The Veranda
2122 Second Street, Ft. Myers – 239-332-2065
The Veranda requires reservations. So, book early for a romantic dining experience within the walls of two of Fort Myers’ most historic downtown homes. This restaurant creates a unique opportunity to enjoy southern regional cuisine in two turn-of-the-century houses, where the grounds offer luscious botanical foliage and even a Koi pond. However, inside the kitchen is where the flavor is at. Starters include a savory lobster bisque or fresh blue crab cakes. One might consider following up with an entrée of Shrimp Scampi tossed in capellini pasta, or Chicken Orleans. The latter entrée combines a pan-seared chicken breast topped with plump Gulf shrimp, arugula and a Cajun beurre blanc. For dessert, Veranda chefs whip up a magical peanut butter fudge pie or traditional Florida Key Lime pie. The Veranda is open Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sip & Sizzle
2236 First Street, Fort Myers – 239-851-5599
With moody lighting and an extensive cocktail menu, this upbeat steakhouse is both a Day Café and a Chophouse. Sip & Sizzle offers moonlight diners the chance for an interactive experience with upbeat vibes. Sizzling stones heated to 500 degrees are delivered to the table for diners who choose to cook their protein. Bistro filet, duck breast and even ahi tuna may be ordered for the hot stone interactive experience. Diners are offered a choice of three delectable sauces, like Mushroom Truffle or Cowboy Butter. Sip & Sizzle’s dinner menu also contains traditional handhelds like burgers, along with the tender vegetarian Cauliflower Steak for $18. The cocktail menu – true to the establishment’s name – is loaded with “Sips.” Their Jungle Bird is just one exotic concoction, combining Goslings dark rum, Compari, lime juice, pineapple juice, simple syrup and Frond. The cocktail menu even offers an ode to “Fizzy Sips.” With the opportunity to cook at your leisure and to sip away, your dining experience at Sip & Sizzle may last a couple of hours. They are open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Blossom & Brie
8250 Nalle Grade Road, Fort Myers – 239-385-0415…