Happy Labor Day from The Waterfront Restaurant – Celebrate America’s Legacy with Coastal Charm
A Proud Salute to America’s Workers
As the summer sun begins to set over Anna Maria Island, we pause to honor a day dedicated to the heart and soul of America — its workers. Happy Labor Day from all of us at The Waterfront Restaurant! We’re proud to be part of this great nation’s tradition of hard work, community, and celebration. While we will be closed for lunch on September 2nd to allow our amazing team a well-deserved break, we’ll reopen for dinner with all the flavors and views you love.
The History and Significance of Labor Day in the U.S.
Labor Day was first observed in the United States on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. It became a federal holiday in 1894 after a national labor movement demanded recognition for workers’ rights and fair treatment. The day honors the contributions of American workers — from factory lines and construction sites to small business owners and essential service providers.
Labor Day isn’t just a day off; it’s a celebration of resilience, productivity, and the strength of the American spirit. As this holiday grew in importance, it also became synonymous with end-of-summer festivities, backyard barbecues, parades, and cherished time with friends and family. And what better place to do that than here on the Gulf Coast?
Helpful Resource:
For more on the roots of Labor Day, check out the U.S. Department of Labor’s Labor Day History Page.
Celebrate with a View at The Waterfront Restaurant
When the work is done and it’s time to unwind, The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria Island is the place to be. Our open-air patio and panoramic views of Tampa Bay make every gathering feel like a vacation. Whether you’re celebrating with family, entertaining guests from out of town, or looking for the perfect spot for a sunset toast, we’re here to make your Labor Day unforgettable — just after lunch!
Why Choose The Waterfront Restaurant?
- Incredible Scratch Kitchen: Everything (except the fries!) is made from scratch, using the freshest local ingredients.
- Extensive Drink Menu: From fine wines and craft beers to signature cocktails like the Smoked Margarita or the 1944 Mai Tai, there’s something for every palate.
- Unmatched Views: Dine under the shade of tropical trees with a waterfront view you won’t forget.
- Local Charm: We’re proudly rooted in the community and love seeing familiar faces — especially on holidays like this.
What to Order This Labor Day Evening
Our seasonal dinner menu is filled with fan favorites and local classics. Consider treating yourself to:
- Shrimp & Grits: A Southern comfort dish reimagined with chorizo, roasted red peppers, and a crispy grit cake smothered in parmesan cream.
- Grouper Nuggets: Crispy, tender, and a Gulf Coast essential — a local favorite for visitors and islanders alike.
- Gouda Truffle Mac n Cheese: Decadent, savory, and perfect for celebrating the hard work you put in all year.
- Coconut Grouper Salad: A refreshing tropical twist on local seafood, great for those looking for something light but flavorful.
Don’t forget to pair your entrée with one of our legendary cocktails or a glass from our hand-selected wine list. Relax, take in the ocean breeze, and toast to a job well done.
Labor Day on Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a wonderful destination year-round, but it truly shines during holiday weekends. Whether you spent the day paddleboarding, browsing Pine Avenue’s local shops, or soaking up the sun at Bean Point, dinner at The Waterfront is the perfect endcap to your Labor Day celebrations.
We highly recommend making reservations, especially for dinner on Labor Day, as it’s one of the most popular evenings on the island. It’s the kind of night that’s meant for clinking glasses, sharing stories, and enjoying one last summer sunset before fall arrives.
Need Ideas Before Dinner?
Consider booking a dolphin cruise or private charter with Anna Maria Charters earlier in the day. Their family-friendly tours are an incredible way to explore the island’s coastline and wildlife before heading to dinner.
Yes, We’re Closed for Lunch — But Only on September 2nd!
This Labor Day, we’re giving our hardworking staff a well-earned midday break. We’ll be closed for lunch on Monday, September 2nd, but we’re opening back up just in time for you to enjoy a waterfront dinner experience unlike any other.
We deeply appreciate your understanding and support — we couldn’t do this without you. Labor Day is about recognizing the efforts of those who make things happen, and that includes our incredible team and loyal guests like you.
Join Us in Raising a Glass to the American Workforce
This Labor Day, whether you’re a teacher, healthcare worker, tradesperson, entrepreneur, or retired and relaxing, we salute you. We hope your holiday is filled with laughter, love, and a little indulgence — preferably paired with scratch-made seafood and a coastal cocktail in hand.
From everyone here at The Waterfront Restaurant, we thank you for your contributions to your community and your family. Let’s make this Labor Day a celebration worth remembering.
We’ll see you Monday night, September 2nd — with a smile and a seat waiting for you.
Additional Resources
- Explore Our Dinner Menu
- More on the History of Labor Day from History.com
- Anna Maria Charters for Holiday Excursions
Make Your Labor Day Reservation Today
Don’t wait — dinner spots fill quickly on holidays! Visit The Waterfront Restaurant’s website to check hours, make a reservation, or browse our updated dinner menu. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Happy Labor Day — and thank you for making The Waterfront Restaurant a part of your holiday tradition.
