This year marks a milestone for one local restaurant. Looking back at the delicious success of that business, we have put together the top ten Tommy Bahama dishes to celebrate the 30th Anniversary. These ten dishes have stood the “taste” of time. Naples is the birthplace of the island style restaurant. In fact, Tommy Bahama opened its first Southwest Florida restaurant in 1995 and has been collecting accolades and awards ever since. Today there are 21 locations nationwide including the brand’s spin-off at Coconut Point in Bonita Springs. It is Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar.
Tommy Bahama’s is a landmark dining location on Third Street South in Naples. Congrats on 30 years.
The Marlin Bar is al fresco, known for fast service, big portions and casual fun. Here, you order at the counter then seat yourself. The bar cranks out beautiful cocktails and the location is great for people watching. There is also a small retail shop attached. The Marlin Bar has been so successful that the company has opened seven more.
Tommy Bahama 30th Anniversary
Tommy Bahama is a scratch kitchen that sources lots of local ingredients for the variety of dishes they serve. As time and trends have evolved, so has the menu. However, there are a few favorites that have been in print since day one. Tommy Bahama is more than a restaurant. It is also a lifestyle brand. Find clothing and all kinds of home goods at the adjoining retail shop on Naples’ famous Third Avenue South. In addition, this year Tommy Bahama has plans to launch its first resort. More on that to come.
For now, here is a list of the top ten Tommy Bahama dishes to celebrate the 30th Anniversary. Congratulations on your decades of success and thank you for the fantastic food, drink and fun over the years.
World Famous Coconut Shrimp
If there is one item you must get here, it is this appetizer. The coating is crunchy, savory and sweet. The shrimp come with a Papaya-Mango Chutney and a side of Island Slaw.
Grilled Chicken & Mango Salad
light and fresh, but still quite filling. This salad has a little bit of everything from Baby Greens to Roasted Almonds and Macadamia Nuts, Crispy Pepitas, Feta, Dried Blueberries and Tomatoes. The dressing is a Lemon-Basil Vinaigrette.
Blackened Mahi Mahi Tacos
You can’t have an island-style restaurant without fish tacos. The fish is grilled and lightly blackened. These are highlighted by Tomato Relish, Chipotle Aïoli, Island Slaw, and a silky Lime Sour Cream.
Pina Colada Cake
This dessert in indulgent and it is something you need to save room for, or take home. Layered white cake with white chocolate mousse, it is moistened with dark rum. The layers also include coconut, pineapple and more. You are welcome.
Key Lime Pie
A signature dessert, the crust on this version of Florida’s most famous pie is made with graham cracker crust. It is garnished with a dollop of white chocolate and key lime zest. They have published the recipe in their “Flavors of the Southern Coast” Cookbook. You can also find it online. But it is more fun to enjoy in the restaurant.
Tommy Bahama Mai Tai
This signature cocktail is a sweet treat. You can even get a frozen one. Here are the ingredients: Flor de Caña Extra Seco 4, Orgeat, Orange Curaçao, Lemon, Lime, and Pineapple. It’s topped off with a dark rum floater.
Grapefruit Basil Martini
There is a reason this one is so popular. Its simplicity is one of them. It is also super refreshing, and just perfect for Southwest Florida. It is made with Grey Goose, Fresh Basil, and Grapefruit.
