Immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Anna Maria Island by exploring its charming local bars. This guide, curated by an island local, takes you on a scenic tour of some of the best bars on Anna Maria Island that offer not just a glass of your favorite beverage, but also a slice of island culture. Discover the heart of the island’s social scene where fun, food, and friendships come together. From beachside tiki huts to laid-back sports bars, we have it all covered.
The Bars:
| Bar Name | Address |
|---|---|
| The Doctor’s Office | 5313 Holmes Blvd. Holmes Beach, FL |
| Bamboo Island Bar | 119 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 |
| The Fox Mercantile | 12304 Cortez Rd W Cortez, FL 34215 |
| Dcoy Ducks Bar & Grille | 5410 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 |
| Island Time Bar & Grill | 111 Gulf Drive S. Bradenton Beach, FL |
| Slim’s Place | 9701 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, FL |
| The Kokonut Hut | 900 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 |
| The Ugly Grouper | 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL |
The Doctor’s Office
Imagine a bar that’s intimate, filled with dark corners perfect for casual chats, and with a black and white movie adding an old-school charm in the backdrop. That’s The Doctor’s Office for you. This bar is not just about an interesting decor; it’s an experience. Offering upscale casual dining, handcrafted cocktails, and an enthusiastic staff, it promises a night on AMI that you’ll remember.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Holmes Beach, The Doctor’s Office is a stone’s throw away from most vacation rentals. Even if you don’t stay beachfront, you won’t miss out on the fun.
Bamboo Island Bar
Bamboo Island Bar is a Bridge Street gem that holds a special place in the hearts of both tourists and locals. The menu may lean towards the pricier side, but the cocktail menu, thankfully, won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
The drink list is exhaustive with regulars like Mimosas and Brazilian Vodka Sangria alongside exotic island specials. Accompanying your drink is a regular live music line-up that adds an upbeat note to the beachy ambiance.
The Fox Mercantile
Nestled in Cortez, a short distance from the heart of Anna Maria Island, The Fox Mercantile is a bar that doesn’t shy away from embracing its unique character. This bar stands out with its specialized cocktails and comfortable atmosphere. The drink that has made a significant impact among the patrons is the Foxi Spritz. This well-balanced cocktail combines the refreshing flavors of gin, grapefruit juice, and cucumber seltzer, creating a delightful weekend drink that is both zesty and calming.
To enhance the presentation and add a subtle twist, it’s garnished with a cucumber slice and a grapefruit slice, finished off with a sprig of rosemary. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, the gin can be omitted, transforming the Foxi Spritz into a delicious mocktail. One of the unique features of this bar is its amber glasses, which add a vintage feel and make the drinking experience even more enjoyable. The Fox Mercantile offers a cocktail experience that is truly one-of-a-kind on Anna Maria Island.
Dcoy Ducks Bar & Grille
Dcoy Ducks is a playground for the young and young-at-heart. Frequented by a lively crowd, this bar offers an energy-filled atmosphere that perfectly complements the weekend vibes. While the food menu is limited, the vast cocktail selection more than compensates.
From classic margaritas to innovative mixes, you can indulge in an array of choices. The bartenders are approachable, friendly, and skilled at introducing guests to their next favorite cocktail.
Island Time Bar & Grill
This beach bar offers a laid-back setting complete with an open-air bar, ample seating, and an outdoor patio. The atmosphere buzzes with live entertainment and dancing, making it an ideal spot to wind down after a day of exploration.
The staff is known for its warmth, and the food has a reputation of drawing patrons back, making this bar a crowd-pleaser on Bridge Street.
Slim’s Place
Slim’s Place, known as a sports bar, transcends that label to offer a quintessential AMI experience. Along with watching your favorite sports, expect to hear fascinating stories from locals while you savor the lively island ambiance.
The Kokonut Hut
We cannot talk about Anna Maria Island bars without mentioning The Kokonut Hut. This tiki bar in the sand promises a perfect end to your beach day with its waterfront views, fresh catch specials, and a grand selection of food and drinks.
The Ugly Grouper
The Ugly Grouper is a fun, lively spot that offers great food and drinks along with live music. The space also hosts games for both kids and adults, adding to the laid-back atmosphere. It’s a go-to place for those seeking a casual dining experience with a side of entertainment.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for live music, craving a delicious cocktail, or simply seeking an escape from the day, these Anna Maria Island bars are your answer. There’s something for everyone, from party-goers to those seeking a quiet evening by the beach. So hop on the Free Island Trolley, embrace the laid-back Island vibe, and let the good times roll!
