50 Best American Restaurants near Saint James City

“Great dining experience right on the water - great menu selection - great drinks, great view, amazing service!! Everything was great! Our waitress was super!! She had just gotten back from a vacation in Costa Rica.Kid-friendliness: Great kids menu!“

“I've been many times and have always had delicious food. Pizzas, fried chicken sandwich, Philly cheese steak, chicken tacos, but my favorite is the fried Haddock sandwich.Parking: Steph is a great cook and she usually checks up with customers to make sure they are satisfied and happy with their food. I'm enjoying new items on the menu too.“

“Look, you have many choices in Fort Myers, but this place is really good! The waitstaff are happy, it's right on the bay and thenlive music is just the right volume. Food is fantastic. We had Mahi Mahi, Grouper and Hogfish. All were very tasty and cooked correctly. Enjoy!“

“While exploring this beautiful little island my boyfriend and I stopped in this amazing establishment. The staff was friendly. Our waiter (Kale?) was nothing less than phenomenal. The food was hot, fresh and served as artwork. You can tell the passion this establishment has for food and people! If I ever get to visit again this will definitely be a must eat again place!“

“Let me start off by saying this is my seafood goto. However, I have to remind myself that every time. If I was just rating them by the seafood, they would get 5stars. Everything else on the menu is edible but nothing to write home about. Tip...Get the Clam Poutine Appetizer it's delicious ? and imaginative.“

“We had lunch at Blue Dog yesterday April 24 and OMG it was amazing. Having lived here 7 years in Florida we’ve been to Blue Dog many times but never ate outside on their patio. Our server Karen Bacalla was certainly in her wheelhouse. Karen was serving multiple tables and personalizing everyone on the patio made it like a party atmosphere and nobody knew each other when we sat down. We felt like VIP’s Our hats off to the chef, the peel & eat shrimp appetizer was huge and the old bay seasoning never disappointed. My coconut rum butter sauced mahi mahi with pina colada rice was absolutely the best very delicious. My husband had grouper bites to die for, Karen recommended that as well as the She crab soup and it’s a MUST have dish.Thank you Karen and Blue Dog for serving such wonderful dishes and having an amazing atmosphere ? we’ll be back for sure ? ?.“

“Loved every single thing we ordered - burgers were excellent with fun, unique toppings. Nachos were out of this world. The beer cheese with the piping hot pretzels was actual beer cheese and not pretend fake cheese. Fantastic beer selection. We’ll be back next time we’re in town!“

“Great quality food & very friendly and welcoming staff. I had the South of the Border omelette, it was one of the best omelettes I’ve had in a long time, and the hash browns were cooked nice and crispy and not soggy. My wife loved the biscuits and gravy. Prices are super reasonable too, 3 of us ate for $36 total. We will definitely come back next time we visit!“

“Was a cool place to visit while on vacation. The food was delicious, and the restaurant had a fun vibe. Our server was incredibly friendly but not so prompt on the service. Our biggest complaint was that we called ahead for seating but they said they couldn't find it so we had to wait. Was a bit disappointing.“

“Fabulous Service by our server, Jennifer made a hectic setting extremely enjoyable. You step on to this breath-taking island amongst a flurry of activity of others who've disembarked simultaneously to lunch and explore during a set, albeit limited time frame. More hustle-bustle than you're hoping for but the staff makes it work well with their lower 'deck' bar for refreshments while waiting for a table, not to mention ample patio seating as well as live entertainment outdoors while you wait. We were able to wander a bit, quite nearby, acknowledging the ospreys, herons, egrets, a gopher turtle and a myriad of botanical delights, while sipping a cool drink. Soon enough it was our turn for a table as our name/party count had been provided by our ship's captain prior to arrival. This is where our server, Jennifer swept in and absolutely made our day with her spectacular and professional abilities. She is a keeper! Loved her suggestions and she checked back during our meal periodically, despite having a very full plate, indeed. Of course, we couldn't leave without being 'cheesy' and partaking in the ever-popular Cheeseburger (in Paradise). WOW! There's simply nothing more to say. No possible improvements. We could not have been in better hands, all the way around. I'm a native Floridian and while I have all sorts of choices throughout the state I take visitors to, this will always remain a favorite, particularly with service of this nature.“

“I’ve gone in for breakfast twice in the last few weeks. Beautiful decor inside. The food is delicious. My eggs were fluffy and flavorful. Bacon was cooked to perfection. I also got chicken & waffles one of the visits and that was great as well.“

“We celebrated my moms 70th bday. Upon making reservations we did mention the bday. Completely surprised to walk in and have the table decorated with party hats and table decorations. Also free dessert! They were wonderful to celebrate with and the steak was amazing!“

“A friend and I went to Cielo for the first time yesterday for Sizzle Dining. The food was fantastic and the service was top notch. We will definitely be back. We both had the aged Manchego app, Demkota ribeye entree, Creme brulee dessert, and a chocolate martini.“

“Finally got to visit front Porch, overall had a nice evening, small plates were yummy and cocktails were good, maybe could have a few more salad choices, our server Sam was excellent, recommended good choices from the menu, was engaging and attentive without being intrusive, we will be “

“First off our waiter Nancy was so nice and just awesome to have as a server. The food is amazing I love this place no matter what you order I promise you you will go back. Visit this place you won't regret it they have a wide variety menu. This time I got the turkey bacon club because I love a good sandwich and the soup I want that recipe.Went there bout 2 weeks ago and the waitress something about her don't sit right with me she bring me a dirty spoon and not just that a small peace of glass was in the soup. Showed her she didn't look surprised and as she's looking at it she drops it and then act like she didn't see it. Everytime we find a good restaurant it's always something but we won't be back there sorry I bragged about y'all to everyone but now it's y'all lost two customers because I'm never going back.“

“Have you ever seen an unhappy whale? No. Ya know why? They eat deliciously, bask in the sun and are surrounded by their fun little pod. What's not to be happy about!The Whale is the place to come if you're looking to be surrounded by happy, carefree people who are just out here loving life. Both customers and staff...these people are living their best lives.It's the place to come if you're hungry, and even if you didn't know you were...once you get a whiff of the deliciousness wafting through the air, your belly will instantly put you on blast. And you'll be hooked, EVERYTHING is sooooo good. And it's even better with an iced-cold bevvie. Or two. Or seven.The Whale is always my first stop when in Fort Myers. Good thing I don't live there...I might turn into one!“

“You have to try these burger ? you build your own burgers here the way you want it so if you are ever in the area you have to try lehne burgers they are absolutely delicious ? my first time going and I highly recommend going hand down the best burger in town the person that waited on us was very helpful and very nice and friendly the place is very clean and you can't go wrong in ordering your food just ask the locals if you if don't won't take my word for it“

“I can't say enough about Metro Dinner. Everything we've tried in the last week has been amazing. Food is delicious, food comes out hot, and service with a smile every time we've been there. Thanks to all off you for all you do. Great place.“

“Sanibel Cafe is a must when you come to Sanibel - the ambiance and service is unmatched. Our kids had the m&m pancakes (yummy), we had the sanibel omelette and the breakfast quesadilla - both were so yummy! Be sure to check out their homemade raspberry jam, it's to die for and you can buy some to take home too!“

“Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails is a trendy and upscale restaurant offering a unique dining experience with creative dishes and handcrafted cocktails. The menu features a fusion of flavors, blending classic American cuisine with international influences. With its stylish ambiance and attentive service, it's an ideal spot for special occasions or casual gatherings. While prices may be higher compared to other restaurants, the quality of food and drinks justifies the cost. Overall, Point 57 delivers a memorable culinary journey with its innovative dishes and carefully crafted cocktails.“

“Civice was amazing as well as the $1 oysters. The oysters were on special. Great local atmosphere and waterfront views.Parking: We always park behind the parking garage and there is usually spaces depending time and day.Wheelchair accessibility: Im Handicaped and use a Cain or walker and no problems. Wheelchair van parking will need to go to actual handicap parking space.“

“Wow! The service was amazing (everyone checking on you, not annoying, just right and wonderful attitudes), the food and beverage offerings are top notch and they taste great to boot! What a gem! I sat inside and they mentioned a lounge. While I sat in the main dining room, checked out the lounge after and also had amazing vibes. Would go out of my way for a visit.“

“St. Pattys day we listened to live music, ate spicy seafood next to the busy channel watching boat parties go by or pull up to party. We shared breadsticks, fresh drinks, and respite from the sun under a canopy right at the rivers edge. Always fun to watch the boats go by. Servers are fast, knowledgeable, and great. Food portions are big and we couldn't finish everything but took it home for later. Great time.“

“Was recomend this restaurant by someone on the flight in, told me the bacon wrapped shrimp appetizer was wonderful, so we came for appetizers and desert. Service was great, food was outstanding, views were beautiful. wish I could have stayed for the sunset, request patio seating“

“Being an Eagle member from another state, I know this location has a very open setting and is quite welcoming. Everyone was friendly, we got their before the live music, but the bartender was very helpful in letting us know everything that was happening in the time we were in town.“

“Great place with cold beer and very good food and service. All completely redone since the hurricane.We go several times during our winter stay here and everything is always good. We love sitting outside so we hope they get their tiki roof back up but they do have large umbrellas for shade. Tamra did a great job serving us today.Kid-friendliness: Kid friendlyWheelchair accessibility: Level in and out“

“Great edge of the water tiki bar restaurant overlooking the Caloosahatchee River in Cale Coral... we sat below on the beach area, our waitress was great and the atmosphere was chill along with some good food like seared tuna and coconut shrimp! ??? I also had my first Hurricane there, now I know what they're all singing about! ?????“

“Bell Tower location. Isabella the manager was outstanding! Not only did she handle hosting/seating but also took on a 20 top and numerous other tables..AT THE SAME TIME. Never frowned or got frustrated. It was a busy night with Smokin Aces playing and the entire staff crushed it! Food was also really good!! Will be back soon for certain.“

“Not your average Waffle Houses. This has to be one of my favorite Waffle Houses. it's too bad it's too far for me. It's always super clean, the service is excellent and food is always quick and good. It feels like you're in a cute neighborhood dinner.Wheelchair accessibility: Parking and ramp are very comfortable for anyone in a wheelchair. .“

“If we could give this place 10 stars just for the customer service, we would! The food and drinks were good, but Dianne really made the whole experience! She was especially great with all the kids at our table, brought us water bottles for the beach as we were leaving, and was all around incredibly attentive and had a wonderful attitude and was so sweet! Excellent service! We will be back just because of this!“

“I read that the burgers were good in other reviews and they are spot on with the hamburgers. Very good, hand pressed burgers with toasted bun. Staff was excellent, young girl would stopped by often to refill drinks and remove dirty dishes. Atmosphere is typical bar style, loud and busy. We have lived here for 5 years and this was the first time we tried this Resturant wish we had tried it sooner, we will definitely be back.“

“We visited Sunshine Beach Tropical Grill for dinner on 9/21/22. This place is amazing! The view and food were fantastic! Our server, Becky, was wonderful. She was friendly and attentive; she handled all of our endless requests and was super quick attending to us! Doug was also great! My only complaint would be the construction that is being done during dinner time. It takes away from the ambiance!“

“Did you know the Cyrstal in Shell Point is open to the public? The staff is super friendly. They treat you like family. The Chef and The Manager comes out of the kitchen to run food to the tables! Not because they were short staffed but because they wanted our group of 15 to eat together while the food was hot!They really cared!!“

“Mahi sandwich was awesome. We were there for happy hour. 2 for 1 Margaritas on the rocks, wine was 2 for $8. Wife got crab cakes. She said they were so so. My friends got the happy hour special wings and clams. His wife got the Grouper dinner and loved it. They were really busy but we got a table right away and our server Wendy was spectacular!!“

“Wow! Exceptional staff and 5 star service. Special thanks to Nick, Kader and Carl for working with our daughter to make our 50th anniversary incredibly special. Room comfy & spacious, Food and drinks delicious. We will definitely return.“

“We arrived at Tween Waters pretty late and we were happy that the Shipyard was still open. Frank was our server and was excellent. We ordered the ceviche for an appetizer and it was excellent! We both then ordered the grilled grouper sandwich and it was very good as well. It suffered by comparison to Lazy Flamingo's Mesquite grilled grouper sandwich but it's still a great sandwich.“

“I think anyone goes to Annie's knows this place is a staple and really another one of those nice neighborhood restaurants with a lot of regulars. The food is very good they recently remodeled it is my understanding and it looks nice but you can't beat the service the people are right on it. I seen the best best boy ever seen my life he worked harder than I've ever seen any other busboy work.“

“I recently visited The Cafe Restaurant for a coffee with a friend. My friend did order food. The service and hospitality at this restaurant was outstanding. It is such a nice environment to enjoy a dining experience, and we will definitely plan to return.“

“The Blend is a casual breakfast & lunch dining venue in the Shell Point retirement community. A nice menu and friendly prices. Dine in or out on the covered patio to enjoy the lake view. When your order is ready they call out your name...so a bit like Cheers, everyone knows your name.“

“CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE -About a 10 minute scenic bicycle ride from where we stay in Florida sits Sanibel’s American Legion Post 123. We’ve passed this place many times, always seeing the “Public Welcome” sign. I wondered what the deal was so I did a quick Internet search. The ‘typical’ review said “Best Cheeseburger on the island”. Really, could this be? On our last day in town Cindy and I took the bike ride, curious to check it out.If you prefer restaurants with a fancy decor and an extensive menu I recommend avoiding this place. You also may want to avoid it if you don’t like dogs. The Post Commander’s dog Abby is a Regular at the bar.If you enjoy hanging with some Veterans and real locals, while eating an incredible Burger with a cold Beer then this place is for you. The 8 ounce Burger was so good that I had to ask: “Is this a special blend of meat?” He said “No, but the local butcher grinds it to our spec, fresh every morning.”This was a great local experience and we’ll be bicycling there again.#CaptainCooksBackyard #AmericanLegion #eatlocal #sanibel #sanibelisland #cheeseburgers“

“Rib City was just starting to get busy, but we did not have to wait. The service was great. The food was very good, but the green beans are way too Salty. By the time we left, there was quite a waiting line. It just goes to show you how popular they are! ?“

“Our 20 person group had lunch in their small banquet room. Service is always great and the lunch menu has a nice variety for selection. Desserts were also great. Prices and quality highly competitive. Other than a "dry campus", very enjoyable.“

“Absolutely fabulous first experience here! Celebrated our 25th Anniversary and everything from the wonderful staff to the delicious dinner was perfect. Special thanks to our sweet server Jessica and the manager who both were so kind and so accommodating! Made our evening just perfect! Highly recommended!!!“

“Great choice for dinner. Enjoyed outdoor dining. Nice wine selection and some inventive specialty cocktails. We enjoyed the Chicken Gruyère and Cedar Plank Salmon. Very attentive service. Had to circle around a few times to find a parking spot but we were successful! Highly recommend.“

“This is the place for planet based vegan options! I got the pasta primavera in red sauce and a spaghetti squash bowl! Absolutely excellent if your looking for perfect SWFL atmosphere and a great vegan meal ?Vegetarian options: From the apps with incredible brussel sprouts (not overloaded with deep fried oil ?) and plenty of other plant based options. Burgers to spaghetti squash pasta options. Additional fish add-ons for those that like. How could you not try it out?!Dietary restrictions: They seem to accommodate almost anyone!Kid-friendliness: Might be a bar and grill, but a fun place for kids too I’d say!“

“I came to watch the Final Four Saturday games, and there was cars parked in the grass(not that kind of grass smarty pants) & looked nuts to butts on the patio...so I came back the next day at noonish, plenty of seating on the patio, my beers were 2 for 1, my triple decker turkey club was ? and I recommend it with Cole slaw. Seen a Rottweiler/Lab mix almost eat a little ankle biter lap dog on the patio. That would have been totally rad, or unbelievably terrifying depending on which dog your money is on. Hell yes I shall return.“

“The atmosphere of this place really drew us in but we’re not sure if we will be back. If we do come back we will definitely try different menu items than what we ordered. We ordered fish and chips, coconut shrimp, and lava flow drinks. Everything was just okay.“

“We stopped in tonight for the first time and it was amazing! We had a banana split, brownie sundae and some dipped waffle cones with all different flavors of ice cream, but make sure you don't leave without buying some of the authentic baklava....it's amazing!!!!“

“I first starting coming here because it was close to us. We weren’t huge fans but then the place got bought out by a new owner who is part of our VFW. He is for the veterans and constantly supports them. Besides that the food is amazing!! I love the Ruben, the fish sandwich, their brunch goes to 1pm Saturday and Sunday.. which is awesome!! Hopefully you get Chris the outside bar tender, he is a true mixologist. Love the place and all the workers. So glad Chris the owner made this place a terrific stop and wish him the best!!“

“Loved it. We used to come by boat often. New look and still excellent food and great veiw of the back bay!Vegetarian options: Many choices for the vegans. Fresh caught grouper delicious ?Dietary restrictions: I personally am on a no carb no sugar diet and it was perfect grilled fish fresh side salad.Parking: It's not a very big lot, but there is pd parking across the street.Kid-friendliness: Yes, very kid, freindly!“