Our family loves seafood, and we occasionally grill some local fish or even sauté some shrimp in the galley. Admittedly we prefer to go to a restaurant and let someone else prepare the fresh seafood. Anna Maria Island is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood if you are a local or on vacation.
When selecting seafood at a restaurant, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Freshness: Look for a place that offers fresh seafood recently caught.
2. Seasonality: Consider the seasonality of the seafood you are ordering. Ordering seafood that is in season can ensure that it is at its peak flavor and texture.
3. Preparation: Consider how you would like your seafood prepared. Do you want it grilled, fried, or baked? Do you want it served with a sauce or seasoning?
4. Sustainability: Consider choosing seafood that is sustainably sourced. This means that it has been caught or farmed in a way that minimizes harm to the environment and ensures the long-term viability of the species.
Some popular seafood options on Anna Maria Island include grouper, snapper, shrimp, scallops, and oysters. Ask your server for their recommendations or specials of the day to try something new and fresh. And don't forget to enjoy the beautiful scenery while you dine!
The Waterfront Restaurant - 111 South Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
- Features a beautiful waterfront location with views of Tampa Bay.
- Serves fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, and scallops, as well as steak and vegetarian options.
- Offers an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Sandbar Restaurant - 100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
- Located right on the beach, offering gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Serves fresh seafood dishes, including fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster.
- Features a casual, beachy atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Beach Bistro - 6600 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
- Offers a fine dining experience focusing on fresh seafood and local ingredients.
- Menu changes frequently based on the seasonal availability of ingredients.
- Features an extensive wine list and a romantic beachfront setting. The sunsets from this setting are unreal!
Rod & Reel Pier Restaurant - 875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
- Offers casual seafood dining on the historic Rod & Reel Pier.
- Serves fresh seafood, including fish, crab, shrimp, and oysters.
- Features a laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
The Ugly Grouper - 5704 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
- Offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating and live music. (great kid-friendly vibe with live music)
- Serves various seafood dishes, including fish, shrimp, and crab, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
- Features a full bar and fun, beachy vibe.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar - 200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
- Offers a casual seafood dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating. Beautiful setting at the end of the pier.
- Serves fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, crab, and fish.
- Features a full bar and happy hour specials.
Blue Marlin Grill - 121 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
- Offers a casual dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Serves fresh seafood dishes, including fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster.
- Features a full bar and live music on weekends.
Now on to our two favorites which get a bit more description:
The Beach House at Bradenton Beach is a waterfront restaurant on Anna Maria Island, Florida. It is known for its stunning ocean views and its delicious seafood dishes.
You are greeted by a charming and welcoming atmosphere as you enter the restaurant. The décor is beachy and nautical-themed, with light colors and ocean-inspired accents. The dining room features large windows that offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, and the outdoor patio provides an even closer look at the beach and water.
The Beach House specializes in fresh seafood, with a menu that changes seasonally to reflect the availability of the freshest ingredients. The restaurant has an organic farm in nearby Parrish, Florida, called Gamble Creek Farms, enabling the chef to create genuinely farm-to-fork dishes. Some signature dishes include lobster & crab Napoleon, fish and chips, and a Grouper sandwich. For those who prefer meat, steak, and burger options are available. Additionally, the restaurant offers an extensive list of cocktails, beers, and wines to complement the meal.
This is also an excellent choice for weekend brunch or lunch. If you have a wedding or event, the beachside setting will make an excellent backdrop for your event. 200 Gulf Dr. N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
This last one is not on Anna Maria Island, but it is close!
Shore at Longboat Key is a well-known waterfront restaurant in the beautiful area of Longboat Key, Florida. The restaurant offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding islands, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience.
The restaurant has a casual yet elegant atmosphere with a beautiful indoor dining room and an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. The mid-century modern vibes of the building and the décor are sleek yet welcoming.
The menu at Shore at Longboat Key is diverse and features a range of dishes. The restaurant's menu is focused on fresh seafood, and plenty of options are available, including the shrimp ceviche and guacamole, the crab cakes, and the miso marinated black grouper. However, the menu also includes a variety of other dishes, such as steak, chicken, and salad options, making it easy to find something that suits your taste.
One of the standout features of Shore at Longboat Key is their attention to detail when preparing their dishes. The chefs use only the freshest ingredients; each dish is perfectly prepared. Whether you order a seafood dish or a steak, you can be sure it will be cooked to your liking and bursting with flavor.
Overall, dining at Shore at Longboat Key is a delightful experience. From the beautiful setting and friendly staff to the delicious food and excellent wine selection, it's a restaurant sure to impress.
Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, Shore at Longboat Key is worth visiting. 800 Broadway St, Longboat Key, FL 34228
Click the links for more dining and information about Longboat Key or neighboring Anna Maria Island. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter straight to your inbox once a month.
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