HOLMES BEACH – It doesn’t look like it’s going to be fancy because its kind of connected to an old motel. But don’t let Beach Bistro fool you.
Beach Bistro, situated at the end of 66th St. in really beachy neighborhood on Anna Maria Island, is one of the most celebrated on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The restaurant is pricey but full surprises, and famous for their lobstercargots (a tasty Florida riff on escargot). Many dishes have a Southern take, with items like corn casserole and citrus grits.
Owner (and Nova Scotia native) Sean Murphy worked at Arnaud’s, so his work has a New Orleans feel, but you won’t find any Folgers hiding in the coffee pot here. Compared to other local restaurants, it has a bit of a feel of Euphemia Haye, but a little bit more creative.
On my husband’s birthday, we particularly liked the menu of small plates. His lamb chops were “best ever” and there were a number of surprises. The salad was a field of greens covered with grilled fruit, covered with a scoop of lime sherbet and feta cheese. As inconceivable as the dish sounded, it worked, thought it was kind of weird that you had this icy thing on top.
6600 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 941-778-6444 or Beachbistro.com
The Beach Bistro is situated in the Resort Sixty Six, 6600 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, 941-778-2238.
