Fort Myers' Best Restaurants: A Culinary Guide
Fort Myers is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. From fresh seafood to upscale Southern cuisine, there’s no shortage of delicious options. Whether you’re craving casual bites or gourmet dishes, the city’s vibrant restaurant scene is sure to satisfy your cravings. Dive in and explore the best restaurants in FT Myers to enjoy a memorable meal!
Ford’s Garage Ft. Myers
Ford’s Garage in Fort Myers is a unique dining experience that combines the charm of a 1920s gas station with modern American comfort food. Located in the heart of downtown, this restaurant is famous for its gourmet burgers, made with fresh Black Angus beef, and an extensive selection of craft beers. The menu also features other American classics like macaroni and cheese, crispy onion rings, and hearty salads.
The restaurant is decked out with vintage Ford vehicles, gas pumps, and tire sinks in the bathrooms, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying Florida’s sunny weather, while the lively bar offers a great spot to unwind with friends. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before exploring downtown or looking for a fun night out, Ford’s Garage delivers a memorable experience for all ages.
Farmer’s Market Restaurant
A Fort Myers institution since 1952, Farmer’s Market Restaurant offers diners an authentic taste of Southern comfort food. Located near the historic Edison Avenue, this family-owned eatery has been serving up hearty meals made from scratch using locally-sourced ingredients. The menu is filled with Southern staples like fried chicken, country-fried steak, collard greens, and homemade biscuits. Their fried catfish and smothered pork chops are also fan favorites.
The restaurant’s down-home atmosphere and friendly service make it feel like stepping back in time to a simpler era. Desserts like their famous homemade pies—especially the coconut cream pie—are the perfect way to end any meal. With generous portions and affordable prices, Farmer’s Market Restaurant attracts both locals and tourists looking for an authentic Southern dining experience. It’s not just a meal here; it’s a slice of Fort Myers history that keeps patrons coming back year after year.
The Standard Restaurant Downtown
Located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, The Standard Restaurant Downtown is known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere. This trendy spot offers a diverse selection of modern American dishes with creative twists on comfort food classics. From gourmet burgers to fresh seafood plates and innovative vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone at The Standard. Their weekend brunch is particularly popular, featuring dishes like avocado toast, eggs benedict, and bottomless mimosas.
The restaurant also boasts an inviting outdoor patio where guests can enjoy live music on select nights or relax with friends over craft cocktails and local brews. Inside, the décor is chic yet casual, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and special occasions. Its central location makes it convenient for those exploring downtown Fort Myers or attending local events like Art Walk or Music Walk. With its lively vibe and delicious food, The Standard has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Bruno’s of Brooklyn
Bruno’s of Brooklyn is a beloved, family-owned Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. Known for its intimate and cozy atmosphere and as one of the hidden gem restaurants in Fort Myers, this small eatery offers an authentic taste of Italy with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu features traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, including house-made pasta, meatball parmigiana, and veal cutlet parmigiana. Bruno’s also offers gluten-free pasta options, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their meals.
One of the standout features is the chef’s counter, where diners can watch their meals being prepared with care and expertise. The restaurant prides itself on its personalized service, often with Chef Calogero Bruno himself greeting guests and explaining the menu. With its warm ambiance, attentive staff, and flavorful dishes, Bruno’s of Brooklyn has earned a reputation as one of the top Italian dining destinations in Fort Myers. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity and limited seating.
Oasis Restaurant
Oasis Restaurant is a long-standing favorite in Fort Myers, known for its classic American diner experience. Located in the historic downtown district, this casual spot has been serving locals and visitors alike for decades. The restaurant is particularly famous for its hearty breakfast and lunch options, offering everything from fluffy pancakes and omelets to sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
Their breakfast menu is available all day, making it a go-to spot for those who enjoy breakfast at any hour. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great value for families or anyone looking for comfort food in a relaxed setting. The interior has a retro diner vibe with cozy booths and friendly staff who make you feel right at home. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before exploring downtown or enjoying a leisurely brunch with friends, Oasis Restaurant delivers consistently satisfying meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
10 Twenty Five
10 Twenty Five is an innovative gastropub that has quickly become one of Fort Myers’ most popular dining spots. Located on Cleveland Avenue, this trendy eatery offers an eclectic menu that blends comfort food with creative culinary twists. Known for its extensive craft beer selection and inventive cocktails, 10 Twenty Five attracts both foodies and casual diners looking for something unique.
The menu features items like gourmet burgers topped with unexpected ingredients (such as peanut butter or jalapeño jam), loaded tacos, and shareable appetizers like pretzel bites served with beer cheese. Their rotating seasonal specials ensure there’s always something new to try. The atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, making it perfect for both casual dinners and social gatherings with friends. With its focus on high-quality ingredients and bold flavors, 10 Twenty Five has made a name for itself as a must-visit destination in Fort Myers’ growing food scene. Reservations are recommended during peak hours.
Connors Steak & Seafood
Connors Steak & Seafood is an upscale dining establishment located in the Gulf Coast Town Center of Fort Myers. Specializing in premium steaks and fresh seafood, Connors offers an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere perfect for special occasions or refined dining experiences. The restaurant’s wood-fired grills enhance the flavor of their high-quality cuts of meat and seafood selections. Signature dishes include expertly prepared filet mignon, ribeye steaks, lobster tails, shrimp scampi, and U.S.D.C.-inspected seafood options like Alaskan king crab legs.
Connors also boasts an impressive wine list designed to complement their rich menu offerings. Guests can enjoy daily happy hour specials at the bar or indulge in decadent desserts like their signature cheesecake or chocolate mousse cake after dinner. Known for its impeccable service and attention to detail, Connors Steak & Seafood provides a top-tier dining experience that consistently earns rave reviews from both locals and visitors alike.
Pinchers
Pinchers is a staple in the Fort Myers dining scene, renowned for its fresh, local seafood and laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. With several locations across Southwest Florida, the Fort Myers branch at The Marina at Edison Ford is a favorite for both locals and tourists. The restaurant’s waterfront setting offers stunning views of the Caloosahatchee River, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
Pinchers takes pride in its “you can’t fake fresh” motto, sourcing seafood daily from local fishermen. The menu is packed with Gulf Coast favorites like stone crab claws, grouper sandwiches, and peel-and-eat shrimp. Their famous crab cakes and fried calamari are must-tries as well. Pinchers also offers a variety of land-based dishes like burgers and chicken tenders for non-seafood lovers. The casual, nautical-themed décor adds to the coastal vibe, and the restaurant’s commitment to quality makes it a go-to spot for fresh seafood in Fort Myers.
Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza
Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza brings a slice of Prohibition-era charm to downtown Fort Myers with its unique 1920s gangster theme. The restaurant’s décor features vintage photos, exposed brick walls, and even a mock vault door that transports diners back to the days of speakeasies and bootlegging. But it’s not just the ambiance that draws crowds—Capone’s is known for its delicious coal-fired pizzas, cooked to perfection in a 900-degree oven that gives the crust a signature char and smoky flavor.
Popular pizza options include the “Wiseguy,” topped with Italian sausage and caramelized onions, and the “Prosciutto Arugula,” which balances savory prosciutto with fresh arugula and shaved Parmesan. Beyond pizza, Capone’s offers a range of Italian-American classics like pasta dishes, wings, and paninis. Their coal-fired wings are especially popular, offering a crispy texture with bold flavors. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner, Capone’s provides a fun dining experience with great food in the heart of Fort Myers.
Harold’s
Harold’s is an upscale dining destination in Fort Myers that offers an intimate culinary experience with a focus on seasonality and creativity. Chef Harold Balink has crafted a reputation for delivering globally inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The restaurant’s small yet elegant dining room provides an intimate setting perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners. The menu changes frequently to reflect what’s fresh and in season, but you can always expect expertly prepared dishes like seared scallops, duck breast with seasonal accompaniments, or house-made pasta.
Harold’s also caters to adventurous diners with unique offerings such as octopus or wild game when available. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the menu, featuring selections from both domestic and international vineyards. With impeccable service and beautifully presented dishes, Harold’s has become one of Fort Myers’ premier fine dining establishments. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity and limited seating.
Vacation with Sun Palace Vacations
Fort Myers offers a diverse dining scene, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.
Make your vacation even more special by booking a stay with Sun Palace Vacations, where you can relax in beautiful beach homes on Fort Myers Beach.