Sharky's on the Pier
Sharky's was born in 1987, when two visionary families took a look at a dilapidated building and saw a beautiful waterside restaurant through their rose-colored glasses. Sharky's is located right on the beach, with a Tiki bar and a fishing pier. No other restaurant in the area screams "old Florida" like Sharky's does. Gulf Coast favorite seafood is the staple of the menu, but there are some creative options like brie and apple pizza and island jambalaya. The tropical drinks are cold and the sunsets are gorgeous. And after the sun sets, stick around and dance!
Sharky's on the Pier
1600 Harbor Drive S
Venice, FL 34285
(941) 488-1456
sharkysonthepier.com
Crow's Nest Marina & Restaurant
The Crow's Nest has been in the same location since 1976, with expansions and renovations galore since that time. Although the Crow's Nest still has a ship's store and sells gas and diesel and provides dockage, staff no longer does boat repairs on-site. Located at the Venice Inlet on the Intracoastal Waterway, the first floor features a dark paneled bar, and the elegant dining area is upstairs. With excellent fresh Florida seafood and a unique presentation, most entrees are in a moderate price range, with surf and turf higher. The restaurant also has a full-time sommelier and an excellent wine cellar. You can even rent an electric Duffy boat here to do some sightseeing.
The Crow's Nest
Marina Restaurant & Tavern
1968 Tarpon Center Drive
Venice, FL 34285
(941) 484-9551
Myakka River Oyster Bar
Located directly on the Myakka River, the specialty here is definitely seafood. Steamed clams and oysters on the half shell are sold by the dozen. The west coast of Florida's favorite fish, grouper, is well presented on the menu, with so many options for preparation it'll be hard to decide which one to pick. There are also burgers, chicken, steaks and pasta on the menu. With a nice early bird menu, entree prices in a very moderate range, and often awesome specials on drinks like margaritas, this is the type of place to get an appetizing meal without spending a fortune, all while taking in the gorgeous view!
Myakka River Oyster Bar
121 Playmore Drive
Venice, FL 34293
(941) 423-9616
myakkariveroysterbar.com
