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10 Scenic Waterfront Restaurants in and Around Siesta Key

Posted by Best Western Siesta Key onJune 30, 2021 in Dining, Food, Gulf of Mexico, Longboat Key, Relaxation, Sarasota Restaurants, Siesta Key, Siesta Key Restaurants.

One thing many Siesta Key visitors look forward to during their vacation or stay here at Best Western Siesta Key is dining out and enjoying a meal without needing to prepare it themselves. While there are numerous delicious eateries, cafes, fine dining, and casual restaurants all along Florida’s Gulf Coast and in Sarasota, we decided to highlight the top ten restaurants with the best waterfront views and scenery. From classic seafood to contemporary cuisine and even Caribbean-inspired plates, you are sure to find something that excites your taste buds as you marvel over the glistening water and breathtaking surroundings.

The Old Salty Dog

If you think the best views of Siesta Key are reserved for a fine dining experience, think again. Grab your flip-flops and shorts and head over to the Old Salty Dog for a casual American seafood meal. This relaxed atmosphere overlooks the prettiest water, and the outdoor deck is, of course, dog-friendly.

Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar

This unique view of Phillippi Creek offers refreshing outdoor and indoor seating. If “oyster bar” does not capture your attention, Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar also serves up some of the best lobster, crab, shrimp, and fish tacos in town.

The Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill

Conveniently located on the famous South Bridge leading to Siesta Key, the Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill offers the perfect balance of fine and casual dining. If you are craving a classic Florida seafood dinner with a stunning view, this is it. Whether you opt to breathe in the fresh beach air or request a table inside, the dining room walls open to offer the perfect view of Little Sarasota Bay.

Ophelia’s on the Bay

This award-winning restaurant has been noted as one of the most scenic places to eat in the U.S. by Insider.com. Ophelia’s on the Bay serves up modern American cuisine on their patio and in their dining room, which offers unbeatable views of Little Sarasota Bay through floor-to-ceiling windows.

New Pass Grill & Bait Shop

Fishermen and beachgoers especially love this convenient eatery on Sarasota Bay. Its “old Florida charm” coupled with the views of boaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders make New Pass Grill & Bait Shop a fun and casual place to stop for a quick bite to eat.

Turtles on Little Sarasota Bay

Located across from Turtle Beach on Siesta Key, Turtles on Little Sarasota Bay offers a lively atmosphere complete with palm trees and string lights for a classic Florida vacation ambiance. Local American dishes with a Caribbean flair will satisfy your taste buds as you kick back and relax on their multi-level patio overlooking the bay.

Marina Jack’s Blue Sunshine Patio

Located in the quaint park near downtown Sarasota, Marina Jack’s Blue Sunshine Patio is the perfect way to relax on the bay and take in the sights of the marina as boats gently cruise in and out. Bring your four-legged friends along as you grab a bite to eat, sip a beverage, and maybe even catch some live music.

O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill

Also nestled in Bayfront Park is O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill. Be sure to wear some flip-flops as you will be dining with your toes in the sand while looking out on the bay. This is the perfect spot to grab a drink, enjoy some seafood, or share a few appetizers with friends and family. Check out their band schedule and don’t miss out on daily live entertainment.

Chart House

Take a short trip to Longboat Key and experience elegant fine dining on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Between the mouthwatering steak and exquisite seafood dishes to the truly stunning views, Chart House is among the best al fresco restaurants in town. After your meal, hop over the bridge for a leisurely stroll around St. Armand’s Circle.

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

On the southern end of Longboat Key, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill presents an inspiring upscale dining experience. Their extensive menu will delight your palate as you choose from seafood, steak, chicken, pasta, tacos, and more. Soak in the view of Sarasota Bay from either their charming dockside patio or luxurious upstairs seating area.

Spending a day on the beach with your feet covered in powdery sand or on the brilliant water under the hot Florida sun, are not the only ways to enjoy the world-renowned white sands and turquoise Gulf on Siesta Key. While grabbing lunch and dinner are sure to be necessary items on your itinerary, choose a waterfront restaurant or a scenic spot that allows you to enjoy everything this part of Florida has to offer. Ask the local experts here at Best Western Siesta Key for further recommendations regarding convenient and delicious meal options.