Restaurants Archives - Island Real Blog

Duffy’s Tavern has great hamburgers and COLD beer

Holmes Beach – Duffy’s Tavern is an Anna Maria Island landmark and has been since it first opened in 1958. Family owned and operated, “Miss Duffy” and her 5 daughters proudly serve their “world famous burgers and the coldest beer this side

of heaven” from a two-story cracker shack located across the street from the Manatee Public Beach on Anna Maria Island, Florida. In March of 2003, Duffy’s relocated across the street from the Holmes Beach City Hall and skate park. Now with air conditioning and a fireplace, it is a great place to hang out where you are never too hot or cold and can mingle with the locals. You can still expect the same service and quality in both the beers and the burgers. Everything comes with chips, never fries.

Duffy’s has fabulous cheeseburgers and try one with everything on it. There is a bar as well as spots to sit down. They have an outdoor eating area under roof as well as one out the back which is not under roof. The regular dining area can be opened up with garage door size screens to let the breeze in on balmy breeze days. On cold days they get the fireplace roaring and it offers a nice cozy eating spot. Walk up to the bar and put in your order and Duffy’s will bring the food out when ready. Plenty of cold beverages at Duffy’s, beer, soda all with Televisions behind the bar to watch your favorite sports team.

Duffy’s hours as of this posting:

Duffy's in Holmes Beach — Duffy’s fireplace

Monday – Saturday: 11am – 8pm
Closed on Tuesday
Sunday: 12pm – 8pm
No credit cards, CASH only!

Duffy’s
5808 Marina Dr,
Holmes Beach, Fl 34217 – Anna Maria Island
Phone (941) 778-2501

Harrington House Bed & Breakfast

While searching for your perfect Anna Maria Island property, it’s nice to have a “home base” to relax and enjoy everything our special paradise has to offer. The Harrington House Beachfront Bed and Breakfast offers island hospitality and comfort in order to help you decide which AMI place is “the one” for you! When you’re making your reservation, make sure to tell them you are working with an Island Real Estate Sales Professional for VIP treatment!

The Harrington House is a fantastic direct Gulf Front Bed and Breakfast located on Anna Maria Island. They offer nightly accommodations and they provide a perfect get away from the busy life. Each morning you will be awakened by the smell of in house chef made breakfast, breads and coffee. Each bedroom has a charm all of its own, it’s best to speak to one of the very knowledgeable staff to determine which room would best meet your expectations.

Harrington House Breakfast

They also serve breakfast by appointment only for locals and visitors alike. Sit outside and listen to the Gulf of Mexico while you enjoy one of several specialty breakfasts. You can also dine inside in the dining area with direct views of the Gulf of Mexico. Either way, the breakfast is fantastic and the views are free. If you have a special occasion be sure to stay at Harrington House or at least visit them for breakfast but please be sure to call ahead. Reservations are always required and seating is limited.

One last note, Harrington House will also host a tea party, wedding, or wedding reception so be sure to call them if you have a need for a special group outing.

Harrington House
5626 Gulf Drive
Holmes Beach, FL, 34217
(941) 778-5444

Tyler’s Gourmet Ice Cream – Homemade Deliciousness

I scream, you scream, we all scream for tyler’s ice cream

Homemade ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, and more! Tyler’s Ice Cream has been around for over 3 decades, and their quality of ice cream shows that they know what they’re doing. The vision was to provide the yummiest and freshest ice cream available ANYWHERE. Though I haven’t traveled the world and tried every ice cream out there, I would not be surprised if Tyler’s Ice Cream truly was the best. In my opinion they are!

The business is family owned and operated by Rob and Laura Alderson, who took over the business for the original owners, Larry and Geri Tyler. Since the ice cream shop was founded in 1984, 300 different flavors have been produced throughout the years. Luckily, Tyler’s has expanded to three locations, so now more people are able to enjoy their yummy treats and sweets. There’s one in Bradenton on Manatee Ave, a second location in Cortez Village, and the third is on Longboat Key.

So what more do we need to say? Delicious ice cream made fresh daily by great people! Stop in for a scoop, or two, at Tyler’s Gourmet Ice Cream!

Address:
. Cortez: 11904 Cortez Rd W, Cortez, FL 34215
. Bradenton: 5917 Manatee Ave, Bradenton, FL 34215
. Longboat Key: 5350 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228

Phone:
. Cortez: 941-794-5333
. Bradenton: 941-243-3841
. Longboat Key: 941-383-6935

Hours:
. All three locations are open every day of the week
Monday – Thursday is open 1PM – 9PM
Friday & Saturday is open 12PM – 10PM
Sunday is open 12PM – 9PM

The Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe

The AMI Beach Cafe is a great toes in the sand dining spot! Imagine this, the beach, the sun, the sand, people watching, AND FOOD! It doesn’t get any better than that!
This is the perfect place for breakfast on the island. Enjoy your cup of coffee, maybe even an order of their all-you-can-eat pancakes, and take in the gorgeous Gulf view. Oh, you didn’t wake up for breakfast did you? That’s okay because they serve lunch and dinner too! Don’t worry they didn’t forget about you late risers. If you think I skipped telling you about putting on regular clothes, your wrong, I didn’t. You can wear anything here, your swim suit, pajamas, work clothes, wedding dress, anything. Ordering is quick, simple, and fun. Just pick your favorite menu option, place your order at the window, pay for the meal, grab a number, then sit back and wait.

An atmosphere like this is hard to find. Laid back people, sunshine and waves, live music, it is absolute perfection. Chances are, if you’ve been to the Island, you’ve most likely enjoyed a meal at the Beach Cafe. And if you haven’t, then what are you waiting for? There is a reason not only tourists, but locals as well, love this place! They also have ice cream and shopping! Yes, you can cool down with a scoop of cookies’ n cream ice cream for dessert and then stroll right on into the gift shop for some island memorabilia.

Oh, and that’s not all!

The Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe also offers beach rentals. They offer rentals for beach chairs, cabanas, and umbrellas. Even better, upon request they offer beach wheelchairs.

Where: 4000 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Phone: (941) 778-0784
Hours: Open EVERYDAY from 7:30am – 8pm
Breakfast ends at 11am Monday – Friday, and noon on SATURDAY and Sunday

Mr Bones barbecue, Holmes Beach – Anna Maria Island

Originally opening their doors in 1992, Mr. Bones BBQ in Holmes Beach is a staple restaurant on Anna Maria Island, and especially when it comes to barbecue. The restaurant itself is an extremely unique environment, which is prevalent as soon as you walk through the front doors. A large coffin stocked with a variety of beer for you to take and enjoy while you’re dining can be found at the entrance. There’s even a skeleton, not a real one of course, at the front of the restaurant which adds to the fun found inside the dining area. Feast on several different types of barbecue ribs, chicken, or beef. The baked beans are delicious, as well as the beans and rice. Not a fan of meat? No problem! Mr. Bones takes special care of their vegan and vegetarian customers and dishes.

“This care includes buying, when possible, organic and local ingredients. Or, like soaking and seasoning our own black bean recipe, and using organic quinoa as one of our binders for the black bean burgers. Just as we ask our customers with allergies to inform us when they order, we ask our vegan customers to let us know so we can take every needed precaution in the kitchen when preparing their meals.”
– Direct Quote from Mr. Bones Website

Mr. Bones takes pride on making their food from complete scratch. This includes all 5 of their sauces. And their BBQ sauces are so good, you’ll want to take some home with you, and luckily you can! They bottle and sell their original BBQ sauces AND their hand-mixed dry rub right out of the restaurant.

If you haven’t already visited Mr. Bones BBQ Restaurant, then you need to! Make sure you try their Mrs. Frost’s Strawberry Shortcake for dessert (if it’s in season). It is to die for!

MR. BONES BBQ:
. 3007 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

. (941) 778-6614

. Monday – Saturday: 11am–9pm, Sunday: Noon–9pm

Restaurants Open for the Holidays On & Off AMI

Spending a holiday on Anna Maria Island is undoubtedly one of the best ways to spend a holiday in general. It’s a time where family and friends gather to enjoy each other’s company and of course food. If you aren’t one to spend a day whipping up a holiday feast, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The Island and surrounding area has tons of restaurants that are willing to do all the cooking and cleaning for you. Whether it’s Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, the following local restaurants will be open and ready to serve:

. Sandbar (Open Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)
100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
(941) 778-0444

.Bridge Tender Inn (Open Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)
135 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
941-778-4849

.Rod N Reel (Open Easter, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/ Day)
875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
941-778-1885

. Waterfront (Open Easter, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)
111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
941-778-1515

. Anna Maria Island Beach Café (Open ALL Holidays)
4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
941-778-0784

Located Just Off the Island:

. Harry’s Continental Kitchen (Open Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)
525 St Judes Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228
941-383-0777

. Bonefish Grill (Open Easter, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)7456 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34210
941-795-8020

. Pier 22 (Open ALL Holidays)
1200 1st Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-8087

. Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant (Open Easter, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)
760 Broadway St, Longboat Key, FL 34228
941-383-2391

. Columbia Restaurant (Open ALL Holidays)
411 Saint Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL 34236
941-388-3987

. Carrabba’s Italian Grill (Open Easter, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve/Day)
2106 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34207
941-755-7712

. Outback Steakhouse (Open ALL Holidays)
4402 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34210
941-792-1898

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Top 5 Local Restaurant French Fries on Anna Maria Island

One of the best parts of exploring new places – especially when considering a possible move – is trying different foods, new tastes and local spins on old favorites. But let’s not dismiss some of the lunch and dinner side dish staples that may get overshadowed by new dishes. For me, a good French fry can make or break a casual meal. On Anna Maria Island we are out of the “cookie cutter” restaurant corporate formula and local reigns supreme. You can expect to see some variations on the popular fry, and here are my Top 5 Favorite French Fries on Anna Maria Island:

Island Grill: these fries are made in house, served hot and sprinkled with a unique spice blend the owner created. He won’t tell exactly what’s in it, but I can tell there is both black and white pepper, some paprika and sea salt. Delicious!
Hurricane Hanks: I CRAVE these fries! There is a yummy crunchy coating on them that compliments the soft potato inside. I’ve actually ordered just a side of Hank’s fries before and didn’t share. These fries are unique and I have not had anything like them around here.
The Ugly Grouper: This one surprised me. I was too focused on my shrimp and didn’t touch the fries but once I did I proceeded to eat them all. Larger than regular fries yet smaller than steak fries, these were a perfect combo of crispy outside and soft inside. There was no special seasonings yet hardly needed salt, they were good on their own.
Peach’s: Peach’s started in Bradenton and has expanded to several locations in our area, one here in Holmes Beach. Most people get breakfast at Peach’s and miss the fries. Coated with a (slightly) spicy crispy crust that is perfect with ketchup. Their home fries have this same coating so if you must have breakfast instead of lunch you can have the next best thing!
AMOB (Anna Maria Oyster Bar) on the Pier: Rounding out my top 5 is AMOB. Their fries are simple, just no muss, no fuss delicious fries you can count on every visit to be a great addition to your meal. Not greasy, nothing fancy but good potatoes fried up and served hot. Make sure to add them to your order!

Historic City Pier Anna Maria – Take A Stroll on Tampa Bay

The city Pier Anna Maria is a great site to see when visiting Anna Maria Island, Florida. (Sorry, because of the 2017 Irma Hurricane, the City pier is temporarily closed. However, there is still plenty to do in the area and all the below information is accurate) Grabbing an ice cream at Two Scoops and walking the pier is a must! Another great past time, swing over to Two Sides of Nature and do some shopping. Stop in at the Waterfront. restaurant, across the street, for a great bite to eat.

At the end of the pier you can grab dinner and lunch, or pick up some hand made jewelry. If you like fishing then stop in to gab with the fishermen on the pier and see what is biting.

City Pier Anna Maria is a historical site

The sign at the entrance of the City Pier Anna Maria says it all. “The Anna Maria Development Company built this pier and wharf in 1911-1912 to provide dockage for ships from St. Petersburg and Tampa. It has since withstood hurricanes and lesser storms too numerous to mention. Although parts were damaged in storms in 1918, 1935, 1974, 1988, 2017 it has each time been restored to its approximate original form. Unfortunately the pier as of 2017 is closed for major repairs. The City of Anna Maria as well as Manatee County are initiating plans to repair the pier and brint it back to all it’s glory. The Anna Maria City pier is 678 feet long so it is no small task to repair it’s infastructure. The wharf extends another 58 feet into Tampa bay. Over the years it has nurtured the hopes of fisherman and the dreams of lovers. Provided roosts for pelicans and other sea birds, and has also been a friend to residents and visitors alike.

Over the center of the tin roof, from the third shore bench to the south of this marker, on clear nights can be seen the North star. Guardian of the mariners since the first sailor looked up for guidance of the night sea.

When the pier opens again, hopefully soon… walk the planks. Beneath the Roof of this City Pier is the Place to sit with Shrimp and Beer. While Lightening in the distance plays and thunder rumbles across the bays. “Summer Storm”…CMV ”

Anna Maria Beach Real Estate

There are plenty of gorgeous Anna Maria beach cottages available through Island Real Estate! Check out the selection of homes, and be sure to seek real estate advices from one of our full time sales professionals.

Beach Bistro – Fine Dining Anna Maria Island

The Beach Bistro is a fantastic restaurant that offers a dining experience to remember. Several courses are served, or you can order how you like. Reservations are strongly recommended, but you can also try to grab a seat at the bar. The bar has a little more limited menu and provides some “lighter fare” options. If you are looking for a romantic spot with limited gulf views and price is no option then we strongly recommend the Beach Bistro. Average meal prices are well over $35, so be sure you are comfortable with their prices.

Younger children are welcome, but are not recommended if you plan on having a long dining experience. Parking can be a bit of a challenge but if you can find a “legal” spot go for it otherwise be sure to use their valet parking. One additional note, the seating for two is normally fairly intimate so be prepared to get to know your neighboring diners.

We’ve provided some information below to help you contact them or find them once you’re on the island!

Beach Bistro

The Bistro is located in Holmes Beach, FL
Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5 stars – based on 377 reviews

6600 Gulf Drive
Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Phone Number: (941) 778-6444
Website: www.beachbistro.com
Menu: Browse our Menu and Wine List
Hours: Monday through Sunday 5pm-10pm.

Cuisine: Gulf Coast Seafood, American

Price Range: $$$
Takes Reservations: Yes

Beach Bistro, Direct Gulf Front fine Dining in Holmes Beach, FL

Get Directions from your Current Location

The Beach Bistro is located at the end of 66th.

Anna Maria Island Area Restaurant Information

Here is all the Anna Maria Island Area Restaurant Information you’ll need for you next visit! The island has it all when it comes time for food. From beach café’s to Fine Dining, American, Mexican, Italian, Caribbean cuisine, and so much more. Take a look below and find the best place for your next breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just drinks and a snack.

If you don’t have your own transportation take the Anna Maria Island Trolley it’s free! It will take you almost anywhere on Anna Maria Island too!

Fine Dining Anna Maria Island Restaurants

Anna Maria Island has several fine dining restaurants. The Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach is a nationally recognized as award winning. They offer an unforgettable dining experience with romantic Gulf of Mexico views. The Waterfront Restaurant is on the Bay side of Anna Maria City with dining outside too. Visit Sign of the Mermaid for large portions and their award winning Key Lime Pie. Eat Here is in central Holmes Beach, and is also the sister restaurant to Beach Bistro.

Gulf Front Restaurants with outdoor Dining on Anna Maria Island

The SandBar is a great Anna Maria Island restaurant and offers fabulous American and Seafood Cuisine. The Beach House Restaurant is affiliated with the SandBar and has similar cuisine with outdoor sand in your toes dining in Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island. Try the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner. Harrington House offers Breakfast as well as tea parties and don’t forget the Gulf Drive Cafe in Bradenton Beach. Oma’s Restaurant offers outdoor dining in Bradenton Beach and offers Italian Cuisine.

American Cuisine Restaurants on Anna Maria Island, Fl

The City Pier is always a locals favorite. This is a beautiful spot at the very end of Pine Avenue. Hurricane Hank’s has affordable everything and serves great food in Holmes Beach. Mr. Bones offers fabulous barbecue with some unique twists. Seafood more your speed, when in Rome so to speak or more like Maine? Also try Island Gourmet Grill for American dishes, seafood, Italian and more.

Seeking a good breakfast? Rod and Reel or Peach’s are good breakfast Anna Maria Island Restaurants. One of the best Anna Maria beach burger restaurants is just across from the Manatee public beach – Skinny’s. Skinny’s has outdoor seating as well. Anyone who has been to Anna Maria Island knows that Duffy’s serves a mean hamburger as well in Holmes Beach. Try Slim’s Place for an American style dinner and live music. Rotten Ralph’s Restaurant has been around for a long time but this past season the last location CLOSED. Right next door is the Bridge Tender Inn Restaurant which offers outdoor waterfront dining as well as formal dining. Another great Bradenton Beach restaurant on Anna Maria Island is Sharky’s.

Anna Maria Island Mexican, Italian, German and other Cuisine Restaurants

If you’re looking for Anna Maria Island Restaurants that serve Mexican cuisine Tortilla Bay is 100% Tex-Mex and is a walk up diner type restaurant. So if you are searching for a inexpensive lunch or dinner Tortilla Bay is the perfect stop. If you are in the mood for German food then look no further. Try the Old Hamburg restaurant in Holmes Beach, Fl on Anna Maria Island. Jamaican Breeze moved off the Island and offers a Jamaican flair and great dishes. Wicked Cantina is a new Tex-Mex source of food on Anna Maria Island. Another Mexican based newbee is Poppo’s located in Anna Maria City on Pine Avenue. Sorry, Banana Cabana is now closed.

Take out Anna Maria Island Restaurants

Try Subway. Don’t forget the Pine Avenue store that has fabulous Sandwiches, pasta salads, and other quick take out lunches or snacks. The Pine Avenue General store is a small grocery store located in Anna Maria City so it’s a perfect stop for a lunch at the Bay Front Park for a impromptu picnic. The Tortilla Bay Restaurant is a take out or dine in Tex-Mex restaurant located in Holmes Beach. Rudy’s in Anna Maria City is a great choice for Philly steak sandwiches.

There is a small Chinese restaurant on the Anna Maria Island, China 1. For a great burger with onion rings or french fries try Skinny’s. You can order on the telephone and pick it up. A fine dining restaurant that delivers is The Feast in Holmes Beach. The restaurant caters as well. If you are in the mood for fresh fish try the Fresh Fish Market. They sell a great selection of fish and offer small dishes like soups and freshly prepared salads. Island Gourmet offers both take out and delivery if you are looking for something better than your average chain store pizza. They also offer more upscale selections such as seafood, salads and pasta too.

Anna Maria City, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach breakfast restaurants

There are quite a few great breakfast restaurants choices on Anna Maria Island. This category of dining can be one of the toughest to narrow down because most locals know the mainstream breakfast spots but there are a few hidden away gems that this blog will be sure to introduce. Minnie’s Cafe is located in Holmes Beach and serves a great homestyle breakfast. Peach’s which specializes in Breakfast is located in Holmes Beach and provides basic breakfasts as well as some fancy stuff too. Rod and Reel Pier Restaurant serves a fantastic breakfast as well and the views of the bay are phenomenal. Want fresh donuts? Look no futher the Donut Experiment is the perfect choice in Anna Maria City. For more details on Breakfast around Anna Maria Island, check out Island Real Estate’s additional breakfast post.

Treats and Ice Cream on Anna Maria Island, Florida

Tyler’s ice cream is just off the island on Cortez. Two Scoops is located in Anna Maria, and so is Dip’s, Joe’s Eats and Sweets is in Bradenton Beach. For a desert experience to remember, try the Euphemia Haye Restaurant which has unique pies, cheesecakes, and too many deserts to remember. Just off the island is Cold Stone Creamery which serves gourmet ice cream hand mixed with your choice of mixings. If your taste buds are screaming for a milk shake then the Shake Pit is a great bet however it is just off Anna Maria Island. Another fabulous find is Sweet berries which serves fantastic frozen custard. Visit our top 5 ice cream suggestions when visiting Anna Maria Island.

Off Anna Maria Island Dining and Restaurants

There are fantastic restaurants just off Anna Maria Island. A few are chain restaurants like Outback, Bone Fish, Olive Garden, Applebee’s and Carraba’s. If you are still looking for the Anna Maria Island “feel,” try Cortez Kitchen or Starfish Company as well as Anna Maria Oyster Bar. Atlanta Bread Company, Sweet Berries Frozen Custard Eatery, and Marina’s Restaurant are all conveniently located on Manatee Avenue. Always a favorite with the kids is of course Chuck E. Cheese. For a quick Mexican take out try Chipotle in Bradenton. If you feel like venturing out into Sarasota try the very well known Columbia Restaurant. Another great choices for Sarasota is Yoder’s which is an Amish based restaurant. Yoder’s is well known for their pies.

Live Entertainment Taverns, Bars, and Restaurants

There are plenty of dining establishments on Anna Maria Island with live entertainment like SandBar, BeachHouse, Bridge Tender Inn, D.Coy Ducks and just off the island Ace’s Lounge to name a few. Tune in later for more information. Want more choices? Our Anna Maria nightlife post lists bars, live music, billiards and more. Check out our nightlife blog for more information.