Turkey & Brie Sandwich at The Waterfront Restaurant – Your New Favorite Gluten-Free Delight
A Fresh Take on a Classic Combination at Anna Maria Island’s Premier Eatery
If there’s one thing The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria Island has mastered over the years, it’s turning beloved classics into unforgettable, elevated culinary experiences. And now, they’ve done it again with the debut of their newest menu item: the Turkey & Brie Sandwich. Crafted entirely in their famous scratch kitchen (with the sole exception of the fries), this sandwich brings together beautifully roasted turkey, luxurious melted Brie, wholegrain honey mustard, and a toasted butter croissant that ties every flavor together. Even better—this irresistible creation is gluten-free, making it a feel-good favorite for so many visitors and locals.
Before we dive into how The Waterfront has transformed this already iconic pairing, let’s explore the culinary history that makes the turkey-and-Brie combination such a deliciously time-tested winner.
The History of Turkey Sandwiches: America’s Lunchtime Legend
The turkey sandwich may seem like a simple American classic today, but its popularity has deep roots. Turkey became a household protein in the United States as early as the 19th century, especially after the widespread adoption of Thanksgiving traditions. By the early 1900s, sliced turkey began appearing regularly in delis and butcher shops, inspiring lunchtime creations that evolved into modern turkey sandwiches.
The turkey sandwich surged in popularity during the mid-20th century as health-conscious Americans sought leaner, high-protein options. According to the National Turkey Federation, turkey consumption in the U.S. has steadily increased for decades, making it one of the most widely enjoyed proteins in the country.
From simple cold-cut creations to warm stacks piled with gravy, turkey sandwiches have become endlessly adaptable. But few combinations have stood the test of time better than turkey paired with something soft, creamy, and deeply flavorful—like Brie.
The History of Brie: France’s Luxurious Gift to the Cheese World
Brie cheese, often called the “Queen of Cheeses,” has origins that date back to at least the 8th century in the French region of—unsurprisingly—Brie. Its soft, buttery texture and earthy rind made it a prized delicacy among French nobility. Legend even claims that Charlemagne himself developed a lifelong love for it after his first taste.
As culinary trade expanded across Europe and into America, Brie’s unique melting quality, velvety center, and mild aroma made it a beloved addition to sandwiches, charcuterie boards, salads, and upscale appetizers. Today, Brie is one of the most consumed soft cheeses in the world and appears in restaurants from Tokyo to New York.
For a deeper look at Brie’s history, check out this excellent explanation by Culture Cheese Magazine: culturecheesemag.com.
The Magic of Turkey + Brie: A Perfect Culinary Match
The pairing of turkey and Brie is no coincidence—it’s a culinary love story built on contrasting flavors and textures. Turkey is lean, tender, mild, and highly versatile. Brie brings a creamy richness, luxurious softness, and slight earthiness that elevates everything it touches.
When combined in a sandwich, the result is a balance of hearty and sophisticated, familiar and decadent. It’s comforting yet refined—which is exactly the kind of experience The Waterfront strives to offer its guests every day.
The Waterfront Restaurant’s Turkey & Brie Sandwich: What Makes It Special?
The Waterfront’s newest sandwich creation features:
- Roasted & Sliced In-House Turkey – Slow-roasted to perfection in their scratch kitchen, delivering freshness you can taste.
- Melted Brie – Creamy, warm, and indulgent without being overwhelming.
- Wholegrain Honey Mustard – A sweet and tangy spread that ties the turkey and Brie together beautifully.
- Toasted Butter Croissant – Flaky, golden, and perfectly toasted, offering a soft crunch with every bite.
And yes—it is gluten-free, thanks to The Waterfront’s commitment to offering more inclusive options for guests with dietary needs.
If you’ve ever had a turkey and cheese sandwich before, prepare to forget everything you think you know. This one hits different. This one hits better.
A Scratch Kitchen That Elevates Everything (Except the Fries!)
The Waterfront Restaurant prides itself on being a true scratch kitchen. With the sole exception of their French fries, every dish is crafted entirely in-house—from sauces to proteins to desserts. That means the roasted turkey in this sandwich wasn’t pulled from a bag; it was lovingly prepared by their talented culinary team.
This commitment to scratch cooking results in the unmistakable freshness of the Turkey & Brie Sandwich. You can taste the difference in every layer.
Why This Sandwich Will Become Your New Favorite
It’s not often that a sandwich can make you rethink what a sandwich should be, but that’s exactly what happens when you try the Turkey & Brie at The Waterfront Restaurant.
Here’s what makes it unforgettable:
- Balanced flavors – Sweet, savory, creamy, and slightly tangy all at once.
- Fresh, clean ingredients – You won’t find any overly processed components here.
- Comfort meets sophistication – Elevated casual dining at its finest.
- Great for any season – Light enough for summer, comforting enough for winter.
- Gluten-free peace of mind – A rare treat in today’s sandwich world.
The Waterfront Restaurant has built a reputation on innovative dishes, fresh seafood, and a passion for quality. This sandwich is the latest example of their culinary creativity, and early guests are already calling it one of their favorite lunch items on Anna Maria Island.
What Pairs Best with the Turkey & Brie Sandwich?
One of the best parts of dining at The Waterfront Restaurant is the exceptional drink menu. Here are some ideal pairings to elevate your Turkey & Brie experience:
✨ White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc
A citrusy, crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the Brie and complements the sweetness of the honey mustard.
✨ Rosé: Dry French Rosé
Rosé’s refreshing acidity and subtle berry notes make it a wonderful companion for both turkey and creamy cheeses.
✨ Beer: Wheat Beer or Blonde Ale
These styles are light, refreshing, and perfect for warm Florida weather—or for enjoying lunch al fresco on Waterfront’s patio.
✨ Non-Alcoholic Pairing: Sparkling Water with Lime
The effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the creamy Brie texture.
For more insight on ideal wine pairings, the experts at Wine Folly offer a helpful guide:
winefolly.com.
Dine at The Waterfront Restaurant on Beautiful Anna Maria Island
The Waterfront Restaurant is located at 111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL, right across from the historic Anna Maria City Pier. Guests enjoy a relaxed, coastal atmosphere with views of Tampa Bay, a beautifully crafted menu, and the kind of friendly service that keeps locals and travelers coming back again and again.
With every new menu item, they continue to innovate, impress, and exceed expectations. The Turkey & Brie Sandwich is the latest reason to make a lunch or dinner stop at one of the most beloved restaurants on Anna Maria Island.
If you’re planning your visit, take a look at Anna Maria Island’s tourism guide for more great things to do in the area:
annamariaisland.com.
Final Bite: Why This Sandwich Deserves a Spot on Your Must-Try List
The Turkey & Brie Sandwich at The Waterfront Restaurant is more than just a menu addition—it’s a thoughtfully engineered masterpiece that combines history, culinary artistry, and The Waterfront’s unwavering dedication to freshness and quality.
From the roasted turkey and melted Brie to the toasted butter croissant and sweet, tangy honey mustard, everything works together in harmony. Whether you’re a sandwich purist, a foodie seeking something new, or someone simply looking for an unforgettable meal on Anna Maria Island, this sandwich has your name on it.
Come by, enjoy the views, and experience the next iconic dish from a scratch kitchen that never stops impressing.
