The French Table has been dubbed a hidden gem among Anna Maria Island restaurants – it’s so good that the locals might want to keep it that way.
Among Anna Maria activities and other dining options lies The French Table, a family-owned French eatery, a crowd-pleaser among visitors to the island and locals alike.
Nestled among modern vacation homes on Anna Maria Island, this restaurant brings back memories of “Old Florida” with its mom-and-pop feel and amazing fresh-from-the-ocean cuisine.
Real French History and Cuisine
A French couple opened this restaurant in the hopes of bringing a little bit of France to Florida. Having spent time in France, they understand French cuisine firsthand and pair it with the best possible hospitality on the island.
They often make appearances in the kitchen and dining room themselves, helping staff to create an ambiance that keeps guests coming back for more. The owners love to chat with visitors from all over, describing them as talkative, funny, and interesting.
The experience begins when you enter the friendly dining room, where the tables are set in the style of Southern France, and the ambiance brings to mind European adventures.
The beach is a stone’s throw away, with a great view of the pier in the distance and the sound of the waves in the background.
The restaurant often plays soft tunes near the bar, but the conversation is never interrupted by the melodies. While the food reigns, guests often comment on the warm atmosphere that reminds them of simpler times.
The Menu
While the décor might be simple, the food is anything but. After being seated by a host, guests are introduced to the inventive menu and offered suggestions and wine pairings.
The duck with honey sauce comes highly recommended, as do the grilled mussels and, for dessert, the Key lime pie.
The dishes, sourced from both ocean and land, are prepared to perfection, with a mix of innovative and classic French flavors. Few people could call the food anything less than excellent, from the warm goat cheese to the mixed salad topped with duck meat.
The kitchen is staffed with culinary professionals who understand how to bring the best of France to Florida, which is evident in the quality of the food.
While you enjoy your meal, the friendly, professional staff remains at attention to meet every guest’s needs. Time after time, people have raved over the amazing service here. Like the owners, the servers frequently to engage in light conversation with visitors. While the ambiance and the food provide a good meal, the attentive and friendly staff completes the experience.
Culinary Adventure
The prices at this restaurant are moderate, giving everyone a chance to experience the amazing food here. Stopping by after a day on the beach gives visitors a break from the sun and a chance to enjoy some refreshments.
The French Table is just off the beach, it’s easy to wander in after an evening stroll for a meal or for a quick drink. No tourist or local should go without trying this place at least once – one-stop will put it on your culinary map forever.
It’s no wonder the locals want to keep this a secret. It is a hidden gem among the many restaurants on Anna Maria Island. If you missed The French Table on your last trip to Anna Maria Island, be sure to visit on your next one.
If the feeling of sitting in a café in the South of France doesn’t have you promising to return next time, the classic French food, personable owners, and friendly servers might do the trick.