Perhaps you’ve had your fair share of stays in Sanibel Island rentals, and now you want to make a more permanent residence in the area. If so, you probably want Sanibel Island real estate that’s close to the best area attractions, including beaches, parks, shops, and restaurants. Speaking of restaurants, Sanibel and Captiva Islands have plenty of options to choose from, but if you’re going global, then Mexican cuisine is the best choice.
There are plenty of spots to get delicious Mexican food near Sanibel and Captiva Island. Here are six of our top recommendations!
Cantina Captiva
Mexican and Southwestern flavors are the stars of the show here at Cantina Captiva. Here, you’ll find all the classic “South of the Border” dishes you know and love and unique offerings that you won’t find anywhere else. It all comes in a welcoming and casual atmosphere that’s great for spending the evening with your friends or having a relaxing dinner with family.
Whether you sit in the dining room, enjoy dinner on the patio, or get your food and go back to one of our Sanibel Island condo rentals, you’ll get a truly fantastic meal. All of your traditional Mexican favorites are on the menu if you’re in the mood for classic dishes like burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas.
Of course, there are more unique offerings on the menu as well. Try the Shrimp Diablo if you want something spicy or the Tequila-Lime Shrimp if you want some fresh, locally caught seafood. No matter what you choose to eat, you can pair it with a domestic or imported beer or indulge in an icy margarita.
Cantina Captiva can be found at 14970 Captiva Drive on Captiva Island. They’re open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
400 Rabbits
We couldn’t talk about the best Mexican food near Sanibel Island without mentioning 400 Rabbits. This restaurant and tequila bar has a slightly more upscale atmosphere than other local restaurants, but the overall vibe is relaxing and welcoming. Come as you are and enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in every bite.
Start your meal with some chips, salsa, or hand-crafted guacamole that includes only the freshest local ingredients. You can also find unique takes on classic entrees, such as ancho chicken tacos, carnitas, Mahi Mahi fajitas, and more. Check out the coconut shrimp if you’re in the mood for seafood!
Don’t leave without indulging in dessert! The Chimi Cheese Cake is a popular favorite, along with the PFK Key Lime Pie and the Cookie Skillet. Ask about their seasonal dessert specialty or the ever-popular Choco Taco.
Visit 400 Rabbits at 975 Rabbit Road on Sanibel Island. They’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Felipe’s Taqueria
When you ask a local about the best restaurants on Sanibel Island, don’t be surprised if Felipe’s Taqueria is on their list. They’ve got a little something for everyone here, whether you like your food super spicy, need to accommodate a dietary restriction, or are searching for vegetarian or vegan options.
Begin your meal with bacon-crusted shrimp or queso fundido before moving on to Pollo Loco, Chile Relleno, or the Baja Grouper Sandwich. You can even build your own entrée to include any protein and dressing you like!
If you want to save some cash, stop by during happy hour (Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m.!). During happy hour, you can enjoy $2 off appetizers and wine and $1 off all beer. Other specials include $2 Gringos Tacos, $5 house margaritas, and $5 sangria.
Felipe’s Taqueria has multiple locations, but the closest to most Sanibel Island rentals is at 320 Old San Carlos Boulevard, Suite #2146, in Fort Myers Beach. They’re open Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Mr. Tequila
Not far from the beaches of Sanibel Island is the town of Fort Myers Beach, where you’ll find Mr. Tequila. This chain offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can take your time and enjoy some of the most authentic Mexican flavors that you’ll find in the area.
The menu here seems to go on for pages, meaning there’s bound to be something for every member of your family to enjoy! Start with an order of Special Nachos or Queso Fundido to share with the table. Then, to keep things light, try the Guacamole Salad or Chicken Tortilla Soup.
The rest of the menu offers everything from enchiladas and burritos to tacos, steak, fajitas, and more. Get a classic preparation or try something unique like the Fish Veracruz, Camarones Mr. Tequila, Filete Empanisado, or Chori-Pollo Shrimp.
If you’ve got a vegetarian in your group, Mr. Tequila has you covered with dishes like the Garden Quesadillas or the Veggie Burrito. Before you leave, go for a classic Mexican dessert like sopapillas, flan, or churros.
Visit Mr. Tequila at 1661 Estero Boulevard, #11, in Fort Myers Beach. They’re open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Yo! Taco
Just a short drive from your Captiva Island condo rentals, you’ll find Yo! Taco. This eatery has been around since 2010 and has been an area staple ever since. You won’t miss the brightly colored building!
At Yo! Taco, they only use the freshest local ingredients to prepare every dish on the menu. The menu offers all your favorite dishes like tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and nachos, all at some of the most reasonable prices in the area.
Yo! Taco prides itself on offering fresh food fast. If you’re in the Fort Myers Beach area and need a spot for a quick lunch, this eatery is the place to check out.
Visit Yo! Taco at 1375 Estero Boulevard in Fort Myers Beach. They’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.
La Casita
La Casita is a one-of-a-kind eatery located minutes from our Sanibel and Captiva vacation rentals. You’d have difficulty finding more authentic Mexican cuisine than what’s on offer here!
When you browse the menu, you’ll find unique selections like Potato Taquitos and Ultimate Nachos for appetizers, the Mexican Platter or Crispy Tacos for your entrée, and pickled jalapeños or avocado slices for your side dishes. They also have intriguing daily specials for both lunch and dinner, so be sure to ask the wait staff what the deal of the day is!
Your meal can be paired with a signature cocktail like the homemade Mexican sangria, complementing your main dish perfectly. When you’re done, sample the flan or get a Cheesecake Chimichanga to finish everything off.
La Casita is located at 15185 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers. They’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
When searching for the best things to do on Sanibel Island, put one of these mouthwatering Mexican restaurants on your itinerary! Any Sanibel vacation rentals you’re staying in (or considering buying!) are bound to be close. To learn more about the area and making it your permanent home, contact David Schuldenfrei and his team today!