Like any Gulf coast barrier island worth its salt, Venice specializes in fresh, mouth-watering seafood. Sharky's on the Pier is the locale's only beachfront restaurant, and a favorite hangout for fans of drink specials, peel and eat shrimp, and spectacular sunset views. Stroll along Venice Avenue, the city's pride and joy, and you'll find a coffee house, ice cream parlor, and Luna Restorante - an Italian eatery beloved by locals. A bit off the broken path on East Venice Avenue, the rustic Snook Haven Restaurant and Fish Camp is a popular spot with film producers seeking a camera-ready authentic Old Florida, bayou-style restaurant and juke joint. Locals try to keep the eatery's famous Sunday barbecue picnics on the down-low, to avoid long lines for the delicious ribs, burgers, and chicken.

Cafe Venice
116 Venice Avenue West, Venice
(941) 484-1855

The honey-glazed salmon and spicy Thai seafood soup garner praise with critics and locals alike at this Venice Avenue eatery. The cafe is a popular lunch spot with the throngs of shoppers who flock to the historic district each day.

Snook Haven Restaurant and Fish Camp
5000 Venice Avenue, Venice
(941) 485-7221
www.snookhavenretreat.com

Home of the killer turtles. This back-country spot is Old Florida, bayou-styled dining at it's finest. Picture a rustic, friendly atmosphere with indoor and outdoor options, and some of the best home cooking around. Their guarantee of fresh food and lively entertainment is never a disappointment, especially on Sundays when they roll out their famous barbecue picnics. Although the locals like to keep it a secret to avoid the long lines, it's an event everyone visiting Venice shouldn't miss!

Sharky's on the Pier
1600 Harbour Drive South, Venice
(941) 488-1456
www.sharkysonthepier.com

Tasteful decor, unique cuisine with an island flair and attentive service defines a Sharky's experience. Adhering to a strict policy, guests of this beach front bistro are guaranteed good dining, dancing and lifelong memories. For an experience that represents the best of the Gulf Coast, take a bit out of their Pineapple & BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Sharky's Famous Grouper Wrap, or their Sweet Potato Sea Bass. Whatever your taste buds, there's something for all tongues at Sharky's.

Crow's Nest Marina Restaurant
1968 Tarpon Center Drive, Venice
(941) 484-9551
www.crowsnest-venice.com

Located on a marina just inside the Venice Inlet, the nautical-theme Crow's Nest upscale restaurant offers steak, seafood, and an extensive wine list. Upstairs, the tavern is a tad more casual, dishing up burgers, salads, and drink specials to the sounds of live bands on most nights. Arrive by car or private boat.