You're hungry, but you're not in the mood for chains. No worries though, we've got your back with this list of eight of the best restaurants in Bradenton. You'll find it all here whether you're looking for brunch, seafood, steaks, or classic European flavors.

Central Cafe offers a unique industrial space with brick walls and low lighting. The menu features west coast flavors, making it a great dining option for those looking for something unique and delicious. The cafe has happy hour every day between 2 to 5 p.m. This eatery's menu is rooted in the Gulf shores of Florida yet inspired by California's seasonal harvest, providing customers a fresh and flavorful dining experience. Some popular menu items include creamy tomato blue soup, hand-cut fries, and portabella pizza. Why not try Central Cafe and experience the delicious food and atmosphere yourself?

If you want to dine at a popular restaurant in Bradenton, look no further than Hickory Hollow. This restaurant is known for its Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue, which is hickory-smoked and marinated in sweet vinegar and seasonings.

The menu features favorites such as hickory-smoked pork spare ribs, barbecue chicken, char-grilled prime rib, and baby back ribs. Each dish is made with fresh, local ingredients and comes with two corn fritters and your choice of two home-cooked vegetables from a rotating list of about 25 options. After dinner, settle down with an apple crisp, cobbler, Bourbon pecan pie, or bread pudding served with ice cream for dessert.

If you're looking for a great Italian restaurant in Bradenton, look no further than Fav's Italian Cucina, one of the best restaurants in Bradenton. Located in downtown Bradenton in front of Jenning's Arcade, it boasts mouthwatering menu items like goat cheese bruschetta, traditional pizza, and stromboli. Come after 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or Saturday to get happy hour prices on beer and wine.

Not only is the restaurant's homemade bread and pasta famous,the homemade lasagna and three-cheese manicotti are spectacular! This restaurant has something for everyone, and it's a great place to visit while exploring Bradenton.

The Chateau 13 restaurant and wine bar is known for its European-style dishes. The owners moved to the area from Belgium in 2009, bringing their love of European flavors. Their restaurant and wine bar is inspired by the culinary hospitality in France, Italy, Spain, and Belgium. It offers a variety of dishes, including escargots à la bourguignonne, mussels vin blanc, and truffle parmesan frites.

Fans of Chateau 13 rave about the food's freshness, quality, and diversity. They also love the restaurant's views of downtown Bradenton's marina and beach. With such great food and ambiance, it's no wonder that Chateau 13 has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Located on beautiful Siesta Key, Summer House Siesta Key is known for its relaxed elegance with a seafood attitude. The waterfront steakhouse serves hand-selected cuts from premium ranches such as Niman Ranch, Revier Cattle Company, and Snake River Farms.

With its award-winning food, Summer House is a great place to dine on Siesta Key. The owners have over 30 years of hospitality experience, which shows in the restaurant's quality service and food. The restaurant also hosts popular events such as live music and happy hour specials throughout the year.

If you want an upscale yet casual dining experience in Lakewood Ranch, Paris Bistro is your restaurant. The menu features a variety of French-inspired dishes, as well as local seafood and steak. Customers can choose from appetizers such as steamed mussels and French onion soup as well as main dishes such as beef bourguignon, fish florentine, moules gratinées, and filet de boeuf. For dessert, enjoy a variety of crepes with toppings such as Nutella, cinnamon, fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, and honey. The restaurant's ambiance is perfect for a romantic date or family outing.

Michael Johns is a French-American steakhouse that serves beer, wine, cocktails, and house-aged Iowa, USDA Prime cuts of beef alongside fresh local seafood. This fine dining restaurant is known for its warm and relaxed ambiance.

The restaurant's menu features a diverse selection of dishes that can be tailored to suit individual tastes and preferences. Popular dishes include the 12-ounce prime Delmonico ribeye, baked oysters, and mussels in wine sauce. Michael Johns also offers gluten-free dishes for those with dietary restrictions. Whether looking for a romantic dinner for two or a hearty meal for the whole family, Michael Johns has something to satisfy everyone's cravings and palate.

Duffy's Tavern is a must-visit restaurant if you're in the Bradenton area and craving burgers. The establishment has served classic cheeseburgers and beer for over half a century, making it a local institution. Sitting in Manatee County, Duffy's is a popular destination for commuters from Sarasota and Tampa and long-term islanders.

If you have never been to Duffy's Tavern before, consider trying it out—you won't be disappointed by its classic burger menu or atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its burgers and beer, serving favorites such as the Tex burger and crumbled blue cheese burger. You can also top your burger with a variety of cheeses such as Havarti, provolone, brie, Swiss, cheddar, and pepper jack. And, while they do not serve fries, you can also order homemade coleslaw or potato salad on the side.

When considering Bradenton homes for sale, finding an agent with experience in the local market is essential. Good agents such as Steve Slocum and the 941 Team understand the housing market and can provide insights into neighborhoods, schools, and amenities. They can also help you determine the best home for your needs and budget. Most importantly, they can create a home-buying experience tailored to your tastes and needs.

_{*Header photo courtesy of Central Cafe}