Since September of 2003, Bob Corriere and his relatives have owned and operated Moretti’s Waterfront Seafood Restaurant, but recently they added a weekly Sunday event they call “Local’s Day.”

While being entertained by live music, patrons can peel and eat shrimp for 35 cents a piece. The same cost applies to wings. Drinks also are more affordable. Corriere said he had a motive to start Locals’ Day.

“The way this economy is,” he said, “people are struggling. They don’t have the opportunity to go out. These are great values and specials for them to be able to go out and not spend a lot of money.”

On Father’s Day, dads eat for half-price.

His clientele is of all ages and walks of life:

“They are of all different ages. We have lots of families and lots of German people. We have a German server who makes them feel very comfortable, because she can communicate with them. We have a lot of local business people, people from charitable organizations.”

Moretti’s has a seating capacity of 150 indoor and on the outdoor patio, and the view of Matlacha Pass is enjoyed by all, especially at sunset. On the horizon to the left, Matlacha juts into the water, and on the right, Bokeelia is seen. This view had much to do with Corriere and his relatives becoming owners of the business.

“I just fell in love with it because it is on the water,” he said, “and it is accessible by boat. We have a dock, and we are open year-round, seven days a week.”

They serve lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and dinner starting as early, but continuing until 9 p.m.

“We are located 15 minutes from anyone in the Cape,” Corriere said, “but most people don’t really know that.”

In addition to Sunday, live music is also offered Friday and Saturday nights on the outside patio.

“Our focus has always been the three entities that make a restaurant successful,” he said. “They are great food, great service and great atmosphere.”

Moretti’s was awarded the “2009 Best Waterfront Restaurant.” This award is presented by the Pine Island Eagle, from votes received from readers.

In addition to the seafood specialty, they serve veal, chicken, pasta dishes, pizza and kids menus. They provide for private parties and also do catering “with separate checks,” Corriere said.

Their Web site is: www.morettisseafoodrestaurant.com.

Corriere’s co-owners/relatives include, Adam Jackson, Shirley Jackson and Kris Jackson. The manager is Ed Weeks.