Florida Recipes to Transport You

There’s a big difference between eating and dining. Dining is about much more than simply consuming a meal. In Florida, it’s all about the senses, and savoring everything from taste and execution to presentation and atmosphere. That’s why anyone who loves fine dining should get the taste of Paradise in Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades.

Known as Florida’s Paradise Coast, the area has become a culinary mecca for top chefs and restaurants. In fact, the Paradise Coast is consistently named among the best cities for food in the United States. With fresh-from-the Gulf seafood, seasonal stone crab, local produce and farm-to-table ingredients, this is a place where every dish delivers both freshness and flavor.

Start your food tour of Paradise in walkable Downtown Naples, where you’ll find everything from exquisite seafood to international fare. Stroll along the European-style looks of 5th Avenue South for a bite at the trendy Hobnob Kitchen and Bar, succulent seafood at Truluck’s and Ocean Prime, or delicious Persian at BHA!BHA! Persian Bistro. Of course, with a city name like “Naples,” there’s no shortage of classic and modern Italian restaurants, such as Osteria Tulia, Caffé Milano, Bellini on Fifth, BiCE Ristorante, or Alberto’s on Fifth. Turn onto 3rd Street South for incredible seafood at Sea Salt, mediterranean food at Mediterrano, amazing steaks at D’Amico’s The Continental, and even more Italian options at Campiello and Barbatella.

Every visit to Florida’s Paradise Coast calls for some quality beach time. On Marco Island, we recommend getting your fill of sun, surf and sensational food. For some casual fun, check out CJ’s on the Bay or enjoy a prohibition-inspired happy hour at the SpeakEasy Marco Island. Experience breathtaking beach views and meals at Sale e Pepe at the Marco Beach Ocean Resort or Ario at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort. From sushi and oysters to burgers and pizza, there’s something for everyone on Marco Island. And best of all, since it sits right on the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island is the perfect location for a dinner date and a sunset show.

Tired of trendy? Get authentic, Old Florida fare down in Everglades City. City Seafood, Triad Seafood Market & Café, and Camellia Street Grill are all excellent places to try down-home Southern dishes, super-fresh seafood, and even alligator. And while you’re there, make time for a kayaking or airboat eco-tour through the Everglades for a true Florida adventure.

Dining isn’t the only epicurean delight in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades. The local craft beer scene is booming as well. Check out local favorites like Naples Beach Brewery, Riptide Brewing Company, Bone Hook Brewing, Marco Island Brewery, Oil Well Craft Beer, and Ankrolab Brewing. A visit to Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades is meant to be savored in more ways than one. Treat your taste buds to a vacation on Florida’s Paradise Coast.

Learn more at ParadiseCoast.com/Dining.

Discover the Flavors of Florida

PARADISE COAST A natural and culinary mecca tucked away in Southwest Florida, the Paradise Coast has it all: Shimmering Gulf of Mexico waters, white sand beaches, wild islands, stunning environments, and luxurious downtowns filled with artful treasures, culinary delights and countless other discoveries. Here, award-winning chefs create unforgettable dishes with fresh from-the-Gulf seafood, seasonal stone crab claws, just-picked local produce and other farm-to-table ingredients. The result is a worldclass dining experience in a place where every dish and every moment is one to be savored. When you’re looking for Florida’s most flavorful destination, look to Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades.

Lobster Risotto

DAYTONA BEACH Looking for a vacation destination that satisfies your appetite and quenches your thirst? Daytona Beach is the destination of choice for food and drink lovers–with so many options, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy fine dining, locally-caught seafood, a vibrant nightlife, the Daytona Beach Ale Trail (every beer lover’s favorite), and so much more. With waterfront and open-air options, you can experience the beauty of 23 miles of wide open beaches. Daytona Beach has so much to choose from, you may not find time to try it all.

Rose Villa’s Blueberry Lemontini

PANAMA CITY Indulge your appetite for adventure and get away to the Bay. Fresh seafood, craft brews and sunset views are waiting for you in Panama City, Florida. Known for its fresh oysters, Panama City offers an abundance of flavor with a laid-back vibe. Get your fill at Hunt’s Oyster Bar, Uncle Ernie’s or Bayou Joe’s, then head to History Class Brewing Company—a local favorite for craft beer and great conversation. You might not get any credit for attending, but you’re guaranteed to get a lesson in tasty, cold beer, as well as what’s going on in the community. Come for the food, stay for the fun and you’re guaranteed to leave hungry for more. Plan your trip today at DestinationPanamaCity.com

Birria Tacos De Res

CLEARWATER Clearwater’s soft white sand and sparkling blue water attracts thousands of beach lovers. Water explorations include guided tours, deep-sea fishing charters and family fun aboard a pirate ship. Paddleboards, jet skis, kayaks and canoes beckon to water sports enthusiasts. Off the beach, the Beach Walk, Pinellas Trail and the Courtney Campbell Trail provide miles of scenic trails for cyclists, walkers, runners and in-line skaters. Home to movie-star dolphins, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium provides care for rescued animals. Celebrate sunset from Pier 60. Dine on grouper fresh from the gulf. Take in a cultural performance at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre.

Stone Crab Mustard

JACKSON COUNTY Typically, springtime is associated with all things new. However, in the south, spring is accompanied by both “new” and “old.” New growth, new crops, new ingredients; steeped like sweet tea in old tradition. At the base of every Jackson County recipe is a roux of southern charm and hospitality. Jackson is mostly known for its unique, other worldly natural resources and outdoor recreation. What pairs better with adventure than great food? From down home cooks and craft beer to world award winning chefs and craft ice cream, there is no shortage of variety in Jackson.

Venison Brunswick Stew

ST. AUGUSTINE | PONTE VEDRA For more than 500 years, St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra has been adding a dash of sophisticated innovation to its renowned culinary experience. This legendary backdrop infuses old-world charm into the decadence of new-world cuisine, introducing a brand-new mix of deliciously distinct flavors and techniques to the epicurean world. Florida’s Historic Coast continues to attract world-renowned chefs who bring their bold, pioneering flavor combinations to the plates of our sophisticated and eclectic visitors. On your next visit, we encourage you to step out of your culinary comfort zone and into a brave new world of discovery. Learn more at FloridasHistoricCoast.com

Gambas al Ajillo