The Best Waterfront Restaurants in Manatee County & Anna Maria Island
One of the best parts about living on Florida’s Gulf Coast is that dinner can feel like a vacation.
Whether it’s fresh seafood overlooking the water, live music by the marina, or watching boats pull in at sunset, waterfront dining is a huge part of the lifestyle in Manatee County.
From Anna Maria Island and Cortez to Bradenton and Longboat Key, there’s no shortage of places where locals and visitors gather for great food and waterfront views.
Here are some of the best waterfront restaurants around Manatee County and the surrounding Gulf Coast area.
Pier 22 — Downtown Bradenton
Pier 22 has become one of the most recognizable waterfront restaurants in the area.
Located directly on the Manatee River in downtown Bradenton, it’s known for:
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waterfront dining
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sushi
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seafood
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brunch
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boat access
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skyline views
It’s one of the most popular spots for both locals and people visiting the Riverwalk area.
The location alone makes it hard to beat.
Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant — Longboat Key
Mar Vista offers one of the most authentic “Old Florida” dining experiences on the Gulf Coast.
Tucked beneath large trees with dockside seating overlooking Sarasota Bay, this spot feels relaxed and coastal in the best way possible.
Known for:
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fresh seafood
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waterfront atmosphere
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outdoor dining
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boat access
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local charm
It’s one of those places people tend to discover once and continue going back to for years.
Tide Tables — Cortez
If you want laid-back Florida seafood directly on the water, Tide Tables is hard to beat.
Located in the historic fishing village of Cortez, this local favorite is known for:
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grouper sandwiches
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peel-and-eat shrimp
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casual atmosphere
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waterfront picnic seating
The vibe here feels about as Florida as it gets.
You’ll often see:
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fishing boats
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pelicans
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locals arriving by boat
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sunset views over the water
The Waterfront Restaurant — Anna Maria Island
Located at the northern end of Anna Maria Island, The Waterfront combines upscale coastal dining with laid-back island atmosphere.
Popular for:
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cocktails
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seafood
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brunch
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outdoor seating
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island atmosphere
The surrounding area near Pine Avenue adds to the experience, making it a great stop while exploring the island.
Dry Dock Waterfront Grill — Longboat Key
Dry Dock is one of the area’s most popular waterfront lunch and dinner spots.
Overlooking Sarasota Bay and nearby marinas, it’s especially known for:
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seafood
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outdoor seating
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boat watching
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sunset dinners
The restaurant consistently draws both locals and visitors thanks to its relaxed waterfront setting.
Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant — Palmetto
Riverhouse offers panoramic views of the Manatee River and Regatta Pointe Marina.
Known for:
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seafood
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steaks
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live music
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marina atmosphere
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outdoor bar seating
It’s become one of the more popular gathering spots in Palmetto, especially as waterfront redevelopment continues growing in the area.
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant — Anna Maria Island
Located directly on the beach in Bradenton Beach, Beach House offers one of the most iconic dining experiences on the island.
Few things compare to:
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eating dinner barefoot in the sand
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Gulf views
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live sunsets
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tiki-style atmosphere
For many visitors, this becomes one of the memorable parts of experiencing Anna Maria Island.
Why Waterfront Dining Is Such a Big Part of Florida Living
One thing many people relocating to Manatee County quickly realize is how much life here revolves around the water.
Boating, fishing, beaches, marinas, and waterfront restaurants all become part of everyday lifestyle.
For locals, it’s normal to:
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grab dinner by boat
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watch sunsets after work
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meet friends at waterfront bars
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spend weekends exploring coastal restaurants
That lifestyle is one of the biggest reasons people continue moving to Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Exploring Manatee County Through Local Restaurants
One of the best ways to learn an area is through its local food scene.
From laid-back seafood spots in Cortez to upscale waterfront dining near downtown Bradenton and Longboat Key, every part of the area offers its own personality and atmosphere.
Whether you’re relocating, visiting, or already living locally, exploring the waterfront restaurant scene is one of the best ways to experience what makes Manatee County special.
May 09, 2026
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