Savoring a tasty meal is a simple pleasure you can indulge in day after day on Anna Maria Island. With so many restaurants available, you’ll surely find one serving your favorite cuisine or something entirely new!
The island is filled with so many delightful restaurants it’s hard to decide which to try first, so to help you plan, we’ve built a list of some of our favorites that we think you and your family will love too!
Best Restaurants on Anna Maria Island
It’s hard to choose the best restaurant on Anna Maria Island. There are many talented chefs in our little section of paradise. From seafood to tacos, steaks, and sweet treats, there is a delicious restaurant for everyone’s taste!
The Sandbar
The Sandbar is an island favorite, boasting waterfront views and spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Try exquisite seafood dishes, including specialties such as ceviche and stuffed shrimp. Or, indulge in a satisfying burger or New York Strip.
The Sandbar strives to offer a menu that’s sustainable and locally sourced. That means you can feel good about enjoying every last morsel on your plate!
The location of this restaurant has been a favorite spot to relax since visitors regularly arrived on the island in the early 1900s. It’s easy to understand why! Dining outdoors with your toes in the sand is an unparalleled experience that will make your vacation to Anna Maria Island extra special.
In addition to cooking up tasty dishes, The Sandbar also offers delectable desserts and fresh bread. Plus, the restaurant is also known for its extensive wine, beer, and cocktail menu. So, make an evening of it at The Sandbar.
The Blue Marlin
Stop by The Blue Marlin to enjoy one of the best restaurants in Anna Maria Island. Known for its excellent seafood dishes, The Blue Marlin has great live music and a cozy vibe. You’ll find unique items on the menu, such as Thai Nugs, which feature tempura fried fish, red onion, jalapeno, and cilantro salad.
The catch of the day is another dish you won’t want to miss. No matter what you order, customers rave about the excellent service and atmosphere.
Founded in 2011, The Blue Marlin is easy to find thanks to its vibrant blue color. With the feel of a Maine seafood house, The Blue Marlin also maintains elements of the original building. Discover historic features such as the wooden floors and wainscoting. Take a careful look at the tables and chairs, and you’ll find they are made out of recycled dock wood!
The Donut Experiment
Nothing can beat a piping hot fresh donut made right before your eyes! That’s just what you’ll get at The Donut Experiment. Now a chain with several locations in the United States, this unique restaurant was born on Anna Maria Island.
So, you’ll get the original experience when you stop in at this restaurant. The founding couple, Shawn and Cecilia Wampole, were inspired to create the restaurant after discovering no donut shops on the island.
When visiting, you’ll get to pick from 17 different toppings! Build your unique donuts, or select from popular flavors such as caramel sea salt and Key Lime. You can sip a cup of iced coffee, a cappuccino, or a simple cup to complement your tasty treats. Now, that’s a complete and delicious breakfast! In a hurry? You can always order online and pick up your donuts before hitting the beach to enjoy that beautiful Anna Maria Island weather or visit one of the island’s lovely parks.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to try some of the best restaurants on Anna Maria Island for yourself? Book your stay with A Paradise and be close to all the best AMI restaurants, activities, and attractions! Find your home away from home today and make your vacation dreams a reality!
Poppo’s Taqueria
If you’re in the mood for tacos, visit Poppo’s Taqueria, one of the best restaurants near Anna Maria Island. At Poppo’s Taqueria, you can build your meal. Create a fresh salad bowl, or try some tacos, quesadillas, or burritos. Add tasty ingredients like grilled meat, tempeh, or chicken before adding fresh tomato salads, arugula, cheese, and guacamole. Because you can customize your order, this restaurant is a great place to bring the whole family! Everyone can create a meal that’s exactly what they want.
Poppo’s Taqueria is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Diners report friendly staff, unique and fun drink options, and a relaxed atmosphere. Located in town, this is a great restaurant to enjoy while seeing the historic downtown sights. It’s also a great option for picking up food for a picnic or adventure elsewhere on the island. Be sure to stop in on Taco Tuesday or any day you crave a tasty Mexican-inspired meal!
The Waterfront
For a great view of the pier, drop by The Waterfront for a meal you won’t forget. Located in a historic building, The Waterfront cottage was built in 1922, making it one of the first homes on the island. Originally, boards from an old ship helped shape the main room. You can also see the original stone and brick fireplace!
The menu at The Waterfront is also spectacular. Featuring fresh, local, in-season ingredients, Chef William Hermenau offers an experience in every dish. Here, you can enjoy local seafood dishes like Wasabi Crusted Tuna, the Fresh Catch Entree, and Fried Shrimp. Or, indulge in a New York strip or chicken parmesan.
The Waterfront is also known for its extensive drink menu, which includes a wide range of cocktails and craft beers. Complete your meal with a slice of cheesecake or creme brulee. This restaurant is also a great option for lunch. Keep in mind that it’s good to arrive early. This is one of the best restaurants on Anna Maria Island, meaning that it’s a popular spot!
Stay With A Paradise
Enjoy a stay in our little corner of heaven at one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals. With excellent locations near the beach, your vacation will be a delight at one of our vacation rental homes. With A Paradise Vacation Rentals, you have everything you need for the perfect getaway!
We offer pet-friendly Anna Maria Island rentals, vacation rentals with pools, and options that are the perfect size for your party. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or planning a family trip, we have a vacation rental perfect for your needs! Book your relaxing vacation to Anna Maria Island today!
