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13 Must-Visit Restaurants in Siesta Key

Looking for the best restaurants in Siesta Key Florida? From romantic beachfront restaurants to late-night restaurants in Siesta Key Village, we’ve got you covered with 13 must-try spots.

Siesta Key, Florida is a beautiful barrier island in Florida located just off the coast of Sarasota. It’s known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. But Siesta Key is also a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to authentic Italian cuisine.

In this blog post, we’ll highlight 13 must-try restaurants in Siesta Key FL that are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants are not to be missed. So, let’s dive in and explore the culinary delights of Siesta Key!

13. Bonjour French Cafe

5214 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL | American, French, Vegetarian Friendly | $11 – $30 | Monday and Tuesday 7:30 am – 2:00 pm, Wednesday 7:30 am – 2:30 pm, Thursday and Friday 7:30 am – 2:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am – 2:30 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Bonjour French Cafe is a delightful little restaurant in the middle of Siesta Key. Its authentic French food and atmosphere take diners to the Parisian streets.

The cozy restaurant has places to sit inside and out, with a nice, relaxing feel.

There are plenty of traditional French dishes on the menu such as quiches, crepes, croque-monsieur, and many different salads and sandwiches. Delicious French pastries like croissants, pain au chocolat, and macarons are available daily.

The escargot served in parsley and garlic butter sauce with fresh baguette slices is one of the best things on the menu at Bonjour French Cafe. The escargot is tender and flavorful, and the sauce is rich and decadent.

Meanwhile, the croque-madame is another popular dish. It is a toasted sandwich with ham, gruyere cheese, bechamel sauce, and a fried egg on top. The sandwich is filling and hearty, making it an excellent choice for brunch or lunch.

The cafe also has a wide range of coffee and tea beverages, wine, and beer to accompany your meal. And the dessert menu is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. The creme brulee is a favorite because the sugar on top is perfectly brown, and the custard inside is smooth and creamy.

Click here to check out the reviews.

12. The Old Salty Dog

5023 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Old Salty Dog is a must-do for anyone visiting the island. It has spots in City Island, Venice Beach, and Siesta Key.

The Old Salty Dog is a famous seafood restaurant on Siesta Key that serves delicious dishes. It has indoor and outdoor seating, and the atmosphere is casual and easygoing, making it a great place to eat after a day at the beach.

More so, The Old Salty Dog is nautical, with buoys, fishnets, and model boats on the walls. Picnic tables and parasols give the outdoor seating area a beachy feel.

The Old Salty Dog has many seafood dishes, including fish and chips, crab cakes, and clam chowder. Aside from that, the restaurant also offers burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches for those who don’t want seafood.

One of the most pursued dishes at the restaurant is the iconic fish and chips with crispy fried cod, french fries, and coleslaw. Another famous dish is the lobster roll, which has a lot of fresh lobster meat on a toasted bun. 

Without a doubt, the Old Salty Dog is a beautiful spot for eating seafood in Siesta Key in a casual and laid-back setting. This spot truly has the West Coast Florida vibe!

Click here to check out the reviews.

11. Olaf’s Siesta Village

5208 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL | Dessert, American | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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This next one is great for people who like sweets. Olaf’s Siesta Village has sweets and treats that are delicious. It is hard to say no, especially when it is hot outside.

This ice cream shop has been a favorite in the area for more than 40 years. It used to be called “Big Olaf,” and still a popular place to go, and it’s easy to see why.

Olaf’s has classic and unusual ice creams flavors, like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, as well as Key lime pie, butter pecan, and mango sorbet, which are more adventurous. 

You can also get sundaes, milkshakes and malts, smoothies, floats, coffee crunch, and fudge. We advise trying the Florida Sea Sundae. It is one of the special sundaes and has scoops of hot fudge, hot caramel, whipped cream, pecans, and cherry.

Everything this place sells is made in-house and has high-quality ingredients, so it tastes creamy and rich and will surely please anyone with a sweet tooth.

Indeed, Olaf’s Siesta Village is something that everyone who goes to Siesta Key should try. Olaf’s is a great place to get a sweet treat, whether you want something to cool you down after a long day at the beach or something sweet to end your meal. This is an iconic spot for a reason!

Click here to check out the reviews.

10. Daiquiri Deck Siesta Key Village

5250 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Friday 11:00 am – 12:00 am (next day), Saturday 12:00 am – 1:00 am and 11:00 am – 12:00 am (next day), Sunday 12:00 am – 1:00 am and 9:00 am – 11:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Daiquiri Deck Siesta Key Village is one of the more famous restaurants in Siesta Key Florida known for its delectable seafood and vibrant atmosphere. This restaurant is just a few steps from the renowned Siesta Key Beach, which makes it a convenient place to eat after an exhausting day in the sun.

The decorations at Daiquiri Deck are bright and colorful, and it has a beachy theme that goes well with the place. It also has indoor and outdoor seating, including a large patio to enjoy the Florida sun. Plus, live music and events occur every day of the week, making the atmosphere lively and fun.

Daiquiri Deck’s menu is predominantly seafood and raw bar dishes, like shrimp po’boys, fish tacos, and crab cakes. Several salads and gluten-free options are also available.

The calamari will not disappoint if you want a small dish. It is flavorful and fantastic for sharing. But if you want an entree, poached salmon is an excellent choice. It is steamed spinach with crab and shrimp on top of wild sockeye salmon. Delicious!

Of course, you can also get drinks like beers and cocktails to cool off!

This is one of our favorite restaurants in Siesta Key village for that relaxed, beachy, quintessential Florida vibe.

Click here to check out the reviews.

9. The Lobster Pot

5157 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL | Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 11:30 am – 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am – 9:30 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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The Lobster Pot has a mix of New England and Florida flavors. It is a fantastic spot and will complete your excursion to Siesta Key restaurants.

Walking into the restaurant, you feel like you’re in an authentic Portuguese fishing village. You can sit in the back, far from the action, or near the huge windows, where the Florida sun shines all day. Choose the patio to keep enjoying the nice weather while eating.

The Lobster Pot also has a family-friendly atmosphere and the best East Coast flavors. It’s one of our favorite casual restaurants in Siesta Key FL when we’re dying for some authentic New England flavors.

The kids, called “Littl’ Mates,” love their menu, which has pasta, hot dogs, mac and cheese, fish and chips, and fried shrimp. The adults can relax while kids color and do activities from their menus.

People who don’t like fish can easily eat with their friends who do, and they fill up on New York Strip sirloin, filet mignon, pork ribs, chicken stir fry, and many other things. Meanwhile, the Shore Platter samples local clam strips, scallops, fish, and shrimp in a warm garlic butter sauce.

Of course, there is Maine Lobster Tail and 1 1/4 pounds of Maine lobster that are perfection.

Click here to check out the reviews.

8. Island House Tap & Grill

5110 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL | American, Gastropub, Vegetarian Friendly | $11 – $30 | Monday to Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Island House Tap & Grill is the place to go on Siesta Key if you want to eat in a casual atmosphere. This restaurant is ideal for relaxing and unwinding after a long day in the sun because it is right next to the iconic Siesta Key Beach.

The cozy atmosphere is the first thing you’ll recognize about Island House Tap & Grill. The wooden furniture and friendly staff will make you immediately at ease as soon as you walk in. And, if you want to take in the lovely Florida weather while you eat, you can also sit outside.

Everyone knows Island House Tap & Grill for its tasty burgers and wings, which is only the tip of the iceberg. The menu has something for everyone, from salads to seafood dishes. This is definitely one of the best restaurants in Siesta Key for a well-rounded menu.

The Island House Bowls and Island House Tacos are not to be missed. Both are great. You can get them with Latin flavors or seafood. Even better, this place has the best Key Lime Cheesecake you will love.

But live music is what sets Island House Tap & Grill apart. Bands play at this place every night, which is why locals and tourists like it. The music adds to the fun and lively atmosphere, and if you combine it with the restaurant’s beer, you’ll have a truly memorable experience.

And if you’re looking for a place to watch the big game, Island House Tap & Grill has what you need. TVs are all over the restaurant, so you won’t miss any games while eating.

Click here to check out the reviews.

7. Siesta Key Oyster Bar

5238 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am (next day), Sunday 9:00 am – 11:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Looking for raw seafood restaurants in Siesta Key Village? “SKOB,” as the locals call Siesta Key Oyster Bar, is an authentic “Landmark” in the world-famous Siesta Key Village. SKOB is a place to hang out with a beachy, laid-back vibe that will get you into the Island Spirit.

At SKOB, you can drink at the outdoor or indoor bar or eat inside or on the patio. No matter where you sit, the food will be great, the atmosphere will be relaxed, and the surroundings will be unique.

This restaurant has a wide variety of side dishes for your main dish. Among others are slaw, corn, fries, green beans, potatoes, grilled asparagus, edamame, Caesar salad, onion rings, sweet potato fries, broccoli, and other fresh local vegetables in season.

There is also a large selection of “SKOB Classics,” which are signature dishes you won’t be able to try anywhere else. The Big Boil is a great choice. It has crawfish, shrimp, mussels, and crab legs boiled the Louisiana way with potatoes and corn.

You can also choose the Siesta Key Extravaganza, which comes with blackened grouper, jerked shrimp and crab cake, SKOB’s own Big Boy Mac n’ Cheese, shrimp and scallops, beer battered fish n’ chips, seafood tacos, ribeye, and crab-stuffed lobster.

This menu is impressive for an oyster bar. But the most important thing is that no matter when you come or what you order, you will always get excellent service and great food.

Click here to check out the reviews.

6. Ophelia’s on the Bay

9105 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, FL | American, International, Contemporary | $31 – $60 | Monday to Sunday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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There’s only one place to go when looking for romance restaurants in Siesta Key. Ophelia’s has a seafront terrace at the southern end of the key, where the moon puts on an extra bright display over Little Sarasota Bay and the mainland.

When you go to Ophelia’s, you’ll immediately notice the view. It has two dining rooms with glass walls and an outdoor patio where you can see Little Sarasota Bay at eye level. The restaurant’s interior is elegant, yet it would be a shame not to sit outside and watch the sherbet-colored show.

As you look at the menu and sip one of the carefully chosen wines, tropical birds fly among the preserved mangrove islands, the water gently moves, and dolphins, blue herons, or other sea creatures pass by. 

Yes, this spot showcasse natural beauty the way Florida should be: with no glitz or glamour, just nature at its finest.

Ophelia also keeps pushing the limits of food. It expertly mixes sweet and salty flavors by putting meats with fruits or salty meats with fish, and complimented by an impressive wine list. The best part is that the food choices change every night.

We’re always craving Yellowfin here. This dish is delicious from top to bottom and will satisfy your taste buds.

You can also choose scallops with rice and asparagus or grouper with mashed potatoes, yams, and asparagus. You aren’t be disappointed with these choices because everything is delicious.

This is definitely one of the best date-night restaurants in Siesta Key!

Click here to check out the reviews.

5. Sun Garden Cafe

210 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key, FL | American, Café, Healthy | $11 – $30 | Monday to Sunday 7:30 am – 1:30 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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The Sun Garden Café is in the middle of downtown and is one of the best restaurants in Siesta Key Florida for breakfast or lunch.

This restaurant on Siesta Key has won awards for its food and service. It is an excellent place for families, and it only uses products grown locally, farm-fresh eggs, and newly caught fish to make its original food.

What’s more, the café’s outdoor patio is by lush gardens and has been the Best Outdoor Dining in Siesta Key multiple times. The beautiful setting is a great place to escape the hustle of everyday life.

The menu has many fresh, made-to-order dishes, such as breakfast sandwiches, omelets, and a delightful dish called A.M. Cobbler.

If you’re looking for something tasty, we recommend the Feelin’ Good garden omelet and a freshly baked sticky bun (don’t worry, they give you a lot of vanilla frosting!). 

Or maybe you are searching for a little more substantial filling. Don’t worry; this place got you covered with either Elvis’s fried chicken plate or Mississippi Queen chicken.

This restaurant is also friendly to dogs. So, if you think having breakfast with your furry friend on the patio while it’s still warm sounds like a perfect morning, you should go to the Sun Garden Café. This is one of our absolute favorite Siesta Key restaurants for breakfast!

Click here to check out the reviews.

4. Siesta Key Summer House Steak & Seafood

149 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, FL | Steakhouse, Seafood, Contemporary | $31 – $60 | Monday to Thursday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm, Sunday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Are you imagining a romantic evening with your special someone? On Siesta Key, there are a lot of great places to eat for a night out, some of which are very popular and some of which aren’t as well known. Summer House is a local restaurant that is gaining popularity quickly.

Summer House Restaurant, owned and run by locals, is a big part of Siesta Key’s growth. It is run by a team of experienced and knowledgeable managers in the food and drink business.

The restaurant has a unique design and atmosphere. It has tall windows, a bar, and, most impressively, a museum-quality fish tank made just for the restaurant, which is 1,000 gallons, 14 feet long, and 10,000 pounds. A trip to Summer House is sure to make an impression!

The focus on the menu is meat. There are all kinds of steaks here, including New York strips, sirloins, ribeyes, filet mignons, and 40-ounce porterhouses. Experienced chefs on the 1,200-degree Montague Grill cook all cuts. None of these will disappoint you.

In addition to steak, seafood is another Summer House strong point. Located on the beach of Siesta Key, all the seafood is caught locally and served fresh. You can order salmon, oysters, lobster tails, and other delicious seafood dishes.

Finish off your meal with a glass of wine and a sweet. The key lime tart and the cheesecake at Summer House are delicious. Both these are top-notch and will surely impress.

If you’re kind of adventurous then this is one of the best restaurants in Siesta Key Florida for a super cool date night.

Click here to check out the reviews.

3. Meaney’s Mini Donuts

205 Canal Rd, Siesta Key, FL | Bakeries, American, Fast Food | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 8:00 am – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 8:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sunday 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Another excellent option for something sweet in Siesta Key is Meaney’s Mini Donuts.

Meaney’s Mini Donuts has served Siesta Key and the Sarasota/Bradenton region since 2010. It has several locations, so you know it is popular.

This cafe and coffee shop serves delicious sweets in various fun and bright flavors.

Meaney’s Mini Donuts sells little pastries like strawberry cheesecake, chocolate delight, peanut butter cup, apple pie, and bavarian cream.

Of course, Meaney’s Mini Donuts specializes in fresh, hot mini donuts. These are made right in front of you and with a wide range of tastes, so no one goes away hungry.

You can also choose French toast, peanut butter cup, or apple pie. Your sweet tooth will love you! And get coffee to go with these treats – it’s delicious.

Most of all, the prices won’t break the bank. And when you add the excellent and friendly service, it’s clear that this place is a must-visit.

Click here to check out the reviews.

2. Made in Rome Organic Gelato

5204 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL | Dessert, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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In the hot Florida sun, a cool and sweet dessert is just what you need to cool down. And guess what? It is what Made in Rome Organic Gelato gives you!

This place opened in 2017. It is glad to be the first place on Siesta Key to making Italian gelato using the same methods and tools as the best gelaterias in Italy.

These gelatos come with natural ingredients that the USDA has approved, so you don’t need to feel too guilty about splurging.

Made in Rome Organic Gelato has authentic gelato that is smooth and creamy. Almost two dozen flavors are available, and the strawberry and chocolate are old favorites.

Meanwhile, unique tastes like the stracciatella and key lime pie are some of our favorites here. You can also get a scoop of salted caramel and a scoop of coconut. All of this is cool and tastes great.

Are you vegan, or do you have specific dietary needs? Made in Rome offers some vegan and sugar-free options as well.

Click here to check out the reviews.

1. The Cottage

153 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, FL | American, Bar, Seafood | $11 – $30 | Monday to Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key
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Last on this list is The Cottage. It’s one of our favorite restaurants in Siesta Key Village and has a beautiful setting where you can enjoy various chef-created dishes that focus on using ingredients from the area.

You can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a beachside restaurant and the high-quality food you’d expect from a fine dining spot. True foodies will enjoy their time here and anyone else who wants a bit more refined and sophisticated than the food at traditional beach restaurants.

This place is also warm and inviting, with live music every night and the option to wear casual clothes. You’ll find a lively, friendly group of Florida residents and visitors worldwide in this spot.

Besides that, the interior has beautiful wood paneling, a giant horseshoe bar, and nautical decorations. Outside, you’ll discover a covered deck with extra cozy seating to relish the nice weather and umbrellas to keep you in the shade.

As for the menu, The Cottage is known for having one of the top selections of delicious small dishes or tapas in the area. The best choices include tempura shrimp, tuna poke, Peruvian ceviche, lobster bisque, and mussels.

There are plenty of delicious of sides and a small but fantastic roster of fusion sandwiches and main dishes. We always order truffle beef filets, porcini steak medallions, and Maine lobster. But you can also order Hawaiian escolar or seafood scampi.

Other highlights include the Mahi, grouper, and a Billionaire burger made with beef short rib, brisket, and chuck seasoned with truffle aioli and an onion jam.

Click here to check out the reviews.

FAQs About Visiting Siesta Key Florida:

What are some of the top-rated restaurants in Siesta Key?

Siesta Key boasts a variety of excellent dining options. Some popular choices include Ophelia’s on the Bay, The Cottage, The Hub Baja Grill, and The Lobster Pot.

Are there any restaurants with waterfront views in Siesta Key?

Yes, several restaurants offer beautiful waterfront views. Some notable ones are Ophelia’s on the Bay, The Old Salty Dog, and Turtle Beach Grill.

Which restaurants offer seafood cuisine on Siesta Key?

Siesta Key is renowned for its seafood offerings. You can savor delicious seafood at places like The Lobster Pot, The Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar, and The Big Water Fish Market.

What are some family-friendly dining options on Siesta Key?

Siesta Key welcomes families with open arms. The Cottage, The Sun Garden Cafe, and The Toasted Mango Café are among the family-friendly restaurants that cater to a range of tastes.

Are there any budget-friendly dining options on Siesta Key?

Siesta Key has options for every budget. For more affordable choices, consider places like The Toasted Mango Café, Clayton’s Siesta Grille, or Anna’s Deli.

What is the best time to visit Siesta Key?

Siesta Key is pleasant year-round, but the peak tourist season is during the winter months (December to April) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

What is Siesta Key Village?

Siesta Key Village is a charming and vibrant commercial district located on Siesta Key. It’s a popular hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and nightlife, offering a diverse range of boutiques, restaurants, cafes, bars, and galleries.

What can I expect to find in Siesta Key Village?

Siesta Key Village is a bustling area with a unique blend of shops, eateries, and local businesses. Visitors can explore clothing stores, art galleries, souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and enjoy a mix of casual and fine dining options.

Is Siesta Key Village within walking distance from the beach?

Yes, Siesta Key Village is conveniently located within walking distance from Siesta Beach and other nearby beaches. It’s a short stroll away, making it easy to transition from a day of sun and sand to dining and shopping.

What are the main attractions on Siesta Key besides its restaurants?

Siesta Key is famous for its stunning beaches, particularly Siesta Beach with its powdery white sand. Visitors can also explore Point of Rocks for snorkeling and Crescent Beach for a more tranquil atmosphere.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy on Siesta Key?

Siesta Key offers an array of outdoor activities, including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and beach volleyball.

Is Siesta Key suitable for families with children?

Siesta Key is a family-friendly destination with calm waters and family-oriented attractions, making it a great choice for a family vacation.

How do I get to Siesta Key from nearby airports?

The nearest major airports are Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and Tampa International Airport (TPA). You can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use ride-sharing services to reach Siesta Key from these airports.

Thanks for joining us on this culinary journey through Siesta Key! We’ve covered everything from fresh seafood to authentic Italian cuisine and everything in between.

Now it’s your turn to head out and explore all that Siesta Key has to offer. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, we guarantee you’ll find a new favorite spot on our list of the 13 must-visit restaurants in Siesta Key.

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