Boasting Outdoor Seating with a View

BY KELLY STILWELL

When you find a restaurant with a fabulous view and incredible food every single time, you have a winner! These seven restaurants not only have a view, but all have outdoor seating. Visit their websites for hours and menus.

Tide Tables

If you haven’t been to Cortez, add this to your list. Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway, the views go on forever. See the last working fishing village on the Gulf Coast of Florida, designated a National Historic District.

What You Must Try

The Conch Fritters are the best we’ve ever had. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and filled with fresh conch. You can’t go wrong with the Smoked Grouper Spread or Grouper Sandwich!

Location: 12507 Cortez Road West in Bradenton

Website: Tide Tables

Northshore Cafe

This is such a hidden gem for a healthy breakfast and lunch. Featuring a plethora of coffees, teas, and smoothies, this cafe also offers up fresh pastries and bagels, bowls, and sandwiches.

What You Must Try

The Dragon Fruit Bowl is full of flavor and Instagram worthy.

Location: 304 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

Website: North Shore Cafe

Beach Bistro

Though this upscale restaurant on the beach could rely on that view, the food is what will bring you back again and again. Dining at Beach Bistro is an experience.

What You Must Try

The Scallop Pan Roast is heavenly, with a hint of curry in an aurora broth. The Grouper Floribbean is crusted with coconut and cashews and the bell pepper papaya jam pairs perfectly. 

Location: 6600 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach

Website: Beach Bistro

The Sandbar

There’s something about dining at an upscale restaurant with your toes in the sand. The Sandbar is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal after spending a day on the beach on Anna Maria Island.

What You Must Try

If you’re adventurous, try the Octopus Escabeche. It’s out of this world and served with house-pickled local veggies. The Grouper Sandwich is also always a win!

Location: 100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria 

Website: The Sandbar

Pier 22

With a huge menu and a great deal of seating both inside and out, this is a fantastic spot for appetizers, sushi, and traditional fare just steps from the Riverwalk.

What You Must Try

The Happy Hour menu can’t be beat from 3-7 pm. Try the Monte Cristo!

Location: 1200 1st Avenue West, Bradenton

Website: Pier 22

Oak & Stone

Part of a chain of six Florida locations, Oak & Stone in Bradenton sits high atop Springhill Suites hotel offering fabulous views of the Manatee River.

What You Must Try

The Voodoo Chicken Sandwich is crazy good, as is the Tuna Poke Bowl.

Location: 1201 1st Avenue West, Bradenton

Website: Oak & Stone

Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier

One of four locations fondly known by locals as AMOB, the newest location brings them back to their early days on Anna Maria Island. Located on the Historic Bridge Street Pier, you can watch the boats come and go and likely spot a dolphin or two.

What You Must Try

Oysters are a specialty at AMOB. The Deep Fried Oysters are a favorite, but you can’t go wrong with any of them. Try the Sampler. The Spicy Seafood Gumbo is also delicious.

Location: 200 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach

Website: Anna Maria Oyster Bar

Bio

Kelly Stilwell is a local writer and photographer with a focus on travel and food. Visit her website, Food, Fun & Faraway Places, at kellystilwell.com.