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Vegetables on wooden table
Various vegetables on a wooden table with copy space
Our suggestions on where to enjoy a meal of local citrus, greens, tomatoes and more—from new restaurants and old faithfuls.
Pasture & Pearl (Sanibel Island): Expect the unexpected, like baked oysters with yuzu butter and lentils with smoked cauliflower and grape relish, at this just-opened elegant getaway for food lovers. pastureandpearl.com
Jack’s Farm to Fork (Fort Myers Beach): The kitchen team has undergone recent changes, but the Pink Shell Resort is carrying on the mission conceived a year ago for a fine-dining experience with an eclectic mix of influences—all with wide-open views of the Gulf. pinkshell.com
Harold’s (Fort Myers): This petite, genteel dining room is home to Harold Balink, one of the Gulfshore’s best chefs. He sources many of his ingredients from local gems like Circle C Farm in Bonita Springs (for eggs, poultry and lamb) as well as other Florida farms. haroldscuisine.com
Mermaid Garden Café (Fort Myers): For a great breakfast or lunch, opt for Gloria Jordan’s whimsical retreat with spiked lemonades, baked eggs and leafy salads. mermaidgardencafe.com
Buckingham Farms (Fort Myers): In the barn, knock back a midday meal that’s been whipped up by a talented roster of chefs; then buy peaches and more in the general store. buckinghamfarmsonline.com
Purple Spoon Culinary (Bonita Springs): Chef Kristina San Filippo opened this studio late last year in which she runs cooking classes and hosts wine dinners by night. By day, she serves lunch and sells prepared foods, and hosts a Wednesday farmers market featuring her suppliers. chefkristina.com
The Local (Naples): Our first farm-and-sea-to-table boîte with a rural-chic feel is still going strong—and is arguably better than ever—since its 2013 launch. thelocalnaples.com
Food & Thought (Naples): One of the first organic groceries in Southwest Florida, its accompanying café with a lush courtyard is dependable for quick eats, including raw and vegan options. This fall, another market from the same family is scheduled to open on Immokalee Road near I-75. foodandthought.com