We are still new to the area but have already found a few favorite places to eat. Punta Gorda was ranked second in the nation for small town dining by USA Today in 2020. There are tons of great options for local dining with variety for any palate. Many have awesome views and live music. The hard part is deciding where to start. Feel free to add more of your own suggestions to the house’s guest book for other guests to learn more great options. We do recommend calling for reservations especially during the busy season.
You had me at tacos and margaritas! We recommend the Coco Margarita. Dean’s offers indoor cantina and courtyard seating. Deans has a wide array of Tex Mex & American classics. Open on weekends for breakfasts and lunch. Open for dinner 7 days a week. Happy hour is weekdays 3-6pm. Nightly live music
Located on the Peace River waterfront, Laishley Crab House has stunning views over the river from their
outdoor dining deck and perfect views of the sunset. They have curtains in case of rain. The bartenders
are great, and the food is better. Best sushi in the area. They offer a large variety of seafood dishes – from
sushi to steam pots and beyond. We recommend reservations which can easily be made online. After
dinner, sneak downstairs for ice cream
"A pinch of soul, a dash of hip, and a whole lot of lovin’!"
At Leroy’s, everything from customer service to Southern cookin’ revolves around the belief that“Happiness is Homemade”. They take pride in providing a family-friendly menu and experience that is unlike any other restaurant in Southwest Florida. From the strum of blues in the background to the savory, homemade flavors, and scents --- we know you’ll love it at Leroy’s!
While their Southern cuisine is rooted in family tradition, they’ve never stopped innovating. At Leroy’s they love to create new, playful, and of course, delicious, takes on your favorite classics. From small plate
selections to specials, their dishes are both imaginative and true to the essence of Southern cookin’!
Personally, we find the BBQ to be AWESOME. They also have a unique drink menu.
Another great upscale dining option. The Captain’s Table is in Fisherman’s Village. Come enjoy the
stunning views of Charlotte Harbor with the freshest gulf seafood, hand-cut steaks and dishes from their award-winning chef.
Reservations suggested. Don’t miss the Captain’s Chowder.
Centrally located in historic Downtown Punta Gorda, FM Don’s is a place you can enjoy delicious food 7
days a week. Led by Chef/Partner Keith Meyer, FM Don’s offers unparalleled service and cuisine unlike any other in Charlotte County. The culture is simple, a genuine desire to meet and exceed the
expectations of their guests.
Great option for a nicer meal. We recommend reservations.
Our favorite place for pizza. Dine in or carry out.
For over 38 years they have proudly served authentic Italian food. They make their food with much care and have added some new favorites over the years. For guests that have not eaten there, come try some in-house baked dishes or salads and don’t forget the pizza that put them on the map.
Great local restaurant on the water. Arrive by car or boat. Little off the beaten trail but that’s why it’s so good. Bring bug spray. From yummy fish specials to lighter fare options, they have plenty of delicious choices for you, including great deserts. There is regular live music and the picnic tables in the sand are great options for families/kids.
Chef Carmelo's Ortigia Cucina & Bar is inspired by the beauty and flavors of the small town and region of Sicily that he is from. Offering small plates, tapas style, we find this restaurant to be a great option for a full meal or light snack.
The open-air restaurant, great service, and live music creates an awesome atmosphere to complement their food. Personally, we are huge fans of the Sangria – get the pitcher!
Dig into some chef-inspired, down-home Florida cuisine with “a Twist“ at one of Southwest Florida’s most unique venues. Come on in and enjoy the food. Enjoy the drink. Enjoy the music. Enjoy the atmosphere. There is lots to enjoy for all ages.
Make sure you have the hog wings. They are awesome!
Keep an eye out for all the scheduled events on the Back Porch… from Car shows, Bike nights, Bands, Drive-in movie nights and more! All under a 24,000 square foot covered entertainment pavilion that is connected directly to the restaurant and Bert’s Black Widow Harley Davidson.
If you are looking for a conveniently located (Fisherman’s Village) and laid-back dining option, this might be it. This is the closest you will get to chain/tourist restaurants in the area. Open air, boat-casual seafood restaurant located on beautiful Charlotte Harbor. With full dining deck and three bars overlooking the water, Harpoon Harry’s offers a large array of seafoods, salads, sandwiches and cocktails while displaying the best sunset views that Punta Gorda has to offer.
Nice drinks and typical bar food. Good and fast service. Great game area for the kids including air hockey. Bring your quarters to keep the kids occupied.
Overlooking downtown Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor from the rooftop of the Wyvern hotel, this bar and restaurant has views to match its cuisine. The sunset is blocked by a hotel but otherwise great
rooftop views. Savor signature cocktails, local craft beers and boutique wines along with an enticing tapas menu in a relaxing al fresco ambiance. There is a popular indoor restaurant in case of bad weather
but make sure you have reservations.
In the spirit of locally sourced and farm-fresh ingredients, they have designed their entire dining experience tapas style, allowing guests to sample a variety of dishes, tastes, and flavorings.
We recommend ordering a handful of dishes to sample and share.
Ridiculously great, authentic Irish food. Great service – order at the bar and find yourself a table.
At our last visit they had a curried chicken special and if they have it again, order it. The Scotch Eggs and Shepard’s Pie were awesome!
The Celtic Ray Public House in downtown Punta Gorda opened in 1997. They have expanded with the ‘other side’ and now have a full liquor bar. The menu features traditional Irish Pub favorites made from fresh ingredients and family recipes. The Celtic Ray’s Fish & Chips are famous worldwide.
This hidden gem has awesome food. The locals tell people not to talk about the restaurant so they can still get a reservation. Some of the best foods we have ever ate. Make sure to get a reservation which easily be done online.
And yes, the head chef Jeanie Roland did beat Bobby Flay.
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