Essential Eats in Charlotte County, Florida

Harvested from the Gulf of Mexico only one claw at a time, stone crab rules local menus during its Oct. 15 through May 15 season. Steamed fresh to a brilliant red and cracked by an expert, these claws are best served chilled with mustard sauce, although melted butter is perfectly acceptable.

The ultimate local dessert is a creamy, tangy treat (with no hint of sweetness if it’s made right). Purists will insist on a graham cracker crust, but coconut macaroon is also delicious.

Based in Punta Gorda, this craft distillery produces small-batch, award-winning, hand-crafted rum from cane molasses grown in Florida. Tours operate regularly along with tastings and a retail shop.

Many area restaurants serve this beer crafted in the town of Punta Gorda, but the opening of the brewery’s tap-room lets you try small-batch introductions and order tasting “flights.”

Locally, Gulf-caught grouper is considered premium fish, revered for its mild flavor and moist white meat. Blackened, grilled, fried, dusted in Cajun seasonings — this fish is prepared and served many ways, whether as an entrée, atop a salad or as a sandwich.

Pink and sweet, these plump beauties come right from the Gulf to your table — cocktail sauce optional.

Gator meat, usually battered and fried, is just one of those foods you have to try. It’s chewy with a taste of its own (and some say, low in cholesterol).

Harvested in the waters of Charlotte Harbor and known for their delicate meat and sweet taste, blue crabs are a must-eat staple of the area. You'll find them featured on many restaurant menus and available for purchase at local seafood markets.