As the Paradise Coast has just entered Stone Crab season, which runs from October 15th through May 15th, residents and visitors are ecstatic about having access to the delicacy. Fortunately, Naples has a plethora of restaurants that fulfill a seafood connoisseur’s appetite - because the city is only 35 miles north of Everglades City, a small fishing town that has earned the well-deserved title of Stone Crab Capital of the World.
The exquisite crustacean has made such an impact with each annual harvest that festivals are celebrated throughout the Paradise Coast. The savory stone crab, which is sometimes compared to lobster, is highly sought after not only for its superior flavor, but also because it’s a sustainable seafood option, as it is returned alive to the glistening Gulf of Mexico, where it continues to thrive and regenerate a new claw. So, while in Naples, be sure to visit these top restaurants to indulge in the delectable stone crab:
Truluck’s
Tucked next to 5th Avenue’s famous Naples Players theatre, Truluck’s promises not to disappoint in their commitment to fresh Florida stone crab. Truluck’s, with their own fisheries, ventures to the Gulf of Mexico each day during stone crab season to catch the freshest, never frozen, crab. In addition to crab, Truluck’s offers a wide array of savory seafood and steak entrees in a formal dining atmosphere.
Captain & Krewe Seafood Market and Raw Bar
Just off 5th Avenue in historic Old Naples, you will discover Captain & Krewe, a casual market and raw bar. Offering indoor or outdoor seating, Captain & Krewe is conveniently located directly across from Cambier Park, making it an ideal dining location for those looking to dine with children. Captain & Krewe is famous for not only “the freshest fish and stone crabs available in Southwest Florida,” but also for their unique oyster bar, where patrons can enjoy a front-row view to their meal being specially prepared.
Kelly’s Fish House Dining Room
Nestled on the bank beside the Gordon River Bridge, resides the oldest seafood restaurant in Naples. Since 1953, this family-owned and operated restaurant has been proudly serving fresh-caught seafood in their casual, Old Florida dining room, which is appropriately adorned with fishing artifacts and decor. As patrons enjoy fresh Florida stone crabs, they can also relish in a view of the Gordon River, where boats and dolphins frequently pass.
Swan River Seafood
For over a decade, Swan River has been cracking the freshest local stone crab claws. Dine at an indoor or outdoor table, or experience the boat bar - a place to gather for an intimate, yet casual dining experience. If you’re looking to dine out, the fish market showcases an abundance of fresh seafood. Swan River boasts 256 seafood selections, making them “Naples’ best seafood market and restaurant.”
If you are planning to move to Naples, or are just visiting to treat yourself to the delectable stone crab, please contact Gulf Coast International Properties today. It would be a delight to participate in your real estate journey.