Dock, Dine & Soak in the Views

Flowing westward from Lake Manatee to the Gulf, the Manatee River is one of the Bradenton Area’s most scenic natural treasures. With Bradenton on the southern banks and Palmetto and Ellenton on the north side, the river is more than just a backdrop—it’s a destination. Lined with waterfront restaurants offering everything from fine dining, to boat up restaurants, to rooftop craft cocktails, the Manatee River is the perfect setting for a meal with a view.

Dock & Dine Spots

These restaurants make it easy to tie up your boat and enjoy a relaxed meal right on the water:

PIER 22
Located in downtown Bradenton, this longtime local favorite features a marina-side patio with panoramic views of the river and the Green Bridge. The menu is an elevated mix of coastal American fare, sushi, and daily seafood specials.
📍1200 1st Ave. W., Bradenton

Woody’s River Roo
A longtime local hangout with retro charm, Woody’s is a classic spot for live music, casual dining, and cold drinks by the river. With daily happy hour specials and a no-frills atmosphere, it’s where locals go to unwind.
📍 5717 18th St E, Ellenton

Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant
Set along the Regatta Pointe Marina in Palmetto, Riverhouse pairs sweeping marina and river views with a menu full of crowd-pleasers like fresh seafood, steaks, and their famous lobster pot pie. The setting is ideal for everything from brunch to sunset dinners.
📍 995 Riverside Dr, Palmetto

Mila’s on the Manatee
Right on the Bradenton side of the river, Mila’s serves up brunch buffets, fresh-caught fish, and breezy cocktails with some of the most direct river views around. A great spot to catch the sunset!
📍955 Riverside Dr., Palmetto

Riviera Dunes Dockside
This casual indoor/outdoor spot inside the Riviera Dunes Marina in Palmetto features relaxed waterfront vibes and a menu full of comfort food favorites, seafood baskets, and cold drinks.
📍 102 Riviera Dunes Way, Palmetto

Whiskey Joe’s
This laid-back riverfront hangout offers tropical cocktails, toes-in-the-sand seating, and an island-inspired menu that’s perfect for a casual day out. A go-to for happy hour and sunset views, the vibes here are always festive.
📍 5313 19th St E, Ellenton

Restaurants with Amazing views

These riverfront restaurants bring the flavor and the views—some even from up above. From chef-crafted cuisine to rooftop cocktails, this is where the culinary scene meets the beauty of the Manatee River.

Oak & Stone
This downtown Bradenton favorite offers rooftop dining with sweeping views of the Manatee River. Expect artisan pizzas, stacked burgers, craft cocktails, and a self-pour beer wall that’s a fan favorite.
📍 1201 1st Ave W, Bradenton

Oyster River Rooftop at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa
Stylish and refined, this fine dining rooftop restaurant offers elegant cocktails, thoughtfully prepared small plates, and a bird’s-eye view of the marina and river below. Perfect for date nights or a sunset toast.
📍 600 US-41, Palmetto

Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille
Located directly on Bradenton’s Riverwalk, Mattison’s features a chef-crafted menu focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients and local flavor. Enjoy live music and shaded outdoor seating with front-row views of the river and marina.
📍 101 Riverfront Blvd, Bradenton

Events & Shows

 Whether you’re seeking the thrill of live music or the serenity of sunset yoga on the beach the Bradenton Area is home to tons of events waiting to be explored.

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Eat & Drink

From Floribbean flavors to locally sourced ingredients, the Bradenton Area offers a delicious foodie scene that’s as unforgettable as its sunsets.

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