Gulf Coast 941
Restaurants
From waterfront seafood shacks to downtown fine dining — the best places to eat in Venice, Nokomis, and Osprey.
Sharky's on the Pier
1600 Harbor Dr S, Venice
The most iconic restaurant in Venice — fresh Gulf seafood, tropical drinks, and stunning views from the historic pier deck.
Insider Tip
Get the grouper and watch the sunset from the pier deck. Arrive early for a waterfront table.
Café Venice
Venice Ave, Venice
An elegant downtown restaurant with housemade pasta, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine list. Perfect for a special occasion.
Insider Tip
The pasta is made fresh daily — the lobster ravioli is exceptional.
The Crow Bar
Venice Ave, Venice
A beloved local hangout on Venice Ave with great wings, cold craft beer, and a lively happy hour crowd.
Insider Tip
Happy hour runs 3–6 PM daily — the wings and draft beers are the best deal in town.
Brohard Beach Snack Bar
Brohard Beach, Venice
Simple, affordable, and right on the beach. Great for a quick lunch between fossil hunts at Caspersen.
Insider Tip
Cash only — bring small bills. The fish sandwich is fresh and cheap.
Fins at Sharky's
1600 Harbor Dr S, Venice
The more casual sibling of Sharky's, right on the beach. Perfect for a laid-back lunch with Gulf views.
Insider Tip
Great for families — the kids menu is solid and the beach is steps away.
Pelican Alley
1009 Albee Farm Rd, Nokomis
A beloved waterfront restaurant accessible by boat or car. Fresh seafood, cold drinks, and gorgeous Intracoastal views.
Insider Tip
Arrive by boat if you can — the dockside tables fill up fast on weekends.
Pop's Sunset Grill
112 Circuit Rd, Nokomis
A local institution with an outdoor bar overlooking the Intracoastal. Great burgers, cold beer, and spectacular sunsets.
Insider Tip
The outdoor bar is the best seat in the house — get there early on Friday nights.
Nokomis Beach Café
Nokomis Beach, Nokomis
A casual beachside spot for fish tacos, cold drinks, and quick bites. Perfect before or after the drum circle.
Insider Tip
Grab a cold drink and a fish taco right before the drum circle starts on Friday evenings.
Doris Italian Market
Nokomis, FL
An authentic Italian market and deli with housemade pasta, imported cheeses, and incredible sandwiches.
Insider Tip
The meatball sub is legendary — locals drive from all over Sarasota County for it.
Tiki Docks Osprey
1200 Blackburn Point Rd, Osprey
Casual waterfront dining with fresh Gulf seafood, cold drinks, and stunning views of the Intracoastal.
Insider Tip
Grab a table on the water deck and order the grouper sandwich at sunset.
Osprey Provisions
Osprey, FL
A beloved local café serving fresh-made sandwiches, coffee, and pastries. Perfect before a day at the park.
Insider Tip
The turkey avocado sandwich is a local favorite — get there early before they sell out.
Snook Haven
5000 E Venice Ave, Venice (near Osprey)
A legendary Old Florida roadhouse on the Myakka River with live music, smoked BBQ, and a full bar.
Insider Tip
Go on a Sunday for live music and the full BBQ spread.
Casey Key Fish House
Casey Key Rd, Osprey
Fresh-caught seafood in a relaxed setting near the water. Known for their fish dip and stone crab in season.
Insider Tip
Stone crab season runs October through May — don't miss it.