Thanksgiving on Anna Maria Island: Where to Eat, Pick Up, and Relax
- beachpleaseami
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Thanksgiving on Anna Maria Island is all about sunshine, sea air, and stress-free celebrations. Whether you’re spending the week in one of our luxury beachfront homes or cozy cottages, it’s the perfect time to let our local restaurants handle the cooking while you enjoy the company of family and friends.
At-Home Feast Without the Work for the Best Thanksgiving on Anna Maria Island
Many local caterers and restaurants can deliver or prepare your meal ahead of time, so you can spend more of your day soaking in the sunshine. Whether you pick up dinner from Minnie's, grab your pre-ordered feast from gRUB, or enjoy an oceanfront meal at AMI Beach Café, you’ll find that Thanksgiving here is as effortless as it is unforgettable.
AMI Beach Café – Holmes Beach
The island’s signature beachfront Thanksgiving experience
Nothing says “Florida holiday” quite like Thanksgiving dinner with your toes in the sand. AMI Beach Café brings the feast straight to the shore, complete with Gulf views, ocean breezes, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
Important info:
Pre-orders begin November 1
Pick-up available Thanksgiving Day, 12 PM – 3 PM
All seating is first-come, first-serve
Event is rain or shine (no refunds)
Whether you dine on-site or grab your meal to go, this iconic beach café is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to enjoy the holiday on Anna Maria Island.
Service style: Dine-in + pre-order take-out
Minnie's Beach Café – Holmes Beach
Homestyle Thanksgiving to go
If you’re craving the cozy, made-from-scratch comfort of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, Minnie's has you covered. Their annual Thanksgiving Feast includes:
Slow-roasted turkey (white, dark, or combo), mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potato soufflé, cranberry sauce, and a dinner roll, everything handmade with love. Pies are also available with one week’s notice.
Orders must be placed by Monday, November 24, with pick-up on Wednesday, November 26 (11 AM – 4 PM). Meals can be packaged individually or “family-style,” and large orders receive a discount.
📞 Call or text (941) 962-1687 to reserve.
Service style: Take-out only
gRUB Tropical BBQ – Holmes Beach
Take-home feast for the whole crew
gRUB makes it simple to enjoy a full Thanksgiving spread without the cleanup. Their Take-Out Thanksgiving Feast serves 6–8 people, freshly prepared by their tropical BBQ team.
Pick-up is scheduled for noon on Thanksgiving Day (11/27/25).
📍 gRUB Tropical BBQ✉️ Pre-order: ben@grubami.com
Service style: Take-out family feast
Other Great Spots to Consider
Once those top picks fill up, or if you’d prefer dining out, there are plenty of other island favorites offering special Thanksgiving menus:
Château Anna Maria (at Waterline Villas & Marina, Holmes Beach) – The island’s fine dining gem is hosting a three-course Thanksgiving feast this year. Guests can expect an elevated, seasonal menu served in a sophisticated coastal setting. Reservations are highly recommended - make yours early before it’s too late! Service style: Dine-in (three-course holiday dinner)
Bridge Street Bistro (Bradenton Beach) – An upscale setting with panoramic Gulf views and full holiday dinner service. Service style: Dine-in (advance reservations recommended)
Bridge Tender Inn (Bradenton Beach) – A longtime local favorite located on the bayfront near Bridge Street, serving a traditional turkey dinner alongside their regular menu. Perfect for guests who want classic holiday flavors in a casual, waterfront setting. Service style: Dine-in
Mademoiselle Paris (Anna Maria) – A French-inspired café serving an elegant Thanksgiving menu, also available to go. Service style: Dine-in (advance reservations recommended)
Holiday Planning Tips
Reserve early – Island spots fill quickly.
Ask about dietary needs – Most restaurants can accommodate special requests.
Confirm pickup times – Especially important for take-out orders.
Make it memorable – End the day with a beach walk, sunset cocktail, or dip in your private pool.
A Thanksgiving to Remember
From beachfront buffets to homestyle take-out, Anna Maria Island makes Thanksgiving simple and special. Let someone else handle the cooking while you focus on family, sunsets, and that unmistakable island peace.