About
If you find yourself in Bradenton, Florida, make a point to visit the unique Linger Lodge Restaurant & Bar. Nestled at 7205 85th St Ct E, this hidden gem is more than just a dining destination; it’s an experience. With its charming "Old Florida" fish camp vibe and captivating decor featuring taxidermy displays of local wildlife, Linger Lodge offers a glimpse into the intriguing natural history of the region.
The restaurant is known for its eclectic menu that includes adventurous options like alligator bites and frog legs, a testament to Florida’s rich culinary heritage. As one customer, Steve Farb, noted, it functions almost like a "restaurant/taxidermy museum," perfect for those who are curious about local wildlife. The menu not only piques your interest, but it also serves up deliciously prepared dishes that keep you coming back.
During my visit, I couldn’t resist trying the much-praised gator chowder and the frog legs, which left a lasting impression and convinced me that they are a worthy alternative to chicken. The ambiance, accentuated by the screened outdoor seating overlooking the serene waters of the Manatee River, creates a perfect setting for enjoying tasty dishes and relaxing with friends. Many patrons, like Ashton S. and C Berry, emphasize the importance of the outdoor seating, proudly boasting its spaciousness and pleasant breezes.
However, the experience isn’t without its quirks. While the food quality is generally high, some items may not hit the mark every time — as suggested by customer feedback on burgers lacking flavor. But the attentive staff at Linger Lodge is quick to address concerns, ensuring that you have a good experience overall. I appreciated the fact that our waitress was not only aware of stale chips but promptly provided fresh, crunchy ones—a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Overall, Linger Lodge Restaurant & Bar is a perfect stop for anyone looking to savor delightful dishes in a distinctive setting. Its blend of quirky decor, unique menu offerings, and riverside views make it a must-visit destination. Whether you're a local or just passing through, you’ll leave with not just a full belly, but also a memorable experience that celebrates the charm of Florida's culinary landscape. I’m eager to return and explore more of what this captivating spot has to offer!
“ Very good place to eat, a fun experience and is just a unique Florida restaurant. I really enjoyed the breaded tenderloin. It wasn't too pounded out, could have be a little thicker, but was thankful it wasn't a flat pounded out fritter like some places. The burger was not very flavorful, I don't think it had any seasoning, but it was super juicy and good quality. The chips were stale and when we told the waitress she already knew what we were about to say that they were stale. She brought us fresh and crunchy chips. They weren't as burntish looking like the stale ones in the picture. I recommend this as a place to stop for a bite! We will be back ”
“ Ok. I loved this place. I'll be going back next time I'm in town. The good: gator chowder fantastic! Frog legs will make you rethink ever having a reason to eat chicken ever again. Less good: pitcher of Yeungling was not very cold and was flat. Gator bites were very tough(I've only had them a few times where they weren't) Server was not on top of her game, but also wasn't awful or anything. Very few visits to the table, seemed a little rushed. Very cool local spot on the river that is unique and I think shouldn't be missed! ”
“ This is a highly unusual restaurant with some history. The restaurant has a "joke" menu of road kill tidbits and a real menu of alligator, frog legs, etc. I ordered the chicken breast sandwich, two of us had the flounder, and my one son had the gator. Practically a restaurant/taxidermy museum. The "outside" seating is screened and has a lovely water view. ”
“ Awesome place off the highway in Bradenton along part of the Manatee river. Super cool and interesting decor. Showcases of animals that had been taxidermy! Lots of snakes, and their eggs, an opossum, bobcats, coyote, fox, etc. We were amazed at the screened in outdoor eating area, very spacious with fans and a nice breeze! Next time, we will sit indoors for the experience. Make a reservation, or you might be waiting. It was Sunday and they were open until 9:00 pm. We drove all the way down from Seminole, and it was worth the drive! Great food and service!! ”
“ Love this place! It never fails to bring an interesting experience. Charming "Old Florida" fish camp vibe. Displays and history of the camp make it even more memorable. The menu is an experience in itself. Good food and music on the back deck too. Come and experience yourself! ”
“ This place is just so cool. If you are looking for old Floridiana, mounted wildlife busts, gator bites, a roadkill menu, go no further. It's not weird, it's eccentric. So eccentric that it's cool. I visited for lunch on a windy rainy weekday and sat on the back porch that is screened. I loved the view of the water and trees beyond. My server was perfect and I had a delicious Linger burger. The atmosphere is so much more interesting than the sterile all white or grey restaurants that we have gotten used to in recent years. Can't wait to go back! ”
“ Was there on a Thursday night. Sat outside on the screened in deck. Have been here many times in our lives and still feel they have the best hamburgers in town. Unfortunately the appetizer calamari and the burgers all came out the same time. It was a little chilly so we had to eat fast. Calamari was fresh and the tentacles were so large. You had to cut them with a knife that was 13. We had the linger burger for 17 and the Braden River Burger for 14. Unlike other restaurants, they actually cook the burger the way you like it, not the way they want you to have it. If you're a local like us, you have to look past all of the tourists, as there is a campground on site, the meal be worth it. They have a special menu on the weekends which include outrageous bloody Marys and a smoked meats menu, also a must try. ”
“ I was visiting family and we went here for dinner. Everyone and everything was absolutely amazing and delicious!! I wish I had one in my hometown. Thank you for such an amazing evening. ”