{"id":639,"date":"2025-08-06T21:09:33","date_gmt":"2025-08-06T21:09:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/?p=639"},"modified":"2025-12-10T13:00:34","modified_gmt":"2025-12-10T18:00:34","slug":"best-spots-for-dine-arounds-in-the-bradenton-area","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/blog\/best-spots-for-dine-arounds-in-the-bradenton-area\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Spots for Dine-Arounds in the Bradenton Area"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Find the Perfect Recipe for Connection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Looking for a unique and memorable place to host an industry networking event or welcome party? Just want to get the team together for an evening of fun, food, and meaningful conversation? The Bradenton Area offers unforgettable experiences for group dining \u2013 no matter the occasion or ambience you’re after. Find everything from swanky rooftop lounges with views of the Manatee River, to beautiful beachside restaurants on the Gulf that specialize in events, to laid-back breweries with backyard games. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites by region for easy planning. Need further assistance with logistics or recommendations? Our local experts are here to help!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Central: Downtown Bradenton & Palmetto<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Within two miles from the Bradenton Area Convention Center, these nearby restaurants make it easy for attendees to go from the main event to the main course! Plus, many of them offer stunning views of the Manatee River.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"oyster
Oyster River Rooftop<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Oyster River Rooftop at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa
<\/strong><\/a>A no-brainer for welcome receptions and team celebrations, this stylish rooftop restaurant and bar is located in the headquarters hotel attached to the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Guests can mix and mingle while enjoying creative cocktails, thoughtfully prepared small plates, and a bird\u2019s-eye view of the marina and river below.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd600 US-41, Palmetto<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

Riviera Dunes Dockside
<\/strong><\/a>Across the way from the Convention Center<\/a>, this indoor\/outdoor spot inside the Riviera Dunes Marina is ideal for casual gatherings \u2013 with its laid-back vibes and coastal comfort food. Depending on event size, groups can reserve one of three private dining spaces, as well as the restaurant’s outdoor waterfront patio.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd102 Riviera Dunes Way, Palmetto<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"private
Taverna Toscana<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Taverna Toscana
<\/strong><\/a>Another popular choice for formal events and dinners intended to impress, Taverna Toscana is an elegant Italian steakhouse that combines modern sophistication with authentic, rustic charm. The menu is pure delight \u2013 from butcher-cut steaks and seafood specials to handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. In addition, a selection of craft cocktails, mocktails, local brews, and Italian wines (by the glass or bottle) ensures everyone will feel comfortable partaking in the festivities.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd1301 6th Ave W, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chateau 13 Restaurant & Wine Bar
<\/strong><\/a>Great for wining and dining clients or hosting a team wine tasting, Chateau 13 pulls out all the stops for guests, ensuring they have a wonderful experience. In addition to its worldly wine list, the restaurant takes inspiration from the legendary and welcoming culinary hospitality found throughout France, Italy, Spain, and Belgium. It’s also located next to downtown Bradenton’s Old Main Street, a charming block of historic buildings with local boutiques and art galleries.
\ud83d\udccd535 13th St W, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"plated
Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Mattison\u2019s Riverwalk Grille
<\/strong><\/a>Not hosting an official event per se, but need a place to eat and unwind with your larger group? Located directly on the Bradenton Riverwalk, Mattison’s offers front-row views of the river and shaded outdoor seating for enjoying live music while savoring dishes from the chef-crafted menu focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients and local flavor.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd101 Riverfront Blvd, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PIER 22<\/strong>
<\/a>Right on the river, this longtime local favorite is an impressive choice for group dine-arounds \u2013 whether you’re looking to host 25 people or 250. Frequently chosen for corporate events and networking functions, the restaurant offers multiple event spaces, including a marina-side patio that wows with panoramic views of the Manatee River and the Green Bridge. The restaurant also has its own team of event planners to assist with details, like creating a custom menu of coastal American fare, sushi, and daily seafood specials.
\ud83d\udccd1200 1st Ave. W., Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"aerial
Oak & Stone rooftop<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n

Oak & Stone
<\/strong><\/a>Doing a working lunch with the crew or kicking off an afternoon of team building? You can’t go wrong with pizza, burgers, and a pour-your-own beer wall! Add in refreshing views of the Manatee River from its prime location on the roof of Bradenton’s SpringHill Suites<\/a> and you’ll know why this downtown restaurant is always a go-to for group outings.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd1201 1st Ave W, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

O’bricks Irish Pub & Martini Bar<\/strong>
<\/a>Located on Old Main Street, O’bricks is a favorite for team happy hours and holiday parties. It features a creative menu of scratch-made soups, salads, and sandwiches (from the land or the sea). As for drinks, this Irish pub and martini bar not only has a strong selection of beers and cocktails, but also an impressive wine list. A private banquet room is available for custom celebrations of up to 60 guests.
\ud83d\udccd427 12th St W, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"lighted
Motorworks Brewing<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Motorworks Brewing<\/strong>
<\/a>The biggest beer garden in Florida, Motorworks Brewing is a fun place for teams to relax, grab a drink, and enjoy a little friendly competition. It features a spacious deck built around a more than 150-year-old oak tree, plus a large turf area for playing cornhole, giant Jenga, and more. The beer garden is also available for private events and a great spot for team building.
\ud83d\udccd1014 9th St W, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

West: Anna Maria Island, Cortez & Longboat Key<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Breathtaking views of the Gulf and a focus on fresh, locally caught seafood are hallmarks of dining on the Bradenton Area’s barrier islands. Just 11 miles from the Convention Center<\/a> or a relaxing ferry ride<\/a> away, a trip to these beachfront restaurants isn’t just easy to manage \u2013 it’s a must!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"beachfront
Sandbar Seafood + Spirits<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits
<\/strong><\/a>Situated on the north end of the island, this beloved waterfront restaurant dazzles with unbeatable views and a menu of fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients. The property operates its own dedicated events space on-site \u2013 The Grand Pavilion \u2013 which is ideal for entertaining up to 180 guests under its open-air canopy that looks out onto the Gulf.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

Gulf Drive Cafe & the Kokonut Hut<\/strong>
<\/a>Also found along the shores of Bradenton Beach, the Gulf Drive Cafe and Kokonut Hut offer a variety of options for group dining \u2013 from the main restaurant to the full-service beachside bar (Kokonut Hut) to the dedicated event space (The Sunset by Gulf Drive Cafe). The spaces combined span two acres of waterfront property and feature the landmark’s signature thatched tiki hut aesthetic. It’s the perfect place to relax and listen to live music, enjoy some fresh Florida seafood, and catch a sunset.
\ud83d\udccd900 Gulf Dr, Bradenton Beach<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"beach
Beach House Restaurant <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n

Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
<\/strong><\/a>Further south on the island, along the shores of Bradenton Beach, the Beach House offers a quintessential coastal dining experience. Similar to its sister property, the Sandbar, the restaurant’s culinary offerings prioritize freshness, including wild-caught favorites like grouper and royal red shrimp. With one of the largest gulf-front decks on Florida’s West Coast and tables directly on the sand \u2013 which can be reserved for groups through their Beachside Hospitality Events team \u2013 it delivers an unparalleled ambience for alfresco dining.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n
\n
\"swordfish
Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar<\/a><\/strong>
Located in the historic fishing village of Cortez, which neighbors Anna Maria Island, this waterfront restaurant sits right on the Sarasota Bay \u2013 and is the perfect venue for enjoying Florida sunsets or watching boats come and go. Great for corporate events, Swordfish treats diners to a celebration of coastal seafood delicacies and nightly live music in a vibrant tropical atmosphere. The restaurant also has its own catering team to help take care of all the details.
\ud83d\udccd4628 119th St W, Cortez<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant<\/a><\/strong>
South of Anna Maria Island is the secluded barrier island of Longboat Key, also part of the Bradenton Area. Just as the island provides a quiet escape for visitors, Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant treats guests to an incredibly intimate dining experience that feels like a secret hideout. Tables are set right on the sand, under a canopy of century-old buttonwood trees, and offer spectacular views of the Sarasota Bay. The ambience alone is worth a trip, but the menu of gourmet seafood selections, sustainably and locally sourced, certainly doesn’t disappoint either. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
\ud83d\udccd760 Broadway Street, North Longboat Key<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
SHORE Longboat Key
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

SHORE<\/strong>
<\/a>Also on the northern end of Longboat Key, Shore brings a fresh, mid century modern flair to waterfront dining. The open air design sets the tone right away, offering wide bay views and a breezy, laid back atmosphere that still feels stylish. The menu leans into creative coastal cuisine, with dishes like Key West shrimp and scallop risotto and bright, citrusy cocktails that pair perfectly with the scenery. It\u2019s an easy pick for groups looking for a venue with personality, great food, and that unmistakable Shore vibe.
\ud83d\udccd760 Broadway Street, North Longboat Key<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

East: Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch & University Town Center<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In addition to being popular visitor destinations for shopping and a round or two of golf, these communities to the east of the Bradenton Area Convention Center<\/a> also offer a variety of exciting dining options for groups and events just miles away.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Woody\u2019s River Roo Pub & Grill
<\/strong><\/a>Easily accessible by I-75, Woody\u2019s is a longtime local hangout with retro charm and a scenic view of the Manatee River. Perfect for a laid-back corporate event, this outdoor venue comes with built-in entertainment \u2013 featuring live music seven days a week.
<\/strong>\ud83d\udccd5717 18th St E, Ellenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"exterior
GROVE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

GROVE<\/strong>
<\/a>The sister restaurant of Bradenton’s PIER 22, GROVE celebrates local ingredients in its menu of internationally inspired favorites. This Lakewood Ranch restaurant features a ballroom and two private dining rooms ideal for meetings, working lunches, and business presentations.
\ud83d\udccd10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whiskey Joe\u2019s<\/strong>
<\/a>With waterfront views of the Manatee River and 12,000 square feet of private event space, this island-inspired restaurant can accommodate parties from 20 to 400 guests. Choose a buffet dinner or stand-up cocktail hour that can be held on the beach, on the deck, or inside the restaurant.
\ud83d\udccd5313 19th St E, Ellenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"tasting
Loaded Cannon Distillery <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loaded Cannon Distillery<\/strong>
<\/a>The first distillery in the Bradenton Area, Loaded Cannon, offers engaging tours, tastings, and private mixology classes \u2013 all of which make for a fun and spirited team-building activity. Decked out in a classy pirate theme, the distillery also rents its space out for events. Bring in your own catered food to pair with their small-batch rums, bourbons, whiskeys, and gins that use locally sourced ingredients.
\ud83d\udccd3115 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. Ste. 110, Bradenton<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Florence and the Spice Boys<\/strong>
<\/a>A fun and flavorful way to switch things up, this casual Mediterranean eatery delights with its funky aesthetic and a menu that’s just as bold and lively. The joint has a dedicated following of people who can’t get enough of its creamy hummus and savory shawarma, among other favorites. Their University Town Center location invites larger groups to submit an inquiry so proper arrangements can be made.
\ud83d\udccd257 N Cattlemen Rd Unit 90, UTC\/Sarasota<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

Selva Grill <\/strong>
<\/a>Receiving rave reviews from The New York Times, Selva wows with an upscale atmosphere and fine-dining experience \u2013 perfect for impressing clients or leadership. Its innovative menu features a blend of exotic flavors from Latin America and the United States, with a special emphasis on Peruvian dishes. A treat for culinary enthusiasts and those who appreciate the details, dishes look like plated works of art.
\ud83d\udccd67 N Cattlemen Rd, UTC\/Sarasota<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re looking for a unique and memorable dining experience to host an industry networking event, welcome party, or group dinner, we have plenty of recommendations highlighting the Bradenton Area\u2019s vibrant Floribbean cuisine and coastal flavors<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":888,"featured_media":2508,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-639","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/639","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/888"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=639"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/639\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2509,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/639\/revisions\/2509"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2508"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=639"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=639"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bradentongulfislands.com\/meetings-conventions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=639"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}