The bright and cheery Teriyaki Cove on Holmes Beach is the newest restaurant created by Steve and Loida Marzke, who also had Filipino and Japanese restaurants in Colorado and four in Gainesville.
“Our kids have all graduated from the University of Florida so we’re empty nesters and decided to have a better life by moving near the Gulf and opening a smaller restaurant that is close to the beach,” said Loida Marzke, who, along with her husband, fell in love with Anna Maria Island, though they also liked the Gainesville area.
The two have converted the former Smoothie King into a charming tropical setting with bright coral walls, attractive rattan chairs with glass-topped tables and an array of tropical artifacts decorating the walls.
The upbeat restaurant seats 23 customers with more seating outside in the Anna Maria Island Centre. Online ordering is available as well as take-out and delivery services.
Teriyaki is obviously the specialty of the house with beef, chicken, tofu or shrimp versions (even teriyaki sandwiches) plus the owners’ special teriyaki sauce, which is a treasured “secret recipe" from the Philippines.
There are a number of appetizers (egg rolls, mac & cheese bites, pot stickers) several salads, including a Greek option, tuna and shrimp poke bowls and authentic Japanese noodles. For dessert, there's a chocolate lava cake and pineapple upside down cake.
Teriyaki Cove is at 3248 E. Bay Drive in Holmes Beach. It's open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. For more information, call 941-718-3533 or visit teriyakicove.com.
