If you're planning a trip to southwest Florida and have Marco Island on your radar, you're in for a culinary treat. Despite its compact size of just 12 square miles, Marco Island is brimming with delightful restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From upscale fine dining to laid-back seafood shacks. In this guide, we've curated a list of the 17 best restaurants on Marco Island that you absolutely need to try during your visit.

Just remember to make reservations for dinner, either directly with the restaurant or try OPENTABLE.com and if you are visiting during season, (Nov-April), you may want to reserve 1-2 months ahead of your visit, especially if you have a group. It is easier to obtain reservations off season, and most of the restaurants will accommodate walk-ins during slower times (May-Oct).

1. Sale e Pepe - Marco Beach Ocean Resort, 480 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island Indulge in authentic Southern Italian cuisine with a focus on seafood and tomatoes. The elegant ambiance and Gulf of Mexico views make it perfect for special occasions. (Temporarily Closed through October for remodel)

2. Snook Inn - (Temporarily Closed Due to Hurricane Ian - Check back for updates on the anticipated reopening) Experience casual seafood dining with waterfront views. From crispy calamari to seafood chowder, Snook Inn offers the perfect laid-back atmosphere.

3. Marco Prime Steak & Seafood Restaurant - Marco Walk Plaza, 599 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island For the ultimate surf and turf experience, visit Marco Prime. Feast on the freshest seafood and prime cuts of Angus beef in a contemporary setting.

4. Doreen’s Cup of Joe - 267 N Collier Blvd, Marco Island Start your day right with the best breakfast in Marco Island at Doreen's and a charming country coastal atmosphere. From sweet French toast to savory omelets, and fantastic biscuits, there's something for every palate. AND you can sit outside with your DOG!!!!

5. The Oyster Society - Marco Walk Plaza, 599 S Collier Blvd #218, Marco Island A must-visit for seafood enthusiasts, The Oyster Society offers live jazz, an eclectic interior, and dishes like baked oysters and pistachio Chilean sea bass.

6. La Tavola Restaurant and Bar - 961 Winterberry Dr, Marco Island Savor fine American cuisine at La Tavola, where both casual and upscale options like bison burgers and crispy duck are on the menu.

7. Ario - 400 S Collier Blvd, JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, Marco Island Located in JW Marriott, Ario specializes in unique presentations of locally sourced meats and fresh Florida seafood, making it a culinary destination.

8. Osteria Capri - 387 Capri Blvd, Naples, FL 34113 While not on Marco Island, nearby Osteria Capri offers authentic Italian cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients, making it a great side trip.

9. Mango’s Dockside Bistro - Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island, 760 N Collier Blvd, Marco Island Mango’s is known for its nautical atmosphere, seafood platters, and tropical drinks, creating the perfect casual dining experience. AND you can sit outside with your DOG!!!!!

10. The Deck at 560 - Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa, 560 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner, The Deck at 560 provides Gulf views and diverse menu options to cater to various tastes and preferences.

11. Sunset Grille - 900 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island For casual seafood dining with beachfront views, Sunset Grille is the place to be. Enjoy tropical drinks alongside dishes like snow crab legs. Great place to walk to from the South end of Marco Beach for quick cocktail even before sunset….guests love it!

12. DaVinci Ristorante Italiano - Marco Walk Plaza, 599 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island Featuring authentic Italian cuisine, DaVinci offers an old-country feel and dishes like tortelloni di carne and Porcini Pizza that pay homage to their roots. Such a yummy restaurant. Have NEVER had a bad meal here!

13. CJ’s on the Bay - Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island, 740 N Collier Blvd, Marco Island Similar to Snook Inn, CJ's offers waterfront dining and a focus on seafood, with options like crab cakes and mahi mahi on the menu. Outside is casual, they often have a band playing and a great fountain nearby. Valet parking plus garage and an outdoor lot available.

14. The Speakeasy - 1106 N Collier Blvd, Marco Island With a nod to the Prohibition era, The Speakeasy offers a unique experience with cocktails and food that complement the historic theme. You can sit outside with your DOG!!! Cobb salad is GREAT, and ask about their Wed. lobster tail special.

15. Stilts Bar & Grill - Marriott’s Crystal Shores, 600 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island Known for its fantastic happy hour and sunset views, Stilts Bar & Grill serves a variety of appetizers and dishes to suit any palate.

16. Fin Bistro - 657 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island For a stylish CHEF DRIVEN seafood dining experience, Fin Bistro offers dishes made from seafood caught that morning, ensuring maximum freshness. One of my favorite restaurants on the island.

17. Lee Be Fish Company - 350 Royal Palm Dr, Marco Island This casual fish market eatery serves up super fresh seafood, making it a prime spot for those who crave the day's catch. Old school favorite. Pick your FRESH fish. No delivery, yes take-out and it’s in charming OLDE Marco.

From Italian delicacies to seafood delights, Marco Island boasts an impressive array of restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for an elegant fine-dining experience or a laid-back seafood feast, this charming island has something to satisfy every palate. Explore these 18 best restaurants on Marco Island to make your culinary journey an unforgettable one.

Patrick Wilkins is a Broker at RE/MAX Affinity Plus on Marco Island, with over 40+ years of experience representing buyers and sellers of residential, commercial and investment real estate in Marco Island and Naples, FL | 239-290-8593 | patwilkins@marcoexpert.com