9 Of The Best Boca Grande Restaurants

Boca Grande is a charming residential community on Gasparilla Island in southwest Florida. The village of Boca Grande is best known for its soft sugar-sand beaches, world-class fishing, and charismatic and historic downtown. After a day spent relaxing at the beach or touring some of Boca Grande's top sights, including Gasparilla Island State Park, the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse, or the Frazetta Art Museum, you deserve a decadent dinner at one of Boca Grande's top restaurants. Whether you would like to dine downtown or prefer restaurants on the water, we have researched some of the top dining establishments in the village to whet your appetite!

The Pink Elephant restaurant opened in 1949 with a kitschy turquoise neon sign depicting a dancing pink elephant wearing a party hat and holding a martini glass in its trunk. It is now part of the incomparable Gasparilla Inn. Located on the Boca Grande Bayou, it is an excellent choice for a casual lunch or dinner. They offer signature drinks, and Executive Chef Rob Plesh's inspired interpretations of local seafood and regional comfort food have resulted in a loyal customer base. There are inside dining options, including an upstairs dining room and downstairs pub, plus they have outdoor dining on their picturesque outdoor patio. Local favorite dishes include Yellow-Fin Tuna Tartar, Honey Miso Steak Salad, and Jamaican Jerked Red Snapper.

The Gasparilla Inn Main Dining Room, located inside the Gasparilla Inn at 500 Palm Ave, is open to the public. They serve a delightful full breakfast daily, from traditional buttermilk pancakes to glazed lobster omelets, low-country shrimp, and grits. Popular dinner items include Coquilles Saint-Jacques, Manhattan Clam Chowder, Clam Coconut a la Nage, and Red Wine Risotto.

This American eatery is housed in a former train depot, with tasty local seafood dishes, homemade ice cream, and a pet-friendly patio for outdoor dining, located at 433 4th St in West Boca Grande. With awards for the 2016 Wine Spectator's Award Of Excellence and the Le Boeuf pick for Best Key Lime Pie, dining at the Key Lime Bistro Boca Grande & The Loose Caboose Ice Cream Shoppe does not disappoint. They serve breakfast and brunch items with inspired dishes such as Crab Cake Benedict, Key Lime Style Huevos Rancheros, and Belgian Waffles. In addition, you can experience tasty dishes such as Tuna Tataki, Portobello Salad, Grouper Sandwich, Paella Valencia, Almond Mahi, and Sauteed Snapper for lunch and dinner. Finally, stop by for dessert at The Loose Caboose Ice Cream Shoppe!

The Temptation Restaurant is a beautiful bright café with inspiring beach murals, a wine boutique, and casual seafood and grill fare. Known for having the freshest seafood in town, Temptation Restaurant is located at 350 Park Ave; this restaurant is a favorite among locals. The appealing menu offers tempting dishes such as Lobster Corn Chowder, Fried Oysters, House Signature Sauteed Crab Cakes, Filet Mignon, and a mouthwatering Surf & Turf plate.

This relaxed waterfront restaurant with an appealing maritime theme serves a sublime selection of fresh seafood, steak, and creative cocktails. Located in the heart of Boca Grande at 220 Harbor Drive, the Eagle Grille And Miller's Dockside is the perfect place to relax after a busy day. The menu consists of a unique presentation of coastal cuisine freshly prepared by Chef Tito. There are two seating options: the quiet and serene upstairs dining area of the Eagle Grille or the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Miller's Dockside downstairs. There is also the option of the Bellamy Room, which can be reserved for private events. Menu offerings include Chilled Oysters On The Half-shell, Gasparilla Shrimp and Grits, Fresh Local Grouper, Roasted Salmon, Filet Mignon, and Penne Ala Vodka.

Another local favorite for its top-notch cuisine and beautiful view, The Outlet restaurant serves a tempting breakfast and lunch menu that can be boxed up and eaten at the beach. Located at 1251 12th Street in East Boca Grande, menu offerings include breakfast sandwiches, Norwegian Style Smoked Salmon and Toasted Bagel, Blackened Fish Sandwiches, Panini Sandwiches, and Chicken Quesadillas.

This restaurant is family-run and owned by the Scarpa family. Immigrants from Italy, the Scarpa family prides itself on an inspiring fusion of old-world Italian dishes and modern Florida-style fresh seafood plates. At 321 Park Ave, Scarpa's Coastal's popular menu options include an extensive collection of Napa Valley wines, Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp, Eggplant Rollatini, Veal Marsala, Fettucini Alfredo, Chicken Parmigiano, Shrimp Diablo, Linguini with Clam Sauce, and Lobster Ravioli.

Located at 310 E. Railroad Ave, this charming restaurant is located downtown and has a welcoming outdoor dining area. Third Street Bistro features a beautiful garden and cozy inside dining with an eclectic menu of American, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free dishes. Menu offerings include Fried Calamari, Yellow-fin Tuna Tartare, Linguine with Local Cedar Key Clams, Gulf Shrimp Curry, Local Grouper Grenobloise, and various grilled shrimp, steak, and chicken entrees.

While the South Beach Bar & Grille is temporarily closed until 2024, it is a fantastic eatery that offers exquisite seafood and cocktails in a picturesque setting with breathtaking ocean views. While it is currently closed for construction, they offer you to visit their sister restaurant Mimi's 3rd Street Grille. At Mimi's 3rd Street Grille, you will find the island's best Seafood Chowder, Baja Shrimp, and Pan-Seared Scallops.

While taking in the sights of the beautiful village of Boca Grande and exploring its tempting dining options, you may decide that living doesn't get much better. There is much to do, from quaint downtown shops to gorgeous restaurants on the water. Boca Grande is luxury living at its best! If you want to view properties in Boca Grande, don't hesitate to contact the respected realtors at Olivia Jones Realty. They are the local experts in Boca Grande real estate and are eager to assist you in finding your dream luxury home!