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Bonita & Estero Magazine

Looking for a Dinner Spot on Christmas Eve 2017? These 10 Restaurants are Open

Dec 23, 2017 06:32PM ● By Kevin

Photo courtesy of True Food Kitchen on Facebook.

Christmas Eve is upon us. We love hearing about local family traditions. A common one that spreads holiday cheer for families across the country is enjoying a nice dinner out on the town on Christmas Eve. Whether it's a romantic evening with the spouse, a big family dinner, or something a bit more low key, we've got you covered with some recommendations.

If you are planning something last minute, we've compiled a list of spots open in the Fort Myers area on Christmas Eve, according to OpenTable.

Skip One Seafoods - Fort Myers, FL

The restaurant has been in business in Fort Myers for 30 years, owned and operated by Dennis Henderson, a 40-year veteran to the seafood industry. 

According to its website, Skip One Seafood Restaurant was named after a fishing boat owned by the market’s original owner back in the 1960s. Today, the restaurant owes its popularity to the harvest of its owner’s fleet; Henderson and his partner own the biggest shrimp boat fleet in Florida. Their trawlers unload nearby, at their Fort Myers Beach packing house. The restaurant is located at 15820 S. Tamiami Trail.

Divieto Ristorante - Estero, FL

The restaurant offers a casual dining experience that "offers the quality and service of fine dining in a relaxed environment with an international touch and the best of the Italian Cuisine," according to its website.

Located in the Village Shops at Coconut Point in Estero, Divieto offers more than 70 Italian-American signature dishes, lunch specials, a kids menu and party menus for private events. The bar offers a selection of Italian, American and other International wines as well as a house cocktail list, all selected to accompany and complement Divieto’s Dishes.

LYNQ - Fort Myers, FL

One of Fort Myers' newest restaurants, LYNQ was inspired by the many fabulous cultures and cuisines on the planet. The restaurant, part of the group that owns Blu Sushi and Blanc, opened in May 2017, with the goal of linking people through global treats and sounds.

"We are a forward thinking relaxed environment where our guests can choose foods from a variety of cuisines in a comfortable space. Linking people through global treats and sounds is our mission," the website says.

Blanc Entertainment - Fort Myers, FL

BLANC offers a wide variety of flavors gathered from around the globe, drawing on French and Asian cuisine, as well as American classics. Meat selections include beef, chicken, and lamb together with fresh seafood and vegetables.

The Robata Grill is featured in many menu items, resulting in "dramatic and intense tasty goodness," the restaurant's website says. "Our 'Almost Entrées' are designed to be enjoyed and shared with the entire table. Innovative cocktails and delightful wines compliment the BLANC experience. From the delicious cuisine to the contemporary ambiance, BLANC offers dining excellence to Fort Myers patrons."

Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant - Bonita Springs, FL

Located in the heart of the Promenade, Roy's Bonita Springs offers inspired bites and enticing cocktails during Aloha Hour in the bar and sensational meals in the vibrant dining room that features its signature exhibition kitchen as well as an exclusive chef's counter.

Using European techniques, the restaurant produces Pacific Rim cuisine, with warm, from-the-heart hospitality. The first Roy's was opened in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1988 by namesake Roy Yamaguchi, a James Beard Award winner.

"Since those early days, we've proudly spread our passion around the world — there are 18 Roy's restaurants in the continental United States, six in Hawaii, one in Japan and one in Guam," its website says.

Ristorante Farfalla - Estero, FL

The folks at Ristorante Farfalla take great delight in hosting your dinner party, whether you are looking for the perfect setting for a small group or large party. Plus, desserts are homemade!

"Our elegant tables, discrete alcoves and private dining room will accommodate you," the website says. "Our unsurpassed service and attention to detail is legendary. Our nationally acclaimed cuisine has received the highest, world-renowned culinary awards. We hope that you will select Ristorante Farfalla for an experience in exceptional dining while enjoying the Estero area."

True Food Kitchen - Naples, FL

Located at the Waterside Shops, healthy living starts at True Food. You now have a place to truly enjoy eating uniquely delicious dishes that help you on your quest to live well.

The Naples space features a bright, vibrant dining room with open kitchen bringing guests closer to True Food's culinary craft. There's an Indoor/Outdoor Scratch bar featuring fresh pressed fruit and vegetable juices, seasonal cocktails, local beer and wine, plus a covered outdoor patio with fireside seating.

Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar - Naples, FL

The 26-year-old establishment is renowned for its exhilarating views of Venetian Village and Venetian Bay, with cuisine that is an art form unto itself, according to its website.

"Dine in one of three different settings: The Downstairs Cafe has a casual cafe atmosphere located street-level with stunning views of the Venetian Bay, the elegant Upstairs Grill for lunch or dinner provides sweeping views of the waterfront, or the Upper Deck Bar, offering a laid-back dining experience in an open-air setting overlooking the water, featuring live music Tuesday through Sunday nights and Sunday afternoons."

Bayside’s ambience is inspired by the iconic imagery of the classy and charming gulfside town of Naples. The panoramas are stunning and every seat has a water view!

The restaurant has been managed by John Everding for the past 15 years. As Bayside’s managing partner, John is “the face” of the restaurant. He and his friendly management team are well-regarded for anticipating customers’ wishes, and ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.

KJ's Fresh Grill - Fort Myers, FL

The restaurant was started by a husband and wife team, Warren and Kerry Frye, with the help of their daughters, Rachel and Heather, around their kitchen in 2013. In search of the best steak, Warren decided to create his own signature blend of spices.

"He has also perfected a blend of ground beef to create an amazing steak burger," the restaurant's website says. "Warren added the idea of a high temperature searing to lock in the natural juices which completes the unique taste that has come to set KJ's Fresh Grill apart. Warren has been in the hospitality business for over 30 years, and brings his culinary expertise to the team. Kerry and the girls put together some of their family favorite recipes to round out the menu."

KJ's signature blend of spices and 900-degree grill sears in the unique flavors in every piece of meat. Starting with Grade A choice beef, the chefs age the meats until the peak of perfection. Then, they apply their signature spices and allow the flavors to permeate the meat before they sear their steaks to lock in their flavors.

South Fork Grille - Estero, FL

The restaurant is known as that place in the neighborhood where locals gather to kick back and take a night off from cooking. Its wait staff is dedicated to providing friendly and personalized service.

"You see, we care about every dish we put out, every single day," the website says. "Our focus is on local and regional ingredients. Enjoy a great afternoon or evening out at our restaurant.  And don't  forget, our patio is always pet friendly."

Got a favorite that didn't make our list? Let us know and we'll add it!