Anna Maria Island, nestled along the Gulf Coast of Florida, is not only known for its pristine beaches and charming community, but also for its vibrant culinary scene. And at the heart of this scene lies the craftbar of the the Waterfront Restaurant – a hidden gem that offers a unique dining experience like no other. With a focus on fresh and local ingredients, The Waterfront serves up delectable dishes and refreshing cocktails that perfectly capture the flavors of island life.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes the Craftbar at The Waterfront Restaurant a must-visit destination on Anna Maria Island. From its romantic ambiance to its mouth-watering seafood specialties, get ready to discover the delights that await you at this charming spot.
Anna Maria Island and its Culinary Scene
Anna Maria Island may be a small island, but it is bursting with flavor. With a variety of restaurants and eateries, the island offers something for every palate – from casual beachside dining to upscale gourmet experiences. But what truly sets Anna Maria Island apart is its focus on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.
Known for its fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, Anna Maria Island offers a plethora of dining options for foodies to explore. And at the heart of this scene is the Craftbar at The Waterfront Restaurant – a charming spot that perfectly captures the flavors and essence of island living.
This commitment to fresh and flavorful cuisine has put the island on the map as a top culinary destination in Florida. And at the heart of this scene is the craftbar at The Waterfront Restaurant.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico, The Waterfront restaurant has been a mainstay on Anna Maria Island for over 30 years. And since its recent addition of the craftbar, it has become a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The craftbar is a cozy and intimate space, perfect for enjoying a romantic evening or catching up with friends over drinks and delicious food.
But what truly sets the craftbar apart is its focus on fresh seafood. From locally caught fish to succulent shrimp and oysters, every dish is expertly prepared to highlight the natural flavors of the island. And to complement these dishes,
The Craftbar at the Waterfront Restaurant
The Waterfront Restaurant is known for its stunning views, delicious food and exceptional service. But did you know that it also has a hidden gem called the Craftbar? Located inside the restaurant, the Craftbar offers an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, spirits and cocktails.
The bar itself is a cozy yet modern space with sleek wooden countertops and industrial-inspired light fixtures. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day, catch up with friends or simply enjoy a drink while taking in the breathtaking views of the water.
The team at the Waterfront Restaurant takes great care in curating a diverse and ever-changing selection of beers from renowned craft breweries. From local favorites to international gems, there’s something for every beer lover to discover and enjoy.
Some of the popular choices include:
- Rogue Dead Guy Ale, a rich and malty German-style Maibock
- Jai Alai, an American IPA with citrus and tropical fruit notes
- Warsteiner Dunkel, a dark lager with hints of caramel and chocolate
- Dogfish Head Sea Quench, a tart and refreshing sour ale brewed with black lime, sea salt, and coriander
- Breckinridge Vanilla Porter, a smooth dark ale with notes of chocolate and vanilla
The restaurant also offers a variety of wines, from classic reds and whites to unique blends and sparkling options. And for those who prefer something stronger, the bar boasts an impressive selection of spirits and liqueurs.
Signature Dishes and Drinks
At The Waterfront, we pride ourselves on offering guests a unique and unforgettable dining experience. The Waterfront menu features a diverse selection of globally-inspired dishes, crafted with the freshest locally-sourced ingredients. From classic American fare to international specialties, there is something for every palate to enjoy.
One of our most popular signature dishes is the Grilled Black Grouper served over creamy risotto and topped with a flavorful citrus beurre blanc sauce. This dish perfectly combines the freshness of locally-caught grouper with a rich and savory sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Another must-try dish is our Steak Au Poivre, a French-inspired classic featuring a tender filet mignon coated in cracked black peppercorns and served with a creamy cognac sauce. The bold flavors and tender texture of this dish are sure to impress.
For seafood lovers, our Shrimp Scampi is a must-try. Plump shrimp are tossed in a garlic butter sauce with white wine, lemon, and fresh herbs, served over a bed of linguine. This dish showcases the delicate flavors of the sea and is a favorite among our guests.
And no meal at The Waterfront would be complete without trying one of our signature cocktails. Our Waterfront Sunset, made with fresh-squeezed orange juice and a splash of grenadine, is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Or for something more tropical, the Paradise Breeze combines pineapple and cranberry juice with coconut rum for a refreshing island-inspired drink.
A Taste of Island Life: Cocktails with a Tropical Twist
At The Waterfront Restaurant, we pride ourselves on creating a unique dining experience that captures the essence of island life. Our cocktail menu is no exception, with a variety of refreshing and tropical drinks that will transport you to paradise.
Start your evening off with a classic margarita or pina colada, made with fresh juices and premium spirits. Or try our signature Waterfront Sunset, a blend of rum, pineapple juice, and grenadine that will leave you feeling like you’re lounging on the beach.
Fancy something a little different? Our Sparkling & Other Wines by the Glass menu offers a selection of sparkling wines, perfect for toasting to a special occasion or simply enjoying with friends. Try the Schramsberg Blanc de Noir from California, with its crisp and dry notes, or the Francois Montand Brut Rose from France, bursting with tart fruit flavors.
For beer lovers, our Draft & Bottle Beer menu features both craft and domestic options. Sip on a Rogue Dead Guy Ale or a Paulaner Lager while taking in the ocean views. And don’t forget to try one of our bottled craft beers, like the Lagunitas IPA or the Radeberger Pilsner.
The Perfect Date Night Spot: Romantic Ambiance at the Craftbar
The Waterfront Restaurant’s Craftbar is the perfect spot for a romantic date night with your significant other. The cozy and intimate atmosphere, paired with our carefully curated drink menu, creates the ultimate setting for a memorable evening.
Start off your date night at the Craftbar by choosing from our selection of sparkling and other wines by the glass. Sip on a glass of Francois Montand Brut Rose, with its beautiful pink hue and crisp taste, or indulge in a bottle of the luxurious Veuve du Vernay Brut. For something a little different, try our housemade Sangria or classic Mimosa.
As you move on to your main course, explore our draft beer menu and choose from a variety of options such as Rogue Dead Guy Ale and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale. For those who prefer bottled beer, we offer craft options like Warsteiner Dunkel and Reef Donkey, as well as domestic favorites like Budweiser and Michelob Ultra.
The Craftbar also offers a selection of small plates and bar bites to accompany your drinks. Share some Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail or indulge in our signature Lobster Mac & Cheese. And don’t forget to save room for our decadent desserts, like the Flourless Chocolate Torte or Key Lime Pie.
Experience the True Flavors of Anna Maria Island with Our Seafood Specialties
One of our specialties is our wide selection of seafood dishes, made with locally-sourced ingredients and expertly prepared by our talented chefs.
Our menu features a variety of seafood options, from classic favorites like fish and chips to more unique creations like our blackened grouper with mango salsa. We take great pride in offering the freshest seafood available, and work closely with local fishermen to ensure that our dishes are made with only the highest quality ingredients.
But it’s not just the ingredients that make our seafood dishes stand out – it’s also the way they are prepared. Our chefs use a variety of cooking techniques, from grilling and sautéing to baking and broiling, to bring out the natural flavors of the seafood. We believe that less is more when it comes to seasoning, so you can truly taste the freshness of the seafood in each bite.
What Makes the Craftbar at the Waterfront Restaurant a Must-Visit Destination on Anna Maria Island?
The Craftbar at the Waterfront Restaurant is a must-visit destination on Anna Maria Island for many reasons. From its carefully curated beer and wine selection to its delicious menu offerings, this bar has something for everyone.
One of the main reasons that sets the Craftbar apart from other bars on the island is its focus on craft beers and wines. The team at the Waterfront Restaurant takes great care in selecting unique and high-quality beers and wines that cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer a light lager or a bold IPA, there is something for every beer lover at the Craftbar. Additionally, their wine selection includes both domestic and international options, allowing customers to expand their palates while enjoying a glass of their favorite varietal.
Aside from drinks, the Craftbar also offers a delectable food menu that perfectly complements their drink selection. From small plates to share with friends, to hearty entrees, there is something for every appetite. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors, making each dish a true representation of Anna Maria Island’s culinary scene.
The atmosphere at the Craftbar is another reason it has become a must-visit destination on the island. With its cozy and laid-back vibe, customers can relax and enjoy their drinks and food while taking in the beautiful views of the waterfront. The bar also frequently hosts live music events, adding to the already lively atmosphere.
