Marco Island's Coveted Cuisine

Many reasons exist for visiting Marco Island. White sandy beaches, a laid back atmosphere, and magnificent boating represent but a few of the myriad of activities to expect when taking in the paradise. One other massive aspect of the Island that keeps folks coming back (or even deciding to move down) would have to be the cuisine. Marco's culinary offerings often become the talk of the trip when visitors or snowbirds return up north, and for good reason. Let's dive in and take a look at a few critical delicacies. 

Grouper

The New England area is known for cod, the Pacific Northwest has salmon…so what fish is Marco Island synonymous with? The answer can only be grouper. Whenever you find yourself perusing a succulent seafood menu at a Marco Island restaurant, you can always count on grouper being on the menu as a local option. Common methods of preparation include fried, grilled, or blackened. Grouper is a white fish comparable to sea bass or halibut, and once you try it down on the Island, you’ll know why it’s essentially our seafood pick!

Conch Fritters

Have you ever ordered hushpuppies, taken a big bite, and wished that there was just a bit more kick with some seafood flavor? Okay, that’s oddly specific, but if that sounds heavenly, give conch fritters a go, because that’s the exact flavor profile you will get. A standout appetizer in the area, these fritters are generally prepared with queen conch, cornmeal, and diced vegetables (usually onions, peppers, and jalapenos), all resulting in a zesty, mouth-watering fritter. Completing the arrangement is typically lemon juice and cocktail sauce. 

Stone Crab

Michael here. Years ago, I recall having a crab conversation with several peers from around the country. A Baltimore native touted Maryland Blue Crab, a buddy from Alaska naturally endorsed Alaskan King Crab, and a born and raised Seattleite proudly bragged about the Dungeness Crab. As for me? I described, with great pride, an immensely desirable crustacean that stands tall alongside all the aforementioned examples and then some - the Stone Crab. Stone crab season down here is an absolute event, and many families across the land will do what’s necessary to have at least one stone crab night. Just a head’s up - we are about a month away from said season starting, so start your planning and do be sure to secure this local delicacy when you can! 

Key Lime Pie…..or peanut butter pie?

On a national and even a global scale, Key Lime Pie is well understood as the dessert of Florida. And yes indeed, it’s true that nearly anywhere you go on Marco, Key Lime Pie exists as a prime dessert option. Our team has partaken in Key Lime Pie all over Marco, and can safely say you cannot go wrong wherever you go. However, what if we told you another pie represents the dessert scene on the Island as well? Peanut Butter Pie also accounts for an exquisite dessert option found at numerous eateries on the Island and is every bit as delectable. 

Is your appetite for Marco cuisine appropriately dialed up now? Good! Check out our restaurant segment on our social media pages to get an idea of where to enjoy some of these fantastic offerings! New posts every Saturday!