The Friendly Fisherman Seafood Restaurant

Stopped by the Friendly Fisherman for a bite to get eat, The burgers looked good online. I was not disappointed. The Burger came out great Nice green lettuce I added some bacon and cheese to it. Fries were cooked perfectly. Drinks for awesome as well they have some nice frozen drinks, along with some souvenir cups that you can get some good deals on. They have inside seating and seating by the boardwalk as well as the water. The service was quick and friendly (it was a Wednesday)

I dined here twice on a recent visit to Madiera Beach. On my first visit Carmen was a friendly and attentive server. She deserves a raise and would likely be a great trainer. I also had a very pleasant experience with the manager. I felt as if my business was appreciated and that I was a valued customer. Unfortunately in that visit my fries and corn fritters left much to be desired. I had eaten them there in past years and loved them, but they were not hot and fresh. On my next visit, I had mashed potatoes instead of fries to avoid the temperature issue. Sadly, they also were not hot. My rice and mixed vegetables, which are usually delicious by the way, were also not hot. They aren't made to order. In the past, I'd dined there when the restaurant was busy and perhaps that made the difference with fresher food and a faster turn over. My server during my last visit was less than mediocre. He was far from attentive and he kind of mumbled. He didn't check on me and I had to ask other severs for him 2x. I dont even know what his name is as he didnt introduce himself. I even wondered if perhaps there were a language barrier or perhaps if he were neurodivergent and deserving of some additional grace. For the most part the food is great... when it's fresh. I very much enjoyed the blackened fish and highly recommend it. The staff ask seemed friendly and warm with the exception of my most recent server. If the place is busy... join the waitlist, your tastebuds will thank you. If it's slow and quiet, go take swim or a tour and come back later!

We always visit the Friendly Fisherman during our annual visits to the area. Today was our 3rd visit this week. We were surprised by a new menu that included a hefty jump in most prices. Our biggest surprise was the 10 pc shrimp becoming an 8 pc shrimp with a 25% price jump. The corn fritter basket jumped 35%. Our food and service was good. Kam was our waiter and very attentive and friendly.

First time in Tampa, and after a long day at the beach, we chose The Friendly Fisherman for dinner. Our large group did have a wait, but the staff handled it well and provided great service throughout the evening. The atmosphere and waterfront views were definitely a highlight. The food and drinks, however, were a bit disappointing. Although most dishes came out in a timely manner, a few guests received their meals long after the rest of the table had already finished. Several of us ordered specialty drinks, and one had to be sent back because it was made as a virgin version but charged as the alcoholic one. The Mahi Mahi tacos were tasty and unique, but the chicken and cheese dish was cold and not really edible. The shrimp and Mahi Mahi entrée came with only a tablespoon of rice, and the fish itself was a bit dry. The Alfredo was a hit, though it was surprising that it came with chicken tenders rather than grilled chicken. Overall, we loved the authentic, rustic design of the restaurant and appreciated the kindness of the staff, but the food quality and drink issues mean we’ll likely pass on returning during future visits to Madeira Beach.

Hands down the best dinner experience I’ve had in the city so far! The top deck had a wait, so they offered us 10% off to sit downstairs, which turned out to be a total blessing. We sat right at the railing next to the water and got a front row seat to the dolphins and birds. We were so close we could literally see the texture of the dolphins! Pro tip: come around 7:30 PM so you can catch them playing at sunset. My boyfriend got the calamari and said it was the best he’s ever had, which says a lot because he’s a chef! I got the gator bites as an appetizer. If you’ve had them before, you know they can easily turn out chewy, but these were absolutely perfect. Our server, Chris, was an absolute angel. He was so diligent and attentive, and I even overheard him pointing out wildlife to other tables who were further back from the railing. Fantastic food, incredible atmosphere, and top tier service. Next time I’m in town, I’ll definitely be back!