Lunch on the Manatee River: MILA’s on the Manatee
If you’re like me and crave authentic experiences that echo Florida’s past, there’s no better place in Palmetto than the end of Main Street at the pier—955 Riverside Drive to be exact—where you’ll find MILA’s on the Manatee.
This charming waterfront eatery sits on the edge of history, just beneath the De Soto Bridge, on land that dates back to 1843 when Simon Turman chartered boats and secured a mile of this prized shoreline. What was once a bustling point of boat-supported trade has transformed into a true slice of Gulf Coast heritage—offering unbeatable views, fresh seafood, and a peaceful pause from modern life.
A Culinary Throwback in a City on the Rise
While Palmetto forges ahead with modern growth—including the newly opened Marriott Hotel & Spa and a $50 million renovation to the Convention Center—MILA’s offers a soulful contrast. It’s a tribute to the region’s enduring maritime legacy.
At the heart of this progress is Karon Dixon, who, alongside the Main Street Association, is helping guide Palmetto through a thoughtful revitalization. Plans for new apartments, retail spaces, and historic preservation are all on the horizon—positioning Main Street as both a destination and a reminder of the city’s storied past.
On the Menu at MILA’s on the Manatee: Gulf Coast Comforts
My partner, Zach Ellis of LQ Commercial Real Estate, and I stopped in for a late lunch—and the experience did not disappoint.
Grouper Sandwich
Lightly fried (though blackened is also available), this sandwich hits every note—flaky white meat, a balanced zing of house sauce, and a soft, warm roll. A Florida staple, executed with finesse.
Fish Tacos
Zach swears by them—zesty, crispy, and refreshingly light.
Crispy Fries
Golden and hot, with just enough salt and crunch to round out the meal.
Unsweet Tea
My personal go-to. Clean and refreshing, it paired perfectly with the flavors of the sea and sunshine.
Our server Elizabeth was attentive and gracious, making sure every detail—from drink refills to timing—was handled with care.
More Than a Meal: A Window Into the Past
As we sat overlooking the Manatee River, boats gently bobbed nearby—the same waters where, over a century ago, traders once hauled in mullet and dried them on salt racks. You can feel the presence of history here: from native communities to early European settlers like De Soto, this land carries stories that stretch far beyond the plate.
It’s the kind of place where your imagination takes hold, where you’re reminded why we fell in love with Florida in the first place—sunshine, salt air, and timeless beauty.
Tips for First-Timers
- Go early: Arriving just after noon secures you prime pier seating.
- Make time to explore: Take a post-lunch stroll down Main Street to enjoy local shops and historic architecture.
- Add a little heat: Ask for their house-made hot sauce for an extra kick on your tacos.
- Soak it in: Whether you’re a history buff or a casual visitor, the view alone is worth the trip.
MILA’s on the Manatee isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a living piece of Palmetto’s story. It invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the Florida that once was—and still is, if you know where to look.
Palmetto cherishes its roots, its river, and its merchants. If you stop by, you’ll see why. You’ll leave not just satisfied, but inspired.
If you go to visit:
955 Riverside Drive · Palmetto, FL 34221
1-941-212-6006
Hours: Kitchen is open
Mon-Fri 11:00am – 8:30pm
Sat-Sun 9:00am-8:30pm
