Treat Yourself to Fine Dining Restaurants on Marco Island

When you are staying in one of the weekly rentals on Marco Island, you might find yourself wanting to go out on the town. But where to dine? What are your best fine dining options?

As it turns out, Marco Island is host to several fantastic fine dining restaurants. Whether you are looking for a steakhouse on Marco Island or an authentic Italian gourmet restaurant, Marco Island has something to sate your appetite.

stir fry being cooked in skillet
Photo: Pexels

Sal e Pepe

Located on Marco Beach Ocean Resort,  Sal e Pepe serves up fine Italian cuisine.  This beautiful beachfront restaurant gives you a gorgeous view of the Gulf of Mexico and makes you feel like you are really in old Italy.

Dinner options include Antipasti favorites like the Crudi (the chef’s selection of seasonal Mediterranean condiments mixed with local raw seafood) and the Romana with its delicious anchovy dressing. You can also go for a Primi Piatti and Secondi. There is mazo (prime beef) and several contorni (sides) available.

Dolci (desserts) and after-dinner drinks (a nice range of cordials or grappa and cellos) will satisfy those with a sweet tooth. Of course, there are plenty of wines and spirits available, too.

If you have a large group, The Terrace can be reserved and seats up to 150 guests. The Gulf Ballroom is a beautiful 2,400-square-foot area that gives you space for 120 banquet or 180 standing reception guests. Whatever your private dining needs, you can easily reserve space online.

Marco Prime

Marco Prime serves up some of the best seafood and steak dinners in Marco Island. Set out from one of our Marco Island vacation rentals and try Marco Prime’s Black Angus Hi Choice and Prime Steaks that are made from Australian Wagyu Beef. 

Happy Hour is from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day at the bar. You can grab some Wagyu Beef Sliders or Crab Cakes while enjoying the MP Margarita, which is always a customer favorite.

If you want to take your food home with you, you can! The To-Go menu features some mouth-waters dishes specially selected by the chef to cater to your on-the-go lifestyle.

Café de Marco

Café de Marco has been serving some of the most well-renowned seafood dishes in Marco Island since 1983. Their menu is full of farm-fresh ingredients that shows their emphasis on high-quality meals.

Start your meal with a seafood sampler, or try the baby octopus if you feel like trying something new. The warm goat cheese is also delicious. For your entrée, you can pick from one of the fresh seafood specialties or opt for a Land Lover dish.

Finish off your meal with a slice of Italian ricotta cheesecake, and don’t forget that there are plenty of wines and beers to sip from during your meal. There are a number of domestic and imported beers, and the wines range from pinot noir to zinfandel.

Verdi’s An American Bistro

Verdi’s has been a Marco Island favorite since its launch in 1988. Their appetizers range from Duck Pot Stickers to Wiki Wiki Shimp. You can order soup and salads if you have a lighter appetite, but if you need more, the entrees are guaranteed to satisfy. 

Try the Chicken Phyllo with its delectable Boursin cheese wrapped in golden-brown crispy phyllo. If you want to feel really ritzy, the Prime Cut Filet Mignon or Veal Chop will do the trick.

Ario

Last, but certainly not least, is Ario. Ario made the list of 2019 Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Restaurants in America, and it’s no wonder why. Their menu includes a daily oyster selection if you prefer something chilled or Toasted Farro if you want something warm.

Choose from a selection of entrees like the Butter Poached Lobster or the Chanterelle Pierogi. You can also get Specialty Stakes & Chops, Signature 35 Day Dry Aged Steaks, and your selection of toppings, additions, and sides.

Whatever you are in the mood for, Ario has it. While you dine, you can enjoy a lovely outdoor atmosphere or stay inside with all the beautiful décor.

All of these fine dining spots are just minutes from our Marco Island vacation rentals. Contact us today to learn more!

Plan Your Marco Island Vacation

Marco Island is a fantastic vacation destination and has many things to offer you and your family during your stay. Check out our available rentals for your next getaway!