The back bar at The Jac Sanibel Island Bar & Grille
In a nostalgia-fueled beach community like Sanibel, where restaurants hold fort for decades, even small changes can feel like shockwaves.
Exactly a year ago this month, new owners took over what had been an island institution, The Jacaranda, and gave it a makeover—new decor, a new menu and even a new name, The Jac Sanibel Island Bar & Grille. But one part of the experience wasn’t ready for its prime-time debut: the fabled back bar, much to the chagrin of locals and regulars. The outdoor space featured live music, long hours and dancing under the stars.
Now, that patio has undergone a refresh, and it’s open for people to take in bands nightly from 7-11 p.m., and the same happy hour deals will be available inside and out. The Jac’s owner, Eve Alves, promises to keep the patio party going just as people remember it, so we can all live happily in the present.
To plan a visit: The Jac Sanibel Island Bar & Grille 1223 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (239) 472-1771 thejacsanibel.com