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. F or appetizers consider PEI mussels, calamari or charcuterie. Entrees include osso buco, Dungeness crab ravioli and fresh catch with jumbo lump crab topping the list. W rap 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. T ry the cloudlike 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 focuses on seafood, with chili-rubbed yellowtail snapper and a crab mascarpone risotto with shrimp, scallops and mussels on his menu. But meat lovers score here as well with Jac’s spiced pork belly and the drunken short ribs. 1223 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1771, thejacsanibel.com. LD 1223 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1771, thejacsanibel.com
LAZY FLAMINGO
Cold 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
MALIA
Island Fusion Cuisine. The restaurant is designed for spending quality time with family and friends in a relaxed atmosphere as well as a romantic evening on Sanibel Island. Owner/chef Jeff Samson’s menu uses local ingredients and includes dishes such as Grilled Swordfish with rosemary and lemon ser ved with a seven bean sauté, caramel shallots, sage and roasted peppers; and Melenzana and Sausage Linguini with roasted eggplant, Italian sausage, San Marzano tomatoes and fennel tossed with hand-cut linguini. Sanibel Island Golf Club, 1100 Par View, Sanibel. 239-4729222, maliafoods.com LD Sanibel Island Golf Club, 1100 Par View, Sanibel. 239-472-9222, maliafoods.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, and you can pair your food with the perfect wine from an extensive list. BLD 3345 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-472-1541, normandierestaurant.com
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, non-GMO, 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
SPOONDRIFT
Island Bowls That Please. Create your own fresh and healthy meal in a bowl, based on the Hawaiian dish known as poke—seafood or meat cut in cubes. At this cozy restaurant tucked in Bailey’s Center, diners start with a base (rice, greens, quinoa or nachos) then add a protein (anything from ahi tuna to steak). Next they select toppings and veggies and then add something crispy like nuts and finish with a sauce. It’s a quick, tasty meal that’s sure to please. L 2441 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-0875, sanibelspoondrift.com.
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 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-1956, sweetmelissascafe.com
THISTLE LODGE
Victorian Rendezvous. Creative cuisine such as black grouper, oven-roasted coquelet and herbcrusted 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 featuring singer and guitarist Danny Morgan, a
local music icon. The menu features fresh Florida gumbo, pan-seared crab cakes and macadamia-encrusted grouper. L, D, C, R. 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-7242, traderssanibel.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 coastal-inspired 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 always-popular 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 Story 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 dry-rubbed 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 try the Venetian Platter, which features salmon, swordfish, scallops and tiger prawn served 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 and peppers, and escargots baked with blue cheese and tomato. BLD 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 sushi menu, which offers an adventurous variety of more than 30 choices of sushi rolls,
epicurious
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, 239-4664000, marriott.com
CRAVE
Cozy & Contemporary. Modern American cuisine prepared when you order it. Breakfast, ser ved until 4 p.m., is your choice of omelet or variation of eggs Benedict. After noon, dishes such as bacon-wrapped meatloaf and cedar plank salmon, plus salads and sandwiches, attract hungr y 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
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 312. LD
epicurious
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 1 982. 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, 239-4892226, 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, 239-4374377, 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
epicurious
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 curr y 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 crabstuffed 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 10 Tavern ser ves up a total sports package that never misses a game; you’ll always find fun entertainment for family and friends. Open every 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 P armesan, 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 1920s, 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 Kona 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 wood-fired pizza oven draw in guests from beyond the Marina Village Resort’s boundaries. Enjoy the signature flatbread pizzas on the breezy waterside terrace. B LD 5951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-541-5600, marker92.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 hand-selected 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 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 Just Like Home ... Especially for Philly. The cornedbeef hash, pancakes with freshly sliced bananas or strawberries and Carbon’s malted Belgian waffles
epicurious
accompanied by fresh-ground 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-from-scratch 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, 239-948-1313; 18100 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239-4158973; 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 239-4632909; 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, 239765-6766, thefishhouserestaurants.com
Estero
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 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.