When you’re visiting Sanibel Island, there are endless things to see and do. You can stroll along the white sand beaches and pick up a unique seashell, visit any of the historical sites like the Sanibel Lighthouse, and shop ‘till you drop at the local boutiques. Between all the fun attractions, you’re bound to get hungry! Luckily, all of the best restaurants in Sanibel Island are within walking distance from our Sanibel beachfront rentals.
Traders
If you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back without sacrificing quality or flavor, visit Traders, an island staple since 1998. The one-of-a-kind atmosphere is welcoming and relaxing, where you can enjoy the coastal-inspired dishes and linger in the gift shop afterward.
Popular menu selections include small plates like crispy shrimp and gnocchi, shrimp and angel hair pasta, or entrees like the grilled blackened Mahi or Parmesan encrusted breast of chicken. They also have a wide lunch menu if you’re looking for something early in the day. Visit on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m. to enjoy live music while you dine!
Traders is located at 1551 Periwinkle Way.
Sweet Melissa’s Cafe
Sweet Melissa’s Cafe has been serving the locals and visitors to Sanibel Island for more than 12 years. Chef Melissa Talmage has a passion for her craft and has trained at Manhattan’s French Culinary Institute. She has received countless awards from national publications and helped Sweet Melissa’s Cafe become recognized by USA Today as a Top 10 Restaurant in South Florida in 2017!
The menu at Sweet Melissa’s offers the freshest seasonal produce and seafood in unique and classic preparations. Start with small plates like the baby kale salad or duck confit, then move on to entrees like seared scallops, smoked tenderloin, and Blackened Redfish. Compliment your meal with a selection from the cocktail menu, and finish off the evening with a delectable dessert like the Key lime white chocolate bread pudding or fresh beignets.
Sweet Melissa’s is located at 1625 Periwinkle Way.
Traditions on the Beach
Traditions on the Beach is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for contemporary cuisine with a stunning view. Take advantage of the complimentary valet, then step into the welcoming dining room or head to the full bar and Sunset Lounge. Chef Aziz is the master behind the menu, and he has been working with authentic French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines for more than 35 years.
On the menu, you’ll find an extensive selection of tapas to start you off, as well as an early Sunset Menu if you are looking for something light. On the full menu, experience selections like the baked spinach oysters appetizer, lump crab martini, fettuccine chicken pesto, or grilled diver scallops. There’s also a convenient kids’ menu that ensures everyone in your group will have something delicious to eat!
Traditions on the Beach is located at 3111 West Gulf Drive.
The Sandbar
The Sandbar is one of the most well-known restaurants on Sanibel Island, Florida. They have an extensive wine list for you to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to compliment your main meal. While they offer some of the freshest seafood available, you can always find something without seafood as well. Come in for a full dinner or just enjoy a drink at the lounge. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Start your meal with an appetizer of Boom Boom Shrimp or loaded potato skins. Move on to a seafood favorite like the crab cakes or a pasta option like chicken parmesan. They also have a wide selection of sandwiches, beef and pork options, soups, salads, and more.
The Sandbar is located at 2761 West Gulf Drive.
You can find all of this and more just minutes from our Sanibel Island condo rentals. Contact us today to learn more!
