One of Anna Maria Island’s longtime fine-dining destinations has reopened after a two-year closure following Hurricane Helene.
Beach Bistro reopened Sept. 25 at 6600 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, marking another milestone in Anna Maria Island’s recovery from the destructive 2024 hurricane season.
The beachfront restaurant closed after Hurricane Helene brought damaging storm surge to the island on Sept. 26, 2024. Helene caused widespread flooding across Anna Maria Island, with about four feet of flooding reported in many locations. Hurricane Milton followed less than two weeks later, adding wind damage to an already devastated community.
Founded in 1986, Beach Bistro has operated along the Gulf of Mexico for four decades and has become known for its upscale dining, Gulf views and chef-driven tasting menus. The restaurant has received recognition from Zagat and Florida Trend’s Golden Spoon program and has also received a James Beard Foundation nomination for Best Chef in the South.
The restaurant’s return comes as Anna Maria Island continues rebuilding from the back-to-back storms. Throughout 2025 and 2026, homes, businesses and public facilities have undergone repairs, reconstruction and permitting as the island works toward recovery. Holmes Beach alone had issued thousands of post-hurricane permits by the end of 2025.
Beach Bistro’s current menu centers on a four-course chef’s tasting experience featuring Gulf seafood, prime American beef, lamb, duck and locally farmed produce. Guests can dine in the main dining room overlooking the Gulf, in the bar lounge or on the beachfront patio.
The restaurant is located at 6600 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Its website currently lists dinner service daily from 4 to 10 p.m., with reservations available.
After two years away, Beach Bistro’s reopening restores one of Anna Maria Island’s longstanding restaurants while adding another chapter to the island’s continuing recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
I verified the background against Beach Bistro’s official website, Holmes Beach information and local hurricane-recovery reporting; the Herald-Tribune page itself is blocked from direct access in my search.
