Anna Maria Life Vacation Rentals Blog

From the owner of the award-winning Beach Bistro, Eat Here is the less expensive sidekick to the Bistro. It has been selected multiple times as “Best New Restaurant” by newspapers and magazines for both of their locations on Anna Maria Island and in Downtown Sarasota. The restaurant celebrates chef-crafted cookery with presentations of local farm products, such as locally caught seafood, inspired pizza and tacos, fruit-infused cocktails, and craft beer...

Named one of the best breakfasts in Florida by Southern Living Magazine, Gulf Drive Café & Tiki is a tropical family-friendly eatery located on a white sand beach on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico in Bradenton Beach,  just a few blocks north of Cortez Bridge. Dine on fresh Florida seafood or enjoy Sunday breakfast in a comfortable beach atmosphere in the dining room or outside on the covered porch. Both offer...

Tyler’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving customers for more than 25 years. Located right over the bridge on Cortez Road, the gourmet old fashion ice cream is made fresh on site. Family-owned and operated in the historic Cortez Village, they have made more than 300 new flavors since the founding of Tyler’s. Each batch of ice cream is made in small five-gallon batches to ensure taste and freshness. For...

Island Fresh Market specializes in local seafood, locally grown seasonal vegetables, spices and condiments. The seafood selection changes daily, they offer whole fish, fillets, wild caught Florida shrimp by the pound. Your fish can also be steam onsite at no extra charge. They also have fully prepared items which include salads, soups, dips and spreads, desserts and take-away meals. Visit: 5604 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida 34217 Contact: 941-567-6130

Best known for its atmosphere, Drift In is the coolest little dive bar on Anna Maria Island. Located on the south end of the island, Drift-In AMI is definitely a place to meet and mingle with the locals and get a taste of island culture. You must be 21 years of age or older to enter. No food and no smoking are allowed inside, but large drinks are served! Meals...

Located at Manatee Landings Marina on the Manatee River, Tarpon Pointe Grill & Tiki Bar offers a unique experience featuring amazing waterfront views, gourmet food, drinks, and live music, all in a friendly, easy-going atmosphere! Featuring live music six nights a week with performances from the best local bands and guest musicians, this is definitely a place to check out if wanting to venture off Anna Maria Island to a good meal....

Tortilla Bay serves Tex-Mex food made fresh every day. A casual dining place that serves great food fast and efficiently. Some of the items on their menu include burritos, tacos, salads, nachos, quesadillas, beer, and wine. Open from Monday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. Address: 5318 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida 34217 Phone: 941-778-3663

Located directly on the Manatee River, Pier 22 offers indoor and outdoor waterfront dining with an extensive menu ranging from sushi, fresh fish, steaks, and wild game. The restaurant has multiple private dining rooms, an elegant ballroom, and a casual patio. They also offer offsite catering. Pier 22 is one of the best fine dining places in Bradenton. They also feature live music Thursdays-Saturdays on the waterfront outdoor patio, Tiki...

A favorite location for locals and tourists, The Sandbar Restaurant serves the freshest seafood on the island. Enjoy the Florida sunset during dinner inside the dining room or outside on the covered deck with your toes in the soft white sand. Since 2008, The Sandbar has been chosen by brides as the Best of the Best for Ceremony and Reception Site on the West Coast of Florida by the Knot‘s...

One of the best Sarasota fine dining and romantic restaurants on Longboat Key. Located inside a historic wooden cottage,  offers exemplary service in a charming and friendly atmosphere. The staff goes out of their way to please their diners. Let them know if you have any special dietary requirements and they will create something that will fit. Upstairs is the Haye Loft, the Bar and Dessert Room, which also features...