Florida has thousands of restaurants, all waiting to give your taste buds the same kind of thrill as you experienced on those scary rides earlier. Whether you opt for fiery Mexican or fresh seafood, in our opinion there’s no better place to eat than the beachfront. Romantic sunsets or family lunches with the ocean and white sand beaches as a backdrop take some beating.
Top tip: keep an eye out for books of vouchers, found everywhere in Florida and accepted against the cost of food and drinks. Don’t be embarrassed to use them – you server will often ask if you have one.
We’ve compiled a list of a few favourite beachfront restaurants – some well-known and a few little secrets:
Atlantic Ocean Grille on Cocoa Beach
For this choice we’ve cheated just a little, as the restaurant is
located on the pier! It’s great for fresh fish and seafood or pasta, with live music and special offers such as 2-for-1 lunches and half price drinks. Take advantage of the Lobster dinner special for $14.95 on Thursday night and don’t forget to tip your waiter – the service is excellent.
Salute! On the Beach, Key West
For geographers, this is one of the most southerly restaurants in mainland USA and is located on the
extreme tip of the Florida Keys. Informal and reasonably priced, just steps from the white sand beach, you can be serenaded by live music as the sun goes down. Don’t forget to order an ice-cold pina colada to go with your meal – specialities are fish, salads and pasta.
Beach House Restaurant, Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria Island
This restaurant is so romantic, it even hosts weddings! While you can’t eat the spectacular sunsets, they certainly add the perfect finishing touch to a romantic meal. Head here after a day spent collecting shells on the white powder sands of the beach or paddleboating. Local food, beers and cocktails feature – but reserve if you want to be sure of a sunset view.
Vue on 30a, Santa Rosa Beach
Vue on 30a has been voted “Best Florida Dining” and “Best Place to Watch a Sunset” and aims to combine fine dining, a sophisticated atmosphere and laid-back attitude. Watch dolphins playing, fishing boats returning with their catch and a turquoise sea breaking gently on the white sand beach, while you sip your rum cocktails or fresh fruit juices. Naturally fish is on the menu but there’s plenty for meat-lovers and vegetarians are catered for too.
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