Anna Maria Island is a spectacular slice of paradise just off the Sarasota, Florida coast. This seven-mile-long island is home to some truly stunning natural scenery, including pristine white beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Something else that makes Anna Maria Island a dream vacation destination is the wide range of culinary options. Anna Maria Island boasts some of the best restaurant scenes, from traditional Florida fare to exciting international cuisine. Anna Maria Island has everything if you’re in the mood for fresh seafood and tangy margaritas or delicious fusion dishes and fine wines.
Here are nine must-try restaurants that you can’t miss during your stay in an Anna Maria Island rental.
The Blue Marlin
At The Blue Marlin, you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly embodies the charm of Old Florida. This Anna Maria Island staple has been serving fresh, locally caught seafood for years, as well as classic American dishes with a twist. You’ll find it here whether you’re in the mood for a hearty seafood platter or something lighter like conch fritters or a grouper sandwich.
Take advantage of the fantastic wine list, which pairs beautifully with all your culinary options. But the true highlight of The Blue Marlin is its gorgeous patio overlooking Anna Maria Sound and breathtaking water views. Bring your friends and family to The Blue Marlin and enjoy fresh seafood on the coast!
Oyster Bar
If you’re looking for a delicious fresh seafood feast, look no further than the Oyster Bar. This authentic Anna Maria Island restaurant shucks and serves oysters delivered fresh daily from the Gulf of Mexico. What’s more: they offer fantastic happy hour specials every day of the week, making it an unbeatable destination for seafood lovers at any time. On top of that, they frequently host live music, adding a fun and energetic ambiance to your meal. So if you’re craving some tasty oysters, stop by the Oyster Bar!
The Porch
Be sure to check out their extensive beer and wine list while you’re there! Whether you’re craving a cold drink on a hot summer’s day or want to sample some of Anna Maria Island’s best cuisine, the Porch has it all. So why wait? Head over to the Porch, and see what this one-of-a-kind gem has to offer!
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind dining experience, check out The Porch. This eclectic eatery is part restaurant, bar, and art gallery, offering a truly unique culinary experience. Their menu features an array of delicious small plates, from savory empanadas to indulgent mini grilled cheese sandwiches.
The Sandbar
Located directly on the stunning Gulf of Mexico, The Sandbar is a premier waterfront restaurant that boasts unrivaled views and exceptional cuisine. Whether you are in the mood for fresh seafood like grilled octopus or steamed clams, burgers, salads, or sandwiches, this restaurant has something for everyone.
Founded in 1979 by Ed Chiles and a group of partners, The Sandbar was created with a single goal: to create a unique dining experience featuring top-quality food, impeccable service, and unsurpassable views. Over the years, this beachfront destination has evolved and changed to meet the shifting demands of its loyal patrons. They focused on maintaining their core mission of providing an exceptional culinary experience on the shores of this magnificent body of water.
So whether you’re looking for a fun lunch spot with friends or an elegant dinner venue with that special someone, The Sandbar is guaranteed to provide you with an experience like no other.
Plan Your Visit
Visit these delicious and unique restaurants on your vacation to Anna Maria Island. Contact Mike Norman Realty to start planning your beach getaway today!
The Chateau
If you’re looking for a romantic and sophisticated dining experience, make a trip to The Chateau. This fine dining restaurant is located in a historic mansion on the coast of Anna Maria Island. Here, you’ll find a spectacular menu filled with French-inspired cuisines, such as creamy baked Brie, slow-roasted duck confit fettuccine, and black grouper.
With an excellent wine list, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for your meal. So if you’re looking for an elegant yet relaxed restaurant, visit The Chateau!
The Feast Restaurant
At The Feast, they pride themselves on providing customers with the ultimate fine casual dining. The upscale menu offers fresh and delicious options, emphasizing seafood, steaks, and gourmet pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for an expertly prepared steak or some fresh-caught seafood, The Feast has you covered. They also offer a wide selection of specialty salads and innovative pasta dishes to suit all tastes.
But that’s not all! The Feast is also known for an extensive array of hand-tossed pizzas made with only the freshest ingredients. From classic Margherita pizzas to unique specialty creations, their experienced pizza chefs have perfected every recipe to create pies that will delight your taste buds.
They have an extensive wine list, which features a variety of wines from around the world for you to enjoy by bottle or glass. And if you’re looking for something a little bit stronger, take your pick from their impressive collection of craft beers and microbrews; they’re continually updating their inventory, so there’s always something new and exciting to try!
Harry’s Kitchen
When you step into Harry’s Kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. This local restaurant has been delighting diners on Anna Maria Island since 1985 with a menu that features classic gourmet dishes alongside bold new creations. Whether you’re in the mood for some succulent “shrimp-cargo” or a fresh and flavorful seafood cob, there’s something to tantalize your tastebuds at Harry’s Kitchen.
This family-run business has incredible food and emphasizes warm and welcoming service, so you always feel right at home when you dine with them. The only thing better than their incredible menu is the memories they’ll help create!
Mar Vista
Mar Vista is another excellent choice for seafood lovers visiting Anna Maria Island. The menu features fresh fish caught daily, as well as steak and chicken dishes. Be sure to try one of their signature cocktails while you’re there — the sand dollar martini is particularly tasty!
Shore
At Shore, they take pride in creating a unique and exciting Anna Maria Island dining experience. With their mid-century modern al-fresco space, eclectic and creative menu, and focus on using locally sourced ingredients, they aim to bring the best of coastal cuisine right to your plate.
Whether you’re feasting on their signature cocktails or digging into the delicious Scallop Risotto, you are guaranteed an explosion of flavor with each bite. Here, great taste reigns supreme, so come join them for a meal to remember!
No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it on Anna Maria Island. Many of our Anna Maria vacation rentals are close enough that you can walk or ride a bike to these restaurants. This little island has everything from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining locations. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!