epicurious

CIELO

Creative American Cuisine. Island sophistication is evident in this restaurant’s tasteful decor and impressive menus. Start with the signature Blue Cielotini, 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, cielo-sanibel.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

THE GROG SHOP

Cigars, Spirit and More. Find a large selection of liquor, liqueurs, wine and beer, as well as cigars, at this cozy shop in the Bailey Shopping Center. A walk-in cigar humidor is stocked with Arturo Fuente, Macanudo, Cohiba and other premium cigar brands. The Grog Shop offers partyplanning assistance, weekly specials and delivery.

2485 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1682, grogshopsanibel.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