Did you bring the whole family along for your vacation to Anna Maria Island? It might be a noisy and frantic vacation, but you know that already. You probably also know that finding a suitable restaurant for a large group may be a bit of a challenge.
Some of the best Anna Maria Island restaurants are also some of the most accommodating. You want to find a place that has a varied menu. But you also want to find a location that has a nice and casual atmosphere and is suitable for a big and bombastic group ready to have a (potentially) rowdy time.
Anna Maria Island has a few excellent options for you to bring in a big party of friends and family and take over a space of your own without feeling guilty. Obviously, if you have a big party of six or more, always call ahead and make a reservation.
The Waterfront Restaurant
Location: 111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria Island excels at local seafood with a diverse menu to appeal to multiple taste preferences and can accommodate your large group.
This relaxed and casual location offers all the staples of fun and social eating: a big menu of seafood and burgers, a full beer-and-wine bar, and some tasty Florida-themed appetizers.
It wouldn’t be much of a waterfront restaurant without water views, and you get it all here. Sprawling views of the gulf can be seen from the large outdoor patio.
The Waterfront Restaurant opens up every day at 11:30 a.m. and closes up at 9 p.m. with hours to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Rod and Reel Pier
Location: 875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
The Rod and Reel Pier has the fortunate distinction of being close to both the local pier and the grandest views of the local waters. The restaurant is filled with an easy-going ambiance and water views available from just about any seat in the place.
The restaurant likes to add some eclectic twists on traditional menu items. One local delight is the Coconut-Crusted Mahi but that is only the beginning. Find jalapeno poppers, Blackened Crab Cake, and the Mexican Grouper, which is served over rice, grilled onions, mushrooms, peppers, and tomatoes with a splash of salsa.
The Rod and Reel Pier has an upper-deck view with spacious tables. The below deck has an open bar seating area and some elongated booth tables against the windows. You get one of the best water views on the island for your group at a cost that won’t break your budget.
Sharkeys Seagrill
Location: 2519 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
A little casual, a little upscale, Sharkey’s Seagrill ultimately borrows the best of both worlds for a fantastic family-friendly affair.
Order off a substantial drink menu including authentic Italian and California wines, among others, as well as appetizers featuring Lobster Spring Rolls, Mussels Marseille, and Escargot.
Though the menu items may appear fancy, the restaurant has a charming and casual sort of energy to it where kids are more than welcomed. Menu highlights include clams and linguine, lobster, and the Key West Grouper.
Adults in the group can have a blast with the 2 for 1 and $2 drafts Happy Hour. Sharkey’s is open every day from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
If you branch off of from the family for a while, be sure to check out some of the many small cafes and coffee shops on Anna Maria Island. Some of them may not be suitable for a big group, but they are exquisite places to see.
Also, don’t hesitate to ask about our Anna Maria Island waterfront vacation rentals. Contact us at 800-737-9855 to learn more them, including exquisite locations overlooking the gulf.
