Punta Gorda’s culinary vibe encompasses everything from casual elegance and gourmet palate pleasers to homey, family-friendly atmospheres and new twists on old favorites. Taking advantage of the many great outdoor eating spaces—ranging from gardens to rooftops to terraces and patios—also means lovely views, eye-catching scenery, and world-class people-watching.
Below are some of our favorite Punta Gorda eateries offering unique outdoor dining. All are kid friendly and some are “furry” children friendly too. Check them out when you’re here, and enjoy every delicious minute:
The Celtic Ray is an authentic Irish pub with a roomy outdoor beer garden and a menu chock-full of genuine homemade Irish food—their Fish & Chips are famous—as well as their weekly curry, small plates and kid’s items.
The beer garden is dog friendly and hosts frequent live music. You may find more music inside, or fun trivia nights.
Maybe it goes without saying, but it's also the place to be for Saint Patrick's Day.
As if the mouthwatering fine dining menu at weren’t enough, the view from their open-air balcony can’t be beat.
Sitting right over the water and savoring incredible food while enjoying an unobstructed view of the harbor and our incredible sunsets is an excellent way to spend some time.
Laishley Crab House boasts a large covered outdoor terrace offering stellar views of the marina, the Peace River, the scenic Punta Gorda bridges, and, if you time it right, one of our amazing sunsets.
The atmosphere is welcoming, the décor is fun, and the menu is tasty, with plenty of options, including seafood, sushi, salads, burgers, and more.
Carmelo’s is consistently on the Best and Top lists in the area for their food and ambiance.
Their secluded garden patio lends itself equally to family feasts and romantic meals for two, and also plays host to amazing musical performances from time to time.
Their “Bambini” menu features plenty of kid-approved favorites, from chicken fingers to spaghetti.
Riviera Bar and Grill is located right on Alligator Creek and its cozy outdoor patio is a nice place to boat-watch.
They also offer docking so you can pilot your own vessel over.
With a considerable selection of seafood, burgers, chicken, and a small-but-tasty kid’s menu—as well as frequent live music—this is the perfect place to take your time over your meal, enjoy the view, and truly relax.
Author
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau
A visit to Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast is a peaceful gateway to Southwest Florida. As Florida’s premier ecotourism destination, you’ll find us to be free of crowds and off the beaten path yet still offer the comfort and amenities discerning travelers seek. Situated on Charlotte Harbor with endless miles of natural shoreline, we are home to unlimited outdoor pursuits like beaches, world-class sailing, boating, fishing, paddling, birding, dining and arts. Come find out why “Our Best Side is Outsidesm”.
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