EPICURIOUS
A Guide to Dining in SW Florida
Sanibel 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 CIELO Creative American Cuisine. Island sophistication is evident in this restaurant’s tasteful decor and impressive menus.
Start with the signature Blue Cielo-tini, a gin and blue curacao cocktail. For appetizers consider PEI mussels, calamari or charcuterie. Entrees include osso buco, Dungeness crab ravioli and fresh catch with jumbo lump crab topping the list. Wrap your evening with a selection from the after-dinner drink menu that features fine scotches, cognacs and ports. Scott McDonald is on the piano from 6 p.m. D 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-5555, ilcielosanibel.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
THE ISLAND COW
Bovine Bounty. With a massive menu that features everything from omelets to fish to pasta, this is no beef joint, despite the cow references. The fish dinners are a good choice, unless it’s breakfast, when you might consider the Loaded Seafood Omelet. Check out the new full bar, offering tropical cocktails and signature drinks, including the homemade White Mango Sangria! BLD 2163 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0606, sanibelislandcow.com ISLAND PIZZA A Slice of Paradise. A tasty tradition on the island for more than 20 years. Pizza just the way you want it, and be sure to try the famous “Crusty Curl Crust.” Pasta, calzone and salad are also popular. You might try calamari or bruschetta for an appetizer, and don’t miss the daily happy hour. LD 1619 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1581, islandpizza.net THE JAC SANIBEL ISLAND BAR & GRILL Locally Sourced, Artfully Prepared. Light and airy with rustic details such as barn-style doors, The Jac has a fresh island appeal. Chef Philipe
Schroeder yellowtail snapper focuses and on seafood, a crab mascarpone with chili-rubbed risotto menu. But with meat shrimp, lovers scallops score and here mussels as well with on his Jac’s ribs. 1223 spiced Periwinkle pork belly Way, and Sanibel, the drunken 239-472- short 1771, thejacsanibel.com. LD 1223 thejacsanibel.com Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1771, LAZY Cold FLAMINGO Beer, Raw Bar. Come try the plumpest raw oysters, steaming hot-spiced peel-and-eat shrimp, fresh grouper and incendiar y Dead Parrot Wings. The regular hot Buffalo wings are your best bet. LD Four locations: 6520-C Pine Ave., Sanibel, 239-4725353; 1036 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-6939; 12951 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-476-9000; and waterfront at 16501-B Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia, 239-283-5959, lazyflamingo.com LIGHTHOUSE CAFÉ The World’s Best Breakfast. Residents and visitors have been enjoying this Sanibel classic for six decades, and it’s easy to see why . Start your day with an Ocean Frittata: seasoned shrimp, scallops and crabmeat, sautéed with broccoli and fresh mushrooms and topped with an artichoke heart and creamy Alfredo sauce. Or try the Lighthouse Local Grouper Platter for dinner, as you view pictures of the island’s historic lighthouse that line the walls. Callahead seating is available. BLD 362 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0303, lighthousecafe.com MATZALUNA Well-Smoked Italian. The Five Cheese with Gorgonzola, ricotta, spinach and artichoke hearts is just one of the popular wood-fired pizzas. Fresh pastas, chicken, seafood and veal round out the menu. D 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1998, matzaluna.net NORMANDIE SEASIDE CAFÉ
Indulge Yourself. Located at the West Wind Inn on the Gulf side of Sanibel Island, this cozy restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bananaberry French Toast and the Italian Omelet are among the breakfast favorites served with Colombian coffee or a choice of artisan whole-leaf teas. Relax in the cafe’s old-world atmosphere as you enjoy an Island Curry Chicken Salad or Pressed Cuban Sandwich for lunch. Chef Tom Sisson creates a dinner menu with island
flair, wine and from you an can extensive pair your list. food BLD with the perfect 3345 normandierestaurant.com West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-472-1541, THE SANDBAR Welcoming. The Seafood Trio, which includes bronzed grouper, scallops and crab cake, is a favorite. Fresh seafood and steaks grilled to perfection are sure to please all palates. D 2761 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-472-0305, sanibelsandbar.com SANIBEL FISH HOUSE Tried and True. Fresh seafood entrées on the all- day menu range from sandwiches and salads to fried baskets and house specialties, such as seared tuna with rice cakes and seaweed salad. The salmon can be ordered broiled, grilled, blackened or Jamaican jerked. LD Three locations: 1523 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-7770; 4685 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 239-495-5770; and 320 Old San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239-765-6766, thefishhouserestaurants.com SANIBEL GRILL Local Color. Sanibel Grill ser ves up typical pub fare—juicy burgers, seafood baskets and spicy Buffalo wings—and more. You’ll find seasoned bartenders and the often-sought-but-neverfound neighborhood bar feel, which explains the popularity of this spot. D 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, 239-472-4453, thesanibelgrill.com THE SANIBEL SPROUT
Fresh Island Goodness. Sanibel Island’s popular vegan and vegetarian gourmet take-out restaurant offers a delightful variety of meals, smoothies and juices prepared fresh daily. Chef Nikki Rood uses only 100-percent organic, gluten-free, nonGMO, farm-fresh ingredients in each creation, including the popular Smoked Paprika Hummus & Sprouts. Another best-seller is the Raw Vegan Lasagna. The heart of The Sanibel Sprout is “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,” (quoting Hippocrates) and this is reflected in every delectable dish it offers. LD Bailey’s Center, 2463 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-4499 SUNSET GRILL Floribbean Gourmet. For lunch, try the crab cakes or blackened chicken Caesar wrap. Morning people might choose eggs “Santiva” and “Captiva,” which
are variations of eggs Benedict with either smoked salmon or lump crab cake. BLD 6536 Pine Ave., Sanibel, 239-472-2333, sunsetgrillsanibel.com SWEET MELISSA’S CAFE Good Thing, Small Packages. Chef Melissa Talmage prepares entrées in full and petite portions, giving diners the option to sample multiple dishes, such as Grilled Octopus or Smoked Mullet Fritter. 1625 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-1956, sweetmelissascafe.com. LD 1625 239-472-1956, Periwinkle sweetmelissascafe.com Way, Sanibel, THISTLE LODGE Victorian Rendezvous. Creative cuisine such as black grouper, oven-roasted coquelet and herb-crusted lamb rack or blackened yellowtail snapper mojo adds to the allure of Victorian trappings, as do glorious beach views from almost any table. L D SB Casa Ybel Resort, 2255 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-472-9200, thistlelodge.com THE TIMBERS RESTAURANT AND FISH MARKET Dine In or Do It Yourself. Favorites include fried calamari, seafood platters and crab cakes (all lump). Fresh fish is always on the menu. Be sure to visit the adjacent fish market. D 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2722, timbersofsanibel.com TRADERS A Shopping and Dining Experience. Traders is a shopping emporium and a restaurant, with live entertainment on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The menu features fresh Florida gumbo, pan-seared crab cakes and macadamia-encrusted grouper. LD 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-7242, traderssanibel.com T2 TRADERS
New island favorite. Opened by the owners of Traders. T2 offers new delicious dishes, like trendy tacos and savory flatbreads, in addition to coastalinspired classics. A full bar with mixology cocktails such as Sanibel Sunset and Elderflower Bloom, a rotating Florida craft and draft beer selection, and a wine list to envy all add to the unique and lively Floridian décor. Outdoor seating, full bar, gift shop, T2 is the perfect place for lunch, dinner and anytime in between! LD 2340 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-558-8919, T2traders.com
Captiva CANTINA CAPTIVA Nacho Madre’s Mexican. Enjoy lunch and dinner in the garden or inside, where bright serape colors, piñatas, terra-tiled floors and adobe-style walls subtly suggest that we’ve gone south of the border. LD 14970 Captiva Drive, Captiva, 239-472-0248, captivaislandinn.com CROW’S NEST BEACH BAR AND GRILLE Great Food, Great Fun! Take a trip to Captiva for a fun new dining experience! The menu is filled with your favorite appetizers, including flatbreads, chicken wings and the alwayspopular baked goat cheese dip. For dinner you can choose savory entrées such as Chicken Saltimbocca, prepared with fresh sage leaves, lemon ricotta and prosciutto-wrapped chicken over linguine. The Crab Races, taking place on Monday and Thursday, really keep the room hopping! LD 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva, 239-472-5161, crowsnest- captiva.com DOC FORD’S CAPTIVA RUM BAR & GRILLE The Stor y Continues. Building on continued success, this popular chain based on novelist Randy Wayne White’s fictional character brings its unique menu to the doors of South Seas Island Resort. Start with Doc’s Beach Bread while you consider entrées such as panko- fried shrimp and dr yrubbed ribeye. LD 5400 South Seas Plantation Road, Captiva, 239-312-4275, docfordscaptiva.com THE GREEN FLASH
A Rare Dining Treasure. Have a seat and enjoy the beautiful view of the water as you browse the delightfully diverse menu. The Grouper “Café de Paris” is the house specialty, baked in white wine, lemon and Worcestershire, finished with a buttery herb topping. Or tr y the Venetian Platter, which features salmon, swordfish, scallops and tiger prawn ser ved with sautéed polenta. Savory beef and pork entrées round out the menu for landlubbers, and the dessert menu is positively decadent! LD 15183 Captiva Drive, Captiva, 239-472-3337, greenflashcaptiva.com KEYLIME BISTRO Changes in Fooditude. A white picket fence and cheery blue canopies give this place an island setting, while daily outdoor live music provides a Jimmy Buffett beat. The eclectic menu includes walnut- crusted snapper ,
sausage with blue and cheese peppers, and tomato. and escargots BLD baked 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, 239-395-4000, captivaislandinn.com LATTE DA COFFEE AND ICE CREAM SHOP Once Upon a Time ... Find a wide range of coffees, including the extra-strong Red Eye Coffee, cappuccinos and lattes at this cozy spot. Those with a sweet tooth indulge in scoops of Queenie’s locally made ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes. BLD 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, 239-472-0234, captivaislandinn.com THE MUCKY DUCK Quack Up. Start at the bar with a fresh pint from a long list of beers brewed “on the other side of the pond.” The menu is a combination of Florida cuisine and English pub grub. Visit the great outdoor beachside patio for live music and sunset gazing. LD 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, 239-472-3434, muckyduck.com OLD CAPTIVA HOUSE
Old Florida/New American. Chef Greg Nelson’s always changing menu centers on the bounty of the season with plenty of fresh fish. Come check out the new sushi menu, which offers an adventurous variety of more than 30 choices of sushi rolls, sashimi, specialty rolls and select sakes. Wines from an eclectic list complement the presentations, and the view from the Sunset Room takes the breath away. LD 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva. 239-472-5161 ext. 4, captiva-house.com. RC OTTER’S Otterly Beach American. The multitude of menu choices may be daunting. Steamed clams, fish baskets, quesadillas or even meatloaf are sure to satisfy your cravings. Diners enjoy live music outside seven days a week during lunch and dinner . BLD 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, 239-395-1142, captivaislandinn.com SUNSHINE SEAFOOD CAFÉ AND WINE BAR Inspired Bistro. This charming, small café offers a menu with a European touch. Diners can enjoy the wood-grilled rack of lamb or blackened salmon, or perhaps a pecan-crusted goat cheese salad. Outdoor seating is available. D 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, 239-472-6200, captivaislandinn.com
Fort Myers BLANC Food for the Epicurean. Start with Bread Jenga, a toasted bread tower with cheese sauce, modeled after the popular game and almost as fun! Then choose an entrée from the robata grill, such as Lamb Lollipops with roasted garlic and rosemary reduction, or the Octopus S&S, served with sweet habanero sauce. Blanc’s menu also includes “Almost Entrées,” designed to be enjoyed and shared by the entire table. Relax in the clean, contemporary ambience as you savor the creations of Chris Whitaker and chef Jean Claude Roge, whose talents lift Blanc above its peers. Closed Sundays. D 13451 McGregor Blvd., Ste. 10, Fort Myers, 239-887-3139, blancentertainment.com BLU SUSHI Cobalt Cool. An incredible variety of sushi and outrageous cocktails highlight the menu, but there are also tasty choices for diners who prefer steak and chicken. LD 13451 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-489-1500; 2262 First St., Fort Myers, 239-362-2843, blusushi.com COURTSIDE STEAKHOUSE AT SANIBEL HARBOUR RESORT Beefed Up. Refined with wood, brass, leaded glass and a subtle sports theme, this steakhouse delivers some of the tastiest “butcher’s breed” Black Angus steaks. 17260 Harbour Pointe Drive, Fort Myers, 239466-4000, marriott.com CRAVE Cozy & Contemporary. Modern American cuisine prepared when you order it. Breakfast, served until 4 p.m., is your choice of omelet or variation of eggs Benedict. After noon, dishes such as baconwrapped meatloaf and cedar plank salmon, plus salads and sandwiches, attract hungry diners. The Sunday brunch crowd packs the house, so you may have to wait—but it’s so worth it. B L D SB 12901 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-4664663, cravemenu.com DARUMA Make a Wish! Dinner is served in traditional or teppan style, which means the chef comes to your table and prepares your dinner. Classic Japanese favorites like shrimp tempura are offered, as well as combinations like lobster Nippon and filet mignon teriyaki. D 13499 South Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, 239344-0037; 241 Center Street North, Naples, 239-591-1200; and 5459 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, 941-342-6600, darumarestaurant.com
THE EDISON RESTAURANT Fort Myers Illuminati. This restaurant honors its legendary namesake genius, Thomas Edison, with a display of historic photos. The menu is steeped in American culinar y tradition, with dishes like the signature chicken potpie receiving raves from diners. LD 3583 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-936-9348, edisonfl.com THE FIRESTONE Four levels of fun. Brick and wood provide a warm atmosphere, and tires moving along the walls remind you why it’s called The Firestone. Try the filet mignon or paella in the Grille Room or tapas in the Sky Bar, or dance to live music in the Martini Bar on Friday and Saturday. D 2224 Bay St., Fort Myers, 239-334-3473, firestonefl.com FORD’S GARAGE
The Taste is in the Details. The décor takes you back to the 1 920s, when Henr y Ford walked these parts, and the menu includes burgers such as the Model “A” and the Low Carb- uretor. Fresh Black Angus beef topped with ever ything from arugula to fried egg will make your mouth water , and the craft beer menu includes such names as Kona Big Wave and Goose Island 3 12. LD 2207 First St., Fort Myers, 239-332-3673, fordsgaragefl.com THE PRAWNBROKER Agent Fish. The food here is tried and true. Salads, along with fish, steak and pasta dishes, have been pleasing palates since 1982. Soup or salad accompany all dinners, just like in the good old days. Early diners catch good deals from 4-7 p.m. Cozy booths, fish art and nautical details give this restaurant a seafaring vibe. D 13451-16 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239489-2226, prawnbrokerfortmyers.com UNIVERSITY GRILL Head of the Class. This place gets the business crowd at lunch and the beautiful theatergoers at dinner. They come for a private club atmosphere and a happy balance of seafood and steaks. Early diners will find good deals from 4-7 p.m. LD 7790 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, 239437-4377, universitygrill.net
Fort Myers Beach
DOC FORD’S FORT MYERS BEACH RUM BAR & GRILLE The Sequel. This is what we want with a good story—a sequel. This second restaurant based on a fictional Randy Wayne White character serves up a view of Matanzas Pass along with banana leaf snapper and Texas baby back ribs. LD 708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, 239765-9660, docfordsfortmyersbeach.com
ORIGINAL SHRIMP DOCK BAR & GRILL
Authentic Shrimping Shanty. Set in the heart of Fort Myers historic shrimping fleet’s home base, this casual eatery prides itself in serving boat-to-plate shrimp. The fresh catch from the Gulf waters is served simply as peel-and-eat with house seasoning or kicked up a notch with cilantro lime, Havana mojo or New Orleans-style barbecue. More shrimp dishes, fish, burgers and pizza round out the menu. Set on the edge of Back Bay, it’s an ideal spot to linger over a cocktail and on Sunday enjoy beach volleyball, corn hole and other games. LD 2200 Main St., Fort Myers Beach. 239-463-3043, originalshrimpdock.com
PARROT KEY CARIBBEAN GRILL
Dining Fun in Paradise. Tucked in Salty Sam’s Marina, this is the place for great open-air waterfront dining and mingling with sailors who tie their boats to the dock. Tropical cocktails score big with rum runners, pina coladas and mojitos on the menu. Enjoy conch fritters, coconut curry mussels and the restaurant’s famous crab, avocado and mango stack for starters. Caribbean-inspired seafood entrees include the coconut shrimp platter, mango tango mahi mahi and the crab-stuffed grouper. Meat lovers find Jamaican jerk ribs. Live entertainment on weekends. LD 2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach. 239-463-3257, myparrotkey.com
Cape Coral
BIG 10 TAVERN (SPORTS BAR AND GRILL) Tackle Your Taste Buds. Stop in for amazing signature dishes and famous pizza. T ry the chicken and Belgian waffles with a zesty maple- honey mustard. Other choices include: Big Ten’s juicy build- your- own burgers with a full backfield of toppings and cheeses; yummy sandwiches and melts topped with steak, pork, ham and bacon; fresh cod; original Philly cheesesteak; and triple BL Ts. Or tr y a stacked Reuben, calzone, stromboli ( veggie/ meat) or the Cape’s best wings. Y ou’ll
also find plenty of salad choices, wraps and icy beverages. Big 1 0 Tavern ser ves up a total sports package that never misses a game; you’ll always find fun entertainment for family and friends. Open ever y night until 2 a. m. LD 4703 SW 16th Place, Cape Coral. 239-257-1081, big10tavern.com
CENO GRILLE
Family History. Try the fresh homemade spanakopita—fresh spinach, herbs and feta, wrapped in phyllo dough and baked—or the chicken Marsala, and you’ll understand the passion that drove founder George Lukas to create Ceno Grill. Order a gyro or souvlaki for a light meal, or feast on chicken Parmesan, you won’t be disappointed! And who can resist some tasty cannoli for dessert? Don’t miss Happy Hour, M-F, 3-6pm. Closed Sundays. LD 1715 Cape Coral Parkway W., Cape Coral, 239-549-2366, cenogrille.com
FORD’S GARAGE
The Taste is in the Details. The décor takes you back to the 1 920s, when Henry Ford walked these parts, and the menu includes burgers such as the Model “A” and the Low Carb-uretor. Fresh Black Angus beef topped with ever ything from arugula to fried egg will make your mouth water , and the craft beer menu includes such names as K ona Big Wave and Goose Island 312. LDR 1719 Cape Coral Parkway East, Cape Coral, 239-540-3673, fordsgarageusa.com
LOBSTER LADY SEAFOOD MARKET AND BISTRO
Eclectic Coastal Cuisine. Whether you choose Shrimp and Grits for breakfast or Le Bouf Bacon Wrapped Lobster Tail for dinner, you’ll taste why it’s the freshest seafood in the area! The extensive menu includes a raw bar, and a fine selection of burgers, sandwiches and pasta for landlubbers. Be sure to pick up a fresh selection from the market to take home! Enjoy live entertainment every night. BLD 1715 Cape Coral Parkway, Units 2 & 3, Cape Coral, 239-471-0136, lobsterladyseafood.com
MARKER 92
Nautically Nice. Fresh seafood and a woodfired pizza oven draw in guests from beyond the Marina Village Resort’s boundaries. Enjoy the signature flatbread pizzas on the breezy waterside terrace. BLD 5951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-541-5600, marker92.com
MONKEY BAR STEAK & SEAFOOD
Silly Name, Serious Food. Chef Nico Bogert and his experienced team are passionate about food, and you’ll taste the proof! With variety enough for any palate, the menu includes selections such as The Big Monkey, a pork chop served with apple relish; Rum and Pepper Painted Grouper, served over rice with mango orange sauce; and Ahi Tuna Salad. Try the steak, which earned this eatery the title of Best Steakhouse in Cape Coral. Indoor and outdoor seating are available, and live entertainment is offered nightly. LD 1428 Lafayette St., Cape Coral, 239-549-8800, monkeybarcape.com
NEVERMIND AWESOME BAR AND EATERY
A taste of the good life! Share some Crispy Parmesan Truffle Wings or try a Volcano Spring Roll to start. Chef Hugo uses the best handselected ingredients, and it shows in the flavor! The Bar Steak and Blue Cheese Crust is always popular, and don’t miss the truffle fries, made with gourmet specialty Kennebec potatoes. LD 927 E. Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral, 239-471-0295, nevermindcapecoral.com
PARADISE DELI AND GRILL
Heavenly Taste. The menu is built around the idea that fresh ingredients and homemade food just taste better. Whether you try a Greek omelet for breakfast or Philly cheesesteak for lunch or dinner, you’ll taste the difference. Be sure to try the award-winning Reuben! Too busy to dine in? The entire menu is available for take-out, and the catering menu offers an array of choices to make your next party a hit. BLD 2378 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-292-2378, paradisedelicc.com
POINT 57
Casually Sophisticated. Start with Pulled Pork Spring Rolls, served with Gouda cheese, yellow mustard slaw, and Carolina dippin’ sauce to wake up your palate. Scallops are an excellent choice for an entrée, served with charred onion, fennel sausage, Marconi almonds and apple cider reduction. Chef and proprietor Matt Arnold has been in the restaurant business for 27 years, and each dish served shows his expertise! Choose
from an extensive craft drink selection and be sure to save room for tiramisu. DR 3522 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral, 239-471-7785, point-57.com
Bonita Springs
OLD 41 Just Like Home ... Especially for those from Philly. The corned-beef hash, pancakes with freshly sliced bananas or strawberries and Carbon’s malted Belgian waffles accompanied by freshground Colombian coffee are reason to come for breakfast. Pop in for lunch and it’s the Philly cheesesteak, hands down. BL 25091 Bernwood Drive, Bonita Springs, 239-948-4123, old41rest.com PINCHERS CRAB SHACK Gulf to Table. Fresh, cut-to-order fries; made-fromscratch slaw; a decadently rich, hot cheese-and-crab dip; and full-on fruity, tropical cocktails complement the freshest seafood on the coast. LD Multiple locations throughout Southwest Florida: 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs, 239-9481313; 18100 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239-415-8973; 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239-463-2909; 2360 West First St., Fort Myers, 239-245-7049; 10029 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers, 239-415-4040; 5991 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33914, 239-540-7939; and 1200 Fifth Ave. South, Naples, 239-434-6616, pincherscrabshack.com
SANIBEL FISH HOUSE
Tried and True. Fresh seafood entrées on the all-day menu range from sandwiches and salads to fried baskets and house specialties, such as seared tuna with rice cakes and seaweed salad. The salmon can be ordered broiled, grilled, blackened or Jamaican jerked. LD 4685 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 239-4955770; 1523 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-7770; and 320 Old San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239-765-6766, thefishhouserestaurants.com
Estero
FORD’S GARAGE The Taste is in the Details. The décor takes you back to the 1920s, when Henry Ford walked these parts, and the menu includes burgers like the Model “A” and the Low Carb-uretor. Fresh Black Angus beef topped with everything from arugula to fried egg will make your mouth water, and the craft beer menu includes names like Kona Big Wave and Goose Island 312. LD 10801 Corkscrew Road No. 519, Estero, 239-495-3673, fordsgarageusa.com
“We all eat, and it would be a sad waste of opportunity to eat badly.” —Anna Thomas
RODIZIO GRILL
The Brazilian Steakhouse. Experience the flavors of Brazil, with your choice of more than a dozen rotisserie-grilled meats, perfectly seasoned and carved tableside by Rodizio gauchos! Try the feijoada, a traditional Brazilian black-bean stew, or abacaxi, fresh glazed-and-grilled pineapple. Don’t forget to save room for a decadent dessert. Lunch is offered Friday-Sunday. LD 8017 Plaza del Lago Drive, Suite 101, Estero, 239-498-0018, rodiziogrill.com
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
Always a Sizzling Success. Vaulted trey ceilings and meticulously set white-linen-covered tables set the mood. From petite filets to cowboy-sized rib eyes, the steaks are tender and juicy. Choose from traditional sides such as creamed spinach and sweet-potato casserole. D The Shops at Coconut Point, 23151 Village Shops Way, Suite 101, Estero, 239-948-8888, ruthschris.com
TARPON BAY RESTAURANT
New-Fashioned Classic. The Hyatt Regency-Coconut Point designed its restaurant to pay homage to the Old Florida fishhouse. At the ceviche raw bar, you’ll find eight types of raw seafood “cooked” in various marinades. For entrées, try the Diver’s Spear, which includes whole red snapper, Asian slaw, ponzu and cilantro-ginger rice. D 5001 Coconut Road, Estero, 239- 444-1234, coconutpoint.hyatt.com 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.