Florida’s Paradise Coast has become a favorite destination for foodies – and Marco Island is a big reason why. Discover a mix of Marco Island restaurants, from morning mainstays to upscale waterfront seafood houses. Here is where to eat on Marco Island.
On Marco Island, the dining scene runs the gamut from sophisticated to ultra-casual, but two elements remain consistent across the island: delicious fresh seafood served with a side of breathtaking views and friendly, small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a table for a romantic rendezvous, Marco Island restaurants have you covered.
Upscale Marco Island Dining
Marco Beach Ocean Resort’s elegant dining room, Sale e Pepe, features refined, from-scratch Southern Italian fare and a notable wine list, along with Gulf of Mexico views. In the historic Olde Marco Inn, Bistro Soleil is a romantic spot that offers classic French cuisine in a cozy setting. Deck at 560, an upscale restaurant at the Hilton Marco Island, overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and specializes in steaks and eclectic seafood dishes. At the JW Marriott Marco Island, casually elegant Ario serves up steaks, chops and other American fares in a contemporary setting. At this resort, you’ll also find Tesoro, an adults-only restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Or, emulate Gatsby at The Oyster Society, a 1920s-inspired space with a decidedly Art Deco vibe. Indulge in freshly crafted cocktails, locally sourced seafood and a raw bar.
Breakfast on Marco Island
Start your day deliciously at Doreen’s Cup of Joe, a charming counter-serve spot and Marco Island favorite known for its coffee drinks, down-home breakfast dishes and sandwiches. Casual breakfast café NeNe’s Kitchen serves Mexican, American and Italian dishes in a bright, laid-back space. Choose from à la carte or buffet breakfast options at Maia, a casual eatery with coastal vibes located at the JW Marriott Marco Island. For comfort food and a small diner experience, look to Hoot’s, another spot popular with locals.
Casual Spots
There’s no need to spend a lot for great food or ambience on Marco Island. Sami’s, a low-key Italian joint, features pizzas, gyros, wings and pasta, with plenty of beers on tap. Situated in Capt. Bill Collier’s circa-1882 house, Marek’s is best known for its seafood-focused Continental cuisine. Marco Island Brewery’s casual tasting room offers a big selection of beers on tap, 40 flat-screen TVs and an array of pub grub – don’t miss out on one of their burgers. The quirky Crazy Flamingo serves up raw oysters shucked to order and their legendary garlic bread, made with three different types of cheese. And fresh fish – from Atlantic monkfish to Caribbean spiny lobster – is what they do best at Fin Bistro.
Marco Island’s Family-Friendly Restaurants
Kids love dining on Marco, too! Cocomo’s Grill, a laid-back, island-themed eatery, has a range of menu items, from steaks to tuna tacos, as well as a cook-your-catch option. A game room on-site makes it extra kid-friendly. Local seafood shack Pinchers serves the freshest fish, crab and more, with all-day happy hour drink options – and kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée. Families also love the fun, tropical atmosphere at Mango’s Dockside Bistro, and its 750-gallon saltwater fish tank, waterfall and outdoor dining are especially popular with younger visitors. Dogs are also welcome on the patio.
Where to Eat On the Water
What’s a visit to Marco Island without dining on the water? Sunset Grille is the spot to indulge in seasonally inspired small plates while you watch the sunset over the Gulf. Come by boat or car to Snook Inn, a low-key hangout with a variety of seafood dishes, a salad bar, live music and tables right over the water. CJ’s on the Bay is a popular eatery overlooking Smokehouse Bay that serves classic American seafood dishes and cocktails with a side of water views. JW Marriott Marco Island is home to beachside eatery Quinn’s on the Beach, where you’ll find Caribbean-style seafood and colorful tropical drinks. The Speakeasy, a Prohibition Era-inspired waterfront restaurant, serves traditional Chicago fare inside and on its waterfront deck.
Restaurants Near Marco Island
Venturing off the island? With fresh seafood, an island vibe and popular homemade pies, Crabby Lady – which was once a bait shop – is one of Goodland’s best-kept secrets. In the Isles of Capri, enjoy plenty of fresh Florida seafood under the thatched-roof tiki huts at Capri Fish House or Pelican Bend (where, true to its name, pelicans love to gather).
For even more dining options, including top restaurants on the water, explore all Naples area restaurants and plan where to eat in Marco Island before you even get there.