Sharky´s on the Pier, a true Venice original, was opened back in 1987. Since then, the restaurant with the shark emblem has been serving seafood, meat specialties, Caribbean dishes and mouthwatering desserts in a family-friendly atmosphere. No wonder that Sharky´s has earned numerous awards, among them the title “Florida’s best Beach Bar” in 2013.
With its location at the Venice Fishing Pier, Sharky´s offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico, especially at sunset. A fine sandy beach stretches right below the restaurant. Here you can not only swim and enjoy the sun, but also collect shark teeth – probably the reason for the name Sharky´s. The restaurant features an interesting architectural mix between American diner, surf bar and Hawaiian Tiki Hut, and in the evening, you can eat here while listening to live music.
Of course, the question remains: Does the food at Sharky´s match the beautiful surroundings? And does the restaurant offer enough variety and special offers to keep guests coming back for more?
THE FOOD AT SHARKY´S ON THE PIER
Not surprisingly for a waterfront restaurant, Sharky´s on the Pier serves fish and seafood in abundance – and takes guests on a culinary journey to the Caribbean: Crispy grouper sandwiches, golden cod filet with tartar sauce and Mahi Mahi Tacos with mango pineapple slaw are perfect examples of the “Floribbean” cuisine that is so popular in the Sunshine State.
In addition, Sharky´s amazes with its innovative recipes such as Maine Lobster with artichokes and parmesan sauce or grilled tuna with seaweed salad and wasabi. For a more classic choice, try the crispy fried shrimps or the New England Clam Chowder. Alternatively, ask your server which fish is in season, and have the catch prepared to your personal liking: fried, steamed or grilled with melted butter and herbs. Crispy French Fries, made from potatoes or sweet potatoes, are the perfect side.
Those who cannot wait for the main course should try the Octopus Appetizers and the homemade onion rings.
Of course, carnivores also get their fill at Sharky´s. The menu features Chicken Fingers and Hot Dogs as well as high-quality Filet Mignon Steak and chicken with Jamaican Jerk Sauce.
Not only vegetarians should check out the restaurant’s salads: The Beach Salad, for example, offers a sweet and savory mix of strawberries, oranges, candied nuts, gorgonzola and balsamic vinegar. You can also top it up with grilled fish or meat. If you love the taste of Southeast Asia, the Ko Thao Salad with mangoes and spicy peanut dressing is your perfect choice. Fans of the Mediterranean cuisine should try the Boathouse Salad with artichokes, olives and feta cheese. Guests on a diet will appreciate the fresh Caesar Salad that also comes with low-fat dressing.
But maybe you should plan for a cheat day when visiting Sharky´s: The dessert menu is ripe with sweet delicacies like Strawberry Cheesecake, Ice-cream Mud Pie with peanut butter and the Chocoloate Triple Layer Mousse. First-time visitors to South Florida should not miss the Key Lime Pie with refreshing lime juice – perfect on hot summer days.
For guests who prefer an ice-cold cocktail the restaurant offers a wide variety of frozen drinks, from Pina Colada, Bushwacker and Margaritas to inventions like the Mango Bango with coconut, mango and pineapple.
In addition to a kid’s menu, the restaurant also offers gluten-free dishes.
OPENING TIMES AND OFFERS AT SHARKY´S ON THE PIER
The restaurant is open every day from 11.30 am to 10 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays closing time is at midnight. For those who want to dine with a discount, Sharky´s offers a daily Happy Hour Menu from 3 to 5 pm (10 to 12 pm on Fridays and Saturdays).
Satisfied customers can purchase gift cards for their loved ones on the official website sharkysonthepier.com. Here, you can also buy merchandise like clothes and stylish bottle sleeves with the Sharky´s emblem.
SHARKY´S ON THE PIER WEBCAM
Thanks to the webcam on the official Sharky´s on the Pier website, you can check out the weather before you head for the restaurant.
DIRECTIONS TO SHARKY´S ON THE PIER
Sharky´s on the Pier is located next to the Brohard Paw Park, just 5-10 minutes away from the city center of Venice.
