The title of this post is compliments of Ingrid Mackey...my Mom and fellow beach lover. My parents bought a timeshare in Marco Island, FL in the mid-80's and it became our
regular vacation spot growing up. It's on the Gulf side in SW Florida in close proximity to Clear Water, Naples and Ft. Myers. As an adult I've had the luck of rekindling memories, most recently as an impromptu extended Mother's Day weekend.
As with any trip, even this sun soaked filled trip, it's all about the food food food. Now Marco is not notoriously know for its culinary adventures but they have seriously stepped up their game in the past few years.
Here are a few highlights:
Oh the sweet sweet Pina Colada. For me it is vacation in a cup. It's a requirement for any vacation. Per tradition, the 1st day Mom and I arrived in Marco, I dragged her over to the Marriott next door to grab a quick bite and a cocktail. Not only was the Pina Colada delicous, we were quite pleased with the ceviche and the arugula, watermelon, feta & shrimp salad. It was really the perfect start.
Starbucks! Ok I know this is not exciting, but when you are in a coffee dead zone, Starbucks is an oasis for a quick cup and Kind bar.
Located in the new condo complex along Collier you'll find Starbucks and CJ's on the Bay. CJ's is a fish restaurant nestled along the boats. CJ's is by no means fine dining, but does provide a great outside patio, friendly waitstaff and fresh fish. Overall didn't blow our minds but was a great casual dinner.
Sal e Pepe
Wow! Where do I start. This may be one of the best meals I've had all year. Located directly next to our condo building is a new hotel called Marco Beach (constructed in the past couple years). This Italian restaurant had it all. Beautiful patio with an ocean view, bold Super Tuscans by the glass, unique grilled squid, tender scallops with a beautiful mushroom sauce and for Mom a cavatelli (some type of fish ragu) that she is still salivating over.
Sushi Takeout? Yup. Sometimes you just need a light take-out dinner while on vacation. The Marriott once again fit the bill for a quick good meal. The sushi menu was fairly extensive, the waitstaff was friendly & quick and the food itself was decent. A great option for a light dinner at the bar or take-out. And can't beat the location.
Baleen
Mom and I took a quick overnight trip on our last night to Naples to go to a restaurant recommended by a friend. Located in a super cute almost Southern style hotel La Playa sits Baleen. Baleen I'd say is a New American/fish restaurant that has a great patio overlooking the grounds, beach and water. We had a lovely table with a friendly waitress. I can't say the food was as good as Sal e Pepe but definitely exceeded our expectations for SW FL. Mom ordered the Mother's Day prefix w/ a delish & unique gazpacho, a fish dish and finished with a creme brulee (the waitress was nice enough to subsitute for gluten free so that I could join in diving in). I had a ceviche that was fresh but a little tart and once again shocker the scallops which were perfectly cooked. This would be a great location for drinks before going out. Very relaxing with great views.
Happy Mother's Day Mom! What a great trip.
