Epicurious

A Guide to Dining in SW Florida

Fort Myers

BISTRO Innovative 41 Global Cuisine. Visually stimulating presentations diverse wine list and that stellar keeps service both are regulars paired and with first- a time guests coming back. The grilled lobster melt with tomato- Parmesan bisque is a hit at lunchtime. L D Bell Tower Shops, 13499 South Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, 239- 466- 4141, bistro41. com

BLU SUSHI

Cobalt Cool. An incredible variety of sushi and outrageous cocktails highlights the menu, but there are also tasty choices for diners who prefer steak and chicken. L D 13451 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 489- 1500; 10045 Gulf Coast Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 334- BLU3, 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. Diners can also opt for the buffet aboard the resort’s elegant Princess yacht. D 17260 Harbour Pointe Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 466- 2138, marriottmodules. com

CRAVE

Cozy and 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 like bacon- wrapped meatloaf and shrimp jambalaya, 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- 466- 4663, cravemenu.com

CRISTOF’S ON MCGREGOR

Old- Florida Charm. Designed to resemble a delightful, Old Florida– style home and surrounded by tropical landscaping, Cristof’s on McGregor has quickly become a local hotspot. Whether you choose a rib- eye steak or southern bouillabaisse, you will receive generous portions made with the best ingredients. L D 10231 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 791- 8473

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, 239- 344- 0037, darumarestaurant.com

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 Bootlegger. 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 New Belgium Fat Tire. L D 2207 First Street, Fort Myers, 239- 332- 3673, fordsgaragefl.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 239- 334- Bay 3473, Street, Fort irestonefl.com

LAZY FLAMINGO

Cold raw oysters, Beer, Raw steaming Bar. Come hot- spiced try the peel- plumpest and- eat shrimp, Parrot Wings. fresh grouper The regular and hot incendiary buffalo wings Dead are your best bet. L D Four locations: 6520- C Pine Ave., Sanibel, 239- 472- 5353; 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

LOS CABOS CANTINA

Come to Eat, Stay to Party! Come try the very best fresh tacos, burritos, enchiladas and guacamole, or signature dishes like Arrachera Steak, topped with our homemade chimichurri. You’ll feel like you stepped into a 100- year- old cantina, but with all the modern amenities. L D 2226 First Street, Fort Myers, 239- 332- 2226, loscaboscantinafl.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. L D Multiple locations throughout Southwest Florida: 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs, 239- 948- 1313; 18100 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 415- 8973; 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 463- 2909; 15271 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 415- 4009; 10029 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 4154040; 5501 Palmer Crossing Circle, Sarasota,

941- 922- 1515; and 1200 5th Avenue South, Naples, 239- 434- 6616, pincherscrabshack.com

SUNSHINE GRILLE

A Sunny Delight. The great menu features wood- fired specialties and seafood, such as the duck breast with roasted corn and portobello mushroom relish, and the pan- seared Florida red snapper piccata. L D 8700 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 489- 2233, sunshinegrillefm.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 culinary tradition, with dishes like the signature chicken pot pie receiving raves from diners. L D 3583 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 936- 9348, edisonfl.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 to 5: 30 p. m. Cozy booths, fish art and nautical details give this restaurant a seafaring vibe. D 13451- 16 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 489- 2226, prawnbroker. 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. L D 7790 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 437- 4377, prawnbroker. com

Fort Myers Beach

CHLOËS

Raising the Beach Bar. One of Fort Myers Beach’s finest dining experiences, Chloës is known for its gorgeous beach and sunset views, along with dishes that depart from standard fried- shrimp fare, like stuffed flounder and duck “noopie.” B D SB DiamondHead Beach Resort, 2000 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 765- 0595, chloesfl. com

DOC FORD’S FORT MYERS BEACH RUM BAR & GRILLE

The Sequel. This is what we want with a good story— a sequel. Southwest Florida novelist Randy Wayne White’s second restaurant serves up a view of Matanzas Pass along with banana leaf snapper and Texas baby back ribs. Enjoy live music Friday through Sunday nights. L D 708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, 239- 765- 9660, docfords. com

NERVOUS NELLIE’S

A Neurotically Good Time. The massive menu includes everything from gator bites to Thai dynamite shrimp salad, and the amazing grilled salmon Oscar, with local crab, wild salmon and tender baby asparagus, is sure to please. Check out Ugly’s Waterside Bar, just upstairs, “where everyone gets prettier,” and don’t forget the all- day happy hour. L D 1131 1st St., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 463- 8077, nervousnellies. net

Cape Coral

DUBLIN ALE HOUSE PUB

A Pint Full of V ariety. This rousing I rish pub’s i mpressive variety of beer styles and

flavors does not disappoint. Shepherd’s pie and fish and chips top the menu of fresh I rish fare. Sláinte! D 1708 Cape Coral Parkway West, Cape Coral, 239- 541- 2663, dublinalehousepub. com

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 Bootlegger. 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 New Belgium Fat Tire. L D 1719 Cape Coral Parkway East, Cape Coral, 239- 332- 3673, fordsgaragefl. com

MARKER 92

Nautically Nice. A sushi bar and wood- fired pizza oven draw in guests from beyond the Marina Village Resort, where the restaurant is located. Enjoy the signature flatbread pizzas on the breezy waterside terrace. B L D Westin Cape Coral Resort, 15951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral, 239- 541- 5600, marker92. com

Bonita Springs

OLD 41 Just Like Home ... Especially for those from Philly. The corned- beef hash, Texas French toast with caramel and pecans, Carbon’s malted Belgian waffles and the rice pudding accompanied by fresh- ground Colombian coffee are reason to come for breakfast. Pop in for lunch and it’s the Philly cheesesteak hands down. B L 25091 Bernwood Parkway, Bonita Springs, 239- 948- 4190, old41rest. com

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK

Gulf to Table. Fresh, cut- to- order fries; madefrom- scratch slaw; a decadently rich, hot cheese- and- crab dip; and full- on fruity, tropical cocktails complement the freshest seafood

on the coast. L D Multiple locations throughout Southwest Florida: 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs, 239- 948- 1313; 18100 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 415- 8973; 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 463- 2909; 15271 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 415- 4009; 10029 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 4154040; 5501 Palmer Crossing Circle, Sarasota, 941922- 1515; and 1200 5th Avenue South, Naples, 239- 434- 6616, pincherscrabshack. com

Sanibel

DOC FORD’S SANIBEL RUM BAR & GRILLE

Novel Cuisine. A band of local restaurant folk joined with Southwest Florida novelist Randy Wayne White to develop a restaurant, and it’s a best- seller! The menu offers sandwiches, salads and entrees. Don’t skip the mojito. L D 975 Rabbit 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. L D 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel, 239- 472- 3355, dunesgolfsanibel.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 fish omelets. B L D 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, with your choice of five crust options. Pasta, calzone and salad are also popular. You might try calamari or bruschetta for an appetizer, and don’t miss the daily happy hour. L D 1619 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239- 472- 1581, islandpizza.net

THE JACARANDA

Local Legend. It’s a romantic, intimate dinner house; a relaxed, open- air gathering place; and an energetic nightspot all in one. Food ranges from splendid seafood inside to tasty burgers and sandwiches in the lounge, where there’s live

entertainment nightly. D 1223 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239- 472- 1771, jacarandaonsanibel. com LAZY FLAMINGO

Cold Beer, Raw Bar. Come try the plumpest raw oysters, steaming hot- spiced peel- and- eat shrimp, fresh grouper and incendiary Dead Parrot Wings. The regular hot buffalo wings are your best bet. L D Four locations: 6520- C Pine Ave., Sanibel, 239- 472- 5353; 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

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, prawnbroker. com

THE SANDBAR

Welcoming. The fresh Florida stone- crab claws, which the small restaurant offers as a dinner

appetizer, are unsurpassed. Fresh seafood and steaks grilled to perfection are sure to please all palates. Try the red velvet cake or creme brulee for dessert. L D 2761 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239- 472- 0305, sanibelsandbar. com

SANIBEL GRILL

Local Color. Sanibel Grill serves up your typical pub fare— juicy burgers, seafood baskets and crusty pizza— and more. You’ll find seasoned bartenders and the often- sought- but- neverfound neighborhood bar D feel, which explains the popularity of this spot. 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, 239- 472- 4453, prawnbroker. com

SEA STAR CAFÉ & BAR

Culinary Luminary. Breakfast options include bagel sandwiches, breakfast burritos, French toast and pancakes with caramelized bananas or apples. For lunch, try a salad, burger or panini. The dinner menu offers pasta, seafood and steak. B L D 937 East Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239- 579- 0195, seastarcafeandwaterfrontbar.com

STARFISH GRILLE

On the Beach. Grab a table overlooking the palm tree- studded beach. Dinner is citrus grilled Florida mahi or braised beef short ribs for meat lovers. Casual fare includes the flame- grilled TOTI. com Burger with Angus beef and aged cheddar. B L D Holiday Inn Resort, 1231 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239- 472- 7827, starf ishgrillesanibel.com

SWEET MELISSA’S CAFÉ

Good Thing, Small Packages. Chef Melissa Talmage prepares courses in appetizer and half- portions, giving diners the option to sample multiple dishes, such as seared duck breast and

cured Japanese yellowtail. L D 1625 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239- 472- 1956, sweetmelissascafe.com

THISTLE LODGE

Victorian Rendezvous. Creative cuisine such as veal Oscar, lobster and crab- crusted sea scallops or fried whole 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- 3145, thistlelodge.com

THE TIMBERS RESTAURANT AND FISH MARKET

Dine In or Do It Yourself. Favorites include calamari salad with Japanese vegetables, seafood platters and crab cakes ( all lump). Fresh fish is always on the menu. Be sure to visit the fish market, right next door. D 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, 239- 472- 2722, prawnbrokers.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. D 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239- 472- 7242, traderssanibel.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. L D 14970 Captiva Drive, Captiva, 239- 472- 0248, captivaislandinn. com

CAPTIVA HOUSE

Old Florida/ New American. Chef Jason Miller’s always- changing menu centers on the bounty of the season with plenty of fresh fish. Wines from an eclectic list complement the presentations, and the view from the Sunset Room takes the breath away. B D 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva, 239- 472- 5161 ext. 4, tweenwaters. com

“I have long believed that good food, good eating is all about risk. Whether we’re talking about unpasteurized Stilton, raw oysters or working for organized crime ‘ associates,’ food, for me, has always been an adventure.”

— Anthony Bourdain

KEYLIME Changes in BISTRO 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 and peppers, and escargots baked with blue cheese and tomato. B L D 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. B L D 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. L D 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, 239- 472- 3434, muckyduck. 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. B L D 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 spring lamb chops or mahimahi, or perhaps a pecan- crusted goat cheese salad. Outdoor seating is available. L D 14900 Captiva Drive, Captiva, 239- 472- 6200, captivaislandinn. 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 Bootlegger. 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 New Belgium Fat Tire. L D 10801 Corkscrew Road, Suite 519, Estero, 239- 332- 3673, fordsgaragefl. com

PAGELLI’S RUSTIC TUSCAN GRILL

Bring the Dancing Shoes! The cuisine at this locally owned restaurant is Italian inspired, and so is the ambience. Dance to live music by the lake every night while you enjoy the patio bar’s signature cocktails. L D The Shops at Coconut Point, Estero, 239- 226- 4242, pagellis. com

TARPON BAY RESTAURANT

New- Fashioned Classic. The Hyatt RegencyCoconut Point designed its restaurant to pay homage to the old- Florida fish house. At he ceviche raw bar find eight types of raw seafood that is “cooked” in various marinades. For entrees, try the crispy- fried red snapper. D 5001 Coconut Road, Estero, 239- 390- 4295, coconutpoint. hyatt. com

Naples

GORDON’S ON THE RIVER

Classy Club.

The idea behind this fine dining spot is to revive the classic supper club. Chef Neville Ebanks’ menu draws gourmets from beyond Naples, and sommelier Ian Ponsford’s fabulous wine program, with more than 150 selections, is a local treasure.

D SB Naples Harbour, 475 North Road, Naples, 239213- 1441, gordonsontheriver. 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. L D Multiple locations throughout Southwest Florida: 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs, 239- 948- 1313; 18100 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 415- 8973; 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239- 463- 2909; 15271 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239- 415- 4009; 10029 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers, 239- 4154040; 5501 Palmer Crossing Circle, Sarasota, 941- 922- 1515; and 1200 5th Avenue South, Naples, 239- 434- 6616, pincherscrabshack. com

ZIZI

Cucina Toscana. Expect Italian flavors and flair from this small restaurant and lounge. The chef prepares creative Mediterranean- American cuisine, with lighter offerings for lunch. Zizi is located inside the Bellasera Hotel, walking distance from Fifth Avenue South, downtown Naples’ main street. B L D 221 Ninth Street South, Naples, 239- 262- 4835, zizinaples. com