Early-bird specials and fresh seafood region supreme in this part of the state, but no matter what your tastes, Fort Myers boasts a veritable smorgasbord of dining choices. Casual riverfront eateries serve delicious pub fare and romantic upscale bistros dish up haute cuisine from restored old homes. There's southern-style "meat and threes" available too, in order to satisfy visitors who crave comfort food. A short scenic ride by water taxi will take you to the islands of Sanibel and Captiva, where several fine restaurants offer patrons breathtaking views of both the Gulf and Pine Island sound. The region's native Stone Crabs are not to be missed; try them in crab cakes, or fresh-cracked and dipped in butter.
Bistro 41 
13499 South Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers
(239) 466-4141
www.bistro41.com
Sunny and friendly, Bistro 41 is popular for its eclectic menu that offers everything from tapas, and sushi, to Southern-style comfort food. Patrons enjoy the bistro's extensive wine list and European-style unhurried lunches that linger into the evening hours.
Farmer's Market Restaurant 
2736 Edison Avenue, Fort Myers
(239) 334-1687
www.farmersmarketrestaurant.com
For hungry folks who yearn for decidedly casual and down-home fare, the Farmer's Market Restaurant in historic downtown Fort Myers dishes up southern-style "meat and three's." Local crowds and long lines attest to the establishment's popularity and longevity. Calorie-conscious visitors would be well advised to plan a day off from any sort of dieting, as this is southern cooking at its deep-fried, gravy-smothered, butter-laden best.
The Veranda 
2122 Second Street, Fort Myers
(239) 332-2065
www.verandarestaurant.com
Arguably one of the city's finest restaurants, The Veranda garners praise from food critics, local dignitaries, and honeymooners alike. Two faithfully restored antebellum homes enclose a lushly landscaped courtyard garden, setting the romantic scene for inventive, Southern-style Continental dishes.
Bahama Breeze 
401 Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers
(239) 454-9234
www.bahamabreeze.com
As national chains go, Bahama Breeze is to "umbrella" drinks as Home Depot is to power tools. Bahama's shrewdly taps into the market of fun seekers hungry for Tiki-style kitsch, but it also serves up inventive and expertly prepared Caribbean-flavored cuisine. Jimmy Buffet fans will relish in the island atmosphere, and bar flies will enjoy the torch-juggling bartenders. Live bands keep the theme going nightly with reggae, calypso, and surf music.
Spirits of Bacchus 
1406 Hendry Street, Fort Myers
(239) 689-2675
www.spiritsofbacchus.com
Built as a blacksmith's shop in 1884, this historic building still houses a popular downtown hotspot. Named for the Greek god of revelry, the bar boasts and appropriately extensive list of wines, champagne, spirits, martinis, and lagers from around the world. Revelers enjoy the live local bands and mellow atmosphere.
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