Anna Maria Island is a small seven-mile stretch of land located just off the Gulf coast of Florida. This island is somewhat of a hidden gem, attracting some visitors from around the area but still relatively unknown on a national or global scale. Anna Maria Island has maintained the “Old Florida” feel that many other vacation destinations in the Sunshine State have abandoned. This destination is perfect for individuals, couples, or families who want to escape their busy lives and relax.
One of the best things about any vacation is getting to try the local cuisine. It’s always fun to get delivery or takeout, but why not go sit down at a favorite local eatery? When you take advantage of outdoor dining on Anna Maria Island, you do not only get the best local food, but you also get some fantastic views of the water!
There are tons of Anna Maria Island restaurants near our vacation rentals, but here are a few of our favorite spots for dining outside.
Dining on Anna Maria Island
One thing to keep in mind about Anna Maria Island dining: the sky is the limit. Although the island is small, they have just about any food you could ask for, whether you’re in the mood for seafood, Italian, Mexican, classic American, BBQ, or anything in between. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here on Anna Maria Island, it’s easy to add to nearby destinations like Cortez or Sarasota to satisfy your cravings.
Places to Go
Anna Maria Island is divided into three distinct towns: the city of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Luckily, there are amazing options for Anna Maria Island outdoor dining, no matter which city you prefer!
The Waterfront
The Waterfront Restaurant labels itself as Anna Maria Island’s premier waterfront dining experience, and we would be hard-pressed to disagree with them! This restaurant is ideally situated right on the Gulf Coast shores, giving you a breathtaking view while you dine. Everything on the menu is prepared with the freshest local ingredients, and menu items may change seasonally to take advantage of the best ingredients at any given time.
The menu here utilizes the best local seafood to make delectable dishes like the scallops and pork belly fried rice or the fresh catch entrée, but if you’re not in the mood for seafood, they have land and vegetarian options as well. Lately, guests have enjoyed options like the pork tenderloin, pasta primavera, and Braveheart prime New York strip.
The Waterfront is located at 111 South Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria. They are open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Bridge Tender
Since 1989, the Bridge Tender Inn Dockside Bar & Grille has served up delicious meals to locals and visitors alike. This eatery offers a casual atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing with your family after a long day of sightseeing. But don’t let the word “casual” fool you; the menu here is anything but! You won’t find subpar dishes here, but instead, you’ll be treated to delicious, flavor-loaded meals that are freshly prepared and carefully crafted. Combine the incredible dishes with the unique cocktails and welcoming atmosphere, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination!
Start your meal with a classic appetizer like fried oysters or onion rings, then move on to a burger, sandwich, or fish tacos. Entree options offer a little bit of everything, from linguine pasta to roast duck to chicken schnitzel, Gulf grouper, and more. Don’t forget to grab a slice of Key Lime Pie or a scoop of Tyler’s ice cream for dessert! You can enjoy all of this and more while laughing with your family and friends, watching the game on one of the 18 TVs, or simply enjoying your view of the water.
The Bridge Tender Inn is located at 135 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. They are open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 12 midnight.
Plan Your Next Visit
All of the best Anna Maria Island outdoor dining can be found just moments away from our AMI rentals. To start planning your stay, contact us today!
Beach Bistro
Beach Bistro is considered one of the most romantic restaurants on Anna Maria Island, perfect for taking your sweetheart out on a date. This beachside eatery combines a luxurious atmosphere with indulgent food and picturesque background of the ocean to complete your meal. The wait staff effort to make sure that your dinner is an unforgettable experience! Be sure to start your meal by asking them for a wine selection.
Every dish on the menu here is prepared with the utmost care. If you’re in the mood for seafood, try options like the shrimp and lobster cocktail, bourbon and maple grilled shrimp, or scallop pan roast. They also offer decadent land options like the Maple Leaf Farms duckling leg confit, American Ranchlands domestic lamb, and Chef Clay’s Bistro Pate. Finish off with a dessert like the Praline Alexandra or the Chocolate Truffle Terrine.
Beach Bistro is located at 6600 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. They are open each evening from 5 to 10 p.m.
Swordfish
If you head over to the nearby village of Cortez, you can take advantage of delicious oceanside dining at Swordfish Grill. This laid-back eatery has become a favorite of both locals and visitors alike, and as soon as you step through the doors, you’ll understand why. They maintain a fun and casual atmosphere with live music every night and welcoming staff who is happy to recommend their favorite dish. Best of all, their seafood is caught right nearby and is delivered fresh every single day.
On the menu, you can start with mouthwatering seafood appetizers like the calamari, Florida crab cake, or New England clam chowder. Move on to a selection from the oyster bar or a hot entree like the bacon-wrapped scallops, shrimp scampi, lobster mac, and cheese, or Chef’s choice steak. Finish it all off with a dessert selection like peanut butter pie or Key Lime Pie. No matter what you pick, you can’t go wrong!
Swordfish Grill is located at 4628 119th Street West in Cortez. They are open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Tide Tables
Also located in Cortez, you’ll find Tide Tables Restaurant and Marina. This eatery takes pride in putting family first, meaning that you’re going to see a family-friendly atmosphere and will be greeted with a smile the second you walk through the door. On top of the fantastic views of the water, you’ll also be rewarded with delicious fresh food and refreshing drinks that are sure to satisfy you!
The chefs at Tide Tables only use the freshest ingredients to prepare every single selection on the menu. Start with a Caesar salad or a delicious soup like the chicken and Andouille sausage gumbo before diving into entrée options like the fresh Mahi Mahi, Mojo Chicken, fish tacos, and more. Daily Captain’s Special Market selections change every day, so be sure to ask!
Tide Tables is located at 12507 Cortez Road West. They are open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
