Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Cafe transforming to Bonita Fish Company
HM Restaurant Group expects to open renovated Fort Myers Beach property by end of the year
A large center bar, daily music and a fresh seafood-forward menu are among the plans for the new Bonita Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach, announced by HM Restaurant Group, which purchased the iconic Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Restaurant & Bar in January. The restaurant group also owns and operates Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and Dixie Fish Company next door off Fishermans Wharf on San Carlos Island.
The new Bonita Fish Company will feature approximately 300 indoor and outdoor seats. The restaurant is currently closed during the transformation and is projected to open in late 2025.
The new owners say the restaurant will offer the same guest experiences and exceptional food Doc Ford’s and Dixie Fish Company are known for.
“We’re making several upgrades customers will really appreciate while paying homage to the building’s rich history and waterfront charm,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group. “The menu will feature items unique to Bonita Fish Company, including smoked dishes. We’re toying around with bringing back smoked mullet, which was a household staple on San Carlos Island years ago.”
The coastal-inspired menu will complement the neighboring Dixie Fish Company by offering fresh local seafood, creative dishes and drinks. Customers will also enjoy entertainment seven days a week, a scenic waterfront setting and the relocation of the main bar to the center of the dining room. Bonita Fish Company’s ambience will be enhanced with dedicated waterfront event space offering both indoor and outdoor seating.
Work is also underway on a new floating dock marina, expected to open in 2026. Operated independently from the restaurant, the marina will serve boat-in patrons, offer long-term rentals and accommodate boats upward of 90 feet with shore power and water.
Originally built in 1926 as Bonita Fish House, the nearly century-old restaurant has a storied past as a gathering place for the Fort Myers Beach community. Its name and history echo the neighboring Dixie Fish Company, an original fish house built in 1937 as a seafood market.
“Both establishments represent the legacy and coastal heritage of Fort Myers Beach, its traditions and history which we are proud to continue,” said Harrity. “Our thoughtful renovations will preserve the rustic charm, character and casual atmosphere of Bonita Bill’s and the cherished memories that locals and tourists have experienced for decades while introducing new generations to the exceptional culture, food and spectacular views.”
Bonita Fish Company is located at 702 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach. HM Restaurant Group bought Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Cafe & Tiki Bar in January along with several other nearby parcels for $5.5 million.
HM Restaurant owns and operates four Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille locations in Southwest Florida, including a location on Sanibel and St. Petersburg, and Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach. With deep roots in Southwest Florida, HM Restaurant Group is dedicated to connecting people with great food, exceptional hospitality and legendary guest experiences. Its restaurants are known for their fresh seafood, innovative menus and relaxed, welcoming atmospheres.
The company’s restaurants have earned national acclaim and have been the recipient of numerous Best of the Beach awards by the readers of the Fort Myers Beach Observer.