There are so many gluten-free options to enjoy across Anna Maria Island’s beautiful 7-mile stretch. From coffee shops to toes in the sand restaurants, this island has it all. I’ve visited a handful of places, and each of these deserves a place in this guide. I will continue to add more gluten-free places to eat as I find them. Read on to find out all the details.
Disclaimer: Items labelled gluten-free do NOT mean they are celiac/coeliac safe. Always check with your server or manager at the establishment to ensure the food is safe for your needs.
Gluten Free in Anna Maria
Sandbar is an Anna Maria Island icon. With tables directly on the beach, the unobstructed views of white sand and the turquoise ocean make this spot a winner time and time again. The gluten-free items are not visible on the menu, but if you speak with your server, you’ll find they offer gluten-free buns and wraps. I ordered the fish tacos with lettuce wraps and a margarita, both of which were delicious. Getting my toes in the sand while enjoying my lunch was a highlight of the trip for me.
On my next visit to Anna Maria, I’d love to visit The Waterfront. I’ve read the owner has celiac, so the kitchen takes extra precautions to prepare the food. If you’ve been, let me know in the comments.
Gluten Free in Holmes Beach
The Cheesecake Cutie & Cafe is an adorable coffee shop in the Holmes Beach area. They offer gluten-free sweet treats as well as sandwiches and bagels. I enjoyed a roast beef sandwich on a gluten-free hoagie roll, with an iced latte and a peanut butter cookie. Everything was delicious, and I’m looking forward to returning and trying out more of their goods.
Gluten Free in Bradenton Beach
Beach House is a classic restaurant and bar directly facing the Gulf. It’s one of the best places to catch the sunset, as they have outdoor seating right next to the beach. The gluten-free options on the menu are limited, but if you enjoy seafood or a filet, there are choices. I’ve tried the peel-and-eat shrimp appetiser and the swordfish with mashed potatoes and green beans. Sitting at the outdoor bar and enjoying some of their delicious margaritas while the sun goes down is also a perfect plan. A visit here is a must on your trip.
The Kokonut Hut at Gulf Drive Cafe is a relaxed bar and restaurant right on the beach. I stopped in for breakfast and was able to order an omelette and a side of fruit. There weren’t many other safe options to choose from, but I was happy with my order. The relaxed setting and chilled-out atmosphere were a perfect way to start the day.
Gluten Free on Bridge Street, Anna Maria Island
Blue Marlin is on the historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Inside a blue and white 1920s cottage is the restaurant, with a nautical vibe. There is also outdoor seating at the back, a cash-only bar and live music. I’ve had the pleasure of eating here twice, each time equally as delicious as the other. Blue Marlin is known for their fresh seafood, and there is no shortage of options on the menu. I’ve ordered the ceviche appetiser, grouper main dish, and the grouper tacos (spot the theme here), and every single one has been full of flavour. The dishes are seasonal, and some can be modified to suit gluten-free needs. But the servers are knowledgeable and happy to accommodate any requests.
You can check out more of my gluten free guides here.
Bridge Street Bistro is at the end of Bridge Street with a deck on the third floor and views over the Gulf. It’s the perfect place to enjoy happy hour or a sunset dinner. I visited as they were opening and enjoyed a margarita cocktail and a balsamic and blue cheese chicken salad from the happy hour menu. The dinner menu looked delicious, and the staff were more than happy to answer any questions about gluten-free options. I can’t wait to return and try it out.
Downstairs is Island Time, a casual bar and restaurant with live music in the evenings. Both are worth checking out.
Coffee Shops & Gluten Free Sweet Treats
Back Alley Treasures is a gem on Bridge Street. It’s an adorable coffee shop with a store at the back selling handmade items and coastal gifts. They have a great coffee selection and also offer a couple of gluten-free baked goods. I loved the Key Lime Pie cake and ordered it several times. It’s a seasonal summer item, but they also offer a great carrot cake version. They’re baked daily, so once they’re gone, there won’t be any until the following day. But I highly recommend trying one of the flavours out with an iced latte.
Gelato-go Anna Maria Island is also on Bridge Street, and they serve delicious Italian gelato on gluten-free cones. I was so happy to see this, as it’s scarce for places to offer cones. All the flavours are gluten-free, but the server will be happy to clarify if you have any questions. They also have dairy-free gelato if that’s something you require. I went for the chocolate, with no toppings, but there are a bunch to choose from.
We tried to check out Wicked Cantina, but unfortunately, the location on Anna Maria Island has a high risk of cross-contamination. However, their other locations in Sarasota and St. Pete have amazing reviews, so I’m excited to try them out.
Gluten-Free AMI Map
Check out the Google map below to help plan your trip. How to Use Google Maps: Click on any icon for more details. Use the tab in the top left corner to check the map layers.
Want to save it for later? Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To find it again, open Google Maps on your phone or computer, click the menu, head to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved,’ then select Maps, and you’ll find this one in your list.
Thanks for reading. I hope I’ve inspired you to check out some of these gluten-free Anna Maria Island finds on your next trip. If you have any questions or recommendations, let me know in the comments below or over on Instagram.
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