Cortez is one of the last working fishing villages left on Florida’s Gulf Coast, a 10-block enclave of cracker cottages, weathered docks, and boats with names like Miss Cortez that have been in the same families since before World War II. Star Fish Company has been part of that story since the early 1920s, evolving from a wholesale seafood market to the dockside institution it is today. Pull up a picnic table on the waterfront, order at the window, and bring cash, this is not a place that takes itself too seriously. The fish dip is legendary, the hush puppies are fresh, and the view across Sarasota Bay doesn’t cost you a cent extra. This is Old Florida the developers forgot to ruin.
Thirsty for more? Dive into the Bum’s full guide to the best beach bars in Florida.
