Dixie Fish Company – Fort Myers Beach Waterfront Seafood and Old Florida Flavor

Dixie Fish Company is one of Fort Myers Beach’s most cherished waterfront restaurants, serving fresh Gulf seafood, classic fish-house favorites, and laid-back island atmosphere under the Matanzas Pass bridge. With roots that trace back to the 1930s, a casual open-air setting, and a reputation for generous portions and scenic views, Dixie Fish Co. is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers and waterway explorers alike.

A Historic Waterfront Fish House

Dixie Fish Company began as a simple fish market in 1937, selling locally caught mullet, snapper, clams, and oysters straight from Fort Myers Beach’s working shrimp fleet. Over the years, the building and its personality evolved, but its connection to Gulf fishing culture never faded. Today, the restaurant still channels that Old Florida fish-house feel, with wide-open covered seating overlooking the back bay and dining that feels both casual and timeless.

Located next to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Dixie Fish Co. complements one of the Gulf Coast’s larger waterfront dining brands while keeping its own easily recognizable identity — smaller, breezier, and steeped in local charm.

What to Expect from the Menu

Dixie Fish Company’s kitchen focuses on fresh seafood sourced from local waters, prepared simply or with spirited Southern flair. A sampling of popular menu items includes:

  • Whole Fried Fish — fresh catch of the day beer-battered and fried, served “The Dixie Way” with garlic butter

  • Fish & Chips — crispy grouper with homemade chips and slaw

  • Grouper Dinner — prepared blackened, seared, cornmeal fried, or coconut-crusted

  • Yucatán Shrimp — shrimp with cilantro, garlic, and key lime notes

  • Sandwiches — shrimp burgers, crab cake sandwiches, and the BLTAE with bacon and fried green tomatoes

  • Appetizers — mussels in apple-moonshine broth, fried calamari, ceviche, and smoked fish dip

  • Homemade Key Lime Pie — a nod to Florida’s favorite dessert tradition

The menu embraces Gulf Coast simplicity at its best — fresh ingredients, casual preparations, and flavors enhanced by seaside breezes and salty air.

Atmosphere, Live Music & Waterfront Vibes

Part of Dixie Fish Co.’s lasting appeal is its open-air waterfront atmosphere. Positioned on Matanzas Pass, diners can enjoy views of shrimp boats, pleasure craft, and the ebb and flow of Fort Myers Beach’s scenic bay while savoring their meals.

Live music most nights adds energy to the dining experience, making evening visits especially festive. Outdoor seating ensures that the sea breeze and sunset views are part of every meal, whether you’re there for lunch with family or cocktails at sunset.

Rebuilding After Hurricane Ian

Like many Gulf Coast waterfront venues, Dixie Fish Company was impacted by Hurricane Ian. The storm caused significant damage across Fort Myers Beach, yet the restaurant has successfully rebuilt and reopened, maintaining its historic structure and inviting waterfront setup. Locals and visitors continue to praise the atmosphere and quality even after the recovery.

Land Address & Contact

Dixie Fish Company
📍 714 Fishermans Wharf
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
📞 (239) 233-8837

This classic seafood restaurant sits on the Fort Myers Beach waterfront, directly under the bridge over Matanzas Pass, with easy pedestrian access from the beach and surrounding harbor area.

Marine Coordinates (Approximate)

For boaters cruising around Estero Bay, Matanzas Pass, or Pine Island Sound, here are the approximate coordinates to guide your approach:

📍 26° 27.508′ N | 81° 57.140′ W

These coordinates place you at the heart of Fort Myers Beach’s waterfront dock space, making Dixie Fish Co. an easy and scenic stop by water.

What Visitors Love

Diners return again and again for:

  • Fresh Gulf seafood with generous portions and bold flavor

  • Open-air seating with breezes and bay views

  • Live music and festive vibe in the evenings

  • Classic Florida fish-house charm paired with modern twists

  • Friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere

Whether you’re celebrating a sunset dinner, lunch after a day on the water, or a casual night with family and friends, Dixie Fish Company delivers solid food, waterfront views, and a taste of Fort Myers Beach history.