Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant

There’s a new fine dining destination in Fort Myers, Florida, and it’s one you won’t want to miss. Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant, led by the incredibly talented Chef Melissa Donahue, has officially reopened off Summerlin Road after more than 15 years on Sanibel Island.

Chef Melissa is no stranger to success—she’s a James Beard Award nominee and has even made appearances on the Food Network. Now, she’s bringing her creative menu, refined flavors, and warm hospitality to Fort Myers, giving locals and visitors alike a taste of award-worthy dining.

The new space blends comfort and elegance, offering the perfect atmosphere for a date night, family dinner, or special celebration. And with a full bar featuring beer, wine, and craft cocktails, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and savor every bite.

Elevated Dishes That Wow Every Time

We had the chance to try several dishes from the menu, and every one of them was a hit. To start, the Watermelon and Heirloom Tomato Salad was light, fresh, and beautifully plated—a burst of color and flavor that sets the tone for what’s to come.

The Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Belly and Clams delivered a delicious mix of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that perfectly showcased Chef Melissa’s creativity in the kitchen.

When it came to entrées, the Ancho and Honey Braised Short Ribs were the clear favorite. They were so tender that cutting them with a knife felt unnecessary—they simply fell apart. The Fish Stew was another standout—anything but ordinary, it came loaded with seafood and chorizo, swimming in a tomato saffron broth and topped with a drizzle of pernod aioli. Pro tip: use the bread to soak up every bit of that incredible broth.

The Sweetest Finish

Of course, no meal is complete without dessert, and the Goat Cheese Cheesecake was the perfect finale. Topped with pistachios and a drizzle of local honey, it’s rich, creamy, and easily big enough to share—if you’re feeling generous.

Every dish at Sweet Melissa’s highlights Chef Melissa’s passion for flavor and her years of expertise. Whether you’re a long-time fan from Sanibel or discovering her food for the first time, this restaurant is a must-try dining experience in Southwest Florida.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your next date night, bring some friends, and discover why Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant is quickly becoming Fort Myers’ new culinary gem.