Anna Maria Island Restaurants: Top 8 Places to Eat

Anna Maria Island welcomes people to experience beautiful beaches, great fishing, wildlife watching and panoramic views. Most of the island can be explored by walking or bicycling, making it a top destination for those who like exploring. When it’s time for a break, the area’s restaurants provide all the fuel needed to recharge. Here are some of the top Anna Maria Island restaurants you can’t miss.

Top 8 Anna Maria Island Restaurants: Casual and Upscale Spots

anna maria dining best restaurants

Enjoy Fine Dining at Beach Bistro

A large wine list and great views make Beach Bistro a top choice. A large selection of dishes, ranging in taste and size, combine with a relaxing atmosphere for upscale dining. This award-winning restaurant also sources meats and produce locally. Classic entrees include bistro bouillabaisse, floribbean grouper and food heaven. Choose between more than 200 wine selections to complement the meal, while enjoying beach views.

Kick Back With Eat Here

A fun, cozy vibe helps Eat Here stand out. A glowing purple sign and mismatched silverware create a laid-back atmosphere that keeps people coming back. Menu favorites include salads and soups, tacos, pizzas, and home-style blue plate specials. They offer a variety of fish as well – such as wild Atlantic salmon – and selection depends on fresh catches of the day.

Let Ginny’s and Jane E’s Satisfy Cravings

This local favorite restaurant-shop serves breakfast and lunch. The cafe features a full menu of hot and cold drinks, quiches and sandwiches, while the bakery serves fresh cinnamon buns, pies and more. To browse antiques and knickknacks, check out the shop. Many items come from local artists and pickers, featuring unique pieces visitors won’t find anywhere else.

anna maria island dinner indian

Order Indian at The Island Spice

Those who like it hot should try The Island Spice, which specializes in Indian food. The dive is famous for authentic flavors, delicious food and large portions. Lunch and dinner favorites include dosa, uthappam and large entrees, with or without meat. Diners also find sides and desserts, as well as American fare, creating a multicuisine environment.

Make Your Own at Poppo’s Taqueria

Find gourmet Mexican food at this hot spot. Always fresh, Poppo’s delivers unique flavors and a quirky selection of craft beers. Favorites include burrito, taco, quesadilla and bowl concoctions – with hot and cold sides and toppings. This restaurant uses mostly organic ingredients, and makes many items from scratch and right in front of customers.

anna maria island seafood restaurants

Photo: Michelle Tsang on Unsplash

Relax with Rod and Reel Pier

This long-time island staple serves traditional and seafood fare. Open for all meals, Rod and Reel has a menu consisting of everything from breakfast pancakes to sandwiches to main courses. Grouper and the seafood combo are great dinner options. This casual family-friendly restaurant also has indoor and outdoor seating on two floors, with a bar on the first floor.

Join the Skinny’s Place Family

For a burger, try this family-owned dive that has ranked among the top Anna Maria Island restaurants for more than 60 years. Specializing in American fare, meals include burgers and hot dogs, sandwiches, and sides. Grandma’s homemade chili is a top pick. Open for lunch and dinner, visitors love the quaint feel and island-friendly atmosphere. To complete the meal, pair it with a cold one, and bring cash because this is a cash-only establishment.

Make a Date With The Waterfront Restaurant

Foodies who try this spot will love the large menu, complete with craft bar. That’s bar not beer, meaning there are four separate drink menus as well as three food menus. Open for lunch and dinner, main courses at The Waterfront include a selection of seafood and salads, including tropical and crab Caesar. Daily specials are a popular choice as well, and change depending on catches and seasons.

Discover more and book an Anna Maria Island vacation rental! Read about the top AMI things to do.