Englewood's laid-back beach town vibe extends to its dining scene, where fresh Gulf seafood, stunning Lemon Bay views, and casual elegance blend seamlessly. This charming coastal community—straddling both Charlotte and Sarasota counties—delivers authentic Old Florida dining experiences at better prices than neighboring beach towns like Venice or Boca Grande.
From beachside tiki bars steps from Englewood Beach to fine dining with panoramic Lemon Bay sunsets, the restaurants here serve locals and visitors who appreciate quality without pretension. Whether you're grabbing fish tacos after a day of shark tooth hunting at Venice Beach or celebrating a special occasion with bay views, these ten locally-vetted restaurants showcase the best Englewood dining has to offer.
Quick Navigation: Beach Dining | Waterfront | Fine Dining | Brunch | Tips
1. SandBar Tiki & Grille
SandBar Tiki & Grille serves coastal favorites just steps from the sand
The quintessential beach restaurant, SandBar Tiki & Grille sits just steps from the sand at Englewood Beach. The covered outdoor patio offers those essential Gulf breezes and a front-row seat to the beach scene. This is exactly the kind of casual, flip-flops-welcome spot you picture when you imagine Florida beach dining.
The menu focuses on fresh seafood prepared simply—grouper sandwiches, shrimp tacos, and blackened fish that let the quality of the catch shine through. The tropical cocktails are strong, cold, and perfect after a day in the sun. Live music on weekends adds to the laid-back atmosphere.
- Address: 1975 Beach Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
- Phone: (941) 475-0773
- Hours: 11 AM - 9 PM daily
- Cuisine: Coastal Casual, Seafood
- Price range: $$ ($15-25 entrees)
- Best for: Beach-goers, families, casual dining
- Don't miss: Fresh grouper sandwich, fish tacos, frozen drinks
- Setting: Steps from Englewood Beach, outdoor patio dining
- Pro tip: Grab a table on the patio around 4 PM—close enough to sunset for views but early enough to get seated without a wait
2. Farlows On The Water
Farlows offers panoramic waterfront views with locally-sourced seafood
Panoramic shoreline views set the backdrop for fresh, locally-sourced seafood. This waterfront establishment emphasizes the region's bounty with consistently excellent preparations.
- Address: 2080 S McCall Rd, Englewood, FL 34224
- Phone: (941) 474-5343
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Waterfront dining, fresh seafood
- Don't miss: Locally-sourced catch specials
- Setting: Panoramic waterfront views
3. Lock 'N Key
Steps from shore, this beachside spot celebrates coastal flavors with crafted cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a post-beach meal as the sun sets.
- Address: 2045 N Beach Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
- Phone: (941) 830-0600
- Cuisine: Coastal, Cocktails
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Sunset dining, craft cocktails
- Don't miss: Signature cocktails, coastal dishes
- Setting: Beachside location
4. Magnolia's On the Bay
Magnolia's offers Southern-inspired seafood with stunning Lemon Bay views
Englewood's premier fine dining destination, Magnolia's On the Bay pairs sophisticated Southern-inspired cuisine with some of the best waterfront views in Charlotte County. The expansive deck overlooking Lemon Bay transforms into a magical setting at sunset, with dolphins occasionally visible in the distance as you dine.
The menu emphasizes fresh Gulf seafood with Southern influences—think low country bouillabaisse, shrimp and grits elevated to fine dining standards, and chef's specials that showcase the day's freshest catch. The wine list is impressive for a town this size, and the craft cocktail program holds its own. Live music several evenings a week adds ambiance without overwhelming conversation.
This is the go-to for anniversaries, proposals, and special celebrations in Englewood. The service matches the food—attentive without being intrusive.
- Address: 2395 N Beach Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
- Phone: (941) 473-6960
- Hours: 5 PM - 9 PM (closed Monday)
- Cuisine: Southern Seafood, Fine Dining
- Price range: $$$$ ($35-55 entrees)
- Best for: Special occasions, romantic dinners, anniversaries
- Don't miss: Chef's seafood specials, shrimp and grits, key lime pie
- Features: Live music (Wed-Sat), Lemon Bay views, craft cocktails
- Reservations: Essential during season, especially for sunset seating
- Pro tip: Request deck seating when making reservations—it fills up weeks in advance during peak season
5. Landy's Restaurant
Refined coastal dining featuring the freshest locally-sourced ingredients in a sophisticated setting. The attention to quality shows in every dish.
- Address: 1400 Aqua View Ln, Englewood, FL 34223
- Phone: (941) 681-2685
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Quality seafood, casual elegance
- Don't miss: Fresh catch of the day
- Setting: Relaxed, sophisticated
6. Waverly Restaurant & Bar
A meticulously curated menu celebrating both land and sea. Indoor and outdoor seating options let you choose your ambiance at this fine dining destination.
- Address: 2095 N Beach Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
- Phone: (941) 474-0100
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Date nights, curated dining
- Don't miss: Chef's tasting selections
- Setting: Indoor and outdoor options
7. Mango Bistro
Mango Bistro serves creative brunch in a welcoming atmosphere
Relaxed elegance meets creative brunch in a welcoming atmosphere. The fusion of land and sea flavors pairs beautifully with curated craft beverages.
- Address: 301 W Dearborn St, Englewood, FL 34223
- Phone: (941) 473-0077
- Cuisine: Brunch, American
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Brunch lovers, creative cuisine
- Don't miss: Weekend brunch specials
- Setting: Casual elegance
8. Paraiso Mexican Grille & Bar
Vibrant Mexican fare celebrating the country's culinary treasures. Margaritas flow freely on the lively patio, where every meal feels like a fiesta.
- Address: 2639 Placida Rd, Englewood, FL 34224
- Phone: (941) 473-0707
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Margarita lovers, festive dining
- Don't miss: Fajitas, margaritas
- Setting: Lively patio atmosphere
9. LightHouse Grill
Waterway views accompany fresh Gulf seafood and live music at this local favorite. Coastal cuisine in a casual, welcoming setting.
- Address: 260 Maryland Ave, Englewood, FL 34224
- Phone: (941) 681-2955
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Waterway views, live music
- Don't miss: Fresh Gulf seafood
- Features: Live music, waterfront seating
10. Ken & Barb's Grove City Kitchen
Warm, inviting, and consistently delicious. This casual American spot serves breakfast through dinner with hometown hospitality. A local favorite for all-day dining.
- Address: 2000 Oyster Creek Dr, Englewood, FL 34224
- Phone: (941) 473-9600
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Breakfast, hometown favorites
- Don't miss: Breakfast classics, comfort food
- Vibe: Warm, welcoming
Tips for Dining in Englewood
Beach Dining After a Day at Englewood Beach
- SandBar Tiki & Grille - Steps from the sand, no need to change
- Lock 'N Key - Beachside cocktails and elevated casual
- Paraiso Mexican Grille - Margaritas and festive atmosphere
Best Sunset Restaurants
Waterfront spots with the best sunset views:
- Magnolia's On the Bay - Lemon Bay views, fine dining
- Farlows On The Water - Panoramic waterfront
- LightHouse Grill - Waterway views, live music
Reservation Strategy
- Always reserve: Magnolia's, Waverly (especially Friday/Saturday during season)
- Call ahead: Farlows, LightHouse Grill
- Walk-in friendly: SandBar, Paraiso, Ken & Barb's
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
- Lunch (11 AM - 2 PM): Most restaurants are quieter
- Early dinner (5 PM): Beat the sunset rush
- Weekdays: Significantly less crowded than weekends during season
Parking Tips
- Englewood Beach area: Public lot fills early on weekends, $5-8 fee
- Downtown: Free street parking, usually available
- Waterfront restaurants: Most have their own lots
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (December-April): Reservations essential, expect waits without them
- Off-Season (May-November): Easier seating, some reduced hours
- Snowbird surge: January-March busiest, locals avoid prime dinner hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best waterfront restaurant in Englewood?
Magnolia's On the Bay offers fine dining with stunning Lemon Bay views and is widely considered Englewood's top special occasion restaurant. For excellent seafood in a more casual waterfront setting, Farlows On The Water provides panoramic views with a broader menu.
Where can I eat right after the beach?
SandBar Tiki & Grille is steps from Englewood Beach—you can walk there in flip-flops without changing. Lock 'N Key is also beachside with elevated casual fare and craft cocktails.
What's the best restaurant for a special occasion in Englewood?
Magnolia's On the Bay delivers fine dining with live music, craft cocktails, and spectacular bay views. Make reservations well in advance during season and request deck seating for sunset. Waverly Restaurant & Bar offers a more intimate, curated dining experience.
Are there good breakfast or brunch spots in Englewood?
Ken & Barb's Grove City Kitchen serves all-day breakfast with hometown hospitality—locals swear by it. Mango Bistro offers creative brunch with a more upscale vibe.
What makes Englewood's dining scene unique?
Englewood delivers authentic Old Florida dining—laid-back atmosphere, fresh Gulf seafood, and waterfront views—at prices 20-30% below nearby beach towns like Venice or Boca Grande. The scene attracts locals who know quality without paying for pretension.
Do I need reservations in Englewood?
During peak season (December-April), reservations are essential at Magnolia's, Waverly, and recommended at other waterfront spots, especially for sunset seating. Off-season and weekday visits are much more flexible.
Is Englewood good for families?
Yes. SandBar, Paraiso, and Ken & Barb's are all family-friendly with casual atmospheres and kid-friendly menus. Beach proximity means children can burn energy before or after meals.
What's the best Mexican restaurant in Englewood?
Paraiso Mexican Grille & Bar offers authentic Mexican fare with strong margaritas and a festive patio atmosphere. It's become a local favorite for both food quality and value.
More Englewood & SWFL Guides
Looking for more dining and activities? Check out these guides:
Englewood Area
- Englewood Beach Live Cam — Check beach conditions before you go
- Things to Do in Port Charlotte — Nearby activities and attractions
Nearby Dining
- Best Restaurants in Venice — Shark tooth capital dining
- Best Restaurants in Punta Gorda — Historic downtown restaurants
- 10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in SWFL — Stunning water views across the region
Have a favorite Englewood restaurant we missed? Let us know and we'll check it out!
