Fort Myers isn’t just a beachfront paradise; it’s a culinary haven that will make your taste buds dance the tango. Whether you’re a vacationer or looking to plant roots along the idyllic Gulf Coast, this foodie hotspot boasts nearly a hundred dining options. From casual cafes and seafood shacks to fine dining, steakhouses, and international cuisine, the top restaurants in Fort Myers have got you covered.
With so many mouthwatering options, narrowing down the best wasn’t easy—but we’ve got you covered! Here’s our curated list of eight fine dining restaurants that stand out as the top restaurants Fort Myers has to offer. Prepare to indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey as you savor the very best of Fort Myers’ dining scene. Loosen your belt and dive in!
Discover the Good Restaurants in Fort Myers: A Foodie’s Paradise
1. Harold’s Restaurant: The Crown Jewel of Fort Myers Dining
Address: 15250 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers
Website: haroldscuisine.com
Favorite Menu Items: 12 Seasons Arugula Salad, Seared Scallops with Parmesan Risotto, Coconut Cake
Rated #1 on TripAdvisor and adored by locals, Harold’s Restaurant is the crowning glory of the top restaurants in Fort Myers. This upscale yet relaxed farm-to-table haven offers outdoor seating and an innovative menu. Picture classic American and French dishes with a creative twist—buffalo wing-style cauliflower, arugula salad with crisped goat cheese, and the signature seared scallops with parmesan risotto.
The wine list is as thoughtfully curated as a hipster’s vinyl collection, and the desserts? Simply irresistible. Think coconut cake drenched in rum sauce and crème brûlée that would make a Parisian jealous. Perfect for date night, family dinners, or a friendly get-together, Harold’s is the spot to make any occasion unforgettable. Dive into Harold’s culinary delights and see why it’s one of the top restaurants in Fort Myers that everyone is raving about!
2. Cantina 109: A Mexican Fiesta in Fort Myers
Address: 9908 Gulf Coast Main Street, Fort Myers
Website: cantina109.com
Favorite Menu Items: Tableside Guacamole, Tacos Al Pastor, El Diablo Margarita
Ranked as the #1 Mexican cuisine restaurant in Southwest Florida, Cantina 109 delivers a vibrant dining experience you won’t forget. This popular Mexican restaurant is one of the top spots for dining Fort Myers, offering authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex classics. From flavorful tacos and burritos to sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, and chimichangas, every dish is crafted with the freshest ingredients, making it a must-visit for lovers of bold, delicious flavors.
Their tableside guacamole is a must-try, made right before your eyes. And what’s Mexican cuisine without tequila? Cantina 109’s tequila menu boasts 135 varieties. Sip them straight or indulge in their myriad margarita options. Fan favorites? The sweet Prickly Pear Margarita and the spicy El Diablo Margarita, with jalapeno tequila for that extra kick.
Pro Tip: Stop by Cantina 109 between open and 6 p.m. to enjoy amazing happy hour specials, including house margaritas and shareable platters. It’s no wonder this spot stands out among the best restaurants in Fort Myers Florida, turning every meal into a flavorful fiesta!
3. Roadhouse Cafe: Jazz Up Your Dinner in Fort Myers
Address: 15660 San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers
Website: roadhousecafefl.com
Favorite Menu Items: Lobster Bisque, Mussels Marinara, Capellini D’Angelo
In the mood for dinner and a show? Look no further than Roadhouse Cafe, one of the good restaurants in Fort Myers. Hidden away in a plaza, this gem transports you to another era with white linen tablecloths, elegant tapestries, crystal chandeliers, and a 5-piece jazz ensemble. Perfect for date night or impressing someone special!
While the live jazz steals the show, the food is no understudy. Dive into their varied menu of Italian specialties, featuring delights like lobster bisque, mussels marinara, stuffed portobello, and Capellini D’Angelo.
Whether you’re a fan of jazz or a devoted foodie, Roadhouse Cafe is a must-visit destination. Known for its exceptional flavors and live music, this gem deserves a spot on your list of the best places to eat in Fort Myers. Get ready for an unforgettable evening where great food meets captivating tunes!
4. Salty Papa’s Shrimp House: Where Cajun Comfort Meets Beach Vibes
Address: 15271 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers
Website: saltypapasshrimphouse.com
Favorite Menu Items: Fried Green Tomatoes, Salty Papa’s Gumbo, Hush Puppies, Oyster Po’Boys
Welcome to Salty Papa’s Shrimp House, where the motto “Where the bayou meets the beach” perfectly sums up the experience. As one of the top restaurants in Fort Myers, this spot is a treasure trove of southern Cajun comfort food and fresh seafood served in a delightfully cheeky atmosphere.
Struggling to pick just one dish? Good news: you don’t have to! Dive into fan favorites like fried green tomatoes, hush puppies, and oyster Po’Boy sandwiches. And don’t skip the Salty Papa’s gumbo—it’s as authentic as a Louisiana sunset.
Salty Papa’s isn’t just a treat for humans—it’s a paradise for pets too, thanks to its dog-friendly patio and special menu for your furry companions. If you’re looking for Fort Myers Beach restaurants that combine delicious food with laid-back coastal vibes, Salty Papa’s is the ultimate spot to enjoy a meal with a touch of beachside charm!
5. Downtown House of Pizza
Address: 1520 Hendry Street, Fort Myers
Website: downtownhouseofpizza.com
Favorite Menu Items: Classic Italian Pizza, Grandma’s Sicilian Pizza, Chocolate Cannoli
Craving the best pizza in town? Look no further than Downtown House of Pizza, a shining star among the top restaurants in Fort Myers. This beloved pizza joint combines old-world charm with modern flair, offering everything from custom pies loaded with your favorite toppings to signature specialties like the Classic Italian and Grandma’s Sicilian.
Downtown House of Pizza is a gluten-free, vegan-friendly paradise, ensuring there’s a slice for everyone. Not feeling pizza? No problem—calzones, subs, salads, and wings await. And dessert? Think decadent NY-style cheesecake and irresistible chocolate cannolis.
Voted the best pizza place in Fort Myers by both locals and TripAdvisor reviewers, this downtown treasure will have you saying “cheese” with every bite. It’s a must-visit spot among the top restaurants in Fort Myers that’s bound to make your taste buds do a happy dance!
6. Wisteria Tea Room: Where Tea Time Meets Timeless Elegance
Address: 2512 Street, Fort Myers
Website: wisteriatearoom.com
Favorite Menu Items: The Royal Afternoon Tea Service
For a truly elegant dining experience, Wisteria Tea Room stands out as one of the most charming upscale restaurants in Fort Myers. Immerse yourself in a world of Victorian decor, complete with white linen tablecloths, gold-accented trays, and hand-painted teacups. Savor every sip of tea and indulge in decadent scones for a delightful trip back in time to an era of refined sophistication.
Wisteria Tea Room’s crown jewel is The Royal Afternoon Tea Service. Enjoy a multi-course experience with soup or salad, a three-tiered tray of finger sandwiches, scones, mini desserts, and unlimited tea. It’s like a royal feast, minus the crown and the stuffy manners.
Catering to gluten-free and vegetarian guests, Wisteria Tea Room ensures everyone feels welcome. Tea enthusiasts can even visit the adjacent tea shop to bring home their favorite blends. As one of the top rated restaurants in Fort Myers, Wisteria Tea Room blends decadence and charm, creating a tea time experience that’s truly unforgettable.
7. Cape Cod Fish Company
Address: 15501 Old McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers
Website: capecodfishfl.com
Favorite Menu Items: Clam Chowder, Ipswich Steamers, Lobster Rolls
When it comes to seafood, Cape Cod Fish Company is the undisputed champion among the top restaurants in Fort Myers. Brought to you by a Rhode Island family with a passion for all things New England, this spot dishes out wicked good clam chowder, irresistible lobster rolls, and classic fish and chips that’ll make you think you’ve been teleported to Cape Cod.
Not a seafood fan? Fear not, the menu caters to landlubbers too with juicy burgers, crispy chicken, fresh salads, and even hot dogs. And let’s not forget the truffle fries—a must-have starter that’s practically worth a visit on its own. Cap off your meal with premium, locally sourced ice cream that’s the cherry on top of your seafood feast.
8. El Gaucho Inca Restaurant
Address: 4383 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers
Website: elgauchoinca.com
Favorite Menu Items: Ceviche, Papa a la Huancaína, Churrasco Steak, Panqueques, Pisco Sour
If culinary fusion had a royalty, El Gaucho Inca Restaurant would be its king. Among the top rated restaurants in Fort Myers, this spot is where Argentinian flair meets Peruvian zest in a delicious dance. Dive into a variety of ceviches—the ceviche trio is practically a must for taste-testing enthusiasts. Craving something grilled? The Lomo Saltado and Churrasco steak will have taste buds tangoing.
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Don’t skip the Papa a la Huancaína, a Peruvian potato dish with yellow-pepper sauce that’s as intriguing as it is tasty. Cap off your meal with Panqueques (crepes drenched in caramel) and a Pisco Sour—because, why not?
El Gaucho Inca Restaurant isn’t just a spot for lunch or dinner—it’s also a fantastic choice for breakfast. Kickstart your morning with flavorful empanadas, breakfast sandwiches, tropical smoothies, and freshly brewed coffee. Known as one of the top rated restaurants in Fort Myers, this eatery turns every meal into a vibrant culinary adventure from morning to night!
9. The Veranda
Address: 2122 Second Street, Fort Myers
Website: verandarestaurant.com
Favorite Menu Items: Blue Crab Cakes, The Southern Sampler, Lobster Bisque
Looking for a romantic night out or a meal that feels like a scene from an old Hollywood movie? The Veranda, one of the top restaurants in Fort Myers, offers an award-winning dining experience inside a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century home. Dine indoors amidst elegant décor or enjoy the charm of the courtyard garden under the stars.
Start the evening with a cocktail in their adjacent piano bar—a spot that’s like a glamorous speakeasy, minus the secret passwords. The menu dazzles with Southern classics given a French twist. Standouts include blue crab cakes, escargot, and the indulgent lobster bisque. For the main event, the Southern Sampler is a crowd-pleaser with its variety of seafood. And don’t even think about skipping dessert—The Veranda’s Southern pecan praline tart is a sweet, nutty slice of heaven.
Foodie Heaven Awaits in Fort Myers
Attention, foodies: Fort Myers is calling your name! With a dynamic culinary scene and a wide variety of options, it’s quickly becoming a go-to destination for both gourmet enthusiasts and prospective homebuyers. From the best places to eat in Fort Myers to exceptional fine dining restaurants, this town has it all. You’ll also find fantastic Fort Myers Beach restaurants that pair delicious meals with stunning coastal views. Plus, with Cape Coral and Sanibel Island just a short drive away, the opportunities for unforgettable dining Fort Myers experiences are endless. If your taste buds are ready for a new adventure, Fort Myers is your ultimate escape.
