This restaurant was (by far) the best bang for our buck when it came to fresh seafood in the Ft. Myers beach area. We returned here again and again. At these prices (just under $30), this was by far the best seafood restaurant for lunch. Expect menu prices to double at dinner. Matanzas offers a romantic setting with tables overlooking the water (indoors or out, whichever you please). Check out the boats and yachts in their slips while here (look out the window while dining, or walk outside down the pier). You'll find both friendly and shy pelicans just outside this property on the adjacent pier (see pics).

The lowest-priced, most delicious seafood item we found here for lunch was the fish sandwich (fresh fish that is deep fried, broiled, or blackened for $8.95). If you're more adventurous, you could always try the "Gator Tail" dish...yes, alligator tail!

I also tried the stuffed grouper, as well as the seafood platter. The gouper was fine, but a little on the bland side; the fish sandwich was better. The fried seafood platter was fine, but a little too greasy for me (I don't care for a lot of things fried). A fried seafood lover probably would give it much higher ratings. Overall, I found myself returning again and again to the fish or crunchy grouper sandwich.

Waitresses here are generally very experienced and will take good care of you; they are friendly as well. You'll find many of the locals dining here.