FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. – Brett’s Waterway Café has long been a mainstay in the Fernandina Beach community, known for its scenic views and special events.
Many locals have fond memories of celebrating milestones and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that Brett’s has provided.
“People have their favorite table. They come here for New Year’s Eve and Fourth of July shrimp drop,” City Manager Sarah Campbell said of the cherished local establishment.
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But a legacy that dates back to the 1980s will come to an end on Dec. 31 -- the café’s last day of operation.
Following a 2021 study that revealed significant deficiencies in the building’s foundation, the city has determined that the building is structurally unsafe and must be demolished.
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As a result, the café, which has been a beloved gathering spot for residents and visitors alike, will close its doors for good.
Melinda McGrath, a frequent visitor, expressed her sadness about the impending closure. She and her friend, Susan, along with their two dogs, will miss the spot that has been part of their experiences for years.
“The first time I was here was in the year 2000 when I vacationed here, and this is one of the restaurants we came to. When I came back five years later, that was the one I remembered,” McGrath recalled. “It seems sad. I understand all the controversy going on about it, and I really think they need to rebuild something very similar to what they have now.”
Community input
McGrath’s sentiments echo those of many who have made memories at the café over the years, and Campbell emphasized the importance of community input in deciding what will replace the café.
“Some people don’t feel like we need a restaurant anymore, that the town has come so far,” she explained. “Others are focused on protecting the commercial marina and fishing aspect, while some are concerned about costs.”
Several proposals have been presented to the city commissioners, offering a variety of options for the future of the site.
These range from a floating dock costing $365,000 to a more elaborate restaurant with a pier and pavilion, which could cost between $2.5 million and $3 million.
Other options include a pier extension and pavilion for nearly $2 million, or a restaurant with a dock extension priced at $1.5 million.
The city is committed to exploring all possibilities to ensure the new development meets the community’s needs, Campbell said.
As the city moves forward with plans for the site, funding for the new project has yet to be determined. Options include bank loans, bonds, and available grant funding from the bulkhead seawall reconstruction.
The community’s voice will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the iconic location.
You can take the city’s survey here on what should replace the café.
