Sunday, May 1, 2011

New Eateries, Menus and Places to Whet Your Appetite on Sanibel

Although many, many restaurants on our little island have been around for quite some time, there are always new ones popping up. Or restaurants that have changed their menus sufficiently to merit notice. And there are before dinner places emerging where a sip or two might make a nice prelude to a great dinner.

Because there are so many new alternatives, for this blog post we will stay with actual restaurants that have burst onto the Sanibel scene and will fill in other choices at a later date.


And speaking of sipping, as we did above, one place we have heard great things about, but have not yet tried is Cip's Place on Periwinkle Way. Cip's intrigues us as much for its history as it does for its edible offerings. Named for long time Islander Jimmy Cipriani. Jimmy, or "Cip," was the former owner of the property where Cip's is located. He was a common sense, down to earth man who always had a story to share, a cause to support and.most importantly an invitation to lunch or dinner.Jimmy always made time for good conversation, good company and great food.



Cip's menu is a casual as Cip was himself. It's inventive and as flexible as your budget allows. "Islander Favorites" which are served from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. are inexpensively priced and even the slightly more sophisticated dinner menu is fun and funky and a little less costly than other Island restaurants. And you can meet and greet with a glass of wine or beverage of your choice during Cip's happy hour. Cip's also offers outdoor dining which is pet friendly!


Another "newbie" on the Island scene is The Stone Crab, another place we have yet to try but are hearing nice things about. Again, casual and fun, The Stone Crab, located on West Gulf Drive offers their servings in baskets. During season the restaurant had live entertainment and is viewed as a great place for an easy family night out.


One restaurant we have had occasion to try and were pleased with the choice is George and Wendy's Corner Grill, also on Periwinkle. George and Wendy's has a most pleasant atmosphere, colorful yet chic with lots of wonderful island and water related art.


The sleek tables are inviting as is the menu. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a kid's menu, George and Wendy's has something to meet every taste... and that includes those who just want to stop in for a drink There is an extensive wine list, and is served both by the glass and the bottle. There are ten beers on tap and many craft beers by the bottle. The full bar includes some signature drinks for those looking for something special.


Twilight, another Periwinkle dining treat and newly relocated, offers intimate dining with an open to public view kitchen. Special dining includes build your own pasta options and build your own dinner options. Mix and match as you please!


Stay tuned for more updates...same page, same place....

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