20 BEST Bonita Springs Restaurants & Places to Eat (By A Local)
Looking for the best Bonita Springs restaurants & places to eat?
This is a great area for eating out. And we know since we are locals in Bonita Springs. Whether you live here, are snowbirds or just passing through on vacation, Bonita Springs has some of the best restaurants and places to eat in Southwest Florida.
Located between Naples and Fort Myers, Bonita Springs is a pleasant coastal town along the Gulf of Mexico. It is known for its sandy, shelly beaches, outdoor activities, incredible sunsets, and beautiful weather. Palm trees swaying, lush foliage and views of the water, make dining out a true pleasure.
Since Bonita Springs is on the Gulf of Mexico, fresh fish and seafood are a staple on most menus. From casual to upscale dining experiences, or places with a water view, there is always somewhere to go for any occasion. Here are some of the best restaurants and places to eat in Bonita Springs.
Best Casual Restaurants in Bonita Springs
Casual dining in Bonita Springs also pertains to your attire. No need for jackets or ties even in the more upscale restaurants. Slacks, shorts, collared shirts, skirts, sun dresses and capris are perfect when dining out in Southwest Florida.
Most restaurants and places to eat in Bonita Springs fall into the casual dining category. Here are some of our best choices.
1. A Table Apart
A Table Apart is known for its commitment to the community by using organic and sustainable food sourcing for their fish and meats, and fresh and locally grown produce. The cuisine is considered global fusion, a combination of Asian, American, and Hawaiian flavors.
Chef Jarrod Davis uses Le Cordon Bleu cooking techniques to produce outstanding gourmet food. Some of our favorite fish dishes are the Triple Tail Aioli with a Citrus Beurre Blanc, Asparagus and White Rice, and the Crispy Fried Whole Yellowtail with Asian Soba Noodle Salad. Other favorites include the Braised Short Ribs, Pork Chops and Rack of Lamb.
Since I am a big fan of desserts, the White and Dark Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding is delicious. A good selection of wine and beer are also served.
The wait staff are attentive but not intrusive. Even though food is upscale, the setting is casual and wearing shorts and a polo shirt is perfectly acceptable.
The restaurant is located on Bonita Beach Road west of I-75. They have indoor and patio seating. A Table Apart is open Thursday to Sunday starting at 5pm and I recommend making a reservation in advance. The dining experience is pricey but well worth the money.
- Address: 4925 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-221-8540
2. Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge
The restaurant and bar scene in Bonita Springs is expanding and finally we have a place to go that stays open pass 10pm!!! Chartreuse is a cocktail lounge that also serves desserts.
Most people go there for their creative cocktails and the hip, high energy atmosphere, with sofas, overstuffed chairs, and a sleek bar. The bartenders are experienced mixologists, who can really put on a show.
The cocktail menu is extensive offering a variety of Cocktails, Classics, Suggested Flights (4 selections ½ ounce each), Spirits, Wines, and Beer.
And of course, with all the amazing choices, someone like me is happy with the traditional Mojito. Desserts include Crème Brulé, cheesecake, seasonal tarts, and assorted chocolate truffles.
Chartreuse is in Old Bonita Springs on Old 41. They are open Monday through Thursday 4pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 1am, and Sunday 2pm to 11pm. Depending on capacity, you may wait in line to enter the lounge.
- Address: 27313 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
- Tel: 239-949-2775
3. DeRomo’s Gourmet Restaurant and Market
DeRomo’s located in the Promenade at Bonita Bay on Tamiami Trail, is a culinary haven that caters to food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. From their delectable gourmet dishes to their diverse selection of artisanal products in the market, DeRomo’s offers a complete sensory experience.
Italian Gourmet Market – this is where I shop for my freshly made pastas, prepared foods, breads, pastries, olives, and fresh mozzarella. The mozzarella is made daily in the store and is warm right after packaging. We love watching them make it!
They have a takeout counter where we order our sandwiches and pizzas. Please take note, the sandwiches are large and can be shared. I always order the Caprese with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and balsamic on an Italian roll.
Along with the Bakery is a Coffee Bar which opens at 7am. A perfect start to your day – coffee and a pastry!
Seating is available outside of the Market. When the weather is comfortable (not too hot), we will eat our sandwiches and watch everyone coming and going in the market.
The Market is open Sunday and Monday from 8am to 4pm, and Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 6pm.
DeRomo’s Restaurant is an indoor/outdoor dining experience next to the Market. It is open daily for lunch (11am to 3pm), Happy Hour at the Bar (4pm to 6pm) and dinner (4pm to 9pm). The menu consists of products that are offered in the Market – fresh pastas, meats, and fish.
They have an extensive wine list, and a variety of cocktails, spirits and beers are also available. Pricing is moderate and families are welcome.
- Address: 26851 South Bay Drive Suite 140 & 148, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-325-3583
4. Doug’s Seafood
Doug’s Seafood is a hidden gem in Bonita Springs. This casual spot offers some of the best seafood in the area. The prices are reasonable, and the food is fresh and flavorful.
I recently tried the fried grouper wrap, which was perfectly cooked. The homemade onion rings on the side added a crispy crunch. Doug’s is also famous for its lobster rolls and homemade chowders, which many rave about for their generous portions and authentic New England taste.
The laid-back atmosphere at Doug’s adds to its charm. You place your order at the counter and receive a number. Then, take a seat in the dining area. It’s a simple, no-frills experience that lets the food speak for itself.
Whether you’re there for lunch or a quick dinner, Doug’s Seafood offers great quality without breaking the bank. It’s a must-visit spot in Bonita Springs.
- Address: 3411 Bonita Beach Road, Suite 307, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-319-5702
5. Enzo’s Italian Restaurant
The moment you walk in the restaurant, you can smell the garlic. Enzo’s has a warm and inviting atmosphere setting the stage for a memorable dining experience where you savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine.
This is our go to place when we want a good pasta meal at a reasonable price. We have been coming here since 2011 and our kids love it as well as their friends.
Enzo’s offers an extensive food and wine menu, and they have a bar. Some of our family favorites are the Penne alla Vodka with Peas, Orecchiette con Broccoli, and the Pizzas.
We like the Alla Margherita and Vegetarian. When seated, the staff will bring their house made focaccia bread with an olive oil sundried tomato dipping sauce which is delicious.
Located on Bonita Beach Road, close to the beach, Enzo’s is open 7 days a week from 4pm to 9:30pm for dinner. Happy Hour starts at 3pm (at the bar) till 6pm daily.
The restaurant has a children’s menu, and you can order online for delivery (via DoorDash).
- Address: 4351 Bonita Beach Road SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-992-5555
6. Figs Grille
Figs Grille offers a Mediterranean cuisine with a creative flair touching on flavors and spices from Italy, Morrocco, Lebanon, and Turkey. This Bonita Springs restaurant is comfortable and spacious with indoor and outdoor dining. This is where we meet local friends and bring out of town family.
The dining experience is different than the tropical style Floridian restaurants. It is more about culture and trying foods prepared differently like the Moroccan Tagines with chicken, seafood or lamb prepared in an earthenware pot with basmati rice.
I always try the fish like the grilled Ahi Tuna with spinach, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and mushrooms with a soy ginger glaze over potatoes. Or the Corvina Fish sautéed with mushrooms, oven fried tomatoes, and peas, with a garlic white wine sauce.
There is an extensive wine list and a full bar. Children’s menu is available. The restaurant is in a shopping center off Tamiami Trail. It is open Monday through Saturday from 4:30pm to 8:30pm. Reservations are suggested and the dress code is casual.
- Address: 25987 S Tamiami Trail #109, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-390-1700
7. North Bonita Country Club
The North Bonita Country Club is a casual Bonita Springs neighborhood hangout serving good food with live music. Open for breakfast (Saturday and Sunday), lunch and dinner, the menu covers all food groups and features fresh seafood and fish.
I like the grilled grouper tacos and fried grouper sandwich.
Open Wednesday and Thursday from 11:30am to 10pm, Friday 11:30am to 11pm, Saturday from 9am to 11pm, and Sunday from 9am to 9pm. They are located on Old 41 and offer indoor and outdoor seating.
- Address: 24850 Old 41 Rd # 12, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
- Tel: 239-288-1470
8. Prime House Steak and Seafood
This is a good place for the meat and seafood lovers. From perfectly dried aged steaks (21 to 28 days) to expertly prepared seafood dishes, this is a family owned and operated restaurant that cares about food and service. Prime House Steak and Seafood is contemporary and has been recently redone due to the devastating effects from Hurricane Ian in September 2022.
The Porterhouse Steak for 2 feeds at least 3 and the NY Strip Steak are popular choices at Prime. For the non-meat lover, the Grouper and Sea Bass are great choices along with crabcakes, lobster and scallops.
The creamed spinach side dish is a must even if you are not a big fan of spinach! As I always do, I save room for dessert. The Key Lime Pie is a perfect ending to a great meal.
Prime House is on Bonita Beach Road heading towards the beach. It has a bar and an extensive wine list. They offer an early bird special from 4:30pm to 5:30pm and a Create Your Own 3 Course Dinner till 5:45pm. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30pm till 9:00pm.
- Address: 4480 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-301-4949
9. Rooftop at Riverside
In the heart of downtown Bonita Springs, Rooftop at Riverside offers a unique dining experience as a food truck park featuring a two-story rooftop bar. It’s an ideal locale for gatherings with friends and family, providing a tasty blend of food and drinks in the historic center of town, just opposite Riverside Park.
At Rooftop at Riverside, you have the option to have a drink at either the first or second-floor bars. Both bars are equipped with TV screens, but the second floor is the designated spot for those wanting to hear the games.
If you’re hungry, head over to the food trucks stationed on-site. Placing an order is a breeze, and once ready, you’ll be provided with a pager, allowing you to comfortably wait for your meal. You can bring your food back to your chosen table inside the bar area.
Currently featuring several diverse food trucks specializing in seafood, meat dishes, pizza, and ice cream, Rooftop at Riverside has plans to expand, adding two more trucks. The outside courtyard is perfect for families, offering a safe and enjoyable space for children. Outdoor activities like mini golf, adds more fun to your dining experience.
With the rising popularity of food trucks, Rooftop at Riverside’s concept is a refreshing and exciting addition to the dining scene in Bonita Springs.
- Address: 10450 Reynolds Street (corner of Old 41 and Reynolds Street), Bonita Springs, FL 34135
10. The Bohemian Restaurant
Stylish, eclectic, sexy, hip, and contemporary would be a start in describing The Bohemian restaurant. Tapas style menu is meant to be shared (if possible!). They source locally and have their own rooftop organic garden using the herbs in their drinks and food preparation.
The bar serves wines, cocktails, and beers from local Florida breweries. You can order from the Bar Bites menu, which includes Sweet Pig Buns and Wing Dings. The dining menu offers Seafood Towers with a variety of raw fish and seafood, Shareables – Snacks, Lighter Fare – Sides, Larger Plates and of course Not Least of All – dessert.
We like the Goat & Rye, Caramelized Stone Fruit Burrata, Cold Water Lobster Rolls Hot, and the Plantains & Black Bean Fritters and a cold bottle of Chenin Blanc. The dishes come out when ready and there is more than enough food to share with at least three people. The menu changes according to season and what is locally available.
The unique blend of flavors, textures and ingredients makes each dish a special eating experience.
The Bohemian Restaurant is in the Entrada Plaza on the corner of Bonita Beach Road and Old 41. They are open daily from 5pm to 10pm. Seating is available indoor and outdoor. Reservations are accepted in advance for parties of 6 or more. If less than 6, you can call ahead for a same day reservation.
- Address: 27975 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
- Tel: 239-451-9619
11. Waffle Monkey
The Waffle Monkey opened in May 2023, and it has become a very popular place for locals and tourists for breakfast and lunch. If you like Belgian waffles (which we do), this is the place to eat. Everything is made with waffles and are either sweet or savory (topped with bacon, ham, cheese, or eggs).
The concept was developed by Abraham and Elicia Bedell. Currently they have restaurants in Tamarindo, Guanacaste Costa Rica and Georgetown, Grand Cayman Islands, and this is their first US operation.
We like the Churro Waffle with caramel sauce, Nuts About Chocolate Waffle with nuts, peanut butter and Nutella, and the Old School Waffle with powdered sugar. Everything is delicious and the atmosphere is lively – ideal spot for families with children.
The Waffle Monkey is in the Entrada Plaza on the corner of Bonita Beach Road and Old 41. Seating is available indoors and on the patio. They are open daily from 7am to 3pm.
- Address: 27975 Old 41 Rd #106, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
- Tel: 239-325-0024
12. Wolfmoon Bakery
The Wolfmoon Bakery recently opened in Bonita Springs and is already a huge hit with locals and tourists. The focus is on sweet and savory croissants or medialunas in Argentinian – butter, chocolate, cheese, spinach, ricotta, and egg.
Everything is made on premises, and you can watch the baking operation through the large window in the shop. There are small tables and chairs for indoor and outdoor seating.
Other treats include Cinnamon Roll, Lemon Bread, Carrot Cake, and Brownies. Sandwiches made on a croissant are also available. Specialty coffees along with a sweet treat make for a pleasant breakfast.
The shop is open daily from 7am to 2pm. It is in the Entrada Plaza on Bonita Beach Road and Old 41.
- Address: 27975 Old 41 Rd #107, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
- Tel: 239-494-3046
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Bonita Springs
Looking to head out to someplace special for a celebration or romantic night out? Check out these upscale Bonita Springs restaurants.
13. Angelina’s Ristorante
Angelina’s is a modern, upscale, fine dining Italian restaurant in Bonita Springs. This is where we go to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or a special night out. The menu offers a good selection of pastas, meats, and fish as well as daily specials.
The pasta dishes can be shared which is something we really enjoy. I like the pappardelle capri with homemade pasta, San Marzano tomatoes, basil, lemon, olive oil and fresh buffalo mozzarella as well as the Cacio e Pepe.
The wine list is extensive, and they have a 3-story refrigerated wine tower in the center of the dining area holding over 4,000 bottles of wine. Cocktails are also available. Nightly live piano music contributes to the cozy atmosphere and parking is via valet.
The dress code at Angelina’s is business casual which means no shorts allowed and men should wear closed toe shoes. Reservations are recommended. Angelina’s is located on Tamiami Trail, north of Bonita Beach Road.
- Address: 24041 S Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-390-3187
14. C Level Bistro and Wine Bar
C Level is a sophisticated French bistro with a new age, chill feel. We love the blue lighting and the neon-lit bar. A totally different feeling than the other restaurants in the area. The menu has a good selection of meats and fishes (and they have a children’s menu).
We enjoy the Chilean Miso Sea Bass and the Black Grouper. My dad is a fan of the Rack of New Zealand Lamb. The wine selection is very good as well as the cocktails. The daily Happy Hour from 4:30pm to 6pm is served in the bar area.
C Level is open Monday through Saturday from 4:30pm to 9:00pm. Outdoor seating is available weather permitting. Dinner reservations are recommended. C Level is on Bonita Beach Road heading towards the beach.
- Address: 4450 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-221-7046
15. Wylds Café
Wyld’s Cafe is an interesting restaurant because it is in a small strip shopping center on Bonita Beach Road and the entrance faces to the back parking lot. You can easily pass it! But once you come inside, you enter an intimate space, low lighting and artwork lining the walls from local artists which are available for purchase.
The food is American cuisine using fresh locally sourced ingredients. Even though it is generally hot in Southwest Florida, I love their Roasted Tomato and Butternut Squash Bisque topped with crème fraiche! Also, the Ahi Tuna Nachos are a great starter.
We always like to try the fish and the Cashew Encrusted Black Grouper as well as the Barramundi with the Soy Butter Sauce deliver on taste and presentation.
Beer and wine are available and save room for dessert. The Crème Brulé is a crepe version of crème brulé and worth every calorie! Wylds Café is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4:30pm to 9pm. Happy Hour is from 4:30pm to 5:45pm.
- Address: 4271 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-947-0408
Best Bonita Springs Restaurants on The Water
If you want to have the true Floridian experience sitting on the water, enjoying the sunshine and views with a cold drink in your hand (while making your friends and family jealous back home), then check out these places in Bonita Springs.
16. Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille
First, we are absolutely thrilled that Coconut Jack’s is back in business after rebuilding from Hurricane Ian that devastated Bonita Beach last September 2022. The restaurant is beautiful and still has the original layout prior to the storm.
Seating is available indoors, at the bar or in the Tiki Hut. This is the place for the old Florida feel looking out onto the Back Bay and watching the fish jump out of the water.
The menu has emphasis on seafood including grouper which is a staple from the Gulf of Mexico. We always order the Crunchy Fried Grouper Sandwich or Basket. Anything fried is good but crunchy fried is even better!
The menu offers meat, chicken and seafood options and there is generally a daily special. The full bar has cocktails, wines, and beer. There is also a children’s menu.
Coconut Jack’s is on Bonita Beach Road very close to the beach. It is open daily from 11am to 10pm and Happy Hour is from 3pm to 5pm. Valet parking is your only choice. They do not accept reservations, first come first served seating.
- Address: 5370 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-676-7777
17. Doc’s Beach House
Doc’s is our only restaurant in Bonita Springs that is on the beach. The view of the Gulf of Mexico is fantastic, and it makes your day at the beach even more fun. You can eat indoors or on the beach.
It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 8am to 10pm. Burgers, sandwiches, pizza, fish, salads and more are offered including a full bar. Most importantly it is cash only. There is an ATM on premises. Parking is valet and the place is always packed.
Happily, Doc’s has officially reopened in December 2023 after extensive repairs due to Hurricane Ian in September 2022!!!!
- Address: 27908 Hickory Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Tel: 239-992-6444
18. The Fish House
Fish House has always been one of our favorite laid back restaurants in Southwest Florida. With tiki hut dining along the water as well seating indoors, this is what we love about being along the Gulf Coast. Drinking rum runner’s mid-afternoon during happy hour while watching the fish jump around in the bay. Also, a great place to watch the sunset.
This restaurant is very popular with locals and visitors. It started in 1994 and it has a great view of the Back Bay. The menu has lots of seafood and fish choices as well as some chicken and beef.
We like the Gulf Coast Crunchy Grouper Sandwich and the Crunchy Reuben Grouper. Again, being on the Gulf of Mexico, grouper is a staple in most restaurants. The Fish House has a full bar as well as bar seating.
This is a good place for families and is extremely casual. They do not take reservations, first come first served.
The Fish House is located on Bonita Beach Road close to the beach. We are very happy to report that the Fish House has reopened after rebuilding from the devastating hurricane (Ian) in September 2022.
The new Tiki Hut is fantastic with a beautiful view of the back bay. Make sure to come by and support the team!!!!
Coming Soon to Bonita Springs!
A lot has been happening in Bonita Springs and we are excited to let you know that four new venues are set to make their debut in 2024.
19. Sugarshack Downtown
Another win for downtown Bonita Springs, Sugarshack Downtown will be a live music, restaurant, and bar venue.
They will have indoor and exterior bars, a covered outdoor eating area and an outdoor stage. It is projected that the Sugarshack will have seating for 270 guests.
- Address: 10510 Childers Street, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
20. The Causeway
SPECIAL NOTE: The Causeway is temporarily closed. Awaiting news on when it will reopen.
The Causeway is now officially open since December 2023. The restaurant has 4 different kitchens with a global menu, a fully stocked bar, and a self-serve beer wall featuring 20 taps from local craft breweries in Florida.
We were required to provide our driver’s license to receive a wristband, allowing us to dispense an array of local brews while keeping track of our choices. The bar has a large window that opens to picnic tables on the side of the building.
We really liked the industrial-chic atmosphere with minimalist touches. This is a very casual place with a diverse menu and lots of drink choices.
- Address: 28280 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
- Tel: 239-431-4912
Visiting Bonita Springs: FAQs
The following are answers to some of the most asked questions about eating in Bonita Springs.
Where do locals eat in Bonita Springs?
We enjoy eating in all the great restaurants in Bonita Springs and during off season (May through September), many of the restaurants run promotions.
When we want something easy or comfort food, we will get pizza from Grandpa’s Pizza on Old 41. This is cash only and the pizza is crispy.
For breakfast or lunch, Skillets hits the spot. Reliable good food in a relaxed atmosphere.
What are the best Bonita Springs restaurants that deliver?
Many of the restaurants in Bonita Springs offer delivery either directly from the restaurants or through a service like DoorDash, Slice or Grubhub.
- Bella Luna Pizza and Pasta is a standard Italian restaurant with an in-house delivery service located off Bonita Beach Road east of I-75. They are open Monday through Friday from 11am to 8:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 4pm to 8:30pm.
- Mel’s Diner is your classic American diner serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 7am to 9pm. You can place your orders through your favorite app with the following delivery partners: Door Dash, UberEATS, Grubhub and Bite Squad.
- Napoli on the Bay VIII is a pizza restaurant that has their own delivery service. They offer a variety of pizzas, calzones, subs, salads and more.
Final Thoughts: Bonita Springs Restaurants
Our list of best restaurants in Bonita Springs is just the tip of the iceberg. We are very fortunate to have so many great places to eat and drink in our town with more great places to come. This list should keep you very busy during your visit.
Bonita Springs is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a laid-back coastal getaway with great food. Our community is continually growing and there will be even more great restaurants to visit.
While you are in the area, check out the following articles:
15 Best Naples Florida Rainy Day Activities (By a Local)
Downtown Naples Florida: Things To Do & See
Day Trip to Ave Maria Florida: 5 Best Things to Do in 2024 (By a Local)
33 Best Day Trips from Naples Florida that You’ll Love in 2024
22 Best Things to Do in Bonita Springs Florida in 2024 By a Local
Is Naples Florida Worth Visiting in 2024? (By a Local)
Take a day trip and then come back to Bonita Springs for dinner!
If you would like assistance in planning your trip to Bonita Springs or Naples, Florida, we would be happy to help. Please refer to our Travel Planning services for further information or send us an email if you have any questions or need assistance.