"Bradenton Beach, Florida" Bradenton Beach by skipbourque

Once a rundown little place known as the Harbor House, the Beach House got a makeover in 1993 with new owner Ed Chiles, who also owns the SandBar further north on Anna Maria. The formula is simple: reasonably priced food served in a great beachside setting. Adults can sip a frozen cocktail while kids play on the beach just steps away.

A massive deck runs the length of the restaurant, with parts of it covered. So it's a sure bet that when sundown arrives, the place is packed with locals and tourists alike enjoying libations and live music.