The Waterfront Restaurant on ABC 7: Chef Billy’s Stunning Frutti de Mare Shines on Suncoast View
Wine Down Wednesday with Chef Billy – A Taste of Anna Maria on Live TV
On September 17, 2025, *The Waterfront Restaurant* was once again thrust into the limelight, thanks to an unforgettable feature on ABC7’s beloved daytime program, *Suncoast View*. During their popular segment, *Wine Down Wednesday*, Executive Chef Billy wowed the studio with his preparation of a dish that has become nothing short of legendary on Anna Maria Island: **Frutti de Mare**.
If you’re one of the thousands who caught the episode, you know it wasn’t just a cooking segment—it was a culinary showcase that brought the spirit, flavor, and flair of AMI into homes all across Sarasota and beyond.
Celebrating a Legacy: Suncoast View and the Gulf Coast Food Scene
Since its debut on Sarasota’s ABC7, *Suncoast View* has served as a morning staple for viewers interested in lifestyle, culture, and (most importantly) the vibrant culinary scene across Southwest Florida. The show has become a trusted platform for celebrating local chefs, restaurateurs, and food artisans—offering a dynamic mix of interviews, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings that celebrate the best of the region.
From showcasing family-run restaurants to high-end coastal cuisine, *Suncoast View* has played a pivotal role in building foodie buzz around Sarasota, Bradenton, and the islands like Anna Maria. It was only natural that The Waterfront Restaurant and Chef Billy were invited back to share one of their most iconic dishes.
What is Frutti de Mare? A Journey from Italy to Anna Maria Island
Frutti de Mare (literally “fruits of the sea” in Italian) is a seafood lover’s dream—a robust, elegant, and slightly rustic dish that combines an assortment of shellfish and ocean treasures over pasta, traditionally with a light tomato, garlic, and white wine sauce.
This beloved recipe has deep roots in **Southern Italian coastal cuisine**, especially in regions like Campania and Sicily. Originally a “fisherman’s supper,” Frutti de Mare evolved into a celebratory meal served during festive occasions like *La Vigilia* (the Feast of the Seven Fishes).
Today, at *The Waterfront Restaurant* on AMI, Chef Billy has elevated this dish into a modern classic, using only the freshest, locally-sourced Gulf seafood.
Chef Billy’s Masterpiece: Frutti de Mare on the Suncoast View
In the segment, which you can watch right here, Chef Billy artfully plated a medley of shrimp, mussels, clams, and tender calamari, tossed with al dente pasta and finished in a rich tomato, garlic, and basil sauce. The aroma practically leapt off the screen.
The show’s hosts were visibly impressed—and why wouldn’t they be? Frutti de Mare is more than a dish at *The Waterfront Restaurant*—it’s an experience.
The Secret is in the Ingredients (and the Gulf)
What makes this Frutti de Mare so unforgettable?
- **Wild-caught Gulf shrimp**: plump, sweet, and sustainably sourced.
- **Local clams and mussels**, delivered daily.
- **Tender calamari**, sliced fresh and flash-cooked for perfect texture.
- **San Marzano tomatoes**, imported from Italy, for that rich, slightly sweet sauce.
- **A hint of spice and fresh basil**, adding depth without overpowering the seafood.
It’s this attention to detail that keeps guests coming back—and what made it a showstopper on the Suncoast View.
Perfect Pairings at The Waterfront Restaurant
Whether you saw the segment or not, there’s no better way to enjoy Frutti de Mare than **in person**, with a view of the bay and a perfect glass of wine.
Here’s what we recommend pairing with Chef Billy’s Frutti de Mare:
🍷 Wine
- Vermentino – A crisp, aromatic white from Sardinia that beautifully balances the seafood and acidity of the sauce.
- Pinot Grigio – A refreshing Italian classic that doesn’t overpower delicate shellfish.
- Rosé – Dry Provençal rosé adds a summery, floral vibe that lifts every bite.
🍸 Cocktails
- The Waterfront Mojito – A minty, citrus-forward cocktail perfect for Florida evenings.
- Aperol Spritz – Italian bubbles meet bitter orange, ideal for that Amalfi Coast flavor experience.
🥖 Sides
- Our house-made focaccia or crusty baguette for dipping into the sauce—don’t let a drop go to waste.
- A light arugula salad with shaved parmesan and lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
A Local Dish With National Buzz
Since airing, the Frutti de Mare segment has sparked conversations across social media, local news, and even travel forums. Visitors planning their fall vacations to Anna Maria Island are already calling to reserve a table at *The Waterfront Restaurant*—just to try **that dish** from TV.
In fact, the full segment is quickly becoming one of the most watched clips from Wine Down Wednesday this year.
Meet Chef Billy – A Culinary Talent Rooted in Passion
Chef Billy has been a local favorite on Anna Maria Island for years, known for his mastery of seafood and deep respect for coastal ingredients. His background in classic European techniques paired with his commitment to **Florida Gulf Coast sourcing** makes him one of the standout chefs in the region.
Every dish Chef Billy crafts is a story—from the boat, to the kitchen, to your table. His Frutti de Mare is just one example of the creative yet respectful way he reinterprets traditional dishes for today’s diners.
Plan Your Visit to The Waterfront Restaurant
Located steps from the Bay on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, *The Waterfront Restaurant* is both a local institution and a vacation must-visit. With **dockside dining**, **incredible sunset views**, and a **scratch kitchen** that emphasizes local, seasonal ingredients, it’s no surprise we’ve been featured on ABC7 multiple times.
Address:
111 South Bay Blvd,
Anna Maria, FL 34216
Visit our website for the full menu, reservations, and more.
Watch the Segment and Come Taste for Yourself
Couldn’t catch it live? Watch Chef Billy on ABC7’s *Wine Down Wednesday* here:
Full Segment Link
And don’t forget to explore the show that made it all possible:
ABC7’s Suncoast View – Official Page
Final Thoughts: A True Gulf Coast Treasure
At The Waterfront Restaurant, we don’t just serve food—we tell stories through flavor. And thanks to ABC7 and Suncoast View, we were able to share that story with thousands more this September.
Whether you’re a local, a snowbird, or visiting for the first time, make sure to put Frutti de Mare at the top of your to-do list on Anna Maria Island.
We’re proud of Chef Billy, our team, and this vibrant community we serve every day. Come wine down with us—TV spotlight or not, **our food always steals the show**.
