Artur’s is a family-owned spot with a lot of heart, serving up a surf ‘n’ turf menu that draws people who crave both land and sea. They run early-bird specials, with live music spilling out onto the patio and carrying into the night.

The menu mixes Polish and American comfort food: house pretzels, calamari, cabbage rolls, homemade noodles, and a pickle soup that’s become somewhat of a legend. If you want to take things outside, their vibrant patio tiki, often buzzing with music, is the perfect place to unwind. Or grab a private room if you want something more intimate for your crew.

When you walk in, it feels like home. The staff greets you with warmth. They remember the regulars, but newcomers fit right in. Prices are fair, portions are generous, and you can find everything from pierogies and kielbasa to burgers and prime rib. The space itself is simple and unfussy, with lots of light and comfy seats. Don’t skip the bar area, where there’s always a buzz, with a happy hour on weekdays and a wine list with something for everyone.

Artur Janta-Lipiński, originally from Miastko, Poland, brought his culture and love for food all the way to Southwest Florida. He made his name in local dining back in 2017 with Artur’s Phil’s 41 in Punta Gorda, and after selling that location, he took over Howard’s Restaurant in late 2020, determined to keep serving home-style cooking with a welcoming atmosphere. Artur is not slowing down: in January 2025, he opened Lipinski’s Tavern in Cape Haze.

Englewood REVIEW sat down with Amelia May, Artur’s manager, who’s been by Artur’s side since the Phil’s 41 days. She says, “Working for Artur from day one’s been a blast. He took a tiny spot and always dreamed bigger. When COVID hit, we needed a new home, so he picked this location, with no outside seating, no tiki bar, just a blank canvas. Now, we’ve got the biggest tiki in town, epic live music, and a real sense of community. Watching him build this has been a blessing.”

Amelia considers Artur her mentor, practically family. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without him. He taught me so much about the business, about people. He’s always out there meeting customers, talking, and building relationships. That’s something we really value here: the welcoming vibe, where everyone knows your name.”

Artur’s isn’t just about Tiki-flavored fun, though they do it well. “We love a good theme night,” Amelia laughs. “Christmas parties, crazy wigs, country western, you name it. We try to mix it up every month.” 

Be sure to mark your calendar for Friday, June 19th, when Artur’s transforms for a Luau with Vintage Vibes playing, tiki drink specials, food deals, and prizes for best-dressed.

For food, the Polish specialties are clear favorites. “Our stuffed cabbage flies out of the kitchen. Beata, our prep cook, is from Poland. She used to be at Old World before they closed, and believe me, her recipes are incredible. The pierogies come from a Chicago bakery; making 500 a day by hand would break anybody!” Amelia says their stuffed peppers, served as a weekly special, sell out most nights.

Drinks rotate often, but the house sangria has remained a staple since their Phil’s 41 days. Happy hour runs all day Monday through Thursday, with $3.50 domestic drafts, $4 house wine, and well drinks, some of the best deals around.

Music is central to the experience at Artur’s. They’ve expanded the stage so bigger bands can play, creating an atmosphere that’s welcoming and lively all year long. Sports fans won’t miss a moment either, thanks to 19 TVs lining the bar.

If there’s one thing Amelia wants guests to know, it’s that Artur’s isn’t just a restaurant. “We try to be the locals’ ‘Cheers’ bar. Our regulars become family. People show up, start chatting at the bar, and by the next week, they’re making plans to meet again. There’s a homey, welcoming energy you don’t find everywhere.”

Amelia’s been on this journey since her mid-twenties, and she’s quick to say she’s grateful, both for Artur’s leadership and for the chance to be part of something that brings people together. “It’s rare to find a spot that feels like family, but that’s what we have here. And I wouldn’t trade it.”

With a fresh event on the calendar, great food, lively entertainment, and the biggest tiki in town, Artur’s keeps the spirit alive in Englewood. If you’re looking for a place with character, authentic food, local music, friendly faces, and a place where everybody knows your name, you’ll find it all here. Pull up a chair, you’re among friends at Artur’s.

Click here to visit Artur’s website for more information.
Artur’s Restaurant 70 North Indiana Avenue, Englewood, FL 34233
Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday
941-473-0171

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After 22 long months of being closed because of Hurricane Ian, Nicola’s reopened its doors on May 29, 2025. 

The past two years brought Nicola’s more than their fair share of challenges: rebuilding, reflecting, and holding tight to hope after Hurricane Ian. “But we made it, thanks to you,” says General Manager and Nicola’s daughter, Rina Remmers. 

The mood at Nicola’s is celebratory, as they’re thrilled to be back. “Every donation, every kind word—you helped us bring Nicola’s back to life. We can’t thank you enough. We’re here, stronger than ever, because of you.”

Nicola’s Italian Kitchen is still the same award-winning restaurant, voted Best Italian Food in Englewood and Charlotte County since 1990, with a few exciting additions:

– Classic pizzas and pastas you know and love, plus some fresh menu additions

– A revamped wine bar

– A beautiful new dining room, ready for laughter and long dinners

Nicola’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a slice of the American Dream. 

Nicola and Tina De Fazio, both born in Italy, came to America in the 1960s, bringing those big-hearted Italian family traditions with them. They fell in love, built a life, and started sharing their warm hospitality, one meal at a time. 

The story started in Connecticut back in 1965, and it found its way to Englewood in 1990. Nothing’s changed since those early days. They still make their food from scratch, just like their family did.

Ask Rina, and she’ll tell you: “Our gratitude for the Englewood community runs deep. The community is what got us through this crossroads, and we always want everyone to know how grateful and humble we are. That gratitude comes first, always.”

Nicola’s is celebrating its return with some fantastic specials. Over the next few weeks, try their Friday night meatless dishes for Lent. The mushroom-stuffed ravioli with cream and mushroom sauce is a fan favorite, and the salmon bruschetta, with two toasted breads, fresh tomato compote, and sautéed salmon on top, is simply stunning.

Rina says it best: “We’re proud to be part of this community for 36 years. Words can’t quite capture how much it means. All we can say is thank you—we’re proud, and we’re grateful.”

Nicola’s isn’t just another “open” sign in the window; it’s a comeback story fueled by heart, hard work, and unbeatable local spirit.

Open Tuesday through Saturday, from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. They’re closed every Sunday and Monday.

Come hungry. Come happy. Welcome home to Nicola’s Italian Kitchen. As Rina says, “We can’t wait to welcome you back.”

For more information, nicolasitaliankitchen.net. 
4343 South Access Rd., Englewood, FL 34224
941.474.6195

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Owner Dave Wean, along with silent partners David Diedrick and Leslie Pines, reopened the establishment in January 2024 as a pub, later expanding into the adjacent unit to build a kitchen and install a pizza oven. The pizzeria officially opened in September 2025 after the business secured a restaurant liquor license.

Little Tony’s, a longtime Cape Haze favorite, inspires the pizza recipes with a thin crust and house-made dough and sauce. Dave’s favorites include the meat lover’s pizza and meatball Parmesan subs, featuring hearty, house-made meatballs. The pub also hosts weekly food specials that are posted on Facebook, DJs on Friday nights and karaoke on Saturdays, while maintaining a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Having owned Juniors for 30 years, Dave said his approach to a successful operation centers on respect and teamwork. “One of the big things is caring and being involved with your employees and treating them with respect,” he said, adding that he strives to run the restaurant “like a family.”

Open daily at 11 a.m., the pizzeria serves until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Recently partnering with DoorDash to boost food sales, Placida Roadhouse continues working to strengthen its identity as a true restaurant destination, one built on quality food, steady management and a family-style approach to staff and service.

Placida Roadhouse Pub & Pizza is at 3285 Placida Road. Learn more and view their menu at placidaroadhousepubandpizza.com or call 941-688-4051.

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Keith grew up in St. Croix, surrounded by bold Caribbean flavors and the freshest seafood you can imagine. Laurie’s from Kentucky, and she knows her way around Southern classics. Put those two together, and you get a restaurant where the menu feels adventurous but still comforting.

Farlow’s is all about making people feel welcome, including your dog. The heated patio’s roomy, so bring your furry friend along. They do family meals too, but if you want a table, you’ll want to call ahead; this place fills up fast.

When you want a standout meal in Englewood, this is the spot. The seafood’s always fresh, and there’s something for everyone. Regulars love starting with the fresh calamari—hand-cut, lightly breaded, and served with a house-made herb aioli. The Tropical Mahi Mahi is a favorite too, topped with a mango, red pepper, and pineapple chutney that’s all about the islands. And who can resist the Whole Fresh Fish? This dish is a showstopper.

And honestly, don’t skip dessert—the Kentucky Chocolate Pecan Pie à la mode, made with Maker’s Mark® Bourbon, is unforgettable. And to celebrate the season of love, check out Farlow’s special Valentine’s Drink Menu. 

Whether you stop in for lunch or settle in for dinner, Farlow’s delivers a blend of Caribbean and Southern flavors you just don’t see every day. Dine inside or out, depending on your mood. You’ll find fresh fish, juicy steaks, and sides that go way beyond the basics. Great food, friendly service, and a relaxed vibe; people come back for a reason.

Keith and Laurie have poured everything into this place, and you can tell. They say it best themselves:

“Kick back and enjoy some of the best Caribbean-inspired dishes around. Keith grew up in St. Croix, surrounded by fresh seafood and vibrant island cooking. That love for Caribbean food is baked into every meal here. Laurie’s passion for Southern cuisine shines through, too—just try the Kentucky Hot Brown, corn pudding, or fried green tomatoes, and you’ll see what we mean.

Everything’s made fresh every day. The herbs? We pick them right from our own garden. Take a stroll, breathe in the scents of parsley, basil, and rosemary, and check out the boardwalk to see what’s happening.

Thanks for stopping by the Farlow’s on the Water website. We can’t wait to welcome you to our table.

Keith & Laurie Farlow”
For more information call 941.474.5343 or farlowsonthewater.com.

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Owners Keith and Laurie Farlow, who you probably know from Farlow’s on the Water, have poured their hearts into this place. They wanted every detail to feel just right: the food, the drinks, the vibe, even the wood on the walls. And they didn’t cut any corners.

What sets Chophouse285 apart? For starters, it’s the only spot in the area with a true dry-aging room. They built it out with a Himalayan salt wall that draws out moisture, so every steak ends up extra tender and packed with flavor. The menu will soon feature Senepol beef, an outstanding cut from St. Croix, where Keith grew up. After aging, the steaks hit custom-made Chris Demat Grills, giving them that perfect finish.

But it’s not just about steak. You’ll find fresh, seasonal pasta made right at a dedicated station. Over at the bar, they’ve lined up a handpicked selection of wines and spirits, including the award-winning Hemingway Bourbon. The whole place feels like Old Florida, thanks in part to reclaimed wood from Kentucky bourbon rickhouses, Laurie’s home state, which adds warmth and a bit of history to the atmosphere.

Laurie puts it best: “There’s something special about blending Keith’s Caribbean upbringing with my Southern roots. Both places know a thing or two about great food and genuine hospitality. That’s what we want to share here.”

Chophouse285 is big—10,000 square feet, room for 300 guests, plus a private event space for celebrations. Keith says, “We’ve worked so hard to bring this to Englewood, and we can’t wait to welcome you.”

Chophouse285 is all about old-school steakhouse tradition with a twist—think dry-aged steaks, a wood-burning grill, Southern charm, and Caribbean flair, all under one roof. Located at 285 Dearborn Street, tucked into the heart of Englewood.

To book your table, visit Chophouse285.com or call 941-777-CHOP (2467).

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