Bacon Wrapped Scallops on Anna Maria Island: A Hurricane Hanks Favorite & A Local Favorite

When a restaurant dish is so good that it earns its own feature more than once, you know it’s something special. Hurricane Hanks’ Bacon Wrapped Scallops Appetizer  fall squarely into that category—so outrageously delicious, so consistently popular, and so frequently requested that we’re happily revisiting this AMI favorite over a year later. Guests can’t stop talking about them, locals love introducing their visiting friends to them, and the dish itself embodies everything we love about coastal dining on Anna Maria Island.When a restaurant dish is so good that it earns its own feature more than once, you know it’s something special. Hurricane Hanks’ Bacon Wrapped Scallops Appetizer fall squarely into that category—so outrageously delicious, so consistently popular, and so frequently requested that we’re happily revisiting this AMI favorite over a year later. Guests can’t stop talking about them, locals love introducing their visiting friends to them, and the dish itself embodies everything we love about coastal dining on Anna Maria Island.

These aren’t your average scallops. Hurricane Hanks uses large, premium sea scallops, wrapping each one in smoky, savory applewood-smoked bacon and pairing them with a side of their signature island sauce. The result is a perfect balance of sweetness, smoke, richness, and tropical brightness—a small plate that feels indulgent yet approachable, elegant yet comforting.

Located right in the heart of Holmes Beach, Hurricane Hanks has built a reputation for serving high-quality coastal comfort food using the freshest ingredients available. And while their menu is filled with crowd-pleasers, it’s the Bacon Wrapped Scallops that continually rise to the top of the “must-try” list.

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The History of Bacon Wrapped Scallops: A Perfect Culinary Match

Bacon and scallops—two ingredients that many people love individually—create an entirely new experience when paired together. But where did this classic pairing originate?

From New England Seafood Shacks to Modern American Cuisine

The origins of bacon-wrapped scallops trace back to coastal communities in the Northeastern United States, especially in states like Maine and Massachusetts, where scallops have long been harvested and celebrated. The dish likely evolved from early surf-and-turf combinations, a uniquely American approach to pairing the bounty of the sea with beloved land-based ingredients.

By the 1940s and 1950s, bacon-wrapped scallops began appearing at cocktail parties and high-end restaurants, often served as bite-sized hors d’oeuvres on toothpicks. Their popularity skyrocketed during the mid-century entertaining boom, when anything wrapped in bacon was almost guaranteed to win over a crowd.

A Timeless Combination of Texture and Flavor

It’s no wonder the dish has endured through generations. Scallops are naturally sweet, delicate, and buttery. Bacon, on the other hand, is smoky, salty, and crispy. When cooked together, the bacon enhances the scallops without overpowering them, sealing in moisture and giving each bite a satisfying contrast in texture.

Today, bacon-wrapped scallops remain a favorite at upscale restaurants, seafood houses, and island eateries—especially in Florida, where fresh seafood and coastal flavors are part of everyday life.

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Why Bacon Wrapped Scallops Are So Popular at Hurricane Hanks

At Hurricane Hanks, this classic appetizer has reached a near-legendary status. The combination of ingredient quality, expert preparation, and island-inspired presentation makes the dish stand out from typical versions you’ll find elsewhere.

1. Fresh, High-Quality Sea Scallops

Hanks sources large, premium sea scallops that sear beautifully and remain juicy after cooking. Their size allows for better caramelization and a more satisfying bite.

2. Applewood-Smoked Bacon for Rich Flavor

The bacon isn’t an afterthought—it’s thick, smoky, and perfectly paired with the scallops’ sweetness. As it cooks, the bacon infuses savory richness into the seafood.

3. The Signature Island Sauce

Unique to Hurricane Hanks, this sauce adds a tropical flair that ties the dish to Anna Maria Island’s breezy, coastal identity.

4. A Guest Favorite Worth Revisiting

This appetizer is so beloved and consistently ordered that its popularity continues to grow. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the Bacon Wrapped Scallops remain an unforgettable part of the Hanks experience—and yes, that’s exactly why we’re highlighting them again.

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Perfect Drink Pairings for Bacon Wrapped Scallops

One of the most enjoyable parts of savoring Hanks’ Bacon Wrapped Scallops is deciding what to pair with them. These scallops go remarkably well with both wine and beer, depending on your preference.

🍷 Wine Pairings

• Chardonnay – Creamy, buttery notes complement the richness of the bacon and scallops.
• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp acidity balances the smoky sweetness.
• Pinot Grigio – Light, refreshing, and ideal for seafood on a warm AMI day.

🍺 Beer Pairings

• Local Florida Lagers – Clean flavor profiles keep the spotlight on the scallops.
• Pale Ales – Citrus and hop notes match nicely with the island sauce.
• Wheat Beers – Smooth and slightly sweet, enhancing the scallops’ natural flavor.

Explore the drink menu and pair your appetizer with something that complements your personal palate:

Visit Hurricane Hanks’ Website

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Explore More Hurricane Hanks Appetizers

While the Bacon Wrapped Scallops often steal the show, Hurricane Hanks offers a full lineup of delicious appetizers worth exploring. These dishes are crafted with the same dedication to quality, freshness, and bold Florida flavors:

• Fried Artichoke
• Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna
• Chicken Wings
• Mozzarella Sticks
• Spinach & Artichoke Dip
• Nachos
• Crab Cakes

Each appetizer pairs beautifully with the restaurant’s selection of wine, cocktails, and beer—making Hurricane Hanks the perfect place to start your lunch or dinner on Anna Maria Island.

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A Delicious Must-Try on Your Next Visit to Holmes Beach

If you haven’t visited Hurricane Hanks recently—or if you’re planning your first trip to Anna Maria Island—make sure the Bacon Wrapped Scallops are at the top of your list. Whether you’re sharing them with friends during happy hour or savoring them as a starter before dinner, this dish captures everything special about coastal dining on AMI: fresh seafood, bold flavor, and warm hospitality.

It’s easy to see why we’re writing about them again. The Bacon Wrapped Scallops remain one of the most popular items at Hurricane Hanks, loved by locals, recommended by servers, and savored by guests from across the country.

Experience them for yourself on your next visit to Holmes Beach—and discover why this dish continues to shine year after year.

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Learn More & Plan Your Visit

Check out Hurricane Hanks’ menu, hours, and location here:

• Hurricane Hanks Official Website
• Visit Florida
• Anna Maria Island Visitor Information