When it comes to finding the best Anna Maria Island restaurants, it all depends on what kind of cuisine you’re in the mood for. Do you feel like some delicious fresh seafood? There are tons of places to find it on the island. Want something global like Italian or Mexican? That’s here, too. From barbecue to lighter fare to quick grab-and-go food and everything in between, AMI has it all.
But while you’re in town, you definitely don’t want to miss out on a trip to Duffy’s Tavern. They’ve got an extensive menu, but when you feel that craving for a burger hit, this is the place you want to be! Best of all, Duffy’s Tavern is just a short distance away from our most popular Anna Maria Island rentals! Here’s everything you’ll need to know before you plan your trip to Duffy’s.
About Duffy’s
Duffy’s Tavern in Anna Maria Island has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike ever since they opened all the way back in 1958. The restaurant is named for Claude “Duffy” Whiteman, who leased the convenient building near Manatee Public Beach more than 60 years ago now. The building and the business were sold to Pat “Miss Duffy” Geyer in 1971, and since then, the Geyer daughters have been passionate about keeping the business alive and thriving.
Unfortunately, Duffy’s Tavern hit a snag in 2002 when they lost their lease and needed a new building. It was a long and hard effort to remodel the old Island Body Shop in Holmes Beach, but in March of 2003, the new location of Duffy’s Tavern opened its doors. Today, Duffy’s is by far one of the most popular eateries on the island, offering an incredible sense of community along with delicious food and a laid-back atmosphere.
Today, Duffy keeps that “old school” feeling alive by maintaining a place where you can truly be yourself. Anyone and everyone is welcome here, making it an ideal place to bring the family to hang out. Eating on a budget? This eatery is a great option! Every food selection on the menu comes in between $5 and $9, and drinks (not including beer and wine) come in at $2 or $3 each.
World Famous Burgers
If there’s one thing that Duffy’s is known for, it’s the burgers. USA Today even voted this establishment as being one of the top 10 “hamburger heavens” in the country! If you’re hunting for the best burger on Anna Maria Island, you can’t miss a trip to Duffy’s.
You can customize your burger any way you like it when you dine here. Of course, they have the classic hamburgers and cheeseburgers that you can get “all the way,” which include lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo. You can also go for a slightly more daring variety like the Mushroom and Swiss Burger, the Tex Burger (which includes cheddar, bacon, and BBQ sauce), or the Brie and Caramelized Onion Cheeseburger.
You’re also able to add all kinds of yummy extras to your burger to make it truly your own. Pick a special cheese variety like provolone, Havarti, or bleu cheese, or add something else like fresh chopped jalapeños, applewood smoked bacon, pepperoncini peppers, or sauerkraut.
Other Menu Items
Not in the mood for a burger? Not to worry! Duffy’s Tavern has tons of other mouthwatering menu options to suit any mood or palate. Even the pickiest eater will find something to enjoy here, making Duffy’s a great place to bring the family for a fun dinner!
Duffy’s Tavern has a wide range of sandwiches and soups that you can enjoy for a quick lunch or a light dinner in the evening. Go for a cold or grilled ham sandwich, a classic ham and cheese (which you can also get “all the way”), a grilled cheese, a PB&J (perfect for the kiddos!), or a BBQ pulled pork sandwich.
Want something warm and comforting? Go for a bowl of their homemade chili. Speaking of which, their chili dogs are great, too! (You can also get a regular hot dog without chili, and you can dress it up with relish, sauerkraut, or chopped onions if you want.) Got a vegetarian in your group? They can enjoy a yummy Gardenburger!
No matter what you get to eat, you’re going to need something to wash it all down with. You can choose from all kinds of soft drinks, including Coca-Cola, Sprite, root beer, and more. They’ve also got both sweet and unsweet tea. For the kids or those who don’t want something fizzy, go for water, chocolate milk, or juice.
Last but certainly not least, this establishment couldn’t have a name like “Duffy’s Tavern” without offering some ice-cold beer! As far as to draft beer, you can get a pitcher or a mug/glass of Budweiser, Amber Bock, Michelob Light, Stella Artois, Modelo Especial, or Pacifico. You can also get a bottle of many varieties, including Corona, Bud Light Lime, Heineken, Blue Moon, Smirnoff Ice, and more. Finally, if you’re not in the mood for beer, get a glass of merlot, chardonnay, pinot grigio, or white zin.
Hours and Location
When you’re ready to make your way down to Duffy’s Tavern and see what all the hype is about, you’ll find them located at 5808 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, right in the middle of Anna Maria Island. Guests are invited to enjoy a meal here every day except Tuesday. On Mondays and Wednesdays through Saturdays, Duffy’s is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. They open slightly later on Sunday, at 12 noon, and stay open until 8 p.m.
Plan Your Next Trip
At Mike Norman Realty, we are proud to offer a level of customer service that is simply unmatched. Our staff is ready and willing to answer any question you might have, whether you’re just looking at rental properties or you’re in the middle of your vacation with us. We’ll do everything we can to make sure your trip is one you never forget! Contact us today to learn more about all of our available Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and to book your vacation now!
Our Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals
Before you can plan your trip to taste the delicacies of Duffy’s Tavern, you’ll need a place to stay! On Anna Maria Island, you won’t find chain hotels or high-rises of condos. Instead, you can settle into your very own Anna Maria Island vacation rentals for the privacy, comfort, and security you crave. Mike Norman Realty is here to set you up with the perfect vacation rental for your family!
We are proud to offer a wide range of rental properties all over the island, ideal for groups big and small. Want to be especially close to Duffy’s Tavern? Choose from our popular Holmes Beach vacation rentals! In any of our homes, you’ll find tons of convenient amenities such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet access, an in-home washer and dryer, and more. Plus, our rentals are located just moments away from the best things to do on the island, whether you want to shop, enjoy the beach, or take a stroll through nature.