Fresh Catch Inland, the latest venture from restaurateur Franco Russo, has officially opened its doors at Coconut Point in Estero. The new restaurant marks Russo’s sixth location in Southwest Florida, and it carries special memories from his childhood visits to his father’s restaurant, which was not far from the new site.
As Russo expands his restaurant portfolio, the question arises: Is this his moment of success as a restaurateur?
A Look Back at Russo’s Journey
“It’s been 10 years now,” Russo reflects on his journey since buying Two Meatballs in the Kitchen in Fort Myers. The new Fresh Catch Inland, located at 7991 Plaza del Lago Drive in Estero, is part of Russo’s growing collection of eateries. He also owns or co-owns Two Meatballs in The Kitchen, Stones Throw in Cape Coral, Junkanoo Below Deck, and Fresh Catch Bistro on Fort Myers Beach.
Russo’s restaurant roots run deep—his father ran the Ship Restaurant off U.S. 41 for nearly 40 years. For Russo, it’s about having the right people and concepts. “It’s impossible to do without great partners, managers, and chefs,” he says. “I’m really lucky to have all of that in place at all of the other locations.”
Renovations and Redesign
Fresh Catch Inland underwent significant renovations, costing Russo approximately $1 million. The restaurant previously housed a TGI Fridays and, more recently, an Italian restaurant called T42.
Russo hired KDL Interior Design of Fort Myers to redesign the entire space. The restaurant features brand-new kitchen equipment and a unique artistic touch, including a hand-painted ceiling above the bar. Local artist Lacy McClary’s artwork adorns the restaurant, and diners who like her work can purchase it directly from her.
A Focus on Quality Food
Though Russo’s focus is on food, Fresh Catch Inland’s menu offers more than just seafood. While Fresh Catch Bistro is seafood-focused, the inland location adds variety. “We wanted to add more variety to this menu,” Russo explains. “Here, being inland, we wanted to offer more than just seafood.”
The menu includes options like miso sea bass, shrimp Mediterranean, day boat scallops, and grouper. The prices for most entrees range from $30 to $40. Additionally, Fresh Catch Inland serves filet mignon, ribeye, prime rib, and beef bourguignon.
Dining Experience
For now, the restaurant opens for dinner at 5 p.m., with a happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m. at the bar. Russo describes the ambiance as “upscale casual,” offering something for everyone. Whether it’s a date night with a fine meal or a casual evening with friends watching a sporting event at the bar, Fresh Catch Inland aims to provide a versatile and welcoming experience.
In the future, Russo plans to introduce a lunch menu, continuing his commitment to serving the best food in a relaxed, yet sophisticated setting.
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