Your Ultimate Guide to Dining on Sanibel Island, FL

Sanibel Island is a beautiful gem off the coast of Southwest Florida. It offers an enchanting getaway with its shell-strewn white sand beaches, crystalline waters, and laid-back vibe. While the natural beauty is a major draw, the dining scene here is equally captivating.

With a diverse array of Sanibel Island restaurants ranging from casual beach bars to elegant fine dining, there's something to satisfy every palate. As you plan your visit to this tropical paradise, here's your ultimate guide to dining on Sanibel Island, FL, to help you make the most of your culinary adventures. Let Breakaway Vacation Rentals help to ensure your culinary experiences are just as incredible as the rest of your stay in Sanibel Island.

Casual Dining in Sanibel Island

1. Coconut Poolside Bar & Grill

Located at Casa Ybel Resort, Coconut Poolside Bar & Grill offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for afternoon dining. Enjoy American and Floridian cuisine while listening to live poolside entertainment every Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm.

2. Bennett's Fresh Roast Sanibel

Famous for its homemade donuts and freshly brewed coffee, Bennett's Fresh Roast Sanibel serves breakfast and lunch daily from 6 am to 3 pm. Their menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, and delightful homemade desserts.

3. Blue Giraffe

Situated at 2075 Periwinkle Way, Blue Giraffe is a family-friendly spot serving American, seafood, steaks, pasta, and burgers. Open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

4. Cheeburger Cheeburger

At Tahitian Gardens, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Cheeburger Cheeburger is a kid-friendly restaurant offering classic American fare. Open daily from 11:30 am to 9 pm, it’s an ideal spot for lunch and dinner.

5. Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille

A beach-themed restaurant located at 975 Rabbit Road, Doc Ford’s offers a wide variety of American, seafood, and Caribbean dishes. Open daily from 11 am to 10 pm, it features a large rum list and live music every night on the patio.

Elegant Dining in Sanibel Island

6. Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro

For a taste of France in Florida, visit Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro at 2430 Periwinkle Way. Open daily for dinner from 5 pm to 9 pm, this restaurant offers authentic French cuisine in a casual yet refined setting.

7. Blue Coyote Supper Club

Located at Sanibel Island Golf Club, 1100 Par View Drive, Blue Coyote Supper Club serves American cuisine in a sophisticated atmosphere. Open seasonally from Fall to Spring, they offer lunch, dinner, and a Sunday brunch.

8. Il Cielo

Il Cielo, located at 1244 Periwinkle Way, offers a blend of creative American, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. With live piano music on select evenings, it’s a perfect spot for an elegant dining experience. Open Monday to Saturday from 4:30 pm to 9 pm.

9. The Sandbar

A casual-fine dining establishment located at 2761 West Gulf Drive, The Sandbar specializes in American, steak, and seafood dishes. Open daily from 5 pm to 9 pm, it’s an excellent choice for dinner with a relaxed yet upscale ambiance. 

10. Thistle Lodge

Situated at Casa Ybel Resort, 2255 West Gulf Drive, Thistle Lodge offers a fine dining experience with a fusion of Floridian, European, and Asian cuisines. Enjoy beachfront dining with brunch, lunch, and dinner options available.

Specialty Dining in Sanibel Island

11. The Island Cow

Known for its fun atmosphere, The Island Cow at 2163 Periwinkle Way is pet-friendly and offers live music. Open daily from 7 am to 9 pm, it serves American, seafood, and raw bar delights.

12. Sweet Melissa’s Cafe

Located at 1625 Periwinkle Way, Sweet Melissa’s Cafe offers a casual-elegant dining experience with American and seafood dishes. Enjoy live acoustic jazz on select evenings. Open for lunch Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 5 pm to close.

13. Traditions On The Beach

This historic restaurant at 3111 West Gulf Drive provides contemporary Italian and seafood cuisine. Open Monday to Saturday from 5 pm to 9:30 pm, it features live music and dancing to enhance your dining experience.

Beachfront and Scenic Dining

14. The Mucky Duck

Located at 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, The Mucky Duck is famous for its beachfront dining and stunning sunset views. Open for lunch and dinner, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy seafood with a cold brew.

15. Gramma Dot's Seaside Saloon

At Sanibel Marina, 634 N Yachtsman Drive, Gramma Dot's offers a charming seaside dining experience. Open daily from 11:30 am to 8 pm, it serves American and seafood dishes in a picturesque setting.

16. Traditions On The Beach

Another excellent beachfront option, Traditions On The Beach offers a mix of contemporary Italian and seafood dishes. Enjoy live music and dancing, making it a vibrant choice for dinner. Open Monday to Saturday from 5 pm to 9:30 pm.

Why Choose Breakaway Vacation Rentals? 

When visiting Sanibel Island, why not make your stay as memorable as your dining experiences? Breakaway Vacation Rentals offers an array of beautiful vacation homes in Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, Florida. Enjoy the comfort of staying in a fully-equipped rental close to the best dining spots on the island. Our properties feature stunning views, modern amenities, and convenient locations, ensuring your vacation is nothing short of perfect.

Book your stay with Breakaway Vacation Rentals today and experience the best of Sanibel Island, Florida dining. Visit our website or contact us for more information on our available properties and to plan your ultimate getaway.

By exploring these top dining options on Sanibel Island, you’re sure to discover flavors that delight your palate and experiences that enhance your vacation. Enjoy the serene beauty and culinary treasures of this tropical paradise!