Man I love this place. Their food is great, vibes are awesome. The mozzarella sticks are huge! Almost as big as a medium sized banana. Delicious too! Have gluten free options too, Altho the burger's bread was little dry. read more

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This place is always so busy so we were curious and figured we had to check it out. First and last time. The coconut shrimp was so plain. The sauce they give you with it is necessary because otherwise it doesn't have much flavor to it. The pulled pork nachos were ok- just felt like a bunch of lettuce thrown on top of some chips with the meat- which was also flavorless. The metal chairs are also incredibly uncomfortable to sit in. They were so low and hurt the bum! The kids meal grilled cheese and fries were not good. The fries had a burnt flavor. The island chicken sandwich was the only thing that brought some joy. The service was great. Very nice people and loved the environment with the lights. Wouldn't go back or recommend. read more

The wait was as expected, not too long or not too short for a busy a place. The menu has multiple options which is good. I got the island chicken sandwich, my wife the pulled pork nachos and our daughter the grilled cheese. We also got the coconut shrimp as an appetizer. All that was $76. Kind of pricey, but the portions were generous. My daughter didn't really like the grilled cheese, which is hard to believe that a kid didn't like it. The fries were not the best either. My wife didn't really enjoy the nachos. Too much lettuce and the pork had no flavor. She got all sauces on side. I enjoyed my chicken sandwich. The ambiance was great. Very beach vibes. We are wanting to try all places at AMI, and this may end up on the list of places we've been to, but aren't too eager to return to. read more

The Ugly Grouper - Island chicken sandwich with fries - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

Love the vibe. Music added to the fun atmosphere. My grouper tacos were good. Unfortunately the beer got warm too fast. I will definitely come back for a casual (not inexpensive) dining. read more

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The Ugly Grouper is a must-visit when you're in the Anna Maria Island or Bradenton Beach area! Most restaurants around here don't take reservations, which can make dining with a larger group a little tricky. They typically have live music in the evenings, making it a fun and casual atmosphere. They're known for their cheese-crusted grouper tacos, and they definitely lived up to the hype! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Grouper Tacos - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

I came to this place twice! First time, we had grouper tacos and crab fried green tomato. It was so good. The tacos were crispy and stuffed. They also added pico de gallo inside the taco which my bf liked but I felt it could have been something I would ask for on the side next time. We also had the crab fried green tomato and that was amazing. We ordered it again when we came here for dinner. We also ordered the ahi tuna & grouper sandwich. Overall, we enjoyed our meals and will be recommending this place to anyone visiting the area. We would definitely come back. read more

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First of all, the service was fantastic - Sam was a delight to work with and engaged us with humor and attention to detail. The food was very good - we started off with the calamari - the dyno sauce was wonderful with it. I had the blackened grouper sandwich - the seasoning was spot-on! The fries were cooked very well - crispy outside with a soft center. My wife had the Grouper Tacos - they were huge and tasted as good as they looked. We will definitely visit again when we are back in town. read more

Update: might be the best grouper tacos around. Hands down. Most seating ia covered and they have fans to beat the heat. Service is great! read more

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Fantastic stop. Seating is all outdoors so it can be hot sometimes but the shade and fans are adequate. It's very casual and sets a classic fish house ambiance. I ordered the grouper tacos and would get them again. They were fantastic, particularly with the fried cheese crust. Fish was fresh and well cooked. Toppings were fresh and flavorful. I got French fries as a side and they were well seasoned and freshly fried. My wife got the Angus Burger and it was decent. Not the best burger around, but I am a self proclaimed burger critic. She liked it well enough. Service was a little slow. It took about 25-30 minutes after we ordered for our food which was a little surprising since we were there for lunch and it wasn't that busy. Waters were constantly filled and server was kind. Overall, I highly recommend! read more

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Interesting place on AnnaMaria island.... Purely a beachy vacation atmosphere. Service is very good.... Busy flow of customers and serve. I had the grouper sandwich. Very nice sandwich. Food was good! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Grouper taco--- really good - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

Cute little spot on Anna Maria Island. They are known for their grouper so I had the blackened grouper sandwich that had a nice remoulade sauce on it which was a nice change from the usual tartar sauce. The portion was generous as it should be for the price of 25 bucks. Fries were fresh and hot. Diet Coke was flat, they brought another and it was flat as well. Okay, change that order to a Chardonnay please!! If you like fish as I do, they do a nice job. I saw the fried grouper nuggets and they looked like they could float my boat as well! read more

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We decided to visit the ugly grouper during lunch hours instead of dinner because when we showed up the night before, the wait was 1.5 hours long. When you arrive at the ugly grouper be aware that you can either sit in full shade, partial shade, or full sun. We were seated right away in the partial shade. We had a nice breeze the entire time we were there and they had huge fans going, but damn that Florida sun hits different! Service was excellent and our drinks came out fast. My wife and I decided to split the grouper nuggets platter which was the perfect amount for us. My son ordered the pulled pork sliders and these sliders were packed with pork! My other son ordered the kids corndog and this was no ordinary kids corndog, this was a foot long corndog! Everyone enjoyed and finished their meals. Our friends have told us that UG is a staple at AMI and we see why. Definitely worth a visit when at AMI! read more

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My husband and I were excited to try this highly recommended restaurant. We both ordered the grouper tacos. They were okay, but we both thought the grouper was more squishy than flakey. The atmosphere is great, and a great bar atmosphere. The service was great. read more

The Ugly Grouper - Grouper tacos - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

What an awesome spot! Thanks to Yelp on my search for a great lunch spot. We were there for a late lunch and were quickly seated. Rosie was awesome taking our orders and getting our drinks to us quickly. Between the grouper and Maui Maui sandwiches, grouper and shrimp tacos, it was all great. The area is all outside seating with plenty of umbrellas. Live music was going on during our visit and the large Ugly Grouper sculpture is amazing. Make sure you stop by and give they a try. Ask for Rosie! Enjoy. read more

The Ugly Grouper - Ugly Grouper Sandwich - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

We stopped in for lunch on a hot Florida afternoon and were pleasantly surprised! The fried shrimp was some of the best I've had - perfectly crispy, flavorful and cooked just right. The grilled grouper tacos were unique and delicious, served in a crispy cheesy shell that really set them apart from your typical fish tacos. The kids enjoyed their meals too, especially the corn dog and burger with fries. To top it all off, the Ami Sunset drink was refreshing and hit the spot in the heat. Great food, generous portions and a relaxing atmosphere. We'd definitely stop back the next time we're in the area! read more

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Great food, atmosphere, and service! I highly recommend this restaurant if you find yourself on Anna Maria Island. read more

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Nothing seems to have changed in our absence. We arrived for a late lunch; no crowd, same beachy feel and were seated right away. About what seemed like forever, our waitress arrived and asked if this was our first visit here. We ordered our usuals- me a pina colada (well made) and grouper tacos. My wife had ipa and grouper tacos. Both the fries and tacos remain very good. The only negative is the casual ambiance which some might enjoy. Today, some people brought their pets, other times, I have seem some pretty risqué outfits. Very casual setting but good food and drink across from the police station. read more

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We went for an early dinner and the hostess and our server were friendly and attentive. As for the food, it lacked flavor. We ordered the Coastal Clam Chowder (tasted like it was out of a bag and super thick), the Angus burger (basic) and the Mahi Sandwich. It is a convenient spot for a quick bite, but not what we were expecting. read more

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Food was honestly mediocre. The best part of our meal was the cheese sticks. So good! The pretzel bits tasted like they were microwaved. The grouper tacos were good. Pasta was okay. Fish and chips were whatever. The server we had did not smile. Once. No joke. And acted like it was a chore to even serve us. The best part of our experience was the ambiance. They had a guy singing music and there were things for the kids to do. On the flip side, one of the restrooms was not functioning. And the one that was, well it was gross. None of the high chairs had the straps to stabilize a baby. Beware of that. read more

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This place has a great laid back vibe. We were seated right away, and went later at night. They had lots of large fans which was helpful. It was fun to take pictures with the giant steam punk grouper fish. I got a pina colada and it was good. For the main course I got the Island chicken sandwich. The pineapple in it was a good added touch and made it sweet which I loved. I was told the men's bathroom had a unique feature Overall the place had a great overall vibe and I would come back next time I visit! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Island Chicken Sandwich - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

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Fun place to eat some of the best grouper fish in Anna Maria Island. Great atmosphere with nice island music plying in the background. Our sever was amazing. It was a busy night but she still made sure to check on us often! read more

This was our first time eating here AND WE WILL BE BACK!! The place gives a beachy dive feel that's super chill. They had some games to play and someone was singing in their stage area. Our waiter was amazing and recommended their fan favs. I got the tacos and my son got the grouper sandwich. Both were delicious but the grouper tacos were on point! Everything we saw coming out looked delicious. There's a metal grouper made by a local artist. The waiter told us apparently the artist makes items like this out of trash he recovers from the ocean. We highly recommend this spot! read more

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The vibe is great. Absolutely nails the "open and lively beach joint" motif. Was packed on a Thursday night in March. Service was a bit hindered by that fact but you don't go there for the Downton Abbey experience; the servers are navigating a wave of happy go lucky beachers and boaters while bringing you a Po' Boy. Food wasn't of course Michelin 5 star but it was good and hot. Lots of choices but not a 5 page menu covering every cuisine on the planet. It was 100% decent Florida beach bar. Loved it overall. read more

The Ugly Grouper - Outside tables - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

This place is really cool... nowhere quite like it on the island and that's saying a lot. Large metal fish statues and cool lights and music. Overall, everyone should come here just for the vibe alone! :) You see the waiters and waitresses working really hard because they're always packed... so things do get missed, like getting our food before the appetizer, or a drink never showing up from the bar. But the food is great and it's just a fun place to eat for nearly all ages - I'd say teenager on up. We had a large group of high-schoolers who loved it, and a group of chaperone mom and dads who loved it too. :) read more

The Ugly Grouper - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

what a fantastic place! great beach vibe even though it's not right on the beach. fantastic customer service. the grouper tacos are to die for. i highly recommend them. beer is ice cold. we'll definitely do that. love it! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Bar - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

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Service was awesome Not very crowded at 4pm The grouper reuben was ok - fish over cooked and chewy Cheese logs were good - not awesome Ambience was really good I just thing the food isn't great but ok read more

The Ugly Grouper - Cheese logs - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

I'd actually only give this like maybe a 2-2.5 based on food, but we had really great service. Our waiter was super nice and awesome! There's big fans since it's all outdoors (hot) and our waiter even would keep adding ice to our drinks. I had the grouper tacos and I didn't like them at all. It turns out I only like burnt cheese (which I knew). It reminded me of eating like ceviche (cold chopped seafood and pico) in a taco. But there was some seasoning that did not jive with me at all. My dad had the dinner and we both rated our food 5/10. My mom and husband said 8/10, but my husband is not a foodie. The fries were good, they didn't seem like freezer fries. Half our party would eat again, half wouldn't. But I definitely wouldn't wait a long time for this. read more

Alivia our server was so nice!! The chicken wings fresh and delicious! The famous grouper sandwich was on point!! I would definitely recommend this place when visiting Anna Maria island! read more

Ambiance is awesome, not too loud, building not the prettiest but that's the motif, outdoors, bathrooms could use cleaning, a store available to buy local souvenirs especially Ugly Grouper souvenirs. Service was with a smile, appetizer (mozzarella cheese logs) brought out quickly and delicious. For an entree we got the grilled grouper dinner with cole slaw and Caribbean rice, all was amazingly delicious!! We will be back! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Grouper grilled, with cole slaw and Caribbean rice! - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

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Love the cheese logs. It's all outside sitting and always packed but cute. Server was nice read more

The Ugly Grouper - Cheese logs - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

Came here for my birthday--today!! First time visiting and of course had to purchase some merch for souvenirs. Really enjoyed the outdoor experience and took pictures with the ugly grouper. Had the quesadilla, family got the burger and grouper meal. Service was a bit subpar but we didn't let that weigh us down and plan to come back. Love the laid back experience, live music, and its close location to the beach. Really enjoyed ourselves minus the hit or miss service but again we didn't let that water down our day. To make up for it our server treated us to a birthday dessert- key lime pie, score! Great sweet treat to end on a high note. read more

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Great local beach vibe. The tacos were amazing. Chips and queso...delicious. Live music, friendly staff, very accommodating! read more

I don't know where to start everything about this place is wonderful. The atmosphere the music the food especially the tacos. Shrimp tacos grouper tacos drinks are good. servers are friendly. It's a favorite. read more

The Ugly Grouper - Shrimp tacos - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

First time at the Ugly Grouper and had a good time! Service was friendly and attentive. We ordered the calamari appetizer and I was disappointed, the calamari itself was extremely rubbery but the fried part was crispy and seasoned well. We also ordered the grouper taco and fish and chips. The taco was so good but the fish and chips were unseasoned and just falling apart. Other than that, it's a good space for family/ friends and to enjoy live music outside. read more

First night in town The Ugly Grouper did not disappoint! Friendly staff quick to sit us, and waitress Cam was very personable. Enjoyed some nice IPAS, fresh chips, salsa, and queso for an appetizer. The main meal for us consisted of Crispy Fried Chicken sandwich, and Grouper Tacos. Absolutely amazing food, cold drinks, friendly staff, and live music! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Grouper Tacos, Crispy Chicken Sandwich - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

ALWAYS visit when we are vacationing! Great food, service & atmosphere! Family friendly too.

Food was excellent, ambiance was great, service was a bit slow. We would definitely wait for a table again- lots of games to keep you busy while you wait. read more

The Ugly Grouper - Grouper Tacos - these were awesome! - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

This is a must for our family every time we go to AMI. Food is great and we love the vibe.

First the restaurant is so cute. There was seats in the sun, shade and at the bar. There was live music . The drinks were so good ! And the grouper tacos were delicious- the cheese crust was amazing but the grouper itself had great flavor. My husband had the grouper sandwich and loved it ! Bam was our server and made great recommendations. Best part not only is it dog friendly but they treated him to a piece of bacon !! If in the area you HAVE to go there ! read more

The Ugly Grouper - Bars Near Me - Holmes Beach, Florida

Fun place to go too - Everything was good - we all had the Grouper which was good Service was great ! read more