Experience These Siesta Key Restaurants With a Waterfront View

When you’re exploring a new city, one of the best ways to get the full experience is by checking out the most popular local restaurants. A benefit to dining in Siesta Key specifically is enjoying a great view along with an incredible meal! 

man and woman toast with wine glasses over sunset view
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Siesta Key Restaurants on The Water

During your Siesta Key vacation, be sure to visit at least one of these popular waterfront restaurants. Dining on the water in Siesta Key is one of the experiences and attractions that make this part of the country paradise.

the cottage

The Cottage

The atmosphere at The Cottage is incredibly vibrant and fun. Their tagline says it all: “Be social, eat local.”  Since The Cottage is located right in the heart of Siesta Key Village, it’s hard to find a more convenient place! This eatery has established itself as one of the best Siesta Key Village restaurants. Thanks not only to the friendly staff and great view but also the delicious dishes! Delight in a grouper sandwich, indulge with short rib grilled cheese bites, or cool off with a specialty cocktail like The Perfect Getaway or the Lemon and Lavender. You can enjoy it all from the dining room or one of the two outdoor patios!

The Cottage is located at 153 Avenida Messina in Siesta Key. Their hours are from Monday through Thursday: 12 noon to 10 p.m., Friday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Daiquiri Deck South Siesta Key

For the laid-back vibes Siesta Key is known for, head down to Daiquiri Deck in South Siesta Key. Guests of all ages can appreciate the simple yet delicious meals they’re serving up here, and it’s hard to beat the breathtaking view you’ll get while you eat! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic like burgers or seafood alfredo, or you want to go bold with some gator bites. In addition to the South Siesta Key location, you can also find Daiquiri Decks in Siesta Key Village, St. Armands Circle, Venice, and Anna Maria Island!

Daiquiri Deck South Siesta Key is located at 1250 Stickney Point Road in Siesta Key. They are open daily from 11 a.m. to 12 midnight.

The Boatyard Waterfront Grill

The Boatyard Waterfront Grill manages to strike the perfect balance between upscale and casual. The dining room has a breathtaking view of the water right outside the window, so you’ll have a fantastic backdrop as you enjoy menu options like grouper and chips or jambalaya. Depending on what night you visit, you may even be treated to some enjoyable live entertainment from talented local musicians! 

The Boatyard Waterfront Grill is located at 1500 Stickney Point Road in Siesta Key. They are open Sunday through Thursday from 12 noon to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 12 noon to 10 p.m.

Spearfish Grille

It’s hard to get closer to the waves than at Spearfish Grille, located right inside of Siesta Key Marina! They’ve been serving locals and visitors alike since 2018, as a proven local staple with friendly staff and spectacular fresh local fish. Enjoy menu options like the Caribbean Chicken Sammy, the Marina Burger, and the Gulf Shrimp Po-Boy, and finish it all off with a slice of delicious Siesta Key Lime Pie! 

Spearfish Grille is located at 1265 Old Stickney Point Road in Siesta Key. They are open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Ophelia’s on the Bay

For a more romantic upscale experience, venture to Ophelia’s on the Bay and transport to an elegant seaside paradise. As soon as you step in, you’re sure to enjoy selections that vary seasonally to utilize the best and freshest local ingredients. Some recent favorites have included the Eggplant Crepes, Faroe Island Salmon, and Jumbo Breast of White Pekin Duck. Reservations are recommended, visit their website or call ahead to book your table.

Ophelia’s on the Bay is located at 9105 Midnight Pass Road in Siesta Key. They are open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

ophelia's on the bay

Turtles on the Bay

Turtles on the Bay opened in 1986, and is open 365 days per year, which allows you to enjoy lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch by the water. You’ll be so close to the waves that you might even see dolphins and manatees playing next to your table! There are many delightful dining options to choose from including mouthwatering seafood options for your enjoyment, like sea scallops, Gulf of Mexico grouper, salmon, coconut mahi-mahi, and more. 

Turtles on the Bay is located at 8875 Midnight Pass Road in Sarasota. They are open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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The Old Salty Dog

At The Old Salty Dog, incredible seafood dishes as well as tempting staples, all come with breathtaking views of the water. With a vast range of menu options featuring everything from fish n’ chips to hot dogs to shrimp, steak, and more, everyone in your group is sure to leave satisfied, and there are daily food and drink specials to choose from. 

The Old Salty Dog is located at 5023 Ocean Boulevard in Sarasota. They are open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Siesta Key Oyster Bar

Sit down to an amazing view of the water at the Siesta Key Oyster Bar. At the same time, you enjoy calamari, fish and chips, seafood tacos, snow crab legs, or the incredible Siesta Key Extravaganza! Everything is prepared with the freshest local ingredients. It comes with a complimentary view of the ocean and a front-row seat to some impressive live music.

Siesta Key Oyster Bar is located at 5238 Ocean Boulevard in Sarasota. Their hours are from Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 12 midnight, Friday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 12 midnight.

Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar 

Visitors have been coming to the Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar for more than 35 years to enjoy grouper, flounder, gator, catfish, clam, and so many other local seafood favorites! Finish off with a beer or wine while you watch the waves roll in! If you’re in the mood for something different than seafood, there are various alternative options to choose from.

Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar is located at 5353 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. They are open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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