World’s Best Burger Is On Anna Maria Island, FL

March 24, 2019 | Laura Bell Adams | Businesses

Having grown up on Anna Maria Island and then moving somewhere that’s not a dreamy 7-mile island in the Gulf of Mexico, I was made increasingly aware of some privileges of my childhood. My solid education at Anna Maria Elementary, my accessibility to team sports at The Center, not really having to wear shoes everywhere, and a lifetime of delicious Duffy’s Burgers. These are the foundations, and burgers, that built me.

Since moving to a couple of big cities, with all of my many travels in-between, I’ve heard plenty of “World’s Best Burger” claims. I was led to believe that somewhere out there a greater burger existed and, of course, I would entertain the idea. I mean, I had done a fair share of traveling (and eating) in my life, how could I believe that the best burger would be from the little island I grew up on? I believe it because it’s true. I would and will always come back loyally and proudly to my one true burger love, Duffy’s Tavern.

My dream scenario is spending the day fishing on the boat or relaxing for a couple of hours on the beach and then walking my sunburnt happy self into Duffy’s for a burger and cold beer… And then going to Tampa to watch the Lightning win the Stanley Cup. But that last part’s just me being demanding. I’m happy with just a Duffy’s burger, beer, and a regular season Lightning win.

To be clear: The longtime owners, the Geyer family, and my family have known each other since before I was even born.

To be even clearer: It’s not just a loyalty thing. It’s so good that as I’m writing this article at 6am, I’m craving it. Everyone I’ve ever taken to Duffy’s falls in love with it, too. Duffy’s Tavern isn’t the world’s best burger because I know and love them, but I know and love them because they serve the world’s best burger.

Duffy’s Tavern has stuck it out and stayed true to itself in a rapidly changing town. When they moved locations a few years ago, they only got bigger and better. The burgers are always juicy, the beer is always ice cold, and the games are always on. They’re cash only, seat yourself, and offer counter-service. It’s laid back, casual, and comfortable… just as the island always was. And no, they haven’t sold out and started serving fries. With burgers and sides this good, you don’t need fries.