SWFL Dining Guide

TOTI Media, Inc. does its best to ensure that information in this guide is up to date. However, we still encourage our readers to call ahead for detailed information and/or reservations before visiting these local establishments.

Sanibel BLUE GIRAFFE

Casual Excellence. After a relaxing day on the beach or browsing Sanibel’s numerous shops, it’s time to treat yourself to some delicious, island-inspired food. Sit at handpainted tables inside, or enjoy the garden atmosphere of Periwinkle Place and sample the Cuban Sandwich for lunch—it’s an island favorite! There’s something for ever yone on the dinner menu, including Signature Giraffe Cake Dinner, featuring pan-seared crab cakes topped with mango salsa, chipotle cream and sweet chili glaze. The breakfast menu offers a tempting variety of omelets and pancakes. Or you can tr y the Fisherman’s Benedict: two English muffins topped with poached eggs, salmon, spinach and grilled tomatoes, with Key lime hollandaise sauce. Come see why the locals love the Blue Giraffe! BLD

2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, bluegiraffesanibel.com

DOC FORD’S SANIBEL RUM BAR & GRILLE

Novel Cuisine. Local restaurant folk joined with Southwest Florida novelist Randy Wayne White to develop a restaurant based on a fictional character, and it’s a best-seller! The menu offers sandwiches, salads and entrées. Don’t skip the mojito. LD

2500 Island Inn Road, Sanibel, 239-472-8311, docfordssanibel.com

THE DUNES

Not a Member? Not a Problem! The menu is classic with an inspired twist. Try the signature lump crab bisque; the Eastern, Western or Southern burger; crisp empanadas with pulled beef or the seared cowboy steak. LD

949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel, 239-472-3355, dunesgolfsanibel.com

IL TESORO RISTORANTE

Pasta with Personality. Chef A.J. Black creates an Italian family feast atmosphere. Everybody’s laughing, eating pasta and sipping wine. Not only does Black inject spirit and heart, he heaps on the flavor starting with the antipasto. All the finest flavors of Italy come together. Penne puttanesca with capers; rigatoni with eggplant, fresh ricotta and cherry tomato sauce; and short ribs with gnocchi are hard to pass up. The seafood specials are equally intriguing. Try the cloud-like tiramisu. D

751 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, 239-395-4022, ilteroso.com