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The Fort Myers culinary landscape has officially leveled up. With the arrival of high-concept interactive dining, the reopening of beloved island icons on the mainland, and a new wave of waterfront “dock and dine” destinations, Southwest Florida is a bona fide foodie frontier.
Here are the best new spots to visit, along with the “insider” details on when to go and how to get a table.
Downtown & Midtown Fort Myers
Sip & Sizzle
- The Vibe: High-energy, social, and modern.
- The Concept: Known for its signature “hot stone” experience, this First Street gem allows you to sear premium steaks and seafood to your exact liking at the table.
- Happy Hour: Daily from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM featuring “Sizzle Sips” (signature cocktails) and discounted small plates.
- Reservations: Highly recommended for Friday and Saturday nights. Book via their website at sipsizzle.com.
Swamp Cat Brewing Company
- The Vibe: Industrial-chic meets historic charm in a repurposed 1950s church.
- The Concept: A craft brewery with a massive “Refuge” courtyard. Instead of a standard kitchen, they host a rotating cast of high-end food vendors like La Playa 787 (Latin fusion) and Dynamite Street EatZ.
- Happy Hour: “Cat Nap” Specials Monday–Thursday, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, featuring $2 off house-brewed drafts.
- Reservations: First-come, first-served for general seating. Large party bookings for the “Sanctuary” room can be made through their events page.
South Fort Myers & Bell Tower
Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar
- The Vibe: Sophisticated, upscale, and bustling.
- The Concept: This Miami favorite features a massive indoor-outdoor bar and a second-story Rooftop with stunning views of the city.
- Happy Hour:
- Downstairs: Monday–Friday, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
- The Rooftop: Wednesday–Friday, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM.
- Daily Deals: Don’t miss the Monday Night Burger Bash ($12 select burgers) or Wine Wednesday (half-price bottles all day).
- Reservations: Available via OpenTable or at tap42.com.
Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant
- The Vibe: Intimate, refined, and chef-driven.
- The Concept: Chef Melissa Talmage has brought her James Beard-nominated excellence to a new, permanent location on Summerlin Road. It remains the gold standard for creative coastal cuisine.
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM (Bar only).
- Reservations: Essential. This is one of the toughest tables to get in town. Book well in advance at sweetmelissasrestaurant.com.
Cape Coral Waterfront
Bimini Basin Seafood and Cocktails
- The Vibe: Bahamian luxury and “Old Florida” soul.
- The Concept: Opened in early 2026 by Phelan Family Brands, this massive waterfront destination offers 24 boat slips for those arriving by water.
- Happy Hour: Daily from 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM with “Island Time” drink specials and raw bar discounts.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome for the dockside bar, but dining room reservations are recommended via their website.
Slipaway Food Truck Park & Marina
- The Vibe: Family-friendly, vibrant, and casual.
- The Concept: Located at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge, this 3-acre park features 10 permanent food trucks and the massive Helm Bar.
- The Schedule: Food trucks serve from 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. The Helm Bar stays open until 10:00 PM (11:00 PM on Saturdays).
- Live Music: Every Friday and Saturday night under the main pavilion.
At a Glance: Planning Your Visit
| Restaurant | Primary Attraction | Best Time for Deals | Reservation Info |
| Sip & Sizzle | Hot Stone Dining | 3–6 PM Daily | sipsizzle.com |
| Tap 42 | Rooftop Bar | 4–7 PM (M–F) | OpenTable |
| Sweet Melissa’s | Gourmet Seafood | 4:30–6 PM (Bar) | https://www.google.com/search?q=sweetmelissas.com |
| Bimini Basin | Dock & Dine | 3–5:30 PM Daily | Recommended |
| Swamp Cat | Craft Beer & Music | 4–6 PM (M–Th) | N/A (Walk-in) |
