11 of the Best Foodie Spots in Anna Maria Island

Is there a better way to experience a city than to eat your way through it? We think not. And if you’re reading this, chances are you agree with us. We thought we’d save you some time by providing a list of some of the best foodie spots in Anna Maria Island, in no particular order.

1. The Waterfront Restaurant

One of the most popular restaurants in Anna Maria Island, The Waterfront Restaurant features gourmet cuisine and classy ambiance. As the name suggests, it’s located right on the water, making it the perfect spot to have dinner while watching the sunset. Not to mention, their elegant micro-brew and wine bar is a fantastic place to enjoy your favorite drinks. 

On their menu, you’ll find lots of seafood dishes as well as a Peppercorn Crusted Filet. The Waterfront Restaurant also offers people the option of bringing their own fresh catch of the day to be cooked and served with sides. Whatever you choose at this lovely restaurant, you’re sure to enjoy it.

2. Rod & Reel Pier

Why settle for dinner on the beach when you can have dinner on the water? The Rod & Reel Pier is loved by tourists and locals alike. Enjoy a casual dinner directly over the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. For a small fee, you can also fish directly off the pier and walkways. It certainly makes for a unique dining experience. 

The menu is predominately seafood, including favorites like grouper, shrimp, scallops, and crab cakes. You can also eat there for a hearty and delicious breakfast. You know what they say… when in Rome, eat French toast over the ocean. Or something like that.

3. Hometown Desserts

Chances are, if you consider yourself a foodie, then you’re also a dessert person. Hometown Desserts is known for its impressive decorative cakes. If you need a custom made specialty cake to celebrate a special occasion while on Anna Maria Island, look no further than this adorable shop.

4. Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe and Coastal Store

Want to eat a yummy breakfast or lunch and also pick up some fun souvenirs? Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe and Coastal Store is just the place you’re looking for. Located on the north end of Anna Maria Island, the cozy cafe offers breakfast and lunch. They make their cinnamon rolls from scratch each morning! They also prioritize ingredients that are fresh, natural, and free of preservatives and chemicals. 

Their store is a unique collection of local art and antiquities. You can also pick up beach necessities, like sunglasses, flip flops, and sunscreen, making this the best place to stop on your way to the beach.

5. Poppo’s Taqueria

If you’ve got a hankering for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas, Poppo’s Taqueria is the place to go. They make everything from scratch and go out of their way to use ingredients that are fresh, local (when possible), and often organic. If you want a yummy and inexpensive lunch or dinner, give Poppo’s Taqueria a try.

6. The Donut Experiment

The name speaks for itself. The Donut Experiment offers visitors fresh, made-to-order donuts. Whether you’re a kid on the outside or you feel like a kid on the inside, the process of picking out your donut & toppings is lots of fun! Plus, it makes for a great afternoon pick me up.

7. Slim’s Place

If you’re into sports bars, Slim’s Place is the place to be. Their “No Shower Happy Hour” is perfect after a day in the sun. Plus, their menu is more sophisticated than your average sports bar, featuring dishes like Lobster Mac n’ Cheese, Smoked Baby Back Ribs, and Filet Mignon. So kick back, relax, and enjoy some great food and drinks at Slim’s Place. 

8. The Waffle Press

Who doesn’t love waffles? You’ll adore The Waffle Press, where you can walk-up and take-away scratch-made Belgian liege waffles with artisanal toppings. That’s not all! It’s also a craft-roasted coffee bar, making it every foodie’s dream. 

9. The Doctor’s Office

The Doctor’s Office is a one of a kind craft cocktail bar with bar fare. It got its name because the building used to be an actual doctor’s office. The restaurant’s website says: “Medications were dispensed and procedures performed that made peoples lives easier, healthier, happier. We hope that this bar will follow that tradition.” Time for a visit to The Doctor’s Office!

10. The Feast Restaurant

This is a casual American restaurant, featuring a seafood-heavy menu and a large craft beer selection. It’s a great place to stop for lunch or to unwind after a day in the sun.

11. The Freckled Fin

This Irish pub is as unique as its name suggests. They describe themselves as the “Cheers” of Anna Maria Island. In addition to a full-service bar and fantastic food, The Freckled Fin also offers live music. It doesn’t get any better. 

As you can see, there’s no shortage of excellent dining experiences on Anna Maria Island. Come for a visit. Your taste buds will thank you. While you’re at it, you might as well stay at one of our beautiful waterfront properties. We’d love to have you!