Woodys is a boat friendly local favorite with a very comfortable vibe and a solid menu that's very reasonably priced. You'll find Woodys Pub & Grill on the northern bank of the Manatee just upriver from the I-75 Bridge.
As with everywhere else in the area docking can be a challenge depending upon the day, time of day, size of your boat and the weather but we were happy to see that the docks on the east side had been repaired so there were spots for three or more boats than on our last visit. We were fortunate to find a spot there directly and with these additional spots you're sure to have much better luck finding a spot.
If you are coming by jet ski or small skiff you will never have a problem finding a spot at the interior floating docks. Anything north of 20 feet will have difficulty tying up in there though as they're not long enough to secure the stern. Woodies veterans seem to be able to pull it off without a hitch and the newbies provide steady entertainment to diners as they attempt to do so.
WOODYS
5717 18th Street East
Ellenton, FL 34222
- Phone: (941) 722-2391
- Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - 27.528904 | -82.505585
- Website
- Menu
- Fresh Seafood
- Live Entertainment Nightly
- Indoor, Outdoor Seating
- Great View from Almost Everywhere
As we live about 10 minutes by boat from there it's one of our regular stops and we've found the food to be very consistent and the service fast and friendly. On this visit we started with peel and eat shrimp and smoked fish spread and followed that up with garlic parmesan wings, fish and chips and a house salad with chicken strips.
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING
“Wow!! I'm so upset we didn't come here sooner. It looks like they've done a lot of updating to the place. Great live music started at 6. We had amazing seats (which we got to choose where to sit) so that was nice. Large grouper sand which, and beautiful views. Great drinks too!
Definitely will be back soon. We had a wonderful time!!”
“Great food and service. I had the house salad with grilled grouper. My husband had nachos. We ate inside with a great view of the water. The grouper was delicious, fresh and flaky. We enjoyed looking at the artistry in the gift store. The new tiki hut has increased the shade in the dining area. No live music today at lunch, we look forward to returning and enjoying the music.”
“We've been coming here for many years. Always good, friendly service. New thatched roof over much of the outside dining. Nice structure which will come in handy in the summer sun or when it rains. I had a Greek salad. Hubby had grouper bites. Everyone was happy!”