7 Dreamy Spots to Dine Under the Stars

Looking for an easy yet dreamy date night idea this fall? You’re in luck–because Mother Nature has created the perfect conditions for dining alfresco around the Bradenton Area. Not only do the slightly cooler evening temps make eating outdoors less sweat-inducing (first dates excluded!), but also the earlier sunsets mean you can enjoy one another’s company under a starlit sky. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite restaurants for a stellar outdoor dining experience–whether you’re looking to go all out or just keep it casual.

Best for beer-tainment: Motor Works Brewing

If you’re a craft beer lover and/or looking for evening entertainment in addition to the stars, check out Motor Works Brewing. The biggest beer garden in Florida, it features a spacious deck built around a more than 150 year-old oak tree, plus a large turf area for playing cornhole, giant Jenga, and more. You can even do “dinner and a show” under the stars–just grab a bite at the Proper Meats food truck on-site and come on a night with live music or an outdoor movie.

1014 9th Street West, Bradenton | Open until 10 p.m. Sun.–Thurs.; 12 a.m. Fri. & Sat.

Best for Insta-worthy memories: Whitney’s

An old 1950s service station turned restaurant, Whitney’s is a stylish bar and bodega with a beachy retro feel. The menu is high-end without being fussy, featuring everything from charred oysters to a signature burger made with short rib and brisket to ricotta donut holes. Grab a seat outside under the canopy–where the gas pumps used to be–and get lost in the views all around.

6990 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key | Open daily until 9 p.m.

Best for a special occasion: Mar Vista

Situated on the north end of picturesque Longboat Key, Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant already oozes with ambience thanks to its waterfront views. Add in some twinkling stars overhead, easily seen from the patio or outdoor deck, and you have the perfect spot for enjoying a romantic evening and their sustainable, Southern-inspired cuisine.

760 Broadway Street, North Longboat Key | Open until 9 p.m. Sun.–Thurs.; 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat.

Best for a tropical vibe: Caddy’s

The beach chairs at Caddy’s waterfront paradise were made for sitting back and lounging in the sun, but they work just as well for basking in the starlit sky. Scope out some constellations while sipping on a tropical drink and listening to relaxing live music Friday–Sunday during the restaurant’s “sunset sessions.”

801 Riverside Dr E, Bradenton | Open daily until 10 p.m.

Best for dockside dining: Tide Tables

Located in historic Cortez, one of the last working fishing villages in the United States, Tide Tables promises a super fresh seafood experience as well as a front row seat to the waterfront action. Grab dinner on the dock and keep your eye out for a charter coming in for the night or a dolphin or manatee showing off–that is, when you’re not looking up at the skies.

12507 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton | Open daily until 8 p.m.

Best for next-level star viewing: Oak & Stone

Want to really appreciate the stars? Elevate your dining with a trip to Oak & Stone, the rooftop restaurant located in downtown Bradenton’s SpringHill Suites. This spot also offers a lovely view of the riverfront that you can take in while savoring their upscale American fare, like artisan pizzas and burgers.

1201 1st Ave West, Bradenton | Open until 11 p.m. Sun.–Thurs.; 12 a.m. Fri. & Sat.