Dining with a View: Our Gulf Coast's Best Kept Secrets
One of the many joys of living on Florida's Gulf Coast is the incredible selection of waterfront restaurants. From casual beachfront grills where you can eat with your feet in the sand to elegant fine dining establishments with sweeping Gulf views, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key offer dining experiences that make every meal feel like a celebration.
Whether you're a full-time resident or considering a move to our beautiful area, these restaurants are essential to the coastal lifestyle. Here's my curated list of the top 10 waterfront restaurants you absolutely must try.
1. The Beach House – Anna Maria Island
Located on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, The Beach House is an institution. This iconic restaurant offers unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico and the iconic Green Bridge. The menu features fresh Florida seafood, craft cocktails, and the famous Beach House sunset ritual.
Vibe: Casual elegance—perfect for sunset dinners
Must-try: The grilled catch of the day and Key West pink shrimp
2. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill – Longboat Key
Perched on the edge of Sarasota Bay, Dry Dock has been a Longboat Key staple for decades. The nautical décor and waterfront patio create an authentic Florida dining experience. Their raw bar is outstanding, and the fish tacos are legendary.
Vibe: Old Florida charm with a lively waterfront atmosphere
Must-try: Oysters on the half shell and the infamous fish tacos
3. Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant – Longboat Key
Located right on the marina, Mar Vista offers one of the best waterfront dining experiences on Longboat Key. The restaurant features a spacious outdoor deck where you can watch boats pass by while enjoying fresh seafood and steaks.
Vibe: Relaxed sophistication with marina views
Must-try: Grilled octopus and the filet mignon
4. Euphemia Haye – Longboat Key
For a more refined dining experience, Euphemia Haye is the gold standard on Longboat Key. This acclaimed restaurant has been serving creative American cuisine for over 40 years. The rooftop lounge offers stunning sunset views over the bay.
Vibe: Upscale elegance—perfect for special occasions
Must-try: The changing seasonal menu featuring Florida-inspired cuisine
5. The Table Creekside – Siesta Key
Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway, The Table Creekside offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. Their menu features prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. The outdoor patio is perfect for romantic dinners.
Vibe: Refined American with Waterfront charm
Must-try: Center-cut filet and Chilean sea bass
6. Sandbar Restaurant – Anna Maria Island
Directly on the beach at the end of the historic Bridge Street, Sandbar offers true beachfront dining. You can feel the sand between your toes while enjoying fresh seafood and tropical drinks. Their brunch is legendary, and the sunset views are unforgettable.
Vibe: Laid-back beachfront perfection
Must-try: Beach burger and the tropical cocktails
7. Blue Dolphin Café – Anna Maria Island
A cozy, family-owned gem on the northern end of AMI, Blue Dolphin has been serving homestyle cooking for over 30 years. The waterfront views of the Bay are spectacular, and the restaurant's commitment to fresh, local ingredients shines through every dish.
Vibe: Charming, family-owned Florida eatery
Must-try: The catch of the day and homemade key lime pie
8. Patrick's 1481 – Anna Maria Island
Named after the island's original bridge, Patrick's 1481 offers creative New American cuisine in a beautiful waterfront setting. The menu changes seasonally to take advantage of Florida's fresh produce and seafood. The outdoor seating area is particularly lovely in the cooler months.
Vibe: Contemporary American with innovative flair
Must-try: Chef's seasonal specials and the wood-fired pizzas
9. Hotel Biba – West Palm Beach (Nearby Destination)
While not directly on Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key, Hotel Biba is worth the drive to West Palm Beach for its exceptional waterfront dining. The restaurant features a beautiful courtyard setting and a menu of contemporary American cuisine with Florida influences.
Vibe: Boutique hotel dining with artistic flair
Must-try: Chef's tasting menu for the full experience
10. Mattison's City Grille – Sarasota
Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota's Rosemary District, Mattison's offers waterfront dining with a vibrant urban atmosphere. Known for their live entertainment and outdoor patio, this restaurant is a local favorite for celebrations and nights out on the town.
Vibe: Lively downtown energy with waterfront access
Must-try: The chophouse selections and craft cocktails
Living the Dream: Dining Here Every Day
What I love about living in this area is that these restaurants aren't special-occasion destinations—they're part of everyday life. Want to grab tacos by the water on a Tuesday evening? Done. Planning a birthday dinner at your favorite sunset spot? Easy. This is the lifestyle that draws so many buyers to our beautiful Gulf Coast.
The restaurants here aren't just about the food—they're about the experience. Sunset dinners with the ones you love, toes in the sand, the sound of the waves. That's the Gulf Coast lifestyle.
Find Your Perfect Spot
Whether you're already a resident or dreaming of making this area your home, I hope this list inspires you to explore all the culinary treasures our Gulf Coast has to offer. The best way to discover a community is through its food, and we have plenty to share.
Moving to the area? I'd love to help you find a home near your new favorite spot.
As your local real estate expert, I can help you discover the perfect neighborhood to match your lifestyle. Whether you want to be steps from the beach or prefer a quiet bayfront setting, I know this area intimately and would be honored to help you find your piece of paradise.