Sanibel’s latest dining concept is now open for business. Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a full bar and signature drinks.
The new establishment at 362 Periwinkle Way is a partnership formed between the owners of the iconic Island Cow and Mad Hatter restaurants. Longtime island restaurateurs Brian & Elke Podlasek and Max & Bridget Kolshak teamed up after the Podlasek’s Island Cow restaurant was destroyed by fire and the Kolshak’s Mad Hatter was lost to Hurricane Ian.
Wickies, the nickname given to lighthouse keepers derived from the task of trimming the wick of the lamps, has a fresh menu and décor that while casual and approachable, also matches the Mad Hatter’s elegance.
The two couples also own and operate the adjacent Magic Bus Ice Cream & Caffeine, a vintage VW-inspired ice cream shop and candy store with indoor and outdoor seating. The Magic Bus also offers modern coffee beverages, refresher drinks and baked goods.
“We’re excited about being a part of the recovery here on the island,” said Brian Podlasek. “We’re looking forward to Wickies being an integral part of the east-end lighthouse district becoming a destination for both guests and residents.”
Wickie’s is open daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, please visit wickieslighthouserestaurant.com or call 239-472-0011.