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Hours
Sun
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Mon
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tue
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wed
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thu
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Fri
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sat
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
Travelers' Choice 2023
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
Local cuisine, Grill, American, Bar, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
“My husband had the blackened grouper pasta special, and he raved about it.”
“Their crab cakes were generously sized pucks and rated competitively or excee...”
“My husbands shrimp scampi over pasta was a generous portion but was lukewarm.”
“... mahi, shrimp, scallops and crab cakes along with a very small side of pin...”
Location and contact
Details
PRICE RANGE
$12.00 – $24.00
CUISINES
American, Bar, Grill
Special Diets
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Late Night, Drinks
FEATURES
Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Free off-street parking, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Waterfront, Gift Cards Available
Contribute
4.5
1,566 reviews
Excellent
981
Very good
324
Average
131
Poor
71
Terrible
59
Laurie M
Gatineau5 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
My husband and I are Canadians who frequently visit the area for our holidays. We have eaten at the Swordfish on several occasions and always have a good experience. When we dined there on Jan 17th, 2020 particularly for their advertised Lobster Fest. We sat inside with an excellent view of the water and all of the goings on on the patio. The "birthday boy" my husband had the lobster tail with mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables. The portions were generous and cooked to perfection - especially the veggies which were not "mushy" as happens in many restaurants. I've had bariatric surgery a year + ago and my diet is fairly restricted. There were many food options for me - I had the coconut shrimp appetizer with a lovely apricot sauce on the side. We were provided with EXCELLENT service by BAILEY. Even with a full section she was exceptionally attentive to our needs and went out of her way to see if we were OK and had everything we needed. For dessert they treated my husband to a free serving of their homemade "Peanut Butter Pie" with 2 forks of course. Even on a diet, a taste is not forbidden. We went early, about 4:30 p.m. in order to get parking as the Swordfish shares their parking lot with another restaurant beside them that was also quite busy last night. Thanks again to BAILEY and other staff (cooks, hostess etc) for their attention to detail and excellent service. We will be back if not this year, next time we are in Bradenton!! Laurie and Gary from Gatineau Quebec Canada!!!
Written January 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dr. Paul T F
13 contributions
Jun 2020 • none
We are locals, have been traveling to Swordfish Grill (SFG) by boat for 15 years and have never been disappointed. It our go-to waterfront restaurant (out of 25 in the area) for visitors (my wife is a realtor and sells high-end waterfront property). SFG is run by the same folks that own the local wholesale fish market so there is never a question about the origin of the food.
The prices are good, the food always great, almost always live music, plenty of indoor and outdoor shaded space for social distancing, and an always-fun and friendly service staff. Try the shrimp burger or the fish tacos.
If your looking for a genuine Florida waterfront seafood restaurant with plenty of genuine ambiance, SFG is the real deal.
Say Hi to Jordan for us!
Written June 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rachel K
3 contributions
Jun 2020 • family
I love Swordfish Grill! My parents live in Bradenton and we come here every single time I visit because it is literally the best shrimp tacos I’ve ever eaten, it has live music, the drinks are great, it’s on the water, and best of all is service. We had Jordan most recently and she was awesome, so personable and gave us a ton of info on the fishing boats next door. If you’re in the area and don’t stop by you will be missing out!
Written June 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bill Beverley
5 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
My wife and I always go to Cortez Kitchen and love it! Tonight we decided to try the restaurant next door, Swordfish Grill. What a mistake, this is nothing but a tourist trap!
I had the Fried Shrimp and it was a butterfly shrimp that tasted old, the grease was old and really was a no taste shrimp. What a total disappointment! I love coldslaw and could not eat it as it was really that bad. I kept asking this question, how does this place stay in business. The entire staff was a bunch of young kids, just doing the best they could serving up really bad food. Do Not recommend the place at all, stay clear and save your money, too many good seafood restaurants in the area.....
Written January 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
655rver
Orlando8 contributions
Jun 2020 • friends
Been here a few times and had good food. This last time I got the Angus burger again cause its good. The menu says you get 2 sides, I asked waitress what the sides were and she named off four or five sides and I picked fries and veggies. Meal was good, when bill came it was not itemized which I thought was strange and it seemed excessive for what we ordered. We paid and left, next day called manager and he looked up my receipt. He advised we were charged for the veggies cause they are not one of the sides, well our waitress told us the sides and we ordered that, manager should have refunded or extra charge, poor way of doing business.
Written June 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
100Bruce
Rochester5 contributions
Dec 2020 • none
Fantastic outdoor setting and a very nice, professional waitress....but, a total rip off. Since it was "Taco Tuesday" I ordered their ALL YOU EAT taco special for $25,. I received my first, and only, 2 tacos...mediocre at best. I never received my reorder. My waitress apologized numerous time for the delay sayin g that the kitchen was "backed up". Strange, especially since the restaurant was only about 1/2 full. My wife had finished her dinner and the table was cleared. After an ungodly delay, I asked for my bill. After another lengthy delay, the manager (Anthony) delivered 2 more tacos to my table. I paid for my 2 tacos and left.
Written February 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SpeedLimit65
Massachusetts40 contributions
Apr 2021 • couples
Unique atmosphere as we ate while watching a commercial fishery at the next pier over processing the day’s catch; at least that’s what it looked like. Lots of birds watching them too. Our waitress Madison was lovely and perfectly helpful and efficient. Salmon tacos were a special tonight at $18 and well worth it as I almost couldn’t finish them. My partner’s grouper Reuben was the best he’s had since arriving in Florida 2 months ago and he orders it whenever it’s offered. Very local, authentic fish restaurant on the water. Very busy as is everywhere right now. Indoor or outdoor seating.
Written April 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Grant S
2 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
We arrived just before evening rush and a serious thunderstorm. Our server Brooke was delightful. She offered suggestions, was very detailed in recapping orders to ensure accuracy and was prompt in both deliver of our beverages, food items and checking back to ensure everything was as expected. We were on the patio under a tiki roof and weathered the storm, prior to wrapping up our experience. Would seek out Brooke on a future visit. We have been before and plan on returning based on Brookes service.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike H
Emporia149 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
There are about 4 places that not only serve fresh fish and seafood, the catch it and then cook it. This place is fun. Outdoor seating with entertainment - heaters if it gets cold and also plenty of indoor seating. It is busy so be prepared to wait - cocktails are good as well. Bartenders are good and fast as are the servers. Food is very good.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mrlene61
Sarasota283 contributions
Mar 2020 • none
We had dinner at the Swordfish Grill on a Wednesday night...got there before 6 pm and outdoor seating was already filled. No matter, we got an indoor table right away. We had the gator bites, which were good, and for entrees, I got the grouper piccata (a daily special) and my husband had the seafood platter. The food was good but not exceptional. The service was excellent, nothing to complain about there. With 2 drinks each, our bill came to over $100 which didn’t really seem worth it but we had wanted to try this place for awhile.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John Powell
Bradenton2 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
Stopped in the other day for drinks and dinner. We were greeted with a great hello and smile from Amber. This girl never sits still and she made sure our drinks were never empty. I ordered the bacon wrapped scallops with a side Caesar salad. Amber provides a special sauce for the scallops which we refer to as the “Amber” sauce. Love this place!
Written January 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ann622
South Windsor840 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
Our family of 8 came for a mid-week dinner in mid February. We knew we were on the water but little to see as the sun had already set. The night was cool and sweatshirts were needed. We all loved the rustic atmosphere and were immediately seated and greeted. The ladies had martinis - me having the fun "bikini bottom" and others the "swordfish". Beverages were served and refilled by our friendly wait staff. We shared a dozen raw oysters - very fresh! The fish tacos had moist, fresh fish and sides of slaw and salsa. Delicious! The shrimp scampi dinners were good as were the fresh caught grouper dinners, the chicken stir fry and the lone burger in this fish joint. Yes everyone left satisfied. We recommend and will return again in daytime.
Written March 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Just Me
3 contributions
Oct 2020 • none
We are locals and my Husband and I love the Swordfish Grill. This is the FRESHEST fish and seafood you can find anywhere, I mean you are sitting right across from the fish packing facility and fishing boats! We love the atmosphere, inside or out, and they have added additional seating outside since COVID to allow for guests to feel more comfortable.
I appreciate a facility that is taking all of the necessary precautions to ensure that it's staff and GUESTS remain safe while out enjoying the beautiful place we call home. I wish more restaurants would follow their lead. They have not sacrificed their quality or integrity throughout any of this and this is why we will always frequent this establishment.
Written October 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aubrey831
Indianapolis11 contributions
Oct 2020 • none
Swordfish Grill is one of my favorite places to visit when I'm in AMI. I LOVE the views from the back deck for dinner. They serve fish that was caught from next door, which is a fun concept. The food, service, views, and live music never disappoints! I didn't make it this time but NASCRAB is always fun!
Food Recommendations: whatever fish is fresh caught and blackened. Garlic Parmesan Oysters.
Written October 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annie
3 contributions
Jun 2020 • none
Go sit out by the Tiki Bar and Erin will hook you up with some delicious cocktails. She is a super friendly bartender and will brighten your day. She will get you set up with a cool refreshing cocktail and take care of your lunch/ dinner order for some yummy food. The view is spectacular and just cant be beat. The live entertainment is so enjoyable.
Written June 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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