Sandbar Seafood + Spirits Reimagined, Restaurant Introduces Beachside Bites and Sweet Willy’s
The iconic Anna Maria Island restaurant enters a new era.
The iconic Sandbar Seafood + Spirits restaurant has introduced exciting new amenities and a fresh look as part of its completed renovation under the ownership of Beachside Hospitality Group. Two new key amenities are Beachside Bites, now open on the south side of the restaurant, and Sweet Willy’s Ice Cream Shoppe, now open inside the restaurant. Sandbar Seafood + Spirits is located at 100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria. As of Aug. 2024, Beachside Hospitality Group owns and operates the restaurant.
Beachside Bites, open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., offers a walk-up window for beachgoers and early risers to find a balanced mix of ready-to-go and made-to-order breakfast and light fare items, including breakfast sandwiches, fresh pastries and smoothies.
“We realized there just weren’t many healthy, quick breakfast options on the island—and since the market concept was already in development, it felt like the perfect opportunity to fill that gap,” said Greg Powers, CEO of Beachside Hospitality Group. “The response has already been great, as demand picks up, we plan to expand both our hours and the menu.”
The first Sweet Willy’s on the Gulf Coast, the retro-style ice cream shoppe in Sandbar operates from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and offers ice cream with premium ingredients and rotating flavors, handmade waffle cones crafted daily in-house, old-school sundaes and milkshakes. Lovingly named after Powers’ daughter Sylvia, nicknamed Silly Willy, Sweet Willy’s has three locations on Florida’s east coast.
While renovations were in progress when Beachside Hospitality Group acquired the restaurant, the impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton required the brand to reimagine and breathe new life into the space with bright nautical colors, natural wood accents, and intentional design details that celebrate its coastal surroundings.
Photography by Codey Phillips Photography
Additional key upgrades at the restaurant include:
- New flooring, furniture, and lighting throughout the main dining areas.
- All new bar and kitchen equipment, re-engineered for higher efficiency.
- New privacy fencing and updated lighting in the treasured Grand Pavilion, Sandbar’s beachfront event venue.
- A refreshed entrance with inviting paint, signage and new guest seating.
- Freshly paved outdoor spaces with beachside picnic tables and bistro-style seating.
- Expanded retail space with resort wear, gifts and Sandbar-branded merchandise.
“It was important to us that we rebuild with a purpose and prioritize the guest experience in the process,” adds Powers. “We wanted a fresh, vibrant look, but without losing the charm that’s made this beachfront favorite so beloved for decades. It’s been such a joy to see people enjoying the new spaces, and to watch weddings and private celebrations continue at the Grand Pavilion—it really brings it all full circle.”
In addition, Sandbar is launching a refreshed menu led by Executive Chef Zack Moody, featuring standout menu options like Chargrilled Octopus, Bairdi Crab Legs, and Grouper Beachside. This updated lineup showcases wild-caught seafood and Beachside Hospitality favorites, all while continuing to honor longtime guest favorites like the Cowboy Shrimp and Sandbar Tacos.
For more information about Sandbar, or to make a reservation, visit www.sandbardining.com.
About Sandbar Seafood + Spirits
Acquired by Beachside Hospitality Group in 2024, Sandbar Seafood + Spirits continues a storied tradition as one of Anna Maria Island’s most beloved waterfront restaurants. Originally established in 1911 as “The Pavilion,” the site has been a cherished destination for entertainment and relaxation for over a century. Known for its coastal charm, fresh cuisine, and a legacy of outstanding service, Sandbar has become a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking memorable dining experiences. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor dining with the option for toes-in-the-sand seating. Now part of Beachside Hospitality Group’s portfolio of 15 restaurants across Florida, Sandbar remains committed to delivering exceptional hospitality in an unforgettable seaside setting. For more information, visit www.sandbardining.com.