A Taste of the Island Life: Matzaluna in Sanibel Island, FL

Florida may be known for its coastal beaches, swaying palm trees, and balmy weather. However, one key component of the Sunshine State is often overlooked: the islands. And more specifically, the food on those islands. My family traveled to the quaint Sanibel Island in the Fort Myers area along the Gulf of Mexico. We expected some cute shops and a handful of restaurants, but we were handed something better… a little piece of Italy at Matzaluna Restaurant.

This restaurant was a home run from start to finish, so we’re going to begin at the start of any culinary experience: the parking lot. The actual restaurant is a mansion nestled in the

​palm trees, but the expansive parking lot before the entrance draws hungry Floridians to its front steps. Every tree is draped in holiday lights and strings of lights cover any unexposed sections of the lot. The restaurant is a historic building with a large porch for outdoor seating matched with an interior teeming with Italian relics. The hostess was eager to serve us and we received homemade bread and olive oil ​

​drizzled with red pepper immediately after we were seated. I scanned other people’s tables and was overwhelmed with the sight of colorful pasta dishes and fresh seafood.

​The menu catered to all types of people, from young kids to adventurous foodies to seafood enthusiasts. There was a wide selection of local seafood paired with staple Italian dishes, such as spaghetti or lasagna. Additionally, there were flexible options, like make-your-own-pasta, as well as standard plates like salads and pizza. All entrees ​

​included a house salad, so don’t expect to leave hungry. After perusing the menu, my sister opted for linguine noodles with pomodoro sauce, while my mother ordered the same dish with broccoli. My father and I both chose the shrimp scampi, which was an impressive plate just to admire. Our eyes ​

​feasted upon fresh jumbo shrimp covering the plate, and the sauce paired spectacularly well with the shrimp. The chunks of garlic and the light butter sauce brought the dish together with a smooth, consistent flavor. The pasta switched up ​

​the texture of the dish and fit well with the shrimp. All dishes, especially the shrimp scampi, are highly recommended.

From the parking lot to the final mouthful of pasta, the experience was exceptional. I’d rate the restaurant as a 4.5 stars out of five. Its ambience was lively, but still a business-casual atmosphere that was fit for a family dinner or a more romantic evening. The decorations appeared to be taken straight from Italy for a genuine experience. I found the service courteous and attentive, and the food was to die for. All plates had mouth-wateringly fresh ingredients and generous portion sizes. The menu had options for all walks of life, so everyone’s taste buds will leave satisfied. You’ll catch me there the next time I’m in Sanibel.

If you choose to get a taste of Matzaluna for yourself, the address is 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. To make a reservation or get more information, call (239) 472-1998. The website provides insight as well, including a full menu: http://matzaluna.net.

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