After a sun-soaked day in Fort Myers Beach, there’s nothing better than kicking back with an incredible meal. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a memorable dining experience, this coastal paradise has something for every taste. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering local favorites, the area is packed with restaurants that are sure to satisfy.
Ready to indulge in the flavors of Southwest Florida? Book your stay with Coastal Vacation Properties and treat yourself to a getaway filled with these nine unforgettable dining experiences.
1. MoJoe’s Coffee Cafe
Photo Credit: New Africa
- 1740 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $-$$
- facebook.com/MojoesCoffeeCafeFMB
- Breakfast, casual, food truck
If you want to start your day off right, then your best bet is to head over to MoJoe’s Coffee Cafe, a coffee trailer with a big personality! It features a bistro-inspired menu filled with artisan coffee, fresh-baked pastries, and huge breakfast sandwiches.
This cozy location is located under the shade of a 25-foot rubber tree, so visitors can enjoy great food while enjoying the chill Florida atmosphere. Start your morning off with a great breakfast before you head out for a day of beach adventures.
2. Nervous Nellie’s
- 1131 First St, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$-$$$
- nervousnellies.net
- Casual, laid-back, seafood
Nervous Nellie’s pretty much embodies the relaxed coastal vibe Fort Myers Beach is so well known for. Its menu includes fresh seafood, steaks, and one of the largest collections of fresh sandwiches you can find!
Perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner, Nervous Nellie’s is an unpretentious gulf waterfront experience that delivers huge flavor without the giant price tag. Great food, amazing service, and a stunning view – what more could you ask for?
3. Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
Photo Credit: Yarlander
- 2500 Main St, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$-$$$
- myparrotkey.com
- Casual, Caribbean-inspired, waterfront dining
Enjoy happy hour in a setting that perfectly marries the laid-back spirit of Fort Myers Beach with the exotic tastes of the islands.
The menu is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean and Florida-inspired seafood. Picture sinking your teeth into freshly grilled mahi-mahi or grouper, savoring succulent shrimp, or indulging in a delectable lobster dish. Popular appetizers like the flavorful crab cakes, tempting avocado stacks, and chicken and rice bowls will also tantalize your taste buds.
Don’t forget to explore their impressive selection of tropical cocktails, the perfect complement to a delightful meal.
4. Dixie Fish Co.
- 714 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$
- dixiefishfmb.com
- Casual, seafood-centric, waterfront
A true local favorite, Dixie Fish Co. offers some of the best waterfront dining experiences in Fort Myers Beach alongside a heavy focus on fresh seafood and truly local ingredients.
Built as a fish market all the way back in 1937, the place has evolved into a casual dining experience featuring a variety of appetizers, tacos, and, of course, fresh seafood dishes that come straight from the Gulf to your plate! While here, make sure to take in the stunning waterfront views and live music that make this place a real, local treasure.
5. Doc Ford’s
- 708 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$-$$$
- docfords.com/fort-myers-beach
- Caribbean steakhouse, live music, indoor and outdoor seating
Doc Ford’s is a local culinary landmark that features an epic combination of traditional coastal flavors with creative twists. The restaurant is well-known for its fresh seafood, including delicious Yucatan shrimp, grouper sandwiches, clam chowder, and so much more. Drop in for an evening of gorgeous sunsets, live music, and an exceptional meal after a day of beach fun!
6. Lighthouse Tiki Bar & Grill
Photo Credit: Trisha McQuade
- 1051 Fifth St, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931, United States
- $$-$$$
- lighthouseislandresort.com/dine/tiki-bar
- Casual, tropical beach bar vibe, relaxed atmosphere
Need to unwind after a long day spent out under the sun? Head on over to the Lighthouse Tiki Bar & Grill for a relaxing meal and a drink (or two!) The menu at this waterfront restaurant is filled with creative cocktails, fresh seafood, and pub grub-inspired food that will keep you coming back for more.
Pro Tip: You can head out and enjoy a poolside meal and the occasional live music before heading back out for a fun night in Fort Myers Beach.
7. Flippers
- 8767 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$-$$$
- flippersotb.com
- Chill atmosphere, international-inspired menu, waterfront dining
Flipper’s on the Bay is a hidden gem nestled within Lovers Key Resort, a beach resort offering breathtaking waterfront views and a menu that showcases fresh, chef-inspired dishes.
This award-winning Fort Myers Beach restaurant is known for its exceptional seafood, including favorites like tuna ceviche, blackened grouper, and crab cakes. With open-air seating, a full bar, and a laid-back yet refined atmosphere, Flipper’s provides the perfect setting for a leisurely meal overlooking Estero Bay. Be sure to call ahead during peak season—it’s a local favorite for a reason!
8. Matanzas
- 416 Crescent St, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$-$$$
- matanzasonthebay.com
- Casual eatery, waterfront patio, live music
For a truly must-visit destination in Ft. Myers Beach, Matanzas is the palace! Located just steps from the Fort Myers Beach entertainment district, this laid-back yet lively spot offers a diverse menu featuring local ingredients, from stuffed grouper to their famous Dave’s Dockside Pizza.
Guests can enjoy lunch or dinner with a stunning view of the bay, while the upstairs sports bar, Petey’s Upper Deck, provides live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for a happy hour, a casual meal, or a special celebration, Matanzas delivers great food, friendly service, and unbeatable waterfront vibes.
9. Snug Harbor
Photo Credit: 29september
- 645 Old San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- $$-$$$
- snugharbor.restaurant
- Casual, bistro style, waterfront charm
Snug Harbor is a real hidden gem located in the back bay of Fort Myers Beach with fresh seafood straight from their own boats and breathtaking waterfront views. This open-air restaurant near the Matanzas Pass Bridge is the perfect spot to enjoy a laid-back meal while watching boats drift by or even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins.
Known for its expertly prepared grouper, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and signature coleslaw with a tropical twist, Snug Harbor delivers both flavor and atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch or a sunset dinner, the welcoming service and unbeatable scenery make every visit a memorable one.
Where to Stay Near the Best Eats in Fort Myers Beach
Whether you’re looking to kick off your day with a fresh breakfast, enjoy the live music and vibrant atmosphere at a classic beach bar, or indulge in the gourmet creations of a fine-dining restaurant, the dining experiences here are as diverse as they are delicious.
Find your dream Southwest Florida getaway at Coastal Vacation Properties! Browse our charming havens & spacious beach houses today.
