The Most Unusual Places to Eat in Florida—and They’re Fantastic

Florida is famous for beaches and theme parks, but some of its best dining experiences happen in the most unexpected places. From treehouses to underwater aquariums, these restaurants turn a regular meal into an unforgettable adventure.

Whether you’re eating on a secret island or watching a pirate battle unfold, these spots prove that where you eat can be just as exciting as what you eat.

1. Cap’s Place Island Restaurant (Lighthouse Point)

You don’t drive to dinner—you dock to it. Cap’s Place sits on its own little island and is only reachable by the restaurant’s boat launch.

The vibe is rustic, speakeasy-meets-seafood-shack, and the history goes back to the 1920s rum-running era. People rave about making the short cruise part of the night out.

Fresh seafood dominates the menu, and the whole experience feels like stepping back in time. Reservations are a must, and don’t forget to ask about the famous guests who’ve dined there over the decades.

2. MAI-KAI (Fort Lauderdale)

A restored 1956 Polynesian “tiki palace” with fire shows, thatched roofs, and rooms themed to South Pacific islands. After a major renovation, it reopened and is back to being one of the most over-the-top dinner-and-a-show experiences in the state.

Go hungry, stay for the spectacle and cocktails. The performers put on incredible fire dances, and every corner of the restaurant transports you to a tropical paradise.

Order one of their legendary mystery bowls—they’re enormous, shareable, and ridiculously fun.

3. Pirates Dinner Adventure (Orlando)

You eat a four-course meal while a full pirate battle plays out on a giant indoor ship set. It’s goofy in the best way—lots of cheering, stunts, and audience involvement. Great if you want dinner to feel like a theme-park ride.

The actors swing from ropes, fire cannons, and interact with guests throughout the show. Kids absolutely love it, but adults get a kick out of it too. The food is surprisingly decent for a dinner theater, and the energy in the room is contagious from start to finish.

4. Norwood’s Eatery & Treehouse Bar (New Smyrna Beach)

A real-deal treehouse dining area built around a living oak tree, with lights and decks tucked into the canopy. Seafood-forward menu, sunset views, and a “why doesn’t every restaurant have a treehouse?” atmosphere.

Climbing up into the branches makes you feel like a kid again, except now you’re holding a plate of fresh grouper. Locals swear by the fish tacos and craft beer selection.

Grab a spot upstairs if you can—it’s magical when the sun goes down.

5. Sharks Underwater Grill (SeaWorld Orlando)

Floor-to-ceiling aquarium with sharks cruising past your table while you eat. It’s like dining inside a nature documentary—especially cool for families or anyone who wants a “Florida only” kind of dinner.

Watching a hammerhead glide by while you’re mid-bite is surreal. The menu features upscale seafood and steaks, and the atmosphere is surprisingly calm despite the massive predators nearby.

Make reservations early, especially during peak theme park season, because this spot fills up fast.

6. RumFish Grill (St. Pete Beach)

A huge multi-story aquarium dominates the room (the tank was featured on Tanked), so you’re eating seafood while surrounded by a living reef backdrop. There are even special “swim/snorkel with the fish” add-ons.

The tank glows beautifully at night, creating an almost dreamlike dining environment. Menu highlights include Caribbean-inspired dishes and tropical cocktails that match the vibe perfectly.

If you’re feeling adventurous, book the snorkel experience before or after your meal.

7. The Bubble Room (Captiva)

Here, every room is themed (Christmas, bubble lights, vintage toys), and it feels like eating inside a whimsical museum. It famously reopened in 2025 after storm repairs, with the same joyful chaos and beloved cakes.

Servers dress in scout uniforms, and the decor is so jam-packed with nostalgia that you’ll spot something new every time you look up. The desserts are legendary—especially the towering Red Velvet cake.

This place is pure joy and kitsch rolled into one. Perfect for anyone who loves quirky, one-of-a-kind dining experiences with serious personality.

8. Satchel’s Pizza (Gainesville)

This is a pizza joint, an art installation and a mini wonderland. You can sit in a vintage van, under an airplane, or in a greenhouse.

The pies are legitimately good, and the whole place leans into recycled, funky Florida creativity. Every corner is filled with repurposed treasures—old signs, bathtubs turned into planters, and random sculptures that make you smile.

It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and perfect for anyone who appreciates weird, wonderful spaces. The pizza is New York-style with fresh ingredients, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. Gainesville locals consider it a must-visit for good reason.