Hot Dish: Nov. 26, 2008

by Ivan Seligman

Inside the Gulfshore’s Dining Scene

Sunset Grill Gets a New Look

Sanibel’s Sunset Grill has reopened after remodeling, and it’s better than ever. Chef Amy Visco’s culinary art is as tasty as it is beautiful, and that alone merits a trip to this island-casual spot, within sight of some of the best sunsets in Florida!

puff pastry-laced sea bass at Sunset Grill

Two of my favorite dishes are her refreshingly tasty green curry mussels with basil and Key lime ($13), and the puff pastry-laced sea bass, stuffed with creamy charred corn ($32). Now I know why Sanibel restaurants stay busy year-round. Sunset Grill, 6536 Pine Ave., Sanibel, (239) 472-2333.

More Than Just Wine

Tastings—A Wine Experience in Gulf Coast Town Center gets my vote for the current under-the-radar gem. This is a popular meeting spot for everyone from college students to faculty members, wine aficionados to young professionals. Hidden behind Miller’s Ale House, it’s a quiet sophisticated oasis, with very good food, priced right!

Proprietor Jennifer Wadsworth is friendly and knowledgeable, adept at pairing more than 100 wines with your lunch and dinner selections. The fun starts with the sampling of reasonably priced wines by the taste, glass or bottle. I favor the Mediterranean lamb chops served with deliciously roasted olives ($14), the chipotle barbecue salmon on cedar plank ($11) and the ample cheese plate ($15).

Cheese plate at Tastings—A Wine Experience

This is great food and wine, in a relaxing neighborhood bistro. Tastings—A Wine Experience, 9902 Gulf Coast Main Street, Suite 150, south Fort Myers, (239) 466-8800.

Now That’s a Strong Drink

The Capital Grille sets the bar high on charitable giving. The restaurant is selling the Share Our Strength Martini, a $1,000 martini adorned with a limited edition White Topaz and Diamond Caviar Rope Bracelet, through Jan. 4, to benefit Share Our Strength to end childhood hunger in America. The bracelet is created exclusively for The Capital Grille by designer Steven Lagos.

Share Our Strength Martini and bracelet at The Capital Grille

Jim and Laura Dixon (bought two bracelets), Barbara Johnson, Tom Teste

On the first day alone, Nov. 16, two martini-bracelet combos were sold. Five have been sold so far, all benefiting the great cause. All proceeds will be donated to Share Our Strength. Capital Grille, 9005 Mercato Dr., Naples, (239) 254-0640.

Feel free to leave a comment on Sunset Grill, Tastings—A Wine Experience or Capital Grille below.

Posted: 11/26/2008 8:29:08 AM | 0 comments

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Hot Dish: Nov. 26, 2008

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