3 Romantic Restaurants in Sanibel Island

If you’re looking for the perfect romantic vacation destination for Valentine’s Day, look no further than Sanibel Island.

This little-known tourist spot is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spending some quality time with the one you love most.

While you are in town, there will be tons of things to do on Sanibel. Stroll along the gorgeous white sand beaches, get your souvenir shopping done at local boutiques, and of course, indulge in delicious meals every day. Here are three of our favorite romantic restaurants located near our Sanibel vacation rentals.

romantic restaurant in Sanibel island
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Sweet Melissa’s Cafe

Visit Sweet Melissa’s Cafe to discover what USA Today has named one of the 10 best restaurants in South Florida! For the last seven years, Sweet Melissa’s Cafe has been welcoming the locals and visitors of Sanibel Island to experience the welcoming atmosphere, impeccable service, and inspired menu selections.

The menu brings fresh ingredients to classic favorites and offers something for every palate. Begin your dinner with small plates like the baby kale salad, grilled octopus, or goat cheese ravioli. Then, select from entrees such as the seared scallops, smoked tenderloin, or black and red fish. And don’t forget about dessert! Options include homemade ice cream and sorbet or Key lime white chocolate bread pudding. Your wait staff will also be happy to recommend a specialty cocktail that will perfectly complement your selections.

Sweet Melissa’s Cafe is located at 1625 Periwinkle Way.

Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant

For the most exquisite beachfront dining experience that perfectly combines a variety of tastes, you have to visit Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant. This award-winning establishment is known for its gastronomic masterpieces and historic setting that has played host to famous figures such as Henry Ford and Thomas Edison.

The menu at Thistle Lodge changes seasonally, so you can rest assured that you will be experiencing the freshest ingredients possible. You will always discover a gorgeous blend of European, Asian, and Floridian flavors, promising a new favorite dish on the menu for every taste. The seafood is always freshly caught, and the fruits and vegetables used in the kitchen are custom grown for this eatery. Be sure to also sample their cocktail menu or select from their wide range of beer, wine, and liquor. You can also bring your own bottle to the restaurant for a corking fee of $25.

Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant is located inside Casa Ybel Resort at 2255 West Gulf Drive.

Old Captiva House

Just a few minutes away on Captiva Island, you’ll find Old Captiva House, a historic destination that today presents a contemporary design with incredible decor and mouth-watering cuisine to match. Come experience this National Registry of Historic Places landmark and let yourself be immersed in the upscale evening you crave, all with a gorgeous backdrop of the water.

Chef Greg Nelson has designed a dinner menu that is sure to please, putting a special twist on your favorite dishes with a unique taste of Florida. Scrumptious starters include the blue crab bisque or homemade lobster ravioli, then move on to the lobster and crab crusted scallops, duck, filet, or vegan delight. Add a caprese or house salad to complement your meal, and finish off with a homemade dessert like Key lime Napoleon or vanilla bean creme brulee. You’re also welcome to sample any of their traditional and specialty sushi rolls.

Old Captiva House is located at 15951 Captiva Drive.

Plan Your Next Stay

This is just a handful of the restaurants in Sanibel for Valentine’s Day, but this list is by no means all-inclusive. There are plenty of other Sanibel Island restaurants for you to explore, including options for every budget and any cuisine. Luckily, all of these restaurants are just moments away from our Sanibel and Captiva vacation rentals! We are proud to offer some of the most luxurious accommodations near the best attractions in the area. Contact us today for more information!