Bayou Bistro

Drove out here to find it closed. Appears to be a permit issue with the building. No notice of when they plan to reopen

Shhhhhh...don't tell anyone about this place. Us locals love it! Great atmosphere, incredible food, what's not to love?

As usual on a Sunday my youngest stopped by and helped with a few things around the house. He was of course hungry. Since I'm new to Florida just having moved here June 1st, I am always looking for a new place so here we are. For appetizers he ordered the Bam Bam Shrimp and I ordered the Gator Bites. We both ordered the fish sandwich we cheese. They had a home brew called Escape which is nothing to write about so it won't affect my review. Our waitress was nice and very on the ball. She made suggestions but was not pushy. All in all I liked her. Now this isn't a fancy establishment and the seating is outside. It is comfortable and welcoming. You could be put off if you just drive by. Here is a picture of the outside. There is rock music playing on the background but not so loud that you can't talk. It gives off a neighborhood bar vibe because you can tell the regulars right away. Not saying it is bad just my observation. Our appetizers came out. I really liked the shrimp. The lettuce with the gator bites was not needed. We could not distinguish the gator from the port. Decided to switch to a Guinness because the Escape was not doing it for me. Once again not saying it is bad just not for me. For my followers in the DMV (DC,MD, VA) Florida is a different feel. It is more laid back and people drive around in golf carts. You read that correctly. The sandwich was tasty but always get the chipotle mayo. Otherwise it is just plain fish. Overall I would rate this place 3.8 stars.

This is a small seafood shack with friendly staff located right next to the boats bringing in fresh fish. Even though it seems like a local hangout, it is nestled in an area very heavily marketed to tourists and almost no parking.I was excited for the fish tacos featuring fresh mahi mahi, however was very disappointed when they came out covered in shredded cheese, which has no business being anywhere near fish (especially fresh). I expressed my concern to the bar staff and they did not seem to care.

I first noticed this place when I passed by it on the water. Then a local friend told me that the food is really good here so we decided to give it a try. This place is at the end of the Sponge Dock and beyond. The average tourists will reach Rusty Bellies, walk a bit further, see all the crates and trucks and forklifts and turn back. Only the locals or the ones in the know will continue to venture on to this little eatery. As you can imagine, food has to be pretty good for it to survive.Whatever image the word Bistro brings up in your mind is likely off, as this place feels more like a shack. The kitchen is in a food truck. There is an indoors bar area and then some tables on the dock. For such a small place, menu is surprisingly extensive. Given the location we decided to go with seafood and it does not disappoint. They get their daily fresh catches from a few doors down at Lockhart, which is where we buy our own.Lobster roll is delicious - the bread could be softer and more buttery, but overall flavor is really good. It was a hot day but we eagerly consumed our clam chowder. Everything is just so good that we can't wait to be back.

The Bayou Bistro is an excellent place to hang out with friends by the dock. The options for food are wonderful, and the atmosphere is always happy. The service is welcoming and outstanding, and Brandi, who is tending the bar, is always attentive and kind! Highly recommend! Dog friendly, too!

Went at 5pm on a weekday. It was seat yourself. We sat on the back patio where there were already other people seated. It took 20 minutes for someone to come ask if we wanted drinks. It took her 10 minutes to bring us water and we put in our food order at that time. We waited over 30 minutes to get our food which we saw sitting under a heat lamp for more than half that time. Food was not that good. I could have gotten a fish sandwich from McDonalds for better. As we were sitting there we also watched/heard about wrong food go to the wrong tables... everyone was complaining.

Such a cute local restaurant with great food, service, and views. This place sits right on the bay and very close to several shops, excursions, and other activities. The homemade chips had so much flavor, the lobster was cooked perfectly, and the shrimp had a perfect crunch.So excited to bring family and friends here when they're in town!

Amazing little hidden bar right on the water. Fresh seafood and amazing French fries made for the best lunch!

Our favorite go to for a laid back meal with locals. When we have guests we always have to stop in for a delicious selection of various apps, sandwiches, or entree's. Did I mention the have drinks and beer on tap also? Tom is a great guy and from the 1st day in he has made us feel very warm and welcome. Thanks Tom! I love the Ahi salad with that tasty wasabi dressing!!!!!!!!!! I need more dressing!!!! Our friends all enjoyed the grouper, lobster rolls, and Shrimps. (hot or cold) They have live music on the weekends but no dancefloor here...It backs up the the water. Its off the beaten path of the Sponge Docks, just go to the end and turn left!Thanks for the hospitality!See you soon :)