some truly unique and gourmet foods in a relaxing lounge space then head to the Bamboo Island Bar. This is not your typical beach front restaurant, the Bamboo Island bar prides itself on its different and exciting menu of flavors, with dishes inspired by areas all around the world.
This is the kind of restaurant where you should absolutely bring friends and order as many different items as you can to share. Enjoy food platings so beautiful you may find yourself taking photos at this exciting tropical treat.
Where?: 119 Bridge St Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
What?: The menu at the Bamboo Island Bar is made up of a number of fun shareable dishes with wildly different inspirations but that each brings its own unique profile of flavors to the menu. Some of the most popular dishes include the Machu Picchu, the Anna Maria, their Ipanema, the Acapulco Shrimp, Rio sirloin and their thin crust pizzas.
Be sure to try the blueberry mojito for a unique and refreshing drink. Lastly, be sure to finish your meal with a chocolate lava cake. For a very unique departure from many of the more traditional seafood restaurants in the area to something much more contemporary and fusion then you should absolutely try the Bamboo Island Barr on the Anna Maria Island.
5. Rod & Reel Pier
Why?: Literally on the pier on Anna Maria Island you can find the Rod & Reel Pier open breakfast, lunch and dinner. This rustic restaurant on the pier is an inexpensive and fun place to go get some local favorites and plenty of fresh fish.
Literally at the end of the pier this place provides wide open ocean views and wildlife all around. A popular place to see dolphins and for the locals to go fishing. A wonderful dining option for the family, this casual hole in the wall is literally oozing oceanside charm.
Their breakfast menu offers all the family favorites you would find in your own local diner while their lunch and dinner menu is stacked with local seafood options that are ready to eat there or take to go.
Where?: 875 N Shore Dr Anna Maria, FL 34216
What?: When your at this local favorite hole in the wall you may want to try some of the favorites on their menu, these include the New England Clam Chowder, Grouper Sandwich, the Grouper Reuben, Shrimp or Oyster Po’ Boy sandwiches, the Mexican Grouper, Crabcake Sandwich, and their half pound Pier Burger.
You won’t leave here hungry and the friendly folks who work here are sure to put a big smile on your face. If you want an affordable and fun local meal with beautiful views then look no further than the Rod & Reel Pier.
6. The Porch Restaurant
Why?: This dining option is truly unique from the bunch, built inside a converted home next to the water, this small but beautiful tropical getaway is a meal you won’t forget.
If you want something more romantic, unique and upscale then you may want to make yourself a reservation at the beautiful Porch Restaurant. The menu at this unique restaurant is as unique as the building it is housed in with beautiful seasonal salads and brightly colored platings the Porch Restaurant definitely will not disappoint.
Where?: 9707 Gulf Dr Anna Maria, FL 34216
What?: Their small dinner and lunch menu changes seasonally but rest assured you can never go wrong with the Fresh Catch Entree. Some of the favorites include the Harvest Salad, calamari and brussel sprouts. Lamb Chops, Black Grouper, Tamari Maple Glazed Salmon, Mahi Mahi, the 8oz Filet mignon, and the shaved lamb appetizer.
Additionally, there are plenty of gluten free options. The Porch Restaurant is an absolutely wonderful place to bring your date to Anna Maria Island and enjoy a beautiful fresh meal with a beautiful view.
7. Sandbar Seafood & Spirits
Why?: This very popular beachfront restaurant is an absolute must try when visiting Anna Maria Island. The Sandbar Seafood & Spirits has been around since 1979 and provides both amazing local seafood and beautiful views of the ocean.
This very romantic restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers a full bar. Lots of traditional local menu items and a few items with their own unique flare on them like the stuffed shrimp. Additionally vegan options are available. No reservations needed to come enjoy this delightful beachside treat.
Where?: 100 Spring Ave Anna Maria, FL 34216
What?: The Sandbar Seafood & Spirits has a menu filled with absolutely delicious options that are paired perfectly with the ocean views. Some of the menu highlights include their Smoked Fish Dip, Aguachile Ceviche, Crabcakes, Fish tacos, Stuffed Shrimp, Grouper Sandwich, Coconut Shrimp, Grouper tacos, Fried shrimp, Grilled Octopus, Stuffed Grouper, Grits, Cornbread and Hushpuppies.
Beautifully prepared fish, beautiful romantic views, and if you time it well a beautiful sunset. Don’t forget to make time for the Sandbar Seafood & Spirits on your next trip to Anna Maria Island.
8. Beach Bistro
Why?: If you are heading down to Anna Maria Island and want to take your culinary adventure to the next step then it is very highly recommended that you make your way to the Beach Bistro established in 1985. This Zagat rated foodie favorite offers some amazing fine dining options with a wine list recognized by Wine Spectator as one of the best in the world.
The Beach Bistro is simply an elevated experience in dining that stands out from most of Anna Maria Island in a unique and spectacular way. This will be by far one the best meals you’ve had in years while surrounded by beautiful ocean views.
Where?: 6600 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217
What?: The Beach Bistro’s menu is an absolutely exquisite culinary adventure with many favorites includes foie gras, lobstercargot, Escargot, Grouper Cooper, Short Ribs, Lamb Chops, Butter poached lobster, Prime Beef Tenderloin, Seafood Bouillabaisse, Sea Bass, Duck Breast and so many other amazing dishes.
Their expertly trained service staff is more than capable of helping pick the perfect wine pairing for your dish. This is surely a meal you will not forget. Without a doubt one of the best culinary treats on the island is the famous Beach Bistro.
9. Freckled Fin Irish Pub
Why?: If you’re on Anna Maria Island and want to try something completely different than most of the seafood themed restaurants then look no further than the Freckled Fin Irish Pub. A fun traditional Irish Pub where you can get a pint of Guinness and corned beef & cabbage.
This is a fun place to go with friends especially at night on the weekends when they have live music. A very casual atmosphere and a ton of fun the Freckled Fin Irish Pub is truly different from anything else on Anna Maria Island.
Where?: 5337 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217
What?: This fun Irish pub themed menu is filled with unique and clever concoctions that are as fun to eat as they are to share.
Where else can you order a literal pint of bacon with 7 strips of bacon served in a pint glass? Some of the menu highlights include their Poutine Fries topped with Guinness gravy, their pretzel bites, the Sheperd’s Totties, Corned Beef & Cabbage, Lingonberry Turkey Croissant, Fish & Chips, and their Irish Dip. The menu is almost as much fun as the atmosphere so be sure to come by and grab a pint and relax at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub on Anna Maria Island.
10. Ugly Grouper
Why?: Looking for fun tropical drinks and delicious tropical food? Well then you’re in luck because the Ugly Grouper is the fun, casual, beach party themed restaurant you’ve been looking for on Anna Maria Island. This place is an absolute blast for you and the whole family.
Featuring their famous Giant Grouper statue and filled with family games, big screen tvs, live music every day, and a full tropical themed bar. Very reasonably priced and definitely family fun approved, the Ugly Grouper will definitely be a hit on your trip to Anna Maria Island.
Where?: 5704 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217
What?: The menu at the Ugly Grouper features tons of their house special Ugly dishes as well as a ton of grouper options. Some of the menu highlights include the Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Coconut Shrimp, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktails, Grouper Kabobs, Little Ugly Clams, Ugly Grouper Burger, Mahi Sandwich, Ugly Jambalya, Fish & Chips, Grouper Sandwich, Grouper Nuggets, and a Grouper Ruben.
From their drink menu you can expect lots of big fruity tropical drinks such as their Dragonberry Lemonade, Pineapple Mana-Rita and Mermaid Mojito. Fun food, fun drinks, fun music and fun times at the Ugly Grouper on Anna Maria Island.
11. Anna Maria Oyster Bar
Why?: There are a lot of places to get oysters on Anna Maria Island but if you really love oysters then look no further than the Anna Maria Oyster Bar. Opened in 1997 this local restaurant offers two full service bars, outdoor decks, indoor dining, cornhole gaming, live music and a lounge space.
Hands down some of the best oysters in all of Anna Maria Island, definitely do yourself a favor and check out the Anna Maria Oyster Bar. This place is filled with seafood and fun for the family.
Where?: 6906 14th St W Bradenton, FL 34207
What?: When you are at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on Anna Maria Island some of the highlights of the menu include their Lobster Bisque, Fish & Chips, Raw Oysters, Tequila Lime Oysters, Grandma Georgie’s Chipotle Oysters, Fried Oysters, Gator, Catfish, Lobster Tails.
Peel & Eat Shrimp, Poke bowls, Pastas, Burgers, and beautifully prepared fresh fish. It’s a great spot to go with friends or family and split some oysters, have some beers and relax. Nobody does oysters the way they do at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on Anna Maria Island.
12. Hurricane Hanks
Why?: Hurricane Hanks is one of the favorite places for the Anna Maria Island locals and you will not regret checking it out for yourself. This fun, friendly and casual island hole in the wall is as delicious as it is adorable. Their menu ranges from casual classics such as fish and chips to their more unique menu items like their bacon wrapped scallops.
For a casual laid back meal without some of the glitz of the more touristy destinations come down to Hurricane Hanks.
Where?: 5346 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217
What?: The casual menu at Hurricane Hanks is filled with fun and delicious treats such as their Island Crab Cakes, Hurricane Wings, Ahi Tuna Stacker, Peel & Eat Shrimp, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Big Texas Roadhouse Burger, Corned Beef Brisket, the Mojo Chicken sandwich, the Ybor Cuban sandwich, The Gulf Grouper sandwich, and their variety of beer battered baskets featuring shrimp and fish.
One of the best hole in the wall local restaurants in all of Anna Maria Island, don’t forget to make time to check out Hurricane Hanks.
13. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
Why?: The Dry Dock Waterfront Grill boasts an elegant menu, a beautiful location on the water, and an amazing staff the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a meal you wont soon forget.
Be sure to try their famous lobster rolls, not that you could go wrong with anything on the menu. This upscale eatery is in a very unique part of the island with table views of the ocean you can never get enough of. One of the better kept secrets of Anna Maria Island is the fabulous Dry Dock Waterfront Grill.
Where?: 412 Gulf Of Mexico Dr Longboat Key, FL 34228; On the South end of the island
What?: The menu at the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill offers an absolutely delectable assortment of dining options, some of the menu highlights include their Lobster Rolls, Lobster Bisque, Lobster Bites, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Prince Edward Islands Mussels, Raw Oysters, Oysters Rockefeller, Linguine Pasta with your choice of fish, locally caught Florida Grouper, Red Snapper, Chilean Sea Bass, Bourbon Glazed Salmon, Sea Scallops, Crab Cakes, Maine Lobster Tails, Filet Mignon, and Ribeye Steak.
For a very high end and delicious meal with beautiful indoor views of the water be sure to make a reservation for the Drydock Waterfront Grill.
14. Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant
Why?: A unique 90 year old cottage on Bradenton Beach on the Anna Maria Island is home to this amazing restaurant, reservations are a must if you want to experience this romantic and unique adventure. The Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant offers live music on the weekends, fun and delicious locally caught fresh seafood in a very quaint and intimate atmosphere.
Dining at the Blue Marlin feels like dining at a friend’s house on the beach, an experience unlike any other with some of the freshest fish you have ever had – surely the highlight of any trip to Anna Maria Island.
Where?: 121 Bridge St Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
What?: The Blue Marlin’s menu focuses on freshly prepared seafood in both traditional and unique ways. The big highlights of their menu include the Steamed Clams, Thai Nugs made from the fish of the day, Seared Scallops, Lobster Bisque, New England Clam Chowder, GLT Grouper Sandwich, Lobster Grilled Cheese, Fish Tacos, Burgers, locally caught Grouper prepared different ways, and a variety of other locally caught fresh fish.
If you want some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever had while being treated to a intimate meal inside a beautiful historic cottage then look no further than the Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant on Anna Maria Island.
