Last Updated on November 3, 2023
The Village of the Arts in Bradenton is an eclectic mix of 20th-century bungalows, Florida Cracker homes, and more, featuring over 275 properties.
The original purpose was “to build a community where artists live and work while enhancing the quality of life and creating a harmonious environment.”
We first mentioned the Village of the Arts in Bradenton on our 2022 Bucket List (Top 10 Items for Our 2022 Authentic Florida Bucket List).
While strolling through the color-filled streets, you’ll find the Village has something for everyone. Make sure not to miss the popular art walk hosted by the Village on the first Friday night and Saturday afternoon of every month.
You’ll be able to experience live music, delicious food, and of course, unique art. Check out this map of businesses from Villages of the Hearts.
With so many businesses calling the Village of the Arts in Bradenton home, it’s difficult to narrow it down to our top favorites.
We must mention that in January 2022, many businesses in this area temporarily closed due to COVID-19, are keeping very limited hours, or are open by appointment only. However, enough businesses were open, making our trip worthwhile.
10 Businesses at the Villages of the Arts in Bradenton
Check out the list of our top 10 favorite shops, restaurants, and businesses at the Village of the Arts in Bradenton.
Arte Caffé Italian Bakery
Remo and Meridith Mambelli started Arte Caffe in the Village of the Arts to offer a taste of Italy to the area.
In fact, Remo himself learned his skills from his mother in Italy. He took the techniques and recipes she taught him.
He moved to the United States in 1990 and met Meridith when he hired her as a bartender. The rest is history.
Arte Cafe Italian Bakery Address: 930 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Birdrock Taco Shack
Chef David Shiplett is a well-loved chef and artist in the Village of the Arts community. While you may not initially think of a Chef as an artist, we believe that Chef David’s creations make him an incredibly talented artist.
Pick up some delicious tacos and relax in the eclectic environment of Birdrock Taco Shack. On a nice sunny day, make sure to sit outside and enjoy the live music as well.
Birdrock Taco Shack Address: 1213 13th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen
Chef Dave Shiplett, who created Birdrock Taco Shack, also created this eclectic Southern food restaurant in the Village of the Arts – Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen.
This 100-year-old cottage has been revamped into a beautiful dining space with great indoor and outdoor spaces – while dining indoors, you can enjoy the local art hanging on display.
While dining outdoors, you can listen to live music on the patio.
Authentic Florida readers have recommended the fried chicken, as well as the meatloaf sandwich, as their absolute favorites! You can smell the fried chicken blocks away!
Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen Address: 1114 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
The Dude and Mary’s Life of Art and Music
This art gallery in the Village of the Arts is both a working art studio and a gallery where you can visit and buy fine art and unique gifts.
“Dude” of the store plays the music, and Mary creates the art, much of it made from recycled materials she finds throughout her day.
One of the most recent pieces by Mary at The Dude and Mary’s Life of Art and Music includes an item she found while walking her dog.
The Dude and Mary’s Life of Art and Music Address: 1414 11th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Jerk Dog Records
Jerk Dog Records is a small vinyl shop in the Village of the Arts that sells music records outside the mainstream.
While they specialize in Vinyl LPs and 7 inches, they offer a wide variety of free and for purchase ‘zines as well.
If you’re looking to get into collecting records, Jerk Dog also sells new record players for those who don’t have one.
Jerk Dog Records Address: 1119 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Check out: For the Record, These Are the Best 10 Vinyl Shops in Florida.
Joan Peters Gallery
Joan of Joan Peters Art Gallery first opened her gallery, located in the very center of the Village of the Arts in 2002.
Joan is a lawyer who had always been interested in painting but decided to pursue her passion project when she moved to Florida.
Currently, Joan does Plein Air painting, which is painting a scene on location. If you’re a lover of Florida nature, make sure to check out her paintings. Many of them feature the beautiful state parks of the Sunshine State.
Joan Peters Gallery Address: 1210 11th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Ortygia
Chef Gaetano “Guy” Cannata learned to make delicious Sicilian food from his Italian family in New Jersey, as his neighborhood was a tight-knit group from Sicily.
In 2007, he took that knowledge and opened Ortygia, a Sicilian-French fusion restaurant that also has influences from Arab, Greek, Spanish, and North-African cuisines.
This type of cooking is called “Monzu” and dates back to Napoleon’s time.
The food is amazing and the outdoor dining area is relaxing. Go on a night when they have live music.
Ortygia Address: 1418 13th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
The Village Mystic
This mystical store in the Village of the Arts sells a wide array of products from holistic and metaphysical items to salt lamps, sage, candles, and even oracle decks.
The shop also is the home of Mystic Mines, Southwest Florida’s largest gemstone mining attraction, complete with crystals, gemstones, shark teeth, and fossils.
If you’re interested in expanding your spiritual journey, make sure to attend one of the classes offered by The Village Mystic. Stop by on Saturdays for the free class that is hosted by Shaman Jeff every week.
The Village Mystic Address: 1017 12th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Studio C Gallery
Studio C Gallery is a painter and sculptor who has worked with Barnum and Bailey. She now works as a painter and muralist in Bradenton.
You can commission artwork or see a variety of hand painted furniture you are able to purchase. Visit the studio on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm or on other days by appointment.
Studio C Gallery Address: 926 12th St. W, Bradenton, FL 34206
Adobe Graffiti Lounge
Are you hoping to enjoy exotic teas and specialty coffee from around the world? Adobe Graffiti Lounge is a must visit location.
Not only do they serve up drinks you are sure to love, but they are also home to some great events. You can enjoy a monthly market, see fire spinning, join yoga, or jam with the DJ when he spins some great music.
Adobe Graffiti Lounge Wall Art Address: 1302 13th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
If you’re looking for other fun things to do in the area, check out: