THE DAUGHTER/MOTHER DUO DRIVING STAMATIS FAMILY’S DELICIOUS OFFERINGS
While I have written a restaurant review in the past, this is more of a buffet for thought. Several things have come to mind and I’m spreading them here for you to partake.
Months ago, I reviewed Chicken Salad Chick, which I have driven many miles to enjoy. Now I’m happy to announce one opened on NE Pine Island Rd. in Cape Coral. Whenever you’re passing there, please pick up a scoop of Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad for me.
Speaking of passing by, pictured here is a restaurant I have gone by for years and never noticed. From the outside it’s difficult to believe this is an “upscale” establishment tucked away in Lochmoor Plaza on Hancock Bridge Parkway. Ristorante Fabio is one of the best kept, 33-year-old, secrets. The current manager, Jacquelyn, was a newborn when her grandfather opened the Italian restaurant. Now she is an accomplished restaurateur. Her mother runs things from the kitchen, even shopping daily for fresh ingredients, as other family members help in the front of house service.
The restaurant was named after her uncle, the only boy in the family, when Fabio was a fairly famous name. They continue the tradition of Italian excellence in all that’s offered. I wish I had taken a photo of my order of butterflied huge shrimp scampi, but I was too anxious for a taste. Wonderful loaf of homemade Italian bread and salad are included.
If you go you should know that reservations are required and not easy to get as it is only open at 4 pm, five days a week, closed on Monday and Tuesday. Be prepared for “upscale” prices and the credit card machine wasn’t working when I was ready to cash out. Fabio’s is known for authentic dishes and an intimate atmosphere, often described as a “hidden gem.”
But wait there’s more …in the heart of North Fort Myers you can find another family restaurant that’s been there for more than 20 years. Stamatis Family Restaurant is located in the shopping center that was once known as Weaver’s Corner, 1890 North Tamiami Trail.
This restaurant could be considered the other end of the spectrum fordining accessibility — it is open from 6 am to 7 pm — six days a week, only closed on Sunday. Stamatis doesn’t take reservations and is always busy serving up traditional Greek and American comfort food from breakfast to dinner. It offers a casual, family-friendly, atmosphere, as well as daily specials of excellent value, often including soup/salad and dessert. I have never been disappointed with the fare there. If you have a favorite restaurant near or far, please send info to [email protected]
