table full of mexican in sanibel and captiva island

Check Out the Best Mexican Food Near Sanibel and Captiva Islands!

Visiting a new destination is a great excuse to check out the local cuisine. Not only will you feel like you’re blending in with the people who live there, but you’ll also get the chance to experience the freshest ingredients in the area and try some dishes you may have never had. During your stay in our Sanibel vacation rentals, there are plenty of cuisines for you to check out!

Sometimes, you get a craving for a specific type of food. So, if you’re looking for Mexican food near Sanibel and Captiva Island, you’re in luck! Head out of our Captiva vacation rentals to grab a mouthwatering meal at one of these popular eateries. 

Cantina Captiva

At Cantina Captiva, the tagline says it all: Mexican and Southwestern cuisine with just the right bite. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be welcomed with a smile and are sure to enjoy the incredible décor all around you. When it comes to the food, there’s a little something for everyone. The guacamole is made fresh daily, so it’s the perfect way to begin your meal. You can also start with an order of stuffed cheese jalapeño poppers if you’re craving spice.

For the main course, you’ve got tons of options to choose from. Select a taco or fajita salad, or go for a more classic dish like a burrito, enchilada, or fajitas. There are plenty of entrees featuring the area’s fresh seafood, including the Shrimp Diablo and the Tequila Lime Shimp. Enjoy a beer or margarita with your meal to round things off!

Visit Cantina Captiva at 14970 Captiva Drive. They’re open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

400 Rabbits

Named for the 15th-century Mexican myth, 400 Rabbits is considered by many to have among the best Mexican food near Sanibel Island. This Mexican eatery and tequila bar prides itself on only using the freshest ingredients prepared to perfection. It’s always a party at 400 Rabbits! The dishes are unique, the staff is friendly, and the food is to die for. 

Begin your meal with some simple chips and salsa, or select a unique appetizer like the South of the Border Egg Rolls or Nacho Ordinary Nachos. Then, try a soup like the Island Gazpacho or a salad like The Islander. As far as entrees, you’ve got countless options, from traditional or street tacos to fajitas, chimichangas, burritos, and more. If you’re feeling friendly, buy the kitchen a round of beer for just $12!

400 Rabbits can be found at 975 Rabbit Road. They’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Felipe’s Taqueria

Located just moments from our Sanibel Island rentals, Felipe’s Taqueria has made a name for itself as one of the most tempting restaurants in the area. This establishment is sure to please any group with a laid-back atmosphere and a family-friendly menu. Start with guacamole for the table before ordering the main course like a burrito, quesadilla, taco, or fajita.

Are you looking for something a bit more unique? Consider signature selections like the pan-seared grouper, chile Relleno, pollo loco, or Felipe’s Basket Del Mar. Don’t miss out on happy hour while you’re in town! Every Monday through Thursday from 4-6, you can get $2 off appetizers, $1 off all beer, $5 house margaritas, and more.

Felipe’s Taqueria has multiple locations near Sanibel, Florida, but the most convenient spot is at 320 Old San Carlos Boulevard, Suite #2146, in Fort Myers Beach. They’re open Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mr. Tequila

Another notable destination in Fort Myers is Mr. Tequila, just a quick drive or boat ride away from our most popular Sanibel and Captiva Island condo rentals. This authentic Mexican restaurant offers up all your favorite classic dishes in an environment that encourages you to stick around and enjoy the great company of your family and friends.

The menu here is simply the definition of comfort food for many. They’ve got countless varieties of fajitas, multiple vegetarian options, and unique combinations of all their most popular dishes. They also offer specialty house dishes such as the Milanesa de Pollo, Burritos a la Roqueta, Mistec Mr. Tequila, and Tacos al Carbón. Finish your meal with a sopapilla, flan, or the fried cheesecake burrito!

You’ll find Mr. Tequila at 1661 Estero Boulevard #11 in Fort Myers Beach. Visit Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. or Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Plan Your Stay!

Ready for a delicious bite to eat? Plan your getaway to Sanibel and Captiva Islands and eat like a local while you’re there!

Yo! Taco

We couldn’t make a list of places to eat in Sanibel without mentioning Yo! Taco. This eatery has been a local staple since it opened its doors in 2010. They always make a concerted effort to buy locally and use only the freshest ingredients. As soon as you take your first bite, you will notice and appreciate the difference! 

Yo! Taco has made a name for itself thanks to its delicious Mexican classics, including tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and more. The menu here is no-muss, no-fuss, simple dishes with quality ingredients. Be sure to get homemade chips with either guacamole, queso, or pico de gallo to enjoy alongside your entrée!

Yo! Taco is located at 1375 Estero Boulevard in Fort Myers Beach. They welcome guests every day from 11 a.m. until 3 a.m.

La Casita

After experiencing all the fun Sanibel Island things to do, make your way to La Casita for a spectacular meal. Located right in the heart of Fort Myers, this destination provides authentic Mexican cuisine served by some of the friendliest locals in the area. Visitors and residents continue to flock to this restaurant for the reliable and delicious food they know and love. 

Ultimate Nachos, Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, and Shrimp Ceviche are among the most popular appetizers on the menu. You can then move on to entrees like Chicken or Shrimp Diabla, the Katalina Burrito, Basil Chicken, or Mexican Platter. Select a side dish like pickled jalapeños, avocado slices, or Mexican rice to finish your meal.

Visit La Casita at 15185 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers. They’re open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Our Captiva vacation rentals are located just moments from all of these restaurants, so you can get a top-quality meal without traveling far. You can experience all the best things to do on Sanibel Island, enjoy an incredible Mexican meal, then retreat to our Sanibel Island rentals to unwind for the evening. All Sanibel Island condo rentals provided by Gopher are full of amenities like high-speed internet, fully stocked kitchens, and ample living and dining space.

Ready to plan your trip to the shores of Sanibel Island? Contact Gopher today to get started.