Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Bradenton

11 am reservations were enjoyed by the six of us. Sunday(s), street parking and the nearby garage parking are free and we took full advantage of that "bonus". By noon, this wonderful restaurant was "hopping" with customers. Our menu selections were all served hot, fresh and delicious. The Scallops Casimiro and Stuffed Mushrooms are a tasty choice for starters. The 1905 Salad is a wonderful dish and this delicious salad can be shared between two people. And finally the Cuban Sandwich -- beyond delicious! A large sandwich so bring your appetite. Our server MAX was outstanding. Very attentive, but not aggressively attentive. Max gave us just enough time in between ordering and enjoying our selections but was quietly attentive to refill water glasses and asked if anyone wanted refills of beverages. Extremely good server - if I could give MAX 10 stars, I would! Value - expect to pay about $25 - $30 per person (beverage included.) TIP: Book your reservation(s) at least 2 weeks ahead of time and enjoy the 11 am time slot for a beautiful brunch. Bring your appetites! Sidewalk tables are available for those who wish to enjoy their Columbia experience with their fur baby or for those just wanting to sit outside and soak up some great Florida sunshine. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

We had the baked pimento oysters for the appetizer, they were amazing. Between all of us, we had the catch of the day which was swordfish and it was cooked to perfection. The jambalaya was also a great dish as was the bruschetta chicken. The creme brulee and tiramisu were also just right. Not too sweet and beautiful presentation. The service was exceptional. Lynn was very kind and friendly and made sure we were topped off at all times and her knowledge of the menu was on point. The best part was the outdoor seating area and the view. Definitely recommend the restaurant and it's location.

We enjoyed a lovely dinner at Dry Dock for Valentine’s Day. The restaurant was busy but the team had everything under control. We were greeted immediately and taken care of promptly at the bar for cocktails as we waited a very short time for our table. Our server was informative and efficient and went above and beyond to make us feel at home and understand the menu. Our food was amazing The snapper served right off the grill and the side veggies perfectly cooked. The jambalaya was piping hot and delicious. No room for dessert this time but the key lime pie was so tempting! 5 ⭐️

This was our second time at Oyster River and it did not disappoint. Charles was a terrific server and our god was cooked to perfection. The sunset views were terrific. I especially appreciated the fact that even though it was Valentine’s Day they didn’t pack people in- tables were nicely spaced. I recommend!

Every year we meet friends here & enjoy a Spanish / Cuban meal in one of many rooms of this historic restaurant. There are three large parking lots, a gift shop and always a wait. Today we discovered that the restaurant is expanding and taking over the gift shop. The gift shop will be moving across the street. We always start with the sangria which Victoria prepared table side in a Spanish pitcher. The warm bread & 1905 salad is excellent. We shared 4 small devil crab croquettes, beef saltedo & we finished by sharing a warm white chocolate bread pudding. Portions were huge & prices reasonable. Our lunch was delicious. All four of us devoured our meals. We went next-door into the gift shop with a sell, their beautiful pottery, tiles, wine, cigars, cookbook, and ingredients