Where do you go when you’re in the mooood for a scrumptious breakfast in a tropical setting?
Someplace with a laid back atmosphere surrounded by palm trees and ocean breezes…
The Island Cow, known for its “Udderly Great Food”, and prices that won’t make you lose the farm.
My daughter and I rolled down the windows, cranked up the steel drum music, and made the short trip across the causeway to Sanibel Island.
Sanibel Island is a barrier island off the SW coast of Florida, near Ft. Myers. It is a popular destination for its calm water, piles of sea shells, and the Sanibel stoop.
The Island Cow is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. It is located on Periwinkle Way, the main thoroughfare through the Island.
Expect a short wait for a table, especially during the busier months of season. Relax in a colorful Adirondack chair or try your skills at cornhole as you wait.
The staff was friendly, and once we were seated, we were served quickly.
Breakfast begins with free homemade cake muffins. The warm muffins with colorful sprinkles, and butter cubes are brought to the table as soon as you sit down. Don’t wallow in guilt…eat the fabulous muffins!
Starbucks coffee is proudly served, and my iced hazelnut was refreshingly tasty on this warm morning.
The atmosphere is colorful and funky. Dine indoors or outdoors, at a cozy table for two or at one of many large booths big enough for the entire family.
I couldn’t help but notice the Corona bottle light fixtures. A unique touch for the outdoor Key West style patio.
The Island Cow’s menu is enormous. There is definitely something for everyone.
Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served seven days a week. The restaurant is open until 9ish (welcome to island time) and take out is available.
The menu is varied and includes everything from soup and sandwiches to shrimp and grits and Liver ‘N Onions. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable. Breakfast averages $10.00 per person.
Guests are encouraged to sing along to the live music, featuring local performers, which happens every evening. When the music stops, the restaurant closes.
The “Cowa Bunga Breakfast” is served Monday-Saturday 7 a.m- 11 a.m and Sunday 7 a.m – 12:00, and is cooked homestyle with only fresh ingredients.
My daughter was quick to decide on the Belgium Waffle layered with blueberries and strawberries. The whipped cream topping was too much for her to resist. Her critique of the waffles, “yummy and super sweet”.
I decided on the Island Cow favorite, the Loaded Seafood Omelette. Stuffed with shrimp, sweet crab meat, scallops, and paired with bell peppers, onions and cheese. It was delicious and loaded with seafood, but the portion was too much for me. Unless you have a giant appetite, I would suggest splitting it.
We left the Island feeling relaxed and with full bellies.
The Island Cow is a great dining choice for anyone visiting Sanibel. It’s the kind of place where shorts and flip flops are perfect attire. The tropical decor makes you feel like you’re on vacation…even if its just breakfast with your favorite girl.
I’m a freelance writer and photographer living in SW Florida. I have a love of travel and photography. Living in Florida, my backyard is a travel destination with crystal clear water, beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and amazing wildlife. Wander with me…
Stephanie Karasek
Empowerment Coach
239-292-0237
info@thewaytowander.com
Damsel Safety Trainer
www.mydamselpro.net/StephK