Sanibel FloridaRESTAURANTS & PLACES TO EAT
Listed below are some of the best restaurants and places to eat near Sanibel, Florida.
1. Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille
CARIBBEAN FLAIR WITH SEAFOOD
Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille is Sanibel Island's flagship restaurant and a local favorite with a brand-new building featuring outdoor seating. The menu showcases Caribbean-inspired dishes with standouts including grouper, salmon, ribs, and their signature ceviche. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complements the fresh seafood and tropical flavors of the island.
2. Gramma Dot's Seaside Saloon
CLASSIC AMERICAN WATERFRONT DINING
Gramma Dot's Seaside Saloon offers a charming waterfront dining experience on Sanibel Island with American fare and a full bar. Their menu highlights include exceptional fish and chips, peel-and-eat shrimp, and tuna melts that showcase fresh seafood. The restaurant combines a casual maritime atmosphere with quality dishes that capture the essence of island dining.
3. Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE
Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen brings authentic Italian flavors to Sanibel Island with a menu of traditional and contemporary dishes. The restaurant provides a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and classic Italian entrees. Each dish showcases fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes that transport diners to the heart of Italy.
4. Traditions on the Beach
ELEGANT BEACHFRONT DINING
Traditions on the Beach offers contemporary cuisine with stunning Gulf views and complimentary valet service for an upscale dining experience. Chef Aziz creates a menu blending French, Italian, and Mediterranean influences with standouts including baked spinach oysters, lump crab martini, and grilled diver scallops. The restaurant features live music and dancing, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for special occasions or romantic evenings.
5. The Sandbar
FRESH SEAFOOD AND SPIRITS
The Sandbar stands as one of the most well-known restaurants on Sanibel Island, renowned for its extensive wine list and fresh seafood offerings. Popular menu items include their signature Boom Boom Shrimp, crab cakes, and loaded potato skins alongside non-seafood options like chicken parmesan. The restaurant offers both a full dining experience and a comfortable lounge area, providing a versatile venue for casual lunches or elegant dinners.
6. Sweet Melissa's Cafe
REFINED AMERICAN CUISINE
Sweet Melissa's Cafe delivers a casual-elegant dining experience featuring innovative American and seafood dishes on Periwinkle Way. The restaurant enhances the dining atmosphere with live acoustic jazz on select evenings, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed environment. With separate lunch and dinner services, Sweet Melissa's Cafe has established itself as a culinary destination that balances creative cuisine with island charm.
7. The Island Cow
FUN FAMILY-FRIENDLY EATERY
The Island Cow welcomes guests with a fun, lively atmosphere and pet-friendly policy, making it perfect for casual family dining on Periwinkle Way. Their diverse menu features American classics, fresh seafood, and raw bar selections served from morning until evening. Live music adds to the festive island vibe, creating a memorable dining experience that captures the laid-back spirit of Sanibel.
8. Bennett's Fresh Roast
DONUTS AND FRESH BREWS
Bennett's Fresh Roast Sanibel has built a reputation for its homemade donuts and freshly brewed coffee, serving as a morning staple for islanders and visitors alike. Beyond breakfast treats, the cafe offers a selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, and homemade desserts for lunch. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes Bennett's an ideal spot to start the day or take a midday break while exploring Sanibel Island.
9. Coconut Poolside Bar & Grill
RELAXED RESORT DINING
Coconut Poolside Bar & Grill at Casa Ybel Resort provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual afternoon dining with scenic views. The menu features American and Floridian cuisine that captures the essence of island flavors in a comfortable setting. Weekend visitors can enjoy live poolside entertainment every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, enhancing the laid-back tropical dining experience.
10. Cōste Island Cuisine
UPSCALE COASTAL DINING
Cōste Island Cuisine offers an elevated dining experience just a short drive from Sanibel Island in Fort Myers Beach. The restaurant specializes in American cuisine with coastal influences, served in a sophisticated setting. With its creative menu and attentive service, Cōste provides a refined alternative to the more casual dining options found throughout the area.