Welcome to On The Bay at Matanzas, the newest spot to enjoy waterfront dining on Fort Myers Beach. With its grand opening officially here, this restaurant is serving up a mix of new favorites and classic dishes, along with craft cocktails and unbeatable bay views.
Whether you’re stopping by after a beach day or pulling your boat up for a bite, this casual-yet-upscale eatery has something for everyone. During their soft opening, I had the chance to try a few dishes from their lunch menu—and let’s just say, they know how to make a great first impression.
We kicked things off with their Crab, Lobster & Artichoke Dip, served hot and cheesy with tortilla chips. Every bite was packed with rich, creamy flavor and chunks of fresh seafood. The Shrimp Cocktail was another perfect starter—simple, fresh, and exactly what you’d want while soaking up the waterfront views.
For a lighter touch, the Sea Salt Roasted Beet Salad was a refreshing balance of sweet and savory. And to top it off, I enjoyed their Golden Standard Cocktail, their signature take on an Old Fashioned, which paired perfectly with the salty breeze and beach vibes.
Moving on to the main course, we tried the Tri-Deck Turkey Club, Mahi Tacos Veracruz, and the standout of the day—the Crunchy Grouper Sandwich. If you visit Fort Myers Beach and don’t order a grouper sandwich, are you even doing it right?
The grouper was cornflake-crusted and flash-fried to golden perfection, served on a soft brioche bun with a tangy orange dipping sauce that tied everything together. It was crispy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.
And just when we thought we couldn’t eat another bite, we were talked into dessert—and we’re glad we gave in. Their Oreo Key Lime Pie is the perfect ending to any meal. It’s sweet, tangy, and has a crunchy cookie crust that brings all the flavors together beautifully.
With its inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and prime location, On The Bay at Matanzas is quickly becoming a must-visit on Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re planning a laid-back lunch, sunset dinner, or drinks after a day on the water, this spot checks all the boxes.
So next time you’re near the beach, stop in, grab a cocktail, and enjoy some of the best waterfront views in Southwest Florida
Menu Items Featured:
crab, lobster & artichoke dip, shrimp cocktail, sea salt roasted beet salad, crunchy grouper sandwich, tri-deck turkey club, mahi tacos veracruz, golden standard cocktail, and oreo key lime pie
Website URL: https://matanzasonthebay.com
Social handles: @onthebayatmatanzas
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