Experience the classics at Traditions
Traditions on the Beach is the most northerly restaurant on Sanibel Island’s West Gulf Drive, and a drive here reaps savory rewards.
Located by the historic Island Inn, Traditions feels oh so Florida, from the old wood flooring and sea patterns on the carpet to the plantation-style paddle fans and white shutters. But most impressive to the atmosphere is the view, a wide expanse of beach perfect for catching the sunset.
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Traditions grilled filet mignon is so tender you can cut it with a fork.
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Baked Spinach Oysters are a signature dish at Mucciga’s restaurants.
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Jumbo Crab Crespelle is rich and creamy, topped with a succulent basil béchamel cream sauce.
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Enjoy tapas at the bar along with a wide selection of scotch and whiskeys.
Soft music from the grand piano and dim lighting provide an elegant spin after the sun goes down. The later it gets, the more the music picks up, luring diners to the dance floor. Music is and always has been an important part of dining at Andrea Mucciga’s restaurants.
“It’s like a supper club,” he says. “We want people to stay and have fun.”
The renowned restaurateur has operated several celebrated Sanibel dining spots over the course of 30 years, Traditions being in the bull’s-eye for the last nine. Originally from Sardinia, Italy, Andrea’s ticket to the U.S. was aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise line. He was on the maiden voyage of the first ship the cruise line put into service.
In 1988, he and chef Aziz Bouras relocated from Dallas to Captiva to open Bellini’s. Chef Aziz is still with him, so are a couple of servers along with a few of the most popular menu items, such as the baked spinach oysters.
The oysters sit in a creamy saffron sauce with small bits of bacon and thick cheese melted over top. They make a great starter paired with a specialty cocktail, such as the Sardinian: blood orange vodka, mango puree and prosecco. Slightly sweet and acidic, the refreshing cocktail cuts through the salt of the oysters and fat of the cheese, making you want more of both with every sip and bite.
Save room for desserts such as the Cappuccino Truffle Bombe Glace.
Traditions’ menu has a worldly flair. Moroccan lamb tagine is one of chef’s signature dishes and pays homage to his roots. The slow braised lamb shank is sweet and savory with caramelized onions and raisins. Served over couscous, it comes in a traditional clay pot.
On the Italian side, the Angry Lobster Arrabiata is spicy and delicious, but for a milder alternative try the lobster ravioli: beautifully plated in rich, luscious, creamy brandied lobster bisque, a tender piece of lobster in the center.
Each meal begins with a basket of warm bread and an eggplant-based spread with fire roasted tomatoes and garlic, cumin, cardamom and turmeric, a twist on baba ghanoush.
Twists and spins aside, there is nothing quite like the classics, such as Traditions’ escargot or prime beef carpaccio: old school and delicious. Steak au Poivre is another classic and comes in a 14-ounce portion for $33.
Even though Traditions is a beachfront restaurant offering lots of seafood and “raw” selections, the beef served here is impressive.
“We do it the old-fashioned way, our chef is also a butcher,” Andrea says. “We pay attention to every little thing.”
The little things do indeed make a difference to seasoned diners, like servers presenting and clearing plates from the proper side. The staff is knowledgeable, professional and personable.
The early Sunset Menu is perhaps one of the best deals on the island. This three-course meal begins with a choice of soup or salad, ends with a dessert, and in the middle is a choice of nine entrees, offering a variety of proteins and a range of flavors.
Sunset is one of the best times to dine at Traditions.
The Bistecca Al Gorgonzola melts in your mouth: grilled petit filet mignon in a Barolo reduction, topped with decadent Gorgonzola. Served with gratin potatoes and steamed vegetables, this satisfying meal is $29.
Even the international wine selections have reasonable markups.
The face of Traditions, Andrea welcomes and embraces regulars nightly.
“The restaurant is a place to receive families,” he says. “The kids I’ve met over the years are now coming in with their kids. People come here from all over Southwest Florida and the world. It’s beautiful to see, very fulfilling.”
The Island Inn is a special place with much history. Under Andrea’s direction, it’s neighboring restaurant, Traditions, is poised for a big renovation in the near future. But for this season, enjoy the hospitality, value and ambiance of this island favorite.
