Michelle and Rick Barger, the owners of Artisanal Cravings, are originally from Staten Island, spent a stretch in Venice, Florida, and landed in Englewood because, as Michelle says, “We wanted a garden and a pool.” On August 1, it will be two years for Michelle and Rick; the garden’s going strong, 15 banana plants out back, and life in Englewood agrees with them.

But retirement surprised Michelle in an unexpected way. “To be perfectly honest, I got a little fluffy,” she admits, laughing. “I was eating out five days a week, and I thought, I’m living in South Florida, I can’t keep this up.” So she went back to something she’s always loved: baking. Though she’s humble about it, Michelle’s not just your run-of-the-mill, average baker. She crafts organic treats using ingredients she grows herself, straight from her garden.

“We’re all scratch here,” Michelle says. “We follow cottage food laws. I’m working toward more farm-to-table, more organic products. The veggies and spices in my focaccia, tomatoes, peppers, it’s all fresh from my garden.”

Clean, wholesome ingredients are non-negotiable. “All those additives are scary,” Michelle admits. “They lead to bloating and all sorts of other issues, especially for women. I just want to keep it as fresh as possible.” Not every dish is perfect, though. “Frosting isn’t the healthiest thing,” she grins. “But it’s delicious.”

Once she started Artisanal Cravings, things snowballed. “It got pretty popular. I have a nice following and I’m so happy with it.” You’ll find her bakery cart on Spinnaker Boulevard every Saturday and Sunday. She also sets up her cart on Sundays at the farmers’ market in South Gulf Cove. That, plus private orders, keeps her plenty busy. She used to run markets four or five days a week but realized baking high-quality goods takes time. So she scaled back and stuck with the bakery cart, built, of course, by Rick.

So, what do people love the most? “Oh my gosh, cinnamon rolls,” Michelle says instantly. “It changes, but right now those are the hit. I do a classic and switch things up every week, adding a new flavor; this week it’s chocolate. Let’s just say my test batch didn’t last long.”

Michelle and Rick enjoy the flexibility of their pop-up. “If I want a vacation, I take it. If I need time for myself, I step back a bit. Last August I had foot surgery and took a break for three or four weeks. Everyone understood and kept in touch.”

And prices stay fair. “This isn’t Manhattan or Miami Beach,” Michelle says. “People shouldn’t be paying seven bucks for a cinnamon roll. Making things from scratch and pulling ingredients from the backyard garden helps keep costs down.”

It all circles back to that backyard garden by the pool, the simple dream that brought Michelle and Rick to Englewood in the first place.

Artisanal Cravings is located at 6245 Spinnaker Blvd, Englewood, Florida. 

Hours Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.  For information, call 718-704-8785 or check out their delish Facebook page Artisanal Cravings LLC for their latest creations.

The post Artisanal Cravings Brings Garden-to-Table Goodness to Englewood: Grown in the Garden, Baked from the Heart appeared first on Englewood Review.

This isn’t a big corporate chain. Los Mariachis is a family-run spot, born from a deep love for authentic Mexican cooking and a joy in sharing it with the community. Every dish reflects care and pride. This team doesn’t cut corners. They use only fresh, top-quality ingredients and hold tight to family recipes passed down through generations. That’s how they bring a genuine taste of Mexico right to Florida’s coast. Their goal isn’t just to feed you; it’s creating an authentic experience, one packed with rich flavors and family traditions.

The journey hasn’t always been easy. Miguel Carranza, one of the owners, remembers the tough times. “Our first year felt impossible,” he says. “COVID hit, and we thought our dreams were over. But we pushed through, with a lot of sacrifice and a lot of heart.” That grit paid off with three, soon to be four locations, all rooted in the same family values.

Reviews rave about hot, delicious food that comes out fast: think steak fajitas, carnitas, chimichangas, and their famous nachos. The staff treats you like you’re family, even if it’s your first visit. And don’t get Miguel started on their mango margaritas. “Best in town,” he says, grinning, “and you’ll see the bartenders squeezing the limes every morning. Nothing pre-made here. Everything’s from scratch, just like my grandma used to do.”

Miguel loves to surprise regulars with new dishes. Lately, they’ve added seafood specialties and inspired burritos. “We created one we call the burrito La Bandera because it has the tri-color from the Mexican flag,” explains Miguel. “And we have another one that is Molcajete, but this Molcajete is just with tons of seafood.”

The food is bold, colorful, and alive with flavor. They keep things fresh, often rolling out new inventions straight from the family kitchen. “People want something new now and then, not the same old meal every time. We hear them,” Miguel says.

Big celebrations get special treatment here. On Cinco de Mayo, there’s a DJ, drink specials, prizes, and enough energy to keep the place packed from open to close. No reservations, just show up, soak in the fun, and let the fiesta happen.

Miguel is proud of what sets Los Mariachis apart. “We are authentically Mexican; the real thing. Our recipes are grandma’s. We do everything by hand. Our guests see us making their food and drinks fresh every single time. That’s what makes us different. That’s why we’re successful.”

At the end of the day, this is what matters most: “We treat everyone like family. If you walk out full and smiling, that’s everything to us. That means we did our job.”

Miguel sums it up best in a heartfelt message: 

A Dream Written in Tradition 

On a timeless parchment, where every word carries the spirit of family, passion, and heritage…

It all began as a dream…

A dream rooted in love for our culture, our flavors, and the joy of bringing people together around a table.

Los Mariachi’s Bar and Grill was born from that vision—built not just with recipes, but with heart, dedication, and family traditions passed down through generations. What started as a simple idea soon became a place where the vibrant spirit of Mexico could be felt in every corner—through the music, the colors, and most importantly, the food.

Our family poured everything into creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where every guest is treated like part of our own. From our handcrafted dishes made with fresh ingredients to our famous tableside guacamole and signature drinks, every detail reflects our commitment to quality and authenticity.

Over the years, we have grown, but one thing has never changed—our mission to share our passion and bring smiles to every face that walks through our doors. Here, memories are made, laughter is shared, and traditions come alive.

This is more than a restaurant…

This is our dream, our story, and our family.

And now, it is yours too.

GRACIAS AMIGOS

from our family to yours…!!!

Los Mariachis Bar & Grill

Three locations, with a fourth on the way:

Port Charlotte

• 3575 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33952

Punta Gorda

• 3941 Tamiami Trail Unit 3131, Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Rotonda West

• 41 Chailett Rd. #15, Cape Haze, FL 33947

For their website click here.

• Hours
• Monday – Saturday
• (Rotonda West & Punta Gorda)
  11:00am – 9:00pm
• Sunday 11:00am – 8:00pm
• Monday – Sunday
• (Port Charlotte & Tampa)
  11:00am – 10:00pm
• Sunday 11:00am – 9:00pm
• Phone
• (941) 627 8030 Port Charlotte
• (941) 205 8905  Punta Gorda
• (941) 688 4034 Rotonda West

The post Sizzling, Fresh, and Phenomenal: Experience the Magic of Los Mariachi’s appeared first on Englewood Review.

Step inside Mako’s and you’ll find more than just seafood. It’s fresh and high-quality, and there’s an energy here that comes from people who care about the Englewood community. 

The service is fast; the atmosphere is stylish and welcoming, and the menu has something for everyone, from Ahi Tuna Tartare to their juicy Smash Burgers, which include two, four ounce Certified Angus Beef Patties (Chuck, Brisket & Short Rib Blend) choice of fries or vegetable slaw, served on a toasted brioche bun. Since their soft opening on March 27th, customers keep coming back for more.

Mike and his wife Alexis aren’t just business owners; they’re part of the Englewood community. Mike’s an animal lover at heart, and he’s excited to connect with local groups to help promote pet adoption and care. “I’d love to do an event where people stop by, enjoy some free food, and check out adoptable pets. And if you take home a new furry friend, I’ll give you a gift card to Mako’s,” he says.

Supporting local art is another big piece of what makes Mako’s unique. Walk in, and you’ll notice the original work of Sebastian decorating the walls. A 13-year-old artist and angler from Sarasota, even the Florida Wildlife Commission has noticed Sebastian’s talent. “We’re proud to show off ‘Sebastian in the Wild.’ Come in, see his work, and support a young artist,” says Mike.

Mako’s really is about family. Mike’s daughter, Karli, designed the restaurant’s logo. His son, Tyler, did the tile work and Riley, his other son, helps wherever he can. Alexis, Mike’s wife, runs the marketing. Everyone contributes.

But this all comes together because of Mike’s background; he’s the only American Culinary Federation Certified Executive Chef in Southwest Florida between Fort Myers and Venice. That’s rare, and it sets Mako’s apart.

So, who is Chef Michael Klocinski? He got his start at fifteen, washing dishes in Lima, Ohio. He stuck with it, graduated high school, moved to Columbus, and took a job at La Scala Italian Bistro, working his way up to lead line cook. That’s where he met Alexis, started a family, and began a journey through some of the best clubs and kitchens in the country.

After a three-year chef’s apprenticeship at Muirfield Village Golf Club, he learned what it took to lead a kitchen. He earned a chef position at Shaker Heights Country Club, running things there for five years before moving to Forest Highlands Golf Club in Arizona and then to Boca Bay Pass Club in Florida. Ten years in Boca Grande, a brief adventure in South Carolina, and then the family found themselves drawn to Englewood, a town they had always found special.

One thing Mike’s known for? His teams. He believes in giving his staff the tools and support they need to grow. His motto is, “The answer is yes—what’s the question?” That mindset runs through Mako’s service and kitchen staff. He’s been hands-on for years, not just as a chef, but in planning, budgeting, even helping design kitchens during club renovations.

Mike and Alexis have raised three kids: Karli, Riley and Tyler, who is building a name for himself in construction and tile.

With deep roots, a love for food, family, and community, Mako’s brings something new and exciting to Englewood. Come and experience it for yourself.

For more information makoscoastalkitchen.com.

Mako’s 2828 South McCall Road #34, Englewood, FL Call 216.905.7244

The post Everyone’s Raving About Mako’s Coastal Kitchen in Englewood appeared first on Englewood Review.

Be sure to stop by Paraiso Mexican Grille and Bar for lunch or dinner, grab a drink from their full bar, or enjoy some live entertainment while you eat. Planning a party? They can take care of everything with their catering and event hosting. 

Whether you dine in, pick up some takeout, or buy a gift certificate for someone special, they’re here to make every visit easy and memorable. The energy in their dining room matches the bold flavors on each plate.

From burritos to tacos, fajitas, and cool, tangy margaritas, there’s always something new to crave at Paraiso. But don’t just take our word for it; their customers say it best:

“Great quality Mexican food! Margaritas are the best around! Give it a try! You won’t be disappointed.”

“We went for dinner Sunday night and thoroughly enjoyed our dining experience. Friendly and super-fast service. Extensive menu. Quality food and good prices. The restaurant was packed by the time we finished our meal. Definitely will come back!”

“Lots of great menu choices, good service. Large portions—brought half of it home for a meal the next day!”

Paraiso Mexican Grille and Bar appreciates its customers: “We truly appreciate your support over the years and can’t wait to share even more of our favorite dishes with you. Thanks for choosing Paraiso as your getaway for authentic Mexican food, where every plate is a taste of paradise.”

Stop by and see what everyone’s talking about. At Paraiso, every meal feels like a little celebration.

Paraiso Mexican Grille And Bar
For information and hours check out pariasomexicanbarandgrille.com.
2639 Placida Rd. 
Englewood, FL 34224
Call 941.460.8081

The post A Taste of Mexico in Englewood: Paraiso Brings Flavor, Fun, and Fiesta appeared first on Englewood Review.

We caught up with Kara to talk about The Rustic Bean Coffee Shop, which celebrates its one-month anniversary on April 1, to hear about how her coffee shop isn’t just a business, it’s the dream she never realized she was chasing.

“My shop is a taste of home,” she told us. “There’s a pretty long story behind how I landed here, but really, I’ve loved coffee for as long as I can remember. I never said to myself, ‘I’ll own a coffee shop one day.’ But I always wanted to make my local community better. That’s always been my thing. I have a passion for, well, everything.”

Kara moved from New York to Englewood for her daughter. “My youngest has this serious blood disease. It took years for the doctors to figure out what was wrong, and eventually she was diagnosed with bone marrow failure. She also has this incredibly rare genetic condition, so she’s literally allergic to the cold. Winters in New York just weren’t an option anymore.”

Kara credits her parents for discovering Englewood first and giving her and her daughter a place to land with family nearby.

“She’s doing okay, but this is lifelong for her. She’s the reason we moved. I’ve always been a Dunkin’ girl, so I’d drive out there, but something was missing. And what do you know, that’s when I met Jeffery, the man of my dreams. He’s a local business owner, too.”

One night, Kara and Jeffery were just sitting on the porch, playing Yahtzee, “like an old married couple,” Kara laughs. That’s when Kara came up with an idea. “I said to Jeffery, ‘I think I want to open a coffee shop.’ I figured he’d tell me I was nuts, but instead he said, ‘Why not do it now?’ So, that night, we launched the LLC.”

When you ask, Kara lights up when talking about her husband. “My kids aren’t biologically his, but he adopted them without blinking. It’s straight out of a Lifetime movie. He’s my happy ending that I never saw coming.”

Family means everything to Kara. She designed The Rustic Bean to feel like the mountains she grew up in, from camping, hiking, trips to water parks, Adirondack chairs, woodsy vibes, you feel that Northern spirit even in Florida. “I wanted to bring the Adirondacks here, since my daughter can’t go back.”

And about The Rustic Bean; it’s celebrating its one-month anniversary on April 1, 2026, and it’s been in the works since January last year. Kara’s genuinely grateful for the Englewood community. “This is a dream come true. I’m humbled, honestly. Without our customers, none of this would be real. They’re the reason we exist.”

On the menu, you’ll find coffee (hot or iced), pastries, muffins, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and a whole bunch of “Around the Mountain” refreshers. She’s got teas, chai, and all the coffee shop staples, but with fun mountain twists: Lakehouse Lattes, Adirondack Americanos, Bear Claw Brew, Mountain View Macchiatos, Early Trail Espresso. Every name’s got a story.

Kara says what really makes the shop special is the feeling; people from all over drop in, from Ireland to Washington State, and everyone finds something familiar. “People come in and say, ‘Wow, I’ve been there,’ or swap stories. It turns into this ongoing conversation.”

Drop by Rustic Bean Coffee Shop, say hello to Kara, and welcome her to Englewood. Their motto just about sums it up: The Rustic Bean is your mountain retreat; where adventure meets comfort, and every sip feels like home.

The Rustic Bean Coffee Shop, located at 12717 Gulfstream Blvd., Port Charlotte 33981 941-828-1085 therusticbean2025@gmail.com

Open Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The post This Real-Life Love Story Brewed up the Rustic Bean Coffee Shop appeared first on Englewood Review.