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Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

About

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a popular coastal restaurant located in the charming city of Sarasota, Florida, USA. The establishment is nestled on Longboat Key, right on the water at the picturesque Boathouse Point Marina. Here, guests can enjoy the freshest seafood and American cuisine while taking in stunning views of Sarasota Bay.

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill. Illustration.
Source: Kupi.com AI

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The restaurant is famous for its casual yet elegant atmosphere. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill takes pride in its dishes made from fresh local seafood, a fact confirmed by numerous awards and its recognition as one of the best seafood restaurants in the region.

The interior is decorated in a nautical style, which perfectly complements its coastal location and creates a particularly cozy environment for visitors. It's a place where you can not only enjoy a great meal but also relax your soul while taking in the magnificent scenery and quality service. A visit to Dry Dock Waterfront Grill promises to be a delightful culinary experience during your trip to Sarasota.

Contacts

If you are planning to visit Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, want to check the hours, browse the menu, or book a table, it is recommended to contact the restaurant directly. The most up-to-date information can always be found on the establishment's official resources. The restaurant is located at: 412 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228, USA.

You can use the following contacts to get in touch with Dry Dock Waterfront Grill:

How to contactContact
Address412 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228, USA
Phone number+1 941-383-0102
Websitewww.drydockwaterfrontgrill.com

What to Do

At Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, visitors can enjoy excellent cuisine with a special emphasis on the freshest seafood. Be sure to try signature dishes such as grouper, which is considered a Florida delicacy, delicious crab cakes, or fresh oysters. The menu also offers a variety of steaks for meat lovers, as well as salads and sandwiches for a lighter snack. The restaurant's bar provides a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and local beers to perfectly complement your meal.

The highlight of Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is its stunning location with panoramic views of Sarasota Bay. Choose a table on the outdoor terrace to admire an unforgettable sunset over the water during dinner. It's not uncommon for guests to spot playful dolphins swimming in the bay or boats gliding across the water. A special feature of the restaurant is the ability to dock your own boat right at the pier and enjoy lunch or dinner, making it a favorite spot for boaters and yacht owners.

Getting There

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is nestled on Longboat Key in Florida, USA. Its address is 412 Gulf of Mexico Drive. If you are heading from downtown Sarasota, the drive to the restaurant will take about 20 minutes and is quite straightforward. Follow the John Ringling Causeway west, then head north on Gulf of Mexico Drive (State Road 789) until you reach Longboat Key.

For those who prefer a boat trip or have access to water transport, there is a wonderful alternative. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill has its own dock at the Boathouse Point Marina. This makes the restaurant especially convenient for visitors arriving by boat, allowing you to enjoy not only a delicious meal but also a scenic water journey to your destination.

As for public transportation, options in this area of Longboat Key are quite limited. Therefore, if you do not have your own car or a rental, the most convenient ways to reach Dry Dock Waterfront Grill are by taxi or popular rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. This will allow you to reach the restaurant hassle-free and enjoy your time.

Nearest city: Sarasota

History & Facts

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill has a rich history that began in 1989 when it first opened its doors to guests. From the very beginning, the establishment sought to reflect its unique location and nautical atmosphere, which is reflected in its name—"Dry Dock"—perfectly capturing its setting in a bustling marina. Initially a modest eatery, it quickly won the hearts of both Sarasota locals and tourists thanks to its high-quality dishes and, of course, breathtaking views, gradually becoming a landmark on the region's culinary map.

A significant milestone for the restaurant came in 2015 when Dry Dock Waterfront Grill was acquired by Gecko's Hospitality Group, a well-known local restaurant group. The new owners respected the establishment's heritage, maintaining its original concept and commitment to quality. At the same time, improvements were made to both the menu and service levels, leading the restaurant to a new peak of popularity. Under new management, Dry Dock has continued to garner prestigious awards, repeatedly being named "Best Seafood Restaurant" by leading local publications.

Throughout its history, from its founding to the present day, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill has remained steadfast in its core principles: using the freshest local ingredients and maintaining high standards of service. It is this dedication to quality and attentive care for every guest that has allowed the restaurant not only to maintain its popularity for decades but also to be rightfully considered one of Sarasota's iconic spots that people want to return to again and again.

Time Needed

To fully enjoy your visit to Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, it is recommended to set aside approximately 1.5–2 hours. This is usually enough time for a leisurely lunch or dinner, allowing you to relax, take in the beautiful water views, soak up the atmosphere, and, of course, enjoy the high-quality cuisine for which this Sarasota spot is famous.

If your goal is to catch the famous sunsets over the bay, you should account for extra time. In this case, it is best to arrive at the restaurant 30–45 minutes before sunset. This will give you enough time to choose a table with the best view without rushing and prepare for the natural spectacle, which will be a wonderful addition to your dinner at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill.

Working Hours

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is typically open daily. Standard operating hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM. It is worth noting that during the peak tourist season (winter and spring months), hours may be extended. The restaurant is open year-round, delighting guests with fresh seafood and beautiful views.

Given the high popularity of Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, it is strongly recommended to book a table in advance, especially if you are planning dinner or a weekend visit. This will help avoid wait times and guarantee you a spot at this popular establishment. To get the most up-to-date information on opening hours and to make a reservation, it is always best to check the restaurant's official website or contact them directly.

DayOpening hours
Monday11:00 – 21:00
Tuesday11:00 – 21:00
Wednesday11:00 – 21:00
Thursday11:00 – 21:00
Friday11:00 – 22:00
Saturday11:00 – 22:00
Sunday11:00 – 21:00

Nearby

Visiting Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a wonderful gastronomic adventure in Sarasota in its own right. However, to make your trip even more fulfilling and memorable, it's worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. There are many interesting places near the restaurant that will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this charming Florida coastal city.

From unique museums and bustling shopping districts to scenic parks and historic landmarks, Sarasota offers a wide range of leisure options. By checking out the nearby points of interest, you can easily plan your day, complementing a delicious lunch or dinner at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill with new discoveries and experiences.

NameDistance
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium1.4 km
St. Armands Circle2.6 km
Hart's Landing3.6 km
Bayfront Park4.5 km
Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy4.5 km
The Mable4.6 km
Sarasota Jungle Gardens4.6 km

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