Season Is Over? Now’s the Perfect Time to Visit Two Legendary Waterfront Restaurants in Cortez, Florida
As another busy Florida season winds down, locals once again get to enjoy one of the biggest perks of living on the Suncoast — easier access to some of the area’s best waterfront dining spots. And if you are looking for the perfect place to relax with fresh seafood, live music, cold drinks, and unforgettable views, today is a great day to visit two Cortez favorites: Swordfish Grill & Tiki and Cortez Kitchen.
Both restaurants are owned by longtime Cortez businessman and community supporter John Banyas, who has helped transform the historic fishing village into one of the most popular dining and entertainment destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast. They are also part of a wider Cortez dining scene we recently covered in The Best Restaurants in Cortez, Florida.
A Slice of Old Florida on the Waterfront
Located in the historic fishing village of Cortez, both restaurants offer something that is becoming harder to find on the Florida coast — authentic Old Florida charm. Fishing boats still work the nearby docks, pelicans glide overhead, and the atmosphere feels relaxed and genuine.
For Suncoast locals, the end of season means shorter waits, easier parking, and more opportunities to enjoy these beloved restaurants without the peak-season crowds.
The Swordfish Grill & Tiki — Waterfront Dining with Island Vibes
Swordfish Grill & Tiki has become one of the most recognizable waterfront restaurants on the Suncoast. Located directly on Sarasota Bay, the restaurant delivers spectacular water views, a large outdoor tiki bar, and one of the most laid-back atmospheres anywhere in the region.
The menu features fresh Gulf seafood, grouper sandwiches, oysters, shrimp baskets, burgers, tropical drinks, and daily specials. It is also a major destination for live music, attracting talented local and regional performers throughout the week.
Boat traffic, sunsets, and waterfront breezes create an experience that keeps both locals and tourists coming back year after year.
One of the restaurant’s most famous “regulars” is Mookie, the beloved little Shih Tzu who has become something of a local celebrity around Cortez and the Swordfish Grill.
For many visitors, the Swordfish Grill experience is more than dinner — it is a true Florida lifestyle experience.
- Address: 4628 119th Street West, Cortez, Florida 34215
- Website: Swordfish Grill & Tiki
- Phone: (941) 798-2035
Cortez Kitchen — Casual, Friendly, and Full of Flavor
Just steps away sits another local favorite, Cortez Kitchen.
Known for its relaxed outdoor setting, live music, fresh seafood, and welcoming atmosphere, Cortez Kitchen has built a loyal following among both locals and visitors. The restaurant offers a true “come as you are” Florida vibe where flip-flops are always acceptable and sunsets are part of the entertainment.
Popular menu items include peel-and-eat shrimp, seafood platters, fish tacos, wings, burgers, and cold drinks served right near the docks.
The restaurant’s waterfront deck remains one of the hidden gems of the Florida Suncoast. For more on that local favorite, see our earlier feature, Don’t Sleep on Lunch at Cortez Kitchen.
- Address: 4528 119th Street West, Cortez, Florida 34215
- Website: Cortez Kitchen
- Phone: (941) 798-9404
John Banyas Continues Building a Cortez Destination
Over the years, John Banyas has played a major role in helping keep Cortez vibrant while preserving much of its historic fishing village atmosphere.
Together, the Swordfish Grill & Tiki and Cortez Kitchen have become gathering spots for boaters, music lovers, seafood fans, snowbirds, tourists, and year-round locals alike. The two restaurants have also teamed up for community events, including the Stone Crab Fest at Swordfish Grill and Cortez Kitchen.
As the crowds begin thinning out after another hectic season, this may be the ideal time to rediscover these iconic waterfront destinations.
Because sometimes the best days on the Florida Suncoast happen after season ends.
