…. expect wine tastings paired with live music, more exclusive cooking demonstrations, more tours and classes. Last year’s list of 24 participating restaurants rose to 31 this year, many offering a limited-time, prix-fixe menu.
To participate, chefs are required to look to area farms and waters to fill their plates.
This summer, my family and I wanted to visit a place we had never been before and I knew one thing…. I wanted it to be centered around nature. I didn’t want to visit a resort and I didn’t want to be part of the action, I wanted to relax with my family.
Relax while experiencing the “Old Florida” charm of our 1926 lodge. Savor lunch, dinner or an overnight stay with waterfront views of Pine Island Sound. Listen to live music as you sip & snack from our bar menu. Visit pre-Colombian Mounds of the ancient Calusa, play golf, paddle the Great Calusa Blueway, take a day-trip fishing, or enjoy birding and pristine nature while boating to our sister resort Cabbage Key. Welcome to our piece of paradise!
Yes, the Tarpon Lodge is “a nice piece” away from Fort Myers, but passing up a chance to enjoy a meal at this acclaimed dining room should be nothing short of illegal. Bronzed Gulf shrimp, bruschetta and blackened “fish bites” help start the meal in the right direction, preparing the palate for the fine things yet to come. How fine? Try these on for size: pork chop with mango chutney, veal picatta, filet mignon with béarnaise or even Pine Island Sound crab cakes. In addition to the outstanding fare, the Tarpon also delivers spectacular views of the water, especially at sunset.
The first annual Surf & Turf experience will grace the backwaters of Pine Island Sound as well as the greens of South Seas Island Resort this October. Kristen Potter said the Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers Inc. will hold the fund-raising event Oct. 18-20, 2013 at Tarpon Lodge.
Originally built in 1926, the Tarpon Lodge on Pine Island retains much of its “Old Florida” charm and yet offers all the right amenities to appeal to today’s modern families. Nestled off the beaten path and right on Pine Island Sound, the waterfront views and laid back atmosphere will almost make you remember a time before cell phones and computer games.
Albert Keijl lives in Cape Coral and is a father of four. He has worked at Tarpon Lodge for a year and a half. The restaurant opened to the public in 2000 at 13771 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia; 283-3999 or tarponlodge.com.
Age: 37
Birthplace: Oldebroek, Netherlands
Culinary training: Four years of chef’s training in the Netherlands; three years of special training for talented chefs in the Netherlands; special training for cold kitchen, warm kitchen, pastry and advanced pastry in Netherlands
Pine Island, which is a very short drive away, is different altogether. This is a long-standing, close knit, island community where everyone knows everyone and where everyone cares about everyone. That goes for visitors as well. You are made to feel special as soon as you arrive. Even the local supermarket, a Winn Dixie, gives its produce to the less fortunate as soon as the sell by date passes. Pine Island residents take pride in living here without fuss – or traffic lights or fast food outlets for that matter.
The world famous Tarpon Lodge in Bokeelia on Pine Island, Florida will host the Kayak Fishing ClassicS’ Pine Island Classic scheduled for July 13. The famous lodge was the lodging host last year and this year they will host the entire tournament event.
Making Waves TV — Episode 4. Jeff’s goin’ country in Pine Island Sound with Bo and Deidra, 2-time champions of Madfin Shark Series. They take us fishing in a Sea Hunt BX24 BR. Everyone lands at Cabbage Key Inn to kick back with the locals and country music star, Casey Weston and local favorite Taylor Goyette.
Our staff is standing by to help you book your stay and answer any questions you may have about your relaxing Old Florida getaway. (239) 283-3999or Make a Reservation
Events at Tarpon Lodge
October 27 – Gatlin
A crowd favorite returns! Enjoy a 4-course dinner while being entertained by the dynamic duo Gatlin, known for their harmonies and fun stage presence.
December 1 – Mad Violet Wine Dinner
Celebrate the season with a festive wine dinner featuring bold pours from Mad Violet Wines and a menu designed to delight.
January 26 – Long Shadows Wine Dinner
Ring in the new year with a premier wine experience, highlighting the artistry of Long Shadows’ award-winning collection.
More information can be found by calling us at 239.283.3999 or checking out our EVENTS page.
Why not spend the night?
Check out our SPECIAL OFFERS for discounted rates or extra days in paradise!