After opening its doors on February 12, 1987, at the site of what was once an outdated beach concession, Sharky’s has truly become a destination restaurant. “The original idea was to create a fun family dining experience on one of Florida’s most beautiful spots in Venice,” co-owner and Vice President Mike Pachota said. “We’ve done that, and now we’re moving forward with an expansion of the restaurant, offering more options for everyone.”
An abundance of fresh seafood choices, all cooked to perfection in a variety of ways, is a signature attraction. The extensive menu options also include mouthwatering steak and chicken entrees, with an outstanding blend of flavors attributed to creators and executive chefs. Other selections include daily specials, appetizers, salads, luncheon favorites, and tempting desserts like Key Lime pie and well-loved Cheesecakes.
Championing the 2010 and 2012 local Iron Chef Awards as well as the 2011 local Iron Bartender Awards, Sharky’s is known for exceeding expectations in drinks and dining. And, despite stiff competition from bars in St. Petersburg and Key West, Sharky’s has been voted the three-time #1 Florida Beach Bar for 2013, 2018 & 2019. Owners Mike and Justin Pachota are committed to delivering the best possible dining experience for their customers. Sharky’s has grown from a restaurant that originally accommodated 78 seats to an establishment offering a wide range of dining options. Nowadays, visitors may select from an indoor dining room, a covered & enclosed patio surrounded by windows, or a huge wraparound deck with shaded or sunny tables complemented by a full tropical tiki bar.
As the popularity of Sharky’s grew, the owners decided to expand. Located right next door to Sharky’s, Fins at Sharky’s opened its doors on December 8, 2013. The "polished casual" restaurant added 182 dining seats and brought a fresh new take to a renowned brand while still boasting the most incredible Gulf views on Florida's Southwest coast. The Fins at Sharky’s menu goes well beyond what customers expect from a beach bar. “We are dedicated to presenting menu items that embrace our proximity to the Gulf while speaking to a more serious food and wine customer," co-owner and President Justin Pachota said. "We are integrating the best of Sharky’s, enhanced with inspiration from other sources, to create a unique dining experience."
Fins at Sharky's features an inventive, ever-changing menu inspired by an array of global cuisines and seasonal South Florida ingredients. Fins proudly serves guests fresh Gulf seafood, sushi, and premium cuts of steak and pork. With an inviting design and coastal-inspired décor, the dining space features comfortable booths, custom tables, and chairs and a spacious outdoor terrace. A Private Events room is also available for 20-50 people by special reservation.
The Pachota family also owns Snook Haven, Smack Dab on the River, which offers incredible history and natural beauty for anyone seeking authentic riverside dining! Off the beaten path on the banks of Myakka River in a natural cove, Snook Haven provides a true Old Florida dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating. Snook Haven’s menu features barbecue meats smoked in-house daily, including pulled pork, beef brisket, chicken, shrimp, and fresh or smoked fish, in addition to vegetarian options.
The Sharky’s family, Venice Pier Group, has a rich history of involvement in the local community and has actively sponsored and participated in several local charities and events. These include the Ride the Beaches LIVESTRONG® fundraising event, Big Brothers Big Sisters, YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, SERTOMA, Rotary, and the Suncoast Blood Bank, just to name a few. Sharky’s has both won and hosted the Venice MainStreet Iron Chef competition, held annually at the Venice Yacht Club. Co-owner Mike Pachota is one of the founders of the famous Shark’s Tooth Festival, and Sharky's participates in the Venice Christmas and boat parades.
Visit Sharky’s on the Pier, Fins at Sharky’s and Snook Haven today for a waterfront dining experience to remember!
