The Sandbar in Anna Maria Island has become the quintessential restaurant on the water. Visitors to our Anna Maria Island rentals book their first evening dinner right here on this highly-acclaimed beachside restaurant. So what makes it special? We take a thorough look at one of the most popular restaurants in Anna Maria Island.
History
The entire conceit of the Sandbar was built on ambiance and the eternal magic of dining on great food right on the water.
The site of the Sandbar dates back to 1911, when “The Pavilion” was introduced as an essential stop for visitors. It had a cable to bring in overeager swimmers and a large diving platform suspended above pilings leading about 100 feet offshore.
After the double hit of a fire in 1946 and a hurricane in 1950, the site was forever changed. But this did not stop some loyal locals from helping to restore the site throughout the ’60s and early ’70s with the addition of a bar.
It was bought in 1979 by the current owner, Ed Chiles, in an effort to preserve the sensational view and bring the pavilion and restaurant space into the hands of excited food-loving locals. Now, you can rest your feet in the sand as you dine outside or relax in the comfort-controlled inside.
Food
Aside from the gorgeous gulf views, The Sandbar as a number of exuberant fish sandwiches, steaks, salads, and bakery items.
We start with the sandwiches, highlights including the steak burger, grouper, vegan burger, and Bali chicken sandwich topped in coleslaw and pineapple salsa. You can always start your lunch with New England clam chowder or the Farm Salad, coated with organic greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and honey-balsamic vinaigrette.
The chef’s specials rotate out and fly down the kitchen halls. These may include Grouper Tacos, Seafood and Grits, and the catch of the day. The brunch here is on par with the best breakfast in Anna Maria Island.
We also love to highlight the desserts from the bakery. We can’t get enough of the Pumpkin Cheesecake, assembled with spoonfuls of housemade pumpkin and dusted in fine graham cracker. There are also other locally-loved bakery favorites, like the Key Lime Pie and the Blueberry Cheesecake.
Take-out has also become popular. You can receive any item from the full menu for take-out to bring back to the local rentals in Anna Maria Island. Veggie boxes are also available for fresh produce. They are around $30 a box and can provide harvested vegetables for about a week.
The Sandbar also offers beer, wine, and liquor.
Events
The Sandbar hosts a number of fun events or links itself to some fun local gatherings. These may include musical artists who play at the near-site pavilion. You may also be fortunate enough to be in town for a drum circle gathering on the beach. You can participate after or before dinner. It is often on Saturdays on the beach just outside the Sandbar.
The restaurant is also available to book for weddings, baby showers, and corporate gatherings.
Visit the website for further seasonal details on what’s happening. Don’t hesitate to contact the team for specific up-to-date information about the status of upcoming events. Also, be sure to confirm if there is a private event on your desired day to dine.
Plan Your Visit
At Beach House, we provide a comprehensive list of different-sized Anna Maria Island pet-friendly rentals. Contact us for any additional details not covered on our website and begin your adventure towards a grand new vacation escape.
Location & Hours
The Sandbar restaurant can be found at 100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Be sure to contact the restaurant directly for specifics on meal specials, events, and more. The team can be reached at (941) 778-0444.
The locally-loved restaurant is open every day of the week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Book Your Anna Maria Island Rental with Beach House
Find your slice of paradise with Beach House Real Estate on Anna Maria Island. Our stunning vacation rentals put you steps from the sand and moments from the island’s best dining, shopping, and sunsets. Enjoy spacious living, private pools, and breathtaking ocean views. Book your Anna Maria Island getaway today and let the island’s charm captivate you.
