Siesta Key is a gorgeous barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida. People flock to the island every year because they love the very relaxed, bohemian, old Florida beach feel. Siesta Key beach is known for its white sand that is 99 percent quartz. Even on hot summer days the sand feels cool and refreshing on under your feet. Other exciting activities include fishing, walking the beach, swimming, snorkeling, boating, jet skiing, parasailing and dining out.

Here are 5 great restaurants that I enjoy on Siesta Key:

1. Anna’s Deli and Sandwich Shop – 217 Avenida Madera, 941-349-7790 & 6535 Midnight Pass Road, 941-349-4888.

Anna’s has been around since 1971. I love their sandwiches. My favorite sandwich is the Surfer. It is made up of ham, turkey, swiss, cucumber and Anna’s famous sauce. If you are looking for a casual and affordable place give them a try. You won’t be disappointed.

2. The Broken Egg – 140 Avenida Messina, 941-346-2750

I took some clients to the Broken Egg a few weeks ago and they loved it. Established in 1984 the Broken Egg has been an island tradition for many years. It is really popular as a breakfast and lunch spot in the Siesta Key village. A few of the items they serve for breakfast is deep dish quiche du jour, norwegian smoked salmon & bagel and mexican skillet. A few weeks ago I ate the smoked salmon and bagel and it was scrumptious. For lunch you can always order the Dickie V Burger named after one a frequent customer Dick Vitale.

3. Daiquiri Deck – 5250 Ocean Boulevard, 941-349-8697

Here is another popular dining and drinking destination on Siesta Key. It is a great place to enjoy a casual meal or some cocktails in your bathing suit. Located in the middle of the village this place is always happening. People from every age group can enjoy this fun restaurant. A few of their dishes include raw oysters, caribbean chicken cobb salad, mahi-mahi wrap, snapper wrapper, pepper-crusted tuna and coconut crusted tilapia. If you are looking for a relaxed, fun and outdoor place to eat try the Daiquiri Deck.

4. Midnight Pass Pub Restaurant – 8865 Midnight Pass Road, 941-349-2280

Located on the south end of Siesta Key this restaurant offers a good casual dining experience. It is right across the street from Turtle beach so you are likely to see people sandy and in their bathing suits. I took some clients to eat there recently and they loved the grouper salad. Since it is located on the south end of the island and away from Siesta Key village is a little quieter. Yet, it is still a great place to eat.

5. Ophelia’s on the Bay – 9105 Midnight Pass Road, 941-349-2212

If you want to impress someone take them to Ophelia’s on the Bay. This is one of the nicest restaurants in Sarasota. Located on the south end of Siesta Key and directly on the bay it provides a fabulous dining experience while you overlook the gorgeous views of the Sarasota bay. Ophelia’s is now in its 22nd season. It has an old Florida feel, without glitz, just a grand view of an unfettered sweep of water, mangroves, seabirds, and an occasional boat or dolphin gliding by. The restaurant is known for its evolving American cuisine style that is creatively combined with other world cuisines. Combining fresh seafood and fine meats with Florida grown produce, Ophelia’s offers a menu with a New World flare that changes frequently.

I have eaten at all of these Siesta Key restaurants and recommend them. They are all unique in their own way and I don’t think you will be disappointed. If you are visiting Siesta Key, Florida give them a try.