As fall approaches and the weather cools down, it becomes the ideal time for a night out on the town to try a new restaurant. Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands are in the middle of Englewood’s second annual “Let’s Eat! Englewood” Restaurant Week – where over 20 local restaurants and eateries offer an exclusive, affordable menu that features local, seasonal flavors of Southwest Florida Gulf Coast. Through September 29, three-course dinners will be served for $23, as well as two-course lunches for $12.

Established by The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce and the Commerce’s Tourism Assembly, Let’s Eat! Englewood has been successful among the locals so far. Orlando native and former Food Network Star contestant Emily Ellyn made an appearance at the kick-off media tasting event. Ellyn is a food pro who has two master’s degrees under her belt and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Food Service Education while simultaneously volunteering for non-profit organizations and writing for food magazines such as Cake Central. She brought her unique charm and personality to the event. 

Let’s Eat! Englewood also encourages locals to try a variety of different restaurants. “The goal of this is really to reach out and encourage people to eat out often,” says Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce executive director Ed Hill.

And there’s no shortage of dining options. Local seafood shacks such as Gulf View Grill or Flounder’s offer a variety of seafood dishes, or you can choose from more upscale selections at Ephesus Mediterranean Grill and Howard’s Restaurant. Within the 20 participating restaurants, there’s waterfront dining, dessert locations, a selection of cuisines, and menus that represent the local Florida flavor.