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, and their weekly curry inspires repeat visits. 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.
Learn more about the people behind this genuine Irish public house on their Flavor Coast page.
As if the fresh, creative, and mouthwatering menu at weren’t enough, the water views, from both inside and out, can’t be beat.
Sitting right on the water and savoring incredible food while enjoying the harbor views and an incredible sunset 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
The Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau was established in 1997. The Visitor & Convention Bureau supports local businesses by promoting Charlotte County as a premiere travel destination, domestically and internationally, to consumers, meeting planners, travel trade and sports-rights holders.
We advocate for and promote Charlotte County as a warm, welcoming, and beautiful destination with positive economic growth and a focus on the preservation of natural resources to build a sustainable future for visitors and residents alike.
Learn more on our About Us Page and visit our Events Page to stay up to date on happenings in the area.
Blog content is created and reviewed by our amazing staff, (locals of course!). Through our posts we share those “in the know” tips, the “where the locals go” info, and the “places not to miss” to inspire travelers to visit. We share our knowledge by highlighting activities and events, the area’s unique natural appeal, and our prioritizing of conservation, sustainability, and accessibility. Our social media, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in particular, focus on all there is to do, see, and eat in the area. Social posts and videos are created and shared by the VCB, by visitors, and sometimes by sponsored travel writers (always disclosed).
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast is Florida’s premier ecotourism destination, free from crowds and off the beaten path yet still offering the comfort and amenities discerning travelers seek. Our location on Charlotte Harbor means endless miles of natural shoreline and outdoor assets like beaches, nature preserves, and waterways of all kinds. Visitors can find unlimited outdoor pursuits like sailing, boating, world-class fishing, paddling, birding, biking, dining and arts. Come find out why “Our Best Side is Outside℠.”
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