Ten Years on the Pier 

On December 27, 2025, Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier turns 10.  Ten years of being right where Historic Bridge Street meets the water. Ten years of sunsets, salty breezes, and moments that don’t need much explaining if you’ve ever spent time on the Pier. This location has always been its own experience, shaped by the setting, the people, and life on …

A New Workforce Housing Initiative Is on the Verge of Launching in Manatee County

Using its collective money, land and willpower, a coalition of mid-sized businesses is backing Forest Cove, a 156-unit development aimed at easing Manatee County’s housing squeeze. By Kim Doleatto  August 12, 2025 After two years of meetings, a cohort of mid-sized Manatee County businesses is trying a different fix for hiring headaches: co-owning housing where workers will …

Frozen and Fancy-Free

Frosty drink favorites that make for the perfect summer cooldown      SRQ Magazine | July 2025  By Kate Wight  In Restaurants Is there anything more iconically Florida than savoring a frozen cocktail under the blazing summer sun? When the heat is at its peak and the humidity clings like a second skin, there’s no better way to …

Rock ’n’ Support Grants $355,250 to 781 Hospitality Workers Across the Gulf Islands. 

WHAT  The Rock ’n’ Support relief fund is now fully distributed. Between November 21, 2024, and April 7, 2025, 781 hospitality and tourism workers across Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Cortez, and Longboat Key received direct financial assistance totaling $355,250. Grants were distributed through the nonprofits Shuckin’ Good Cause and the Women’s Resource Center …

Concerns linger amid reports of potential New College takeover of USF Sarasota-Manatee

No bill has been filed but lawmakers may act through the end of the legislative session on May 2. Author: Miguel Octavio Published: 11:41 PM EDT April 24, 2025 Updated: 11:41 PM EDT April 24, 2025 MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Anya Pardy said attending USF Sarasota-Manatee changed her life. Raising six kids alone while one of her sons …

Eleni Sokos

Meet Our EVP, Eleni Sokos! Eleni’s journey to a hospitality career began practically at birth.   As the daughter and granddaughter of small business owners on both sides of the family, Eleni spent many Saturday mornings learning the ropes (and responsibilities) of operating a successful restaurant from weekly “take your daughter to work Saturdays” with her …

Café on St. Armands is Now Open!

WHAT: Café on St. Armands, the highly anticipated reimagining of Café L’Europe, is now officially open! This Mediterranean-inspired dining destination brings bold flavors, vibrant spaces, and a modern twist to the heart of St. Armands Circle. With a variety of new ways to serve you, whether you’re stopping by for coffee and pastries at Café Soleil, …

Facing Hurricanes Helene and Milton: How Anna Maria Oyster Bar and Café L’Europe Are Rebuilding Together

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, our coastal community has faced some intense challenges. But through it all, our commitment to our team, our guests, and the recovery process has never wavered. With a focus on resilience and preparation, Oysters Rock Hospitality and all of our restaurant locations are bouncing back, stronger than …

Celebrating Our Finalists at the 2nd Annual Suncoast ROSE Awards

The 2024 Suncoast ROSE Awards was a night of celebration, recognizing the best in hospitality, and Oysters Rock Hospitality couldn’t be prouder of its eight finalists. Held at the Palmetto Marriott and Spa, the night began with each nominee receiving a beautiful long-stemmed red rose and a congratulatory plaque, setting the tone for the evening. …

Celebrating Longevity 2024 at Oysters Rock Hospitality: A Day of Fun, Recognition, and Team Spirit

A Morning Toast to Longevity and 29 Years of Five Star Fun Our annual Longevity Day celebration began at 9 AM in the parking lot of the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Team members (21+) were greeted with a cheerful Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar, along with plenty of water and Gatorade for those who wanted …