The fall season on Anna Maria Island feels like a well-kept secret. The summer crowds have thinned out and the weather is warm without being stifling. Sunsets arrive with a golden softness that lingers longer over the Gulf. This quieter season is the perfect time to savor the island’s food scene that ranges from sandy-toed seafood shacks to white-tablecloth fine dining. Here’s our guide to the must-try fall spots for dining on Anna Maria Island and what makes each of them special:
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Beachfront & Scenic Seafood Spots
The Waterfront Restaurant
Many of our vacation rentals are just steps from the historic Anna Maria City Pier. You can find The Waterfront Restaurant here that blends laid-back island charm with sophisticated flavors. Their menu highlights fresh, locally caught seafood prepared with an elegant twist. Popular menu items include the grouper topped with citrus beurre blanc or creamy shrimp and grits with a Southern accent. The restaurant’s wraparound porch is the prime spot for a fall evening where you can feel the cooler breezes roll in off the bay and see occasional dolphin appearances out in the distance.The Sandbar Restaurant
Vacation means slipping your toes in the sand as you sip a cocktail. The Sandbar is famous for its beachside tables that give guests an unobstructed view of the sunset, one of the most memorable fall rituals on the island. Their menu leans heavily on Gulf staples like stone crab claws, oysters, and blackened fish tacos. You can also find elevated classics with fresh herbs and produce from local farms.
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
The Beach House Waterfront Restaurant is the sister property of The Sandbar and is all about sustainability and style. The sprawling deck provides a panoramic Gulf view, while the menu offers dishes like seared scallops with truffle risotto and line-caught grouper prepared with seasonal accompaniments. This is an excellent choice for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal during your stay as it features a more upscale appearance than The Sandbar too.Casual & Local Eateries
The Porch Restaurant
Find a relaxed meal in a charming coastal cottage when you dine at The Porch. This restaurant mixes casual dining on Anna Maria Island with unexpectedly refined flavors. Their menu ranges from fresh salads to hearty sandwiches, with seasonal sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash that are perfect for fall. The setting feels cozy and inviting making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or relaxed family dinner.Wicked Cantina
Bold Tex-Mex flavors meet island breezes when you dine at Wicked Cantina. The vibe is playful with brightly colored décor and a lively outdoor patio. Tacos filled with mahi or brisket pair perfectly with one of their house margaritas and their queso is a local favorite. Grab a seat outside during the fall where you can people-watch and soak in the warm but comfortable weather.The Ugly Grouper
Whether you like it fried, grilled, blackened, or tucked into tacos you will find that The Ugly Grouper serves up the best grouper entrees around. What makes this fun named restaurant especially memorable is its atmosphere. The open-air seating under a huge tiki-style canopy, live music most evenings, and a playful, family-friendly vibe bring it all together. The giant grouper statue out front makes for a fun photo op too!Upscale and Fine Dining on Anna Maria Island
Old Bay Steamer
Old Bay Steamer has been considered one of Florida’s best fine-dining destinations. It is known for its impeccable service and Gulf-view tables along with indulgent of seafood and of course oysters. A reservation in advance is typically needed for this sought after restaurant.Breakfast & Sweet Spots
The Coffee Shack
This coffee shop is a favorite of travelers and locals alike. Grab a quick bite from their selection of breakfast sandwiches and pastries while you sip on your morning espresso or latte of choice. But it’s the owners and workers who are the biggest draw. They’ll make your day with friendly service.Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café and Gift Shop
Ginny’s and Jane E’s is part café, part bakery, and part local market with lively colors inside. Their giant cinnamon rolls are legendary and their Cuban breakfast sandwich is a hearty way to fuel up for a day at the beach.