Fort Myers Beach boasts miles of sugary white sands that are bathed by the inviting turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The local seafood tradition is aligned with an ever-growing cosmopolitan vibe, meaning you can find an array of great restaurants and eateries spread across the beach. If you are planning a vacation in the area, it’s very useful to have some guidance on the best food places and favorite spots by locals.
We’re here to help with this; this blog will bring you the best from our list of the finest restaurants in and around Fort Myers Beach, FL.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds; you’re in for a culinary adventure!
Fresh Catch Bistro
Besides offering some of Florida’s freshest seafood, Fresh Catch Bistro boasts a breezy and elegant setting where every table provides great views of Fort Myers Bay. Their 5-star quality cuisine includes dishes such as Chargrilled Octopus, Spiced Pecan and Cranberry Crusted Grouper, Lobster Bisque, Hogfish Oscar, and Mediterranean Shrimp, among others. From Salmon and Tuna to Mahi Mahi, Grouper, and Hogfish, the catches are delivered daily, and the restaurant’s chef prepares them to your liking.
Be sure to visit Fresh Catch Bistro during sunsets. The breathtaking views from the restaurant’s deck, paired with the mouthwatering and beautifully presented dishes and a refreshing drink, create the perfect combination for a memorable culinary experience. Speaking of beverages, their Manhattan is a must-try, and their wine menu is exceptional. Here’s a tip: keep an eye out for happy hours that feature specials on appetizers, wine, and cocktails.
The Dixie Fish Co.
Combining great views of Matanzas Pass and the back bay, that old Florida allure, and casual and lively vibes, this place is one of the most popular restaurants in Fort Myers. Boasting a charming traditional Florida fish house motif, this local gem is proud to serve delicious seafood dishes and meat-based creations catering to every taste.
Of course, the food is also incredible. The diverse menu constantly changes to ensure customers get the freshest ingredients available. The restaurant’s specialties, though, are Whole Fried Fish, Fish & Chips, and Southern Style Shrimp & Grits — all absolutely stellar in flavor! Their Grouper sandwich is also a big star on their menu. If you’re with kids in tow, a kids’ menu is available to make everyone happy with flavorful and heartwarming food.
Adding to the welcoming atmosphere of The Dixie Fish Co., live music performances on most nights attract both locals and tourists seeking excellent food and festive vibes.
Wahoo Willies
Wahoo Willies Tiki Bar & Grill stands as a breezy refuge for locals and travelers alike, embodying the spirit of island time amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its laid-back ambiance, live entertainment, and an unbeatable menu that champions the freshest local produce and catches, Wahoo Willies isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience that captures the essence of coastal hospitality.
At Wahoo Willies, every dish tells a story of the South West coast’s abundant waters. Committed to the creed of freshness and quality, the menu is a vivid celebration of the finest fish and seafood, alongside delicious bites that cater to a variety of tastes.
From crunchy Crispy Brussel Sprouts and mouth-watering Burger Sliders to the unique flavors of Fried Avocado and Mango Habanero Poppers, there’s a treat for every palate. Not to forget, the specialty martinis, is a must-try for those looking to indulge in a refreshing cocktail.
Whether you’re yearning for the simplicity of a perfectly grilled catch or the bold flavors of crafted dishes, Wahoo Willies delivers an unforgettable culinary experience, ensuring there’s something delightful for everyone.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
Perfectly positioned on the mesmerizing estuary of Estero Bay on San Carlos Island, this much-loved locale offers supremely satisfying waterfront dining unlike any other in the area. Whether you travel by land or sea, Doc Ford’s is ready to welcome you with open arms, melodious live music, and a picturesque view of the largest shrimp boat fleet in the U.S bobbing gently in the water as they traverse Matanzas Pass.
The restaurant draws inspiration from a life well-lived, the quirks and character of this charismatic, coastal eatery are steeped in the unique life experiences of celebrated novelist Randy Wayne White. The wings of imagination take flight in this magnetic spot as Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach locale exists not just as a restaurant, but as an immersive exploration into the essence of traditional fishing communities.
Discovering the rural tropical cuisine was a big part of his journeys. The exquisite tropical sauces and spices, coupled with the unique cooking methods, fueled Randy’s passion for these exotic, tropical dishes.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille incorporates this lovemark of cuisine and offers a gastronomic treat that leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Roadhouse Cafe
Roadhouse Cafe is one of the most popular eateries in Fort Myers, renowned not only for its classic American and Italian cuisine but also for its old-fashioned glamor and live jazz performances. It offers a unique fine dining experience in Southwest Florida, where you’ll be transported to another time with tables covered in white linen tablecloths, elegant tapestries, crystal chandeliers, polished wine glasses, and shined silverware.
The menu is very diverse, featuring superb appetizers, salads, pasta, seafood entrees, beef entrees, poultry, pork, veal, and lamb. Customers highly recommend their filet mignon & lobster combo, scallops wrapped in bacon, the lobster bisque, and Capellini D’Angelo.
The restaurant team is always accommodating when it comes to dietary needs, and they also have private and more secluded rooms if you want a more private dinner. This is a great bet in Fort Myers if you’re looking for a unique fine dining experience and excellent entertainment.
The Veranda
Housed in two gorgeous turn-of-the-century houses and serving superb Southern cuisine, The Veranda is another great place to dine in style while in Fort Myers. One of the most award-winning restaurants in the area, The Veranda offers a menu that artfully blends Southern classics with a French flair, featuring delectable options such as blue crab cakes, escargot, and lobster bisque.
Among the absolute must-try dishes are the Ribeye Steak, Chateaubriand, Atlantic Salmon, and Caesar Salad, expertly prepared tableside by staff wearing black ties. Don’t leave before trying one of their desserts, all prepared daily by their Pastry chef. The Florida Key Lime Pie and the Warm Southern Pecan Praline Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream are to die for.
You can dine indoors in their elegant rooms or outdoors in their exquisite garden courtyard featuring exuberant foliage, as well as a Koi pond and waterfall. Why not? You can also grab a signature cocktail at their piano bar and soak in an old speakeasy and glamorous atmosphere.
Salty Papa’s Shrimp House
Salty Papa’s Shrimp House is a Fort Myers institution. This is a no-frills restaurant serving authentic Southern Cajun comfort food and fresh seafood. Their decor, boasting playful Florida beachy vibes, is the perfect place for savoring dishes like City Creole Jambalaya, Charleston Shrimp, Cajun Butter Wings, and Cheesy Grits — all packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. Other options include delicious burgers, sandwiches, and a wide variety of seafood dishes. It’s also important to highlight that the kitchen is very accommodating to a gluten-free diet.
This local gem also offers creative drinks like frozen lemonades, martinis, as well as craft beers. Salty Papa’s Shrimp House also gains extra points among locals and tourists for offering reasonable prices and for being a dog-friendly restaurant with a special dog menu. Fido is always welcome to their patio to grab a bite with the whole family.
Top Restaurants in Fort Myers Beach, FL
Wherever you go in Myers Beach, FL, you’re likely to find superb food. Whether it’s fine dining or a local spot, believe us, the quality of the food and the flavors are extraordinary. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with places outside this list; there are always new restaurants popping up and some hidden gems that even we don’t know about.
Before heading out on your trip, make sure to check our blog with extra tips on Fort Myers Beach, FL. We’ve written about fishing in the city all year round, the best outdoor activities, and what to do on an evening out, among other things.
Wondering where to stay during your visit to Fort Myers Beach?
Our resort-style vacation rentals in Fort Myers Beach cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you choose to explore the sights or stay indoors, you’ll find everything you need to make yourself feel right at home.
And guess what? You can bring your dog along! We offer beautiful pet-friendly homes on Fort Myers Beach.
To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most enjoyable and relaxing vacation ever!