The Best Restaurants in Cape Coral
By Ananya Bakshi
For anyone wandering through Cape Coral with a keen appetite, the local dining scene delivers. This city’s food landscape has evolved into a delicious mix of fresh seafood, inventive takes on comfort foods, and vibrant flavors reflecting Florida’s sunshine and culture. Here are ten must-try places, each bringing something unique to the table.
Sunset at Gather
1. Gather
Located by the waterfront, Gather’s menu combines high-quality ingredients with inventive dishes, from house-made pasta to local fish dishes. Their brunches and cocktails by the water make this place particularly popular on weekends.
2. Jungle Bird Tiki
For a tiki-style adventure, Jungle Bird Tiki offers Polynesian-inspired fare and a drink menu loaded with tropical cocktails. Go here for shareable plates, from poke to bao buns, along with tiki drinks that feel like mini-vacations.
3. Twisted Lobster
A Cape Coral gem, Twisted Lobster is where seafood dreams come true. Known for its crab-stuffed shrimp and, of course, lobster rolls, this unpretentious spot does New England-style seafood with Florida flair.
4. Slate’s
For Cajun and Creole flavors, Slate’s is a must. The live jazz music adds even more character to its beloved gumbo, jambalaya, and alligator sausage—bringing New Orleans-style revelry to Cape Coral.
5. Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails
With a menu focused on Southern fusion, Point 57 excels in making everything from short ribs to crab cakes taste like a celebration. Their cocktails are locally legendary, blending classic ingredients with a few surprises.
6. Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar
Known for a quirky, lively vibe, Cork Soakers brings the fun with its elevated pub fare and creative wine list. Diners rave about the tacos, sliders, and themed nights that keep the atmosphere festive.
7. Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails
With a menu focused on Southern fusion, Point 57 excels in making everything from short ribs to crab cakes taste like a celebration. Their cocktails are locally legendary, blending classic ingredients with a few surprises.
8. Rumrunners
At Rumrunners, seafood is the star, served up in an upscale but laid-back atmosphere right on the water. Their mahi-mahi and seared tuna come highly recommended, and they make full use of their bayside location with stunning sunset views.
9. Fish Tale Grill by Merrick Seafood
An established Cape Coral favorite, Fish Tale Grill sources fresh catches and serves them in inventive, approachable ways. From lobster bisque to fish tacos, their seafood offerings reflect the best of local flavors.
10. Let’s Waffle
Let’s Waffle specializes in—you guessed it—waffles, but not just for breakfast. Known for sweet and savory waffle combinations, like fried chicken on waffles, this place is perfect for family outings or a unique dessert treat.
