Known for its “Old Florida” charm and scenic beaches, Anna Maria Island is home to dozens of incredible restaurants, cafes and small eateries featuring cuisine from all over the world. The restaurants here draw in countless locals from the Bradenton/Sarasota region and tourists alike.
When on a family vacation to Anna Maria Island, you’ll have plenty of things to do and attractions to enjoy such as beachgoing, dolphin and wildlife tours, fishing charters, kayaking, and other outdoor excitement. After the fun, you’ll certainly want to enjoy a great meal and sample the incredible local seafood whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing long dinner.
Below you’ll find information on waterfront, kid and family friendly, and upscale dining options at some of the best restaurants on the island so that you can plan out the trip of a lifetime to this gorgeous and laid back barrier island. Be sure to check back frequently for more information on the latest and best dining options available.
Kid and Family Friendly Dining Options
Finding a good place to eat for a family while vacationing is sometimes easier said than done. It can be easy to book reservations at a restaurant only to find out later that it’s too formal or pricey. Below you’ll find some of the best restaurants for families that offer a casual atmosphere, great low prices, and kids’ menus/entertainment.
- Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe and Coastal Store – This eclectic and quaint café offers a delicious array of low priced breakfast sandwiches and entrees, pastries, and coffee along with plenty of beach souvenirs to buy and coloring books to keep the kids busy. Stop by for breakfast at 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.
- Skinny’s Place Incorporated – The place to go for the perfect burger and fries on Anna Maria Island, this unassuming spot offers a pleasant beachside location with outdoor seating so that you can enjoy the weather with your family, and you won’t spend much at all. Located at 3901 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach.
- Two Scoops – One of the most popular dessert shops on the island, Two Scoops is where you and your family can satisfy your sweet tooth with a mouth-watering selection of homemade ice cream flavors as well as pretzels and more. Prices here are reasonable and ice cream portions are generous. Check it out by the pier when you need to cool off at 101 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria.
Waterfront Dining Options
A trip to Anna Maria Island truly isn’t complete without a waterfront dining experience. You’ll have multiple options to choose from while vacationing here, and many of the restaurants are very family friendly and feature some breathtaking views of the ocean.
- Rod and Reel Pier – The Rod and Reel pier is the northernmost pier on Anna Maria Island and offers an incredible water and sunset view with seafood entrees that are very reasonably priced. Another great option for families, you’ll get to enjoy some of the best and freshest locally caught seafood here made with genuine care. Located at 875 N Shore Dr., Anna Maria.
- City Pier Restaurant – A bit further south you’ll find the City Pier Restaurant at the historic pier which is a favorite tourist spot. Some unique specialties here include the delicious lobster bisque and clam chowder, both of which are considered to be among the best in the region. Get some impressive views of the bay and chat with the local fishermen at 100 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria.
- The Waterfront Restaurant – Near to the City Pier Restaurant you’ll find the Waterfront Restaurant, another worthy spot for seafood that features outdoor seating with destressing ocean views and a wide range of mouth-watering American seafood dishes. Stop by this waterfront eatery after a day out at the pier at 111 Bay Blvd S.
Live Music and Nightlife Pubs and Restaurants
Anna Maria Island is certainly quieter in the evenings than many other Florida nightlife hubs, but it doesn’t mean that you’ll be bored as the sun sets. If you’re looking to relax and enjoy some live music and more of an upbeat and energetic setting during your vacation, these are some of the top nightlife restaurants and pubs on Anna Maria Island to visit.
- Hurricane Hanks – A local favorite pub known for their friendly bartenders and affordable seafood themed pub grub including grouper sandwiches, crab cakes, salmon burgers, fish and chips, Reuben sandwiches and more. You’ll find lots of drink specials and it’s a favorite hangout for locals that’s open to 10:00 p.m. Hurricane Hank’s is at 5346 Gulf Dr., in Holmes Beach.
- Bridge Tender Inn – This upbeat American bar is one of the favorites among locals and tourists alike in the recently revitalized Bridge Street historic area. Here you’ll find occasional live music along with a spacious indoor restaurant where you can sample local fresh seafood and pub grub. One of the few establishments in the area open until midnight every day of the week, you can find it at 135 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach.
- Island Time Bar and Grill – If you want some great pub food along with enjoyable live music in a fun setting, you can’t go wrong with the Island Time Bar and Grill in Bradenton Beach. This traditional American bar in the historic Bridge Street area offers great prices on your typical pub favorites as well as an impressive selection of chef inspired seafood dishes. Stop by here for music, to catch a game or to get some truly satisfying seafood at 111 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach.
Contact Us Today for More Information about Anna Maria Island
These are some of the most popular family friendly restaurants, waterfront dining options and pubs on the island but of course there are plenty of others to choose from! We know the island well and can help you find additional restaurants such as upscale dining options, dessert shops, breakfast cafes, and other waterfront restaurants depending on what type of experience and cuisine you’re craving.
If you have any questions at all about planning a trip to Anna Maria Island, need to find the perfect vacation rental, or would like more information about the top restaurants on the island, please give us a call at (941)-216-3793.
