The Blue Marlin Seafood restaurant is one of the most unique spots on Anna Maria Island. That’s because instead of having a traditional and specific menu from day to day, this menu is ever changing.
Located at 121 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, Blue Marlin is open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Since this is one of the favorite spots to grab a bite on Anna Maria Island, reservations are suggested.
Ambiance and Décor
The Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant is a well-rounded place to head for dinner after a relaxing day at your beach vacation home. The Old Florida feel of this spot is sure to close out your vacation getaway in a big way. You’ll find a warm and welcoming environment along with a rustic nautical-themed dining area.
Nautical ship themed lamps light up the blue old Florida cottage that houses the Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant. The cozy lighting creates an intimate eating area, plus a unique and comfortable bar space.
The feel of an intimate coastal space is kept intact with original wainscoting and wood flooring. Additionally, you can head out into the courtyard where there is a beautiful covered deck and live music on the weekends. For riveting local entertainment that fits the Florida tropics theme, few Anna Maria Island restaurants can do it better.
Food
The menu rotates at The Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant, and that’s because the owners are dedicated to serving up the freshest meals possible. They take items and seafood that are seasonally fresh and sourced from nearby fish companies.
With a heavy focus on fresh seafood, it is no surprise that some of the favorites on the menu include local catches. Start with a freshly made chowder or soup before moving onto shareable plates like the Tampa-steamed littleneck clams or the shrimp egg rolls.
Main entrees focus on whatever the freshest catch of the day is, and you have the choice of how it’s prepared. Favorites include a dusting of Thai chili citrus glaze or the Fulford, which is egg washed and sautéed with garlic butter. The blackened grouper is also one of the raved about dishes and seasonal stone crabs are a must taste.
The Blue Marlin is also a suitable pick for vegetarians and other dietary restrictions. There are several meat-free options like the Blue Marlin Salad and Brussels sprouts that will satisfy any veggie lover.
Drinks
You’ll also fall in love with the bar atmosphere found here at the Blue Marlin Seafood Grill. The curved bar mimics a boat and puts even more of a focus on the nautical atmosphere.
Just like the menu, the wine list here is also always changing. Focusing on wines from smaller and lesser-known vineyards, you’ll always find something unique and fun to try out. Additionally, there are craft beers on tap along with a variety of other options in bottles and cans.
History
Located at 121 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, you’ll find the Blue Marlin Restaurant in an old Florida cottage in the area where the first bridge to Anna Maria Island was formerly located. Adam Ellis opened the restaurant in 2011 after he and his wife restored the historic cottage that dates back to the 1920s.
Getting There
Bridge Street and the Blue Marlin Restaurant are conveniently located near a line of beachfront vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island. You can take the free trolley to get to the restaurant. Then spend the evening after your delicious meal walking along the city pier, popping into some shops, or just enjoying the night.
