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By Amy Nance
 |  Find some of the best local eats this side of the Manatee River in downtown Bradenton
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Any trip to Florida's Gulf Islands of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch would be incomplete without sampling the variety of tastes and flavors that make this area on Southwest Florida's coast so unique (and not just along the beaches). Stroll the brick-lined streets of downtown Bradenton to find some of the best local eats this side of the Manatee River.
Urban atmosphere
The cool, urban character of downtown Bradenton's restaurants gives diners the feel of a big city experience, but with its own local twist. And for those who think excellent dining can only be found at the other end of town, think again: this neighborhood does everything from top-notch espresso to fresh-catch seafood with style.
Here among the museums, antiques, galleries and theaters, you can sample original fare inspired by the area's atmosphere of reinvention. And with a riverside promenade in the works, the prospect of dining downtown is getting cooler by the minute.
Coffee klatch
If  | Attractions such as downtown Bradenton's McKechnie Field add to its charm
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you want to get to know the character of Bradenton's bustling downtown district, park yourself at a table outside The B'Towne Coffee Co., perfectly situated on Old Main Street. B'Towne offers clean and simple lunchtime staples like chicken salad, healthy wraps and just simply good coffee. Dining alfresco lets you take in the block's historic, turn-of-the-century buildings with their balconies and gorgeous trees.
At Cool Beans Cafe & Arts, try an almond or red sangria smoothie or the Hawaii burger – the cafe's unique menu is tongue-in-cheek good. Here you can check out changing art exhibitions, kick back on the couch to read the paper or use the cafe's free Wi-Fi. Stop in on a Friday for all-you-can-eat pancakes and syrup, the best way to celebrate the arrival of another weekend.
Light bites
Once you've seen the neighborhood, become a part of it. Central Cafe is all the rage with locals at lunchtime, when its loft-like interior is buzzing with trendy professionals. Enter from the back of the  | Stop in the Village of the Arts for local flavors and artistry on display
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brick building, and you'll pass the cute courtyard patio. The menu here is savvy and creative, and the hip, efficient staff keeps the scene warm and welcoming – a good description of downtown itself.
No sampling of the area's restaurants would be complete without a stop at Charisma Cafe & Art in the Village of the Arts. Talk about local color: from the painted fuchsia picket fence out front to the vibrant hues inside, everything here is pulled off with personality. Go for a true gourmet lunch capped off with homemade dessert or dress for high tea. You'll find local artistry showcased as well, with displays of jewelry, art and stemware on sale.
Local buzz
It's as far from the beach as you can get in Bradenton, and yet longtime local favorite Fisherman Joe's seafood is fresh, well-prepared and served in a charming building on Old Main Street, alongside burgers and steaks.
Have a yearning to eat on the water? Try Mattison's Riverside at the  | Nosh on Mediterranean-Asian fare at Mattison's Riverside at the Twin Dolphin Marina
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Twin Dolphin Marina on the Manatee River. Both the marina and the restaurant are historic structures dating from the 1920s, but both have been enlivened by new additions, in true downtown fashion. There's a fire pit and tiki torches on the dining deck and a swingin' sushi bar inside. Nosh on Mediterranean-Asian fare while you enjoy the lively vibe.
Serious diners head to Ortygia in Village of the Arts for authentic Sicilian food prepared by its chef trained in Monzu cooking. Here the specialty is torte, and the antipasti list is long and compelling. Follow up with chocolate pate for dessert.
At Zio's Pizzeria and Martini Bar, downtown sophisticates and sports junkies alike will find something to suit them. The stylish interior comes complete with exposed brick, granite tables and slick plasma televisions streaming games. At night, enjoy dancing, reggae and jazz or karaoke. Those who just want a great pie won't be disappointed either.
For more information on planning your in-state getaway to Florida's Gulf Islands of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, call 941-729-9177 or visit www.floridasgulfislands.com.
Amy Nance was born and raised on the Gulf Coast of Florida. She has an MFA in writing from Columbia University and is now a freelance writer based in Sarasota.
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