BONITA SPRINGS-ESTERO RESTAURANTS YOU’LL WANT TO TRY
Located in the heart of Southwest Florida, Bonita Springs and Estero have experienced incredible growth in the past decade. Offering a desirable climate, stunning landscapes, and close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no wonder people from across the country continue to migrate to this area. A booming real estate market has given rise to a vibrant cultural scene, from entertainment venues to a wide range of culinary experiences. Here are a few popular area restaurants, both established and “coming soon,” that residents and visitors can add to their dining out guide.
The Industry Standard KItchen + Bar
Taking over the old Causeway restaurant’s location on Old 41 in Bonita Springs, co-owner’s Ken Delaney and Adam Nardis recently opened The Industry Standard. The Causeway’s “four food concepts under one roof” concept was replaced with a new full-service restaurant and bar that includes the BrAva Pizza ghost kitchen. Virually every diner has an open view of the kitchen and there is a Chef’s Bar that seats nine and allows guests to interact with the chef. Chef Nardis, formerly the executive chef for M Waterfront Grill, oversees this “true scratch kitchen” where everything is homemade with the finest ingredients and care. The eclectic menu includes everything from king crab bisque and local snapper to Australian Wagyu short ribs, wood-grilled filet mignon, and hickory-grilled lamb meatloaf. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating with live music, The Industry Standard is open daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Divieto Ristorante
Located at Coconut Point Mall in Estero, Divieto Ristorante offers the best of Italian food fused with a classic American touch. The restaurant’s main dining room features retro 1920s New York decor that takes you back to the days of flappers, gangsters, and Prohibition. There is also an outdoor seating area for those who prefer dining al fresco. With over 70 Italian dishes to choose from, such as lemon-butter sea bass, classic lasagna, and their famous Ruota di Parmigiano, Divieto is sure to please any palate. Their full bar offers a wide selection of wines to pair with your favorite dishes, plus signature and classic cocktails. Divieto is open every day for lunch and dinner, with happy hour every day starting at 3:00 PM.
Rooftop at Riverside
The Rooftop at Riverside is a total dining and entertainment experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Diners can order from five different food trucks, while the rooftop bar overlooking Riverside sports park offers refreshing libations, such as their signature "Calusa Breeze" Pina Colada. Bring your appetite and dig into a mouth-watering "smash burger" from Butcher's Blvd. or savor succulent shrimp from OCN Seafood Co. If Caribbean fare is more your style, check out the Reggae Kitchen food truck. Have a sweet tooth? Indulge in a homemade creamery creation from the Crooked Cow. Located on Old 41 in Bonita Springs, Rooftop at Riverside also offers live music, sports events and holiday festivities, as well as hosting social and corporate events. Food truck and rooftop bar hours vary, so check with their website for details.
PJK Neighborhood Chinese (Opening Soon)
After moving to Naples in 2016, owners Paul Fleming and Jody Goodenough-Fleming were inspired to create a traditional neighborhood Chinese restaurant. Launched in 2023, this vibrant eatery blends traditional Chinese craftsmanship with fresh, locally sourced seafood, and a commitment to scratch-made sauces. Building on the success of PJK, the owners are set to open their second location at Coconut Point in Estero in the fall of 2024. The menu features delicate hand-folded dumplings, perfectly prepared local seafood, as well as traditional Chinese dishes like orange beef with spicy Sichuan sauce. At PJK, great food, warm hospitality, and a coastal ambiance come together for an unforgettable dining experience. Visit their website for grand opening details.
Real Seafood Co. (Opening Soon)
The Real Seafood Company is a contemporary seafood restaurant that offers a diverse selection of fresh seafood from the waters of New England to the Gulf of Mexico. Formerly situated in North Naples, the restaurant recently closed that location to make its way to the Coconut Point Mall in Estero. At Real Seafood, diners can enjoy fresh and delicious seafood dishes, such as Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, Stuffed Atlantic Salmon, and Coconut Encrusted Fried Gulf Shrimp, in a casual chic setting. The culinary team emphasizes quality ingredients and freshness, with seafood caught and express delivered to all their locations. With restaurants in Ohio and Michigan, Real Seafood Co. expects the Estero location to open in the fall of 2024. Visit their website for up-to-date information.
Chubby Mermaid Brewing Co. (Opening Soon)
Chubby Mermaid Brewing, a new brewpub with an on-site restaurant, is coming to Bonita Springs this fall. Beyond brewing great beer, owners Gary and Josh are passionate about sharing their knowledge with others to foster a deeper appreciation for craft brewing. Their mission is to bring new concepts to crafting beer while providing a warm, welcoming space where customers can enjoy a quiet pint or celebrate special moments with friends. In addition to an extensive proposed draft list, the brewery will also serve wine and hard seltzers. The food menu will include pub favorites such as pizza, loaded nachos, giant pretzels, burgers, and buffalo wings. Chubby Mermaid will be open daily from 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tuesday through Sunday. Follow them on Facebook for grand opening updates.
