About me and an introduction to my channel Amy Alvarez (Amarilys) Realtor - Southwe...

My top favorite places to eat in Southwest Florida

Like many people across the country, you’ve probably thought about making a move, and maybe even to Florida. That’s great! If you are anything like me, you probably love great food and anything culinary. I consider myself to be a bit of a "foodie".  Though many people don’t think about it until after a move, making sure there are food or restaurant options near is actually very important. It speaks very much into the culture of the area! Luckily, Southwest Florida has such a vast array of selections, you will never feel like you are missing out on anything. 

Being from New York my entire life, I was always surrounded by world class cuisine which was located right around the corner. What an amazing convenience it was!  But when I moved to Florida, I had to figure out from scratch what are the best places to go down here!

After going out and trying so many amazing yummy foods, I was able to make a list of the best 4 places with dishes to die for. 

1. Azure - Located in 15301 McGregor Blvd Suite #1 Fort Myers Florida 33908  is a hidden gem to say the least.  If you are not careful you might miss it.  Located on a corner of a small strip mall.  This restaurant offers French European cuisine with a southern flair.  I love the atmosphere of this family owned restaurant.  The owners Eddie and Lee are kind and attentive to their clientele.  You can tell they take great pride in their restaurant.  The creations in that open kitchen are amazing and just fabulous.  This is a great place to have a romantic intimate dinner or have a delicious cocktail with a friend at the bar overlooking the open kitchen.  This is the first restaurant that comes to mind for a romantic Friday night dinner, my birthday or an anniversary.  In the mood for fine dining - look no further.  My favorite dish is the Red Snapper Papillote.

2. DeRomo's - Located in the Promenade at Bonita Bay in Bonita Springs is an excellent place to shop for food as well as dine in.  This restaurant seats 275 people with casual dining area, outdoor seating and a full indoor/outdoor bar.  After dining you can walk around thru the many shops in the Promenade and perhaps catch some live music in the center bar.  This is a in-season favorite for many of our northerners during the winter months.  My favorite dish is the Chilean Sea Bass with a glass Pinot Grigio.

3. Flipper's on the Bay - Overlooking the backbay waters of Estero Bay.  You will typically find chef Juan making his occasional rounds to ask patrons if they are enjoying their meal.  The food and outdoor feeling with the beautiful water views is a treat on to itself.  They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and each is cooked to perfection!  This is a great place to visit any time of the day.  Their signature drink is the rum punch and boy does it pack a punch.  You will feel like family as you become familiar to the friendly and attentive wait staff.  My favorite dish is the lobster mac and cheese.

4. Viet Village located at 16571 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers.  This is Authentic Vietnamese food - family owned restaurant.  I absolutely love the atmosphere, the friendly service and amazing food.  You can taste the love and care of how the food is prepared.  This has become a neighborhood favorite for many in the area.  You can dine in or take out - amazing food at a great price.  My favorite dish is the shrimp clay pot.

Though those are my immediate go-to, there are so many, many more!

If you have any questions or would like me to elaborate please feel free to leave your comments and or feedback below.    Thanks for following.  I'd love to hear what topics interest you that you would like to read about next.

Thinking of buying a home? Here are some reasons why buying a home is beneficial.

Buying real estate is a large investment and can be scary for most people.  I remember being afraid right before I bought my first home in 2001.  You may ask yourself numerous questions:

Will you be able to afford it?

Truth is that the initial cost isn't that far off from the cost of moving into a rental if you consider the cost of security deposit and background checks.  The tax code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage and some of the costs involved in the purchase.

Here are some reasons to own a home:
You build equity - Money spent on rent is never seen again.  When you own a home you build equity.
You Save Money  - Building equity in your home is like having a savings account.
It's more predictable - Unlike rents that have possible annual increases - your mortgage payments remain the same and actually decline as you own your home longer.
Freedom - You can decorate any way you want and paint any colors you choose. You can make upgrades to suit your lifestyle.  When renting you need permission for most alterations, if any.

What happens if a major component breaks down?  
Home Warranty companies make it very affordable to insurance appliances and major components like Air Conditioning and Hot Water Heaters.

If you have any questions or would like me to elaborate please feel free to leave your comments and or feedback below.
Thanks for following.  I'd love to hear what topics interest you that you would like to read about next.