Waterfront Bar Open for Business at Bon Appetit

recently unveiled its new outdoor bar, complete with a spectacular view of the marina and a full food and drink menu.

Dubbed In the Loop — the Waterfront Bar at the Bon, the area, which officially opened a few weeks ago, features a full liquor bar, the full restaurant menu, four flat-screen TVs and seating for 24 people.

According to General Manager Thomas Riedl, has the bar been a hit with patrons.

"The reaction to the bar has been fantastic, better than we even expected," Riedl said. "People keep telling us what a great idea it is; in fact, many have asked what took us so long.

"They have also been saying that it looks so natural, like it was always here," he said. "And it really does feel like it has always been here."

The bar will operate on the same hours as the restaurant, weather permitting, and features a daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m. It will soon have live entertainment Thursday through Sunday.

Riedl is also quick to point out that although the atmosphere is more casual than inside the restaurant, the waterfront bar will still exhibit all the classy hallmarks of Bon Appetit.

"The overall feel is more casual, but we're still keeping the fine dining feel we're known for," he said. "There will be linens and silverware for the meals, and real glasses for the drinks."

"No paper plates and plastic cups here," Riedl said. "Just a great view where you can sit all day and watch the boats, watch the sunset ... and never get bored."

• Address: 150 Marina Plaza
• Phone: 727-733-2811
• Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; closed Monday