The 14 Best Restaurants on Anna Maria Island, Florida
Are you looking for the top Anna Maria Island restaurants? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Here you’ll find restaurants for every style and cuisine.
On Florida’s west coast, Anna Maria Island is a seven-mile barrier island that runs along the Gulf of Mexico. It features sugar sand beaches and emerald green water on all sides. Gulf of Mexico awaits you on the west. In the south, there is Long Boat Pass, in the east, Anna Maria Sound, and in the north, Tampa Bay, with Tampa about 90 minutes away. Anna Maria Island is about 40 minutes away from Sarasota, Florida, the closest major city.
The island consists of three cities: Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Anna Maria at the north end. Each charming beach town has its own unique vibe, and it’s fun to explore them all. And there’s plenty of yummy food in each location!
Although most Anna Maria Island restaurants specialize in seafood, you can choose from many more delectable dishes. Donuts prepared to order at a fast-food restaurant are only one of the numerous delectable options available in the area, as are fine dining establishments offering “toes in the sand” eating. No matter what you decide, there’s no need to stress, so sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal.
These are the 14 best restaurants on Anna Maria Island, Florida!
14. Wicked Cantina
101 7th St N, Bradenton Beach, FL | Mexican, American, Bar | $5 – $15 | Monday to Sunday 7:30 am – 10:00 pm
The Wicked Cantina is a terrific option if you’re seeking a restaurant on Anna Maria Island that offers well-known favorites. Plus, it’s right across the street from the beach, so you can sit on the deck and take in a little of that sea air.
We ordered a standard margarita, which was rather potent and super fresh. They also delivered chips and salsa, which were both excellent.
There was one taco and two enchiladas on our combo platter. It was delicious! Also on the menu were the chicken in green mole sauce and the beef in red sauce, both served with Spanish rice.
Everything looked delicious when it arrived. The spicy green mole sauce was a fantastic match for the chicken. The beef enchiladas and the beef tacos were excellent. Plus, the Spanish rice tasted awesome. And the atmosphere can’t be beat! Where else can you enjoy high-end Mexican food with ocean views?
If you’re a sucker for sweets, make sure to spare room for dessert!
Throughout the day, The Wicked Cantina is open for all three meals. The food you order is delicious and comes in generous servings. Plus, the kitchen uses only the freshest ingredients.
We definitely recommend that you go over the entertainment schedule if you’re planning your visit ahead of time. It’s much better if you visit when there’s a show going on. You’ll have a great time at this relaxed Mexican restaurant on Anna Maria Island!
The atmosphere is laid back and welcoming to families, singles, and couples. In our opinion, Anna Maria Island is lucky to have this location!
13. North Shore Cafe
304 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL | Café, Bar, Smoothies | $3 – $13 | Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 8:00 am – 2:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am – 3:00 pm
Looking for a lighter and healthier meal option? Try the North Shore Cafe; this is one of the newer restaurants on Anna Maria Island but is really delicious for an early-day meal.
During breakfast and lunch, coffee, tea, and smoothies are available at the casual North Shore Café. An excellent way to start your day is on the restaurant’s shaded patio behind the building.
After a day of shopping in Pine Street’s eclectic boutiques, drop by for a freshly prepared snack or alcoholic beverage later in the day.
A bowl of acai berries, bananas, mango, or a dragon fruit dish with pineapple and mango is the way to go. If bowls aren’t your thing, pastries and bagels are available as well as a more substantial avocado toast with eggs meal.
Even if you’re not an admirer of posh breakfasts, this adorable cafe is worth a visit. It’s incredibly mellow and tranquil and definitely has that laid-back Anna Maria Island vibe!
The North Shore Cafe is an excellent site for outdoor eating. They have a fantastic patio, not on view from the road—a narrow tributary on which the deck rests. You can even play games in the yard!
The Açai Bowl and the Buffalo Chicken Wrap were our choices last time we visited. Despite its size, the bowl was great and had enough for two people to get their fill. The wrap was substantial and tasty, although the blue cheese flavor was slightly overpowering. But seriously: you won’t get fresher ingredients anywhere else!
If you’re looking for a healthy breakfast or lunch option before hitting the beach, we highly recommend the North Shore Cafe.
12. Hurricane Hanks
5346 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL | American, Seafood, Bar | $11 – $30| Monday to Thursday 11:30 am – 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am – 10:00 pm, Sunday 11:30 am – 9:00 pm
In Holmes Beach, just north of Bradenton Beach, you’ll find this casual grill – the perfect place for a post-beach hangout.
It’s no secret that Hurricane Hanks is known for its casual and yummy dining options. Cheese-stuffed mashed potatoes, fish and chips, and cheeseburgers are the most popular choices.
Hurricane Hanks is also an excellent choice for craft beer enthusiasts. Since they’re well-known for their handcrafted libations, this is a great place to branch out and try something new. Their wine list is equally impressive!
Food and liquor can be picked up or delivered at your convenience to make things even more accessible. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite if you’re in a rush or want casual but fresh food.
We always order the crispy grouper fish taco with avocado when we go to the restaurant, and each time we love it even more! The fried grouper’s savoriness is better than the avocado’s creamy, fresh flavor. The restaurant tops it off with mango salsa and a delicious sauce. The charred grouper tacos were also outstanding.
11. Rod and Reel Pier
875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Sunday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Rod and Reel is literally on the water, making it one of the best waterfront restaurants on Anna Maria Island.
The Rod & Reel Pier restaurant is at the tip of a vintage pier that has been operating since 1947. And the seafood here is incredibly fresh; you can literally see the fisherman fishing from the dock right before you.
They have a simple seafood menu with a lot of flavors. You’ll find grilled, blackened, fried grouper dinners and various other delicious selections!
During our last visit, we decided on the Steak and Pepper sandwich and fries. The food was delivered fast and was still warm when it arrived. We had to split the sandwich into halves because it was so huge. The fries are incredible!
You can also fish from the dock for a small fee if you have your fishing gear. Purchase bait right on the pier. We imagine it would be delightful to go fishing early in the morning, followed by a leisurely meal at the restaurant.
This beachside shack has a beautiful, quaint feel. It is an Anna Maria Island must-do!
10. Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL | American, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options | $7 – $35 | Monday to Sunday 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant provides coastal freshness in an elegant yet casual setting. This place is an excellent option for those seeking a quiet meal in paradise. It’s one of the top Anna Maria Island restaurants for reason.
Previously known as Harbor House, Beach House has undergone significant renovations focusing on sustainability. It’s definitely one of the most sustainable restaurants on Anna Maria Island, plus it’s right on the water!
You can enjoy one of Anna Maria’s better-considered dinners from the comfort of your table or in the open outdoor area. There is covered and comfortable outdoor seating available for patrons’ enjoyment. It means you’ll be able to take in the scenery without dealing with the sun’s glare.
Most ingredients used are local to the area, so the food is always fresh and of the highest quality. On their extensive menu, signature dishes include Bourbon Salmon, Oysters Rockefeller, Pompano, and Seafood Gumbo.
It’s a touch upmarket and a little relaxed back on the white beach. Expect a wait because the restaurant doesn’t take bookings. But don’t worry: while you’re waiting, you can relax in the company of the water.
We had the charred scallops and the New York Strip as our entrées. They were both excellent. The Beach Castle was the perfect way to round out our meal.
If you’re looking for a mid-to-upscale restaurant on the water, the Beach House is your place. Stop at this restaurant for a delicious meal and the best views in town!
9. Sandbar Seafood and Spirits
100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Customers have been dining at the Sandbar Restaurant for decades. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in Anna Maria Island for a reason!
The owner’s sustainable methods, the farm’s fresh products, and the restaurant’s magnificent location on Anna Maria Island’s beachfront all combine to create an unforgettable dining experience. Dining with your toes in the sand isn’t just a catchphrase; it’s a great way to enjoy the freshest meals on the water or the covered terrace off the building.
This restaurant’s menu has various alternatives, including vegan and gluten-free dishes. And of course, they provide a variety of seafood favorites and a few surprises, including grouper Reubens!
If you schedule your visit correctly, you’ll be able to see the sunset over the sea while you eat. It’s literally the most gorgeous view – perfect for a romantic date night.
We sat back and enjoyed the sunset while sipping on our beverages. Our cocktails, made of blackberries and lemonade, were delightfully light.
We had the Brussels sprouts for our appetizer. We can’t recommend this app enough – it was incredible (and I’m not even a fan of Brussel sprouts). We then had the long-boat-style blackened Mahi Mahi, blackened grouper, and the lemon butter sauce on our menu.
Our meals were delicious and a fitting end to our vacation. Exceptional in every way! Nothing beats watching the sunset over the water while eating great food on the beach.
8. Minnie’s Beach Cafe
5360 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL | American, Café, Vegetarian Friendly | $4 – $14 | Tuesday to Friday 7:00 am – 2:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:00 am – 1:00 pm
You can’t go wrong with Minnie’s Beach Cafe when it comes time for a meal. People return to Minnie’s Beach cafe multiple times during their visit to the island because of the excellent service they receive. Since the daily specials rotate frequently, there’s always something fresh to try.
This quiet location has a charming seaside diner vibe and is full of hidden gems. Make sure you have money on you because only cash is accepted. However, don’t be concerned if you forget. You’ll be able to use the ATM immediately outside the entrance if you need it.
Minnie’s Beach Cafe serves both breakfast and lunch. Arrive early enough to allow for a brief wait if necessary – it’s typically first-come-first-serve.
But it’ll be worth the wait because the portions are enormous, the price is modest, and the service is warm. Minnie’s is an excellent choice for a meal with a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes.
After ordering the corned beef hash with eggs, we received an enormous portion. The eggs were perfect, and the soup came with a delicious blend of herbs and spices. Sourdough bread was an excellent addition to the menu and the home-fried taters were delicious!
The biscuits and gravy, as well as the French toast featuring eggs and bacon, were both excellent choices as well.
We had the most excellent breakfast on the island by a long shot. We recommend this location if you enjoy a laid-back, small-town vibe. It’s definitely a small and local place, and might not be as upscale as some of the other breakfast restaurants on Anna Maria Island, but it’s by far the best food for breakfast if you’re looking for something yummy.
7. The Doctor’s Office
5312 Holmes Blvd. #B, Holmes Beach, FL | American, Bar | $9 – $32 | Monday to Thursday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm, Sunday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
The Doctor’s Office, which takes its name from a local doctor who used to work in the building, is a high-end artisan cocktail bar that some don’t even consider a restaurant. We disagree, however, because their tasting menu is excellent.
One of downtown’s most popular bars, The Doctor’s Office is known for its sleek, industrial design and inventive cocktail concoctions. With a brew in hand, it’s a seamless place to unwind with your closest pals.
There are a few small plates to choose from at the establishment, including cheese, shrimp, and salami. You can still find a few dining options once you are inside.
The shrimp was a big hit with us. We like it so much that we had it twice. The charcuterie was also excellent, and the portions were large enough to satisfy us for dinner and to counteract the potent drink.
The Doctor’s Office isn’t a great place for children. Additionally, reservations are required, so make yours now or reserve online.
We definitely recommend The Doctor’s Office if you’re looking for city-vibe restaurants on Anna Maria Island.
6. Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL | Quick Bites, American, Bar | $5 – $14 |Monday to Sunday 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Want to eat with your feet in the sand and magnificent water views on Anna Maria Island? If so, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe is the place to go.
All three meals of the day are served here at this laid-back restaurant, so you can stop by whenever it’s convenient. The place is also on a gorgeous beach, making it one of the top beachside restaurants on Anna Maria Island!
Eggs, pancakes, and waffles are typical breakfast fare at the beach cafe. Plus, the restaurant serves all of your favorite casual fare for lunch. Wraps, burgers, salads, coleslaws, and sides are all available, as is a children’s menu and other side items.
After dining, you can enjoy the food menu with one additional perk: live entertainment! You can eat and dance on the sand as you choose. It’s a really fun place to hang out for an afternoon or evening.
On our initial day on the island, we decided to eat breakfast here. The food is delicious and arrives swiftly! That meal was outstanding; we returned to the same restaurant later in the day for lunch.
For lunch, we opted for the blackened chicken Island Wrap. The chutney served as a sweet complement to the savory flavor of the wrap, and it balanced out the chicken’s heat. We also ordered onion rings in a significant portion size that was plenty for the entire family!
In general, the meal was excellent, and the service was quick. The outdoor dining area is delightful! Whenever you have the chance, visit this place for a combination of delicious meals and beautiful views.
5. The Ugly Grouper
5704 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Don’t be put off by the restaurant’s name, The Ugly Grouper, because it is hip and unique, complete with a 3000-pound recycled metal fish statue.
There are many ways to prepare the titular fish on the menu, from fried to baked to taco-style. There are also clam chowders, shrimp dishes, and burgers and sandwiches.
The Ugly Grouper offers a wide range of beverages, including some of the island’s most lauded cocktails, as well as a variety of salads and wraps.
It’s a blast to kill time while waiting for your meal here. The restaurant frequently includes live music and even has a small store where customers can purchase Ugly Grouper merchandise. A few outside games are available; don’t forget to take your photo with the enormous metal grouper!
Don’t be discouraged by the crowds if you arrive at a busy time of the day or night. Although they have a lot of seating, they rotate through the tables swiftly so the wait is never too long.
We started with some pretzel bites as an appetizer. These were excellent, and we received a lot for a low price.
The Grouper tacos we ordered were delicious. This meal is famous among locals for a reason.
Served in a hollowed-out pineapple, the Blackened Grouper with Parmesan Risotto was equally delicious! The risotto was so excellent that it made the meal. The blackened grouper matched perfectly with the thick and creamy sauce!
This restaurant is a must-visit! We plan on returning shortly to sample more from the menu. It’s such a fun place to hang out and grab a casual bite!
4. Beach Bistro
6600 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL | American, Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $60 – $135 | Monday to Sunday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Beach Bistro is one of Anna Maria’s most gorgeous and romantic waterfront restaurants. It is a dinner-only establishment. Diners must make reservations to eat at this establishment.
Check the sunset time and make your reservation approximately an hour before sunset, if possible. If you plan right, you can savor your meal while watching the sunset across the ocean.
The Beach Bistro pays close attention to the smallest of details. You’ll enjoy every aspect of your visit, from the elegant atmosphere to the well-chosen wines and the artfully prepared dishes. You can also eat outdoors on the beach during non-sea turtle season.
The Beach Bistro food is available in “acts” for a really upscale experience. You can choose everything in every course of your meal, from appetizer to dessert.
There are a variety of dishes on the menu, including lobster, scallops, and chocolate truffle terrine. They also have a list of vegan options.
We opted for a more elaborate dinner “show” that began with a cocktail.
One Great Cheese was our first act. As essential as this dish may appear, it was our highlight of the entire meal. The beef tenderloin served as the main course for Act Two, which was outstanding.
For the finale, the sorbet and berries, which we sampled, were delectably sweet and refreshing.
The gourmet menu is a great way to sample a wide variety of the restaurant’s offerings. It’s the faultless spot for a romantic evening and is definitely one of the most romantic restaurants on Anna Maria Island!
3. The Donut Experiment
210c Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL | Bakeries, American | $5 – $10 | Monday to Sunday 7:00 am – 1:00 pm
Anna Maria Island has a unique donut business called The Donut Experiment that’s just so fun. Consumers can choose from a variety of pre-made donuts at most donut restaurants. However, in The Donut Experiment, this is not the case.
Visitors can choose from various fillings and toppings, and the donut is prepared right in front of them by donut specialists on-site.
All of the donuts begin as simple, freshly baked cake donuts. The frosting, topping, and drizzling are all options that you can add. For the icing, choose chocolate, caramel, vanilla, maple, or glaze.
When it comes to topping up, you can choose from various sweet and salty options, including graham crackers, chocolate-covered peanuts, chocolate-covered M&Ms, and even cinnamon sweetener or powdered sugar.
Plus, various drizzles are applied: raspberry, peanut butter, chocolate, or caramel. There are endless combinations!
The donuts here are seriously amazing. And they come warm in the box once you order! They have a crunchy golden brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
The flavors we tried included two cocoa iced, two vanilla iced, one with fruity pebbles, and one plain. But there are so many other great options that we have to go back. This is by far one of our favorite specialty breakfast restaurants on Anna Maria Island! Insta-worthy, to say the very least.
2. The Waterfront Restaurant
111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL | American, Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $12 – $32 | Monday to Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, and Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Located on the Anna Maria City Pier, The Waterfront is a great place to eat. It’s in a historic building, so it has a homey, cozy feel, even though it’s also quite beachy.
Tables on the porch are available for an outdoor feel. Craft beers, fine wines, and unique cocktails are all served at the gorgeous bar. Enjoy the views white eating or stroll along the pier after you finish.
Fresh, natural, and seasonally appropriate are the buzzwords for the dishes. Traditional and contemporary cuisine is available on the menu, all produced with locally sourced ingredients. Fried prawns, parmesan chicken, and wasabi-crusted tuna are a few tasty options.
Their menu offers gluten-free options (including gluten-free buns!). Plus, a tasty children’s menu is available.
This menu’s selections are genuinely one-of-a-kind and diverse. It has some of the tastiest salads and key lime pie we’ve ever had in the area. You won’t be able to get adequate of this delicious concoction. If you don’t get it now, you’re wasting your time.
We had the pork belly and scallops on a bed of kimchi fried rice. There were a lot of enormous and delicious scallops. The pig belly was crispy and greasy, and we couldn’t stop eating it. Overall, it was fantastic.
During peak season, arrive early and be willing to wait for a table. It’s well worth it!
1. Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café
9807 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria, FL | Quick Bites, American, Cafe | $5 – $15 | Monday to Sunday 7:00 am – 3:00 pm
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to the north end of the street for an eccentric shop restaurant. Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe, one of Anna Maria Island’s most popular restaurants, is a must-stop on any visit to the island.
There is no better place than Ginny’s and Jane E’s when it comes to local art, memorabilia, and novelty trinkets. It is tucked away in the rear of a bustling boutique. Baked items, particularly cinnamon buns, are their specialty.
We recommend the cinnamon roll, but it’s so big that you’ll want to bring a friend or two or three to split it with you.
They also serve delectable meals for breakfast and lunch and fruit smoothies for a healthy snack. Ginny’s has all you need if you want a piece of shell art, souvenirs, a bagel containing lox, or a warm Reuben sandwich.
Customers can expect to be treated with politeness and respect by the staff at this establishment. They put out fresh produce and other goodies for the youngsters without asking on our last visit when we had to wait an extended period.
Nothing is better than a bacon, egg, cheddar bagel, and a sticky bun. Those sticky buns are incredibly decadent and substantial in both size and flavor. Occasionally, the cinnamon roll can be a bit dry; the youngsters adore them. Try their pancakes as well; they’re delicious!
This restaurant is an incredible find. The food was excellent, and it was a liking to deal with such a friendly and accommodating group. While you’re waiting, take a look around this cute boutique.
If you’re looking for super unique Anna Maria Island restaurants then this is definitely your place!
Were you able to distinguish where to dine? There’s no doubt that Anna Maria Island has some of the state’s top restaurants, waterfront views, and seafood.
There are plenty of excellent restaurants in Anna Maria Island, including super high-end joints and more modest establishments serving burgers. You can’t go wrong with any pick that you make!
We hope you enjoy this list of the 14 best restaurants on Anna Maria Island. Let us know any of your picks in the comments section below.
