OpenTable recently published details on the most booked Fort Myers restaurants so far this year, and the list is fascinating. The need to make a reservation is usually a good sign.
In an effort to compile useful data for prospective diners, OpenTable publishes this information often. Their approach "analyzes nearly 500,000 new global diner reviews from the past month," they explain.
This certainly helps guide those looking for a great place to eat out. It also adds some context and expectations for how far in advance you may need to make a reservation to get into that new hot spot in town.
What I like most about OpenTable's reservation data is the breakdown of detail it provides in a very simple way to understand. It matches what the reservation experience should be, quick and effective.
Often, when attempting to book your table via app or online, you will see the open time blocks. Many guests prefer those popular 6 pm-7:30 pm spots, but there is certainly nothing wrong with an early bird or last-call seating. In fact, at many of these places, those off-peak hours allow for a more relaxing and non-rushed experience.
In Fort Myers, the top restaurants booked offer a wide range of experiences. From various cuisine types to very different locations and ambiances, it appears South Florida residents have a well-rounded appetite.
Here Are The 4 Most Booked Fort Myers Restaurants
- Cooper's Hawk Winery, American cuisine. Located at 13671 Olympic Ct. They open daily at 11am. They also have a wine club. Suggested menu item - pretzel-crusted pork chop.
- Connors Steak and Seafood, Steakhouse cuisine. Located at 10076 Gulf Center Drive. They have your classic mix of fresh seafood and premium steaks. Suggested menu items - Chilean sea bass or Connors prime rib with asiago creamed spinach.
- Bahama Breeze, Caribbean cuisine. Located at 14701 S Tamiami Trail. This chain restaurant remains a fan favorite. Suggested menu item - Tequila sunburn glazed salmon.
- Terra Nostra, Italian cuisine. Located at 15880 San Carlos Blvd. This establishment is also known for its great wine bar. Though they also have steak and seafood, the Italian classic section is where to go. Suggested menu item - chicken marsala over penne.
Each of these restaurants allows online reservations. In addition, you can book private parties or group reservations depending on your party size. Terra Nostra also offers a VIP list, where those who sign up receive special offers, event information, and wine dinner notifications.
Two Florida Restaurants Named Among The Best For French Fries
Do you want fries with that? Tasting Table recently published a list of restaurants with the best French Fries in the country and two New Florida establishments were named.
"From high-end steakhouses and neighborhood brasseries' to fast food restaurants and even grocery store freezer aisles, fried spuds can be found in just about every type of restaurant or shop across the country," Tasting Table explains. Their feature is specific to non-fast food restaurants.
French Fries are always a fan-favorite whether a side dish, an appetizer, or just a snack. They come in all shapes and sizes. Shoe strings crispy versions, thick-cut steak fries, seasoned curly fries, waffle fries, and even tater tots (are those considered fries, though?).
French Fry Fun Facts
In a 2019 story published by the Daily Meal, they discussed unique facts on French Fries in America. Two of the most fascinating have to do with McDonald's. "Approximately 7 percent of the potatoes grown in the U.S. meet the same fate: they become McDonald's french fries," they said. They later stated that this fast food chain sells one-third of the French Fries consumed in the United States.
French Fries are like music. They are a common bond, and they are subjective. What one person prefers may be completely different from another. Better yet, both choices are correct.
For example, Best Things Florida released their list of best French Fries in the Sunshine State. It is completely different from Tasting Table's. However, Tasting Table went and explored all corners of the country to crown their French Fry kings.
The two restaurants in Florida that were recognized for having some of the best French Fries in the country serve two very different styles. One of them is part of a restaurant that has expanded to other markets. The other is served in a restaurant where fries compliment BBQ.
Broken Shaker - Miami
Located on 2727 Indian Creek Dr. in Miami Beach, Broken Shaker has fries that are so good, they even get their own line item on the menu. These are Shawarma Fries, served with Harissa ketchup. You can order them on their own or have the fries paired with any of their burgers or sandwiches. Although Broken Shaker does also have restaurants in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Madrid, their menus show a some different takes on their hand-cut fries in certain markets. For example, Los Angeles has Carne Asada fries. New York and Miami both have the Shawarma recipe.
The Polite Pig
"In terms of meaty all-American food pairings, french fries go just as well with barbecue as they do with burgers," Tasting Table exclaims. The Polite Pig is located in Disney Springs. They describe their menu by saying, "Our menu is inspired by the best seasonal food that Florida has to offer, bringing new twists to local flavors and BBQ." They serve waffle fries with a polite rub. They can be selected as a side to any dish or in a giant platter to accompany your catering order. In addition, sweet potato tots are on the menu as well.
