Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in Ellenton

Best Red Snapper on the island. Grilled is never overcooked!

We had a great pre-Christmas luncheon at Pier 22 and it was wonderful! We had great service and would recommend this restaurant to everyone. Nice view of the water and great company made it even better!

**Ocean Prime Dinner Review – Bar Lounge Experience** Ocean Prime truly delivered an exceptional dining experience in the bar lounge! From start to finish, the evening was a perfect blend of ambiance, service, and culinary excellence. Our group of four opted for a mix of dishes that showcased the restaurant’s range, and each one was an absolute delight. The **Seafood Cobb Salad** was a standout—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Both the **Filet Mignon** and the **Ribeye Steak** were cooked to perfection, tender, and full of rich flavor. The attention to detail in preparation was evident with every bite. The sides were equally impressive, complementing the main dishes without overpowering them. The additional **side salad** was crisp and refreshing, a simple yet elegant accompaniment to our meal. The atmosphere in the bar lounge added to the experience—sophisticated yet relaxed, making it an ideal spot for an upscale yet comfortable evening. The service was attentive and friendly without being overbearing, ensuring we felt well taken care of throughout the night. Ocean Prime is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re craving expertly prepared seafood, steak, or a mix of both, this spot hits all the right notes. We’ll definitely be back!

Everything was remarkable. Our waitress was very attentive and nice.

Traverna Toscana Finally, an upscale restaurant bringing a touch of class to downtown Bradenton! My wife and I decided to venture out last Friday night to try the newly opened Traverna Toscana, and it did not disappoint. The executive chef’s carefully curated menu was impressive, with the octopus standing out as our favorite dish of the evening. My wife, who rarely tries such cuisine, was pleasantly astonished by how delicious it was. The complementary lemon butter sauce? Simply unbelievable—so good! There are several other enticing items on the menu that have us eager to return. The main course was equally well-prepared and enjoyable. I opted for the 33-day-aged ribeye, which featured the perfect balance of a beautifully seared crust and a juicy, flavorful center. Cooked to perfection, it was a highlight of the night. To accompany our meal, we chose the 2021 Jayson Pahlmeyer Napa red. While the wine was delicious, it felt slightly overpriced—perhaps the Caymus would have been a better value. We ended the night with a lemon cheesecake, and all I can say is: WOW! If you’re looking for a wonderful dining experience in Bradenton, I highly recommend trying Traverna Toscana. This gem is sure to impress!