Cheap Eats: Skinny's Place

(Credit: Danielle Hope Hier)

Photos:

Skinny's: It's that two story little happy shack on the corner of Manatee and Gulf Drive, the one tourists pass by on their way to the beach or to one of those quaint antique stores sprinkled throughout Anna Maria Island. It's that place you always mean to stop in and check out, wondering "What's that about?"  Some nights, you can see people sitting at one of their two umbrella-covered outdoor patio tables, in shorts and bikini tops sipping draft beer and laughing while reggae music plays in the background.

The inside of Skinny's Place resembles a tropical hut, complete with thatched upright chairs, aqua table covered picnic benches, and a wet bar lined with wooden stools padded with Corona and Bud logos.  The ceilings are decorated with surf boards and fishing accoutrements, and the walls adorned with old sepia photos of original owners Carl ("Skinny") and Janice Freeman, and the extended family that's been successfully operating the burger place since 1952.

The sound of traffic on Gulf Blvd. is muted by Caribbean music and patron conversation (including that of a couple married almost fifty years, visiting Skinny's for lunch every Wednesday for as long as they can remember).  Most advertising has been strictly word of mouth, and yet it has not escaped the attention of local papers.

Diners order at the bar, and take a seat wherever comfortable, waiting for their hot dog, burger or chili served up in little red baskets with onions, lettuce and tomato on the side.  Ketchup, salt, pepper and other condiments are already on the table.  The modest menu makes it possible to cook everything fresh to order, and there's little doubt as to why everyone raves about the burgers.

Their friendly service, vacation-like relaxed atmosphere, and good ol' fashioned grilling, make it easy to see why Skinny's Place has stood the test of time.

The News: Skinny's Place has been voted "Best Bar & Grill" and "Best Night Space" in the Anna Maria Sun's Reader's Choice Awards.  They've also been awarded for serving the "Best Burger" and having the "Best Bartender" consistently for several years in a row.

The Food:  The menu includes classic cheeseburgers ("Skinnys"), double burgers ("Fattys"), along with chili dogs, grilled cheese, and chicken sandwiches served with choice of fries, onion rings or chips.  Assorted domestic and imported beers available bottled and on tap, wine, and soft drinks.  Order at the bar, and remember to bring cash (credit cards not accepted).

The Crowd: The demographic includes tourists and locals of all ages and all walks of life.  Businessmen have wandered in after work, as have 20-something-year-old beachcombers in a restaurant that has a "No shoes, no shirt, no problem" relaxed policy. Anything goes, though shorts and T's are the most common.  Special holiday events including outdoor grilling and live music tend to draw a mixed crowd.

The Bottom Line: Best bet for dine-in and take-out lunches for under $10.  Quite literally, a "stone's throw" from Manatee Public beach, and close to outdoor recreation, it's also the best bet for tropical ambiance and cooked to order fresh burgers.


Location: 3901 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sundays, 12 noon - 8 p.m. (Closed Mondays)
Phone: 941-778-7769

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