New Daytime Eats in Estero
New Brunch and Lunch Spots Emerge in Coconut Point
By Cheryl Mandell
ALBA BREAKFAST & BRUNCH
Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch with friends, a family breakfast before a day of shopping at Coconut Point, or a quiet weekday coffee date, Alba Breakfast & Brunch has become one of Estero’s most inviting destinations to start the day. Located next to Mamma Anna’s, this locally owned restaurant brings together the comforting flavors of classic American breakfast fare with fresh Mediterranean influences, creating an experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique.
The restaurant is the vision of father-son team Sam and Tony Fici, whose passion for hospitality is reflected in every detail. Born in Montenegro and raised in New York City, Sam Fici brings more than 40 years of fine dining experience spanning New York, Chicago and Europe. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for combining exceptional food with warm, attentive service.
The Fici duo has created Alba as a neighborhood gathering place where guests can slow down, enjoy fresh, thoughtfully prepared meals, and feel like part of the family.
From the moment guests walk through the doors, Alba lives up to its name—meaning “sunrise” in several Romance languages. Beautiful modern-meets-Mediterranean ambiance sets the tone for a relaxed dining experience where a second cup of coffee is encouraged.
Organic, free-range eggs take center stage in hearty omelets, flavorful skillets and tenderly prepared Eggs Benedict, while fluffy pancakes and golden Belgian waffles satisfy sweeter cravings. Signature creations such as the decadent Tiramisu French Toast and Dubai Chocolate Pancakes offer an indulgent twist on the morning meal.
Mediterranean influences add another layer of flavor throughout the menu. Guests can enjoy specialties like the Ottoman Breakfast, French Breakfast Tartine, and the restaurant’s signature Chicken Alba, each showcasing vibrant ingredients and international flair. Fresh salads, artisan sandwiches, wholesome bowls and flatbreads make lunchtime just as appealing, with options topped with grilled salmon, shrimp, ribeye steak, crab cakes or grilled chicken.
No brunch is complete without the perfect beverage, and Alba offers an impressive selection to complement every meal.
“Our guests like to try new, different dishes, so that’s why our menu is a little different compared to other breakfast places,” said Tony. “A lot of people are ordering our Turkish coffee— not a lot of places have that.”
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., the restaurant has become a favorite gathering place for neighbors, professionals, families and visitors looking to slow down and savor the morning. Alba also offers catering services, from office meetings to private events, and everything in between.
With the Fici family’s decades of culinary experience, a sunny atmosphere, attentive service and a menu that blends classic comfort with Mediterranean flair, Alba Breakfast & Brunch has established itself as one of Estero’s premier daytime dining destinations.
OUR FAVORITES:
American Breakfast
American Breakfast – A timeless breakfast favorite featuring farm-fresh eggs accompanied by crispy bacon or savory sausage, golden breakfast potatoes and perfectly toasted bread. It’s a hearty, satisfying way to start the day.
Shakshuka
Shakshuka – Popular throughout North Africa and the Middle East, this dish features gently poached eggs in a rich, slow-simmered, tomato-and-pepper sauce infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Served with warm bread for dipping, this colorful, flavor-packed dish offers a delicious balance of comfort and vibrant taste.
Alba Breakfast & Brunch
23111 Fashion Drive, Suite 111
Estero, FL 33928
239.221.4572
MASON’S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS
Mason’s
For Southwest Floridians who dream of a cool summer afternoon on the rocky shores of Maine, the journey just became a lot shorter. Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls has opened its newest location in Coconut Point, bringing authentic New England seafood flavors to one of the area’s most popular shopping and dining destinations.
Located next to Cold Stone Creamery and across from Tony Sacco’s, Mason’s combines the simplicity of a classic seaside lobster shack with the convenience of a modern, fast-casual restaurant. The ambiance is bright, coastal and relaxed, with casual seating and an open, welcoming layout.
Founded in 2014 by seafood buyer and lobster enthusiast Dan Beck, Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls was inspired by the traditions of Maine’s fishing communities. Beck built the concept around a simple philosophy: let high-quality lobster speak for itself. The restaurant’s signature rolls are prepared the traditional way, using only essential ingredients such as fresh Maine lobster, butter, lemon and, depending on the style, a touch of mayonnaise.
Today, Mason’s has grown to 43 locations nationwide, but its focus remains firmly rooted in authenticity and sustainability. The company sources lobster directly from Maine fishermen who employ environmentally responsible harvesting methods.
At the heart of the menu are two New England classics: the chilled Classic Maine Lobster Roll, dressed with mayo and lemon butter, and the warm Connecticut Roll, tossed in rich melted butter. Guests can also explore creative variations such as the Lobster BLT Roll and Lobster Salad Roll, alongside crab and shrimp rolls.
“Everything is made per order and made fresh everyday,” said Manager Mike Stroud. “What brings you back in is that you’re getting the same, consistent fresh meal every time, whether it’s today, tomorrow or in three weeks.”
Beyond the rolls, the menu offers a comforting lineup of coastal favorites including lobster mac and cheese, lobster grilled cheese, New England clam chowder and lobster bisque topped with tender chunks of lobster meat.
The beverage selection keeps things simple and refreshing, with soft drinks, including Organic Maine Root sodas, iced tea and other casual drink options which pair well with seafood.
The Estero location is owned by Lisa and Kevin Stroud, who previously operated successful Mason’s restaurants in Virginia before bringing the concept to Southwest Florida. Their Coconut Point restaurant joins a second regional location on Daniels Parkway in south Fort Myers, which opened last December.
Stroud runs the daily operations at both Southwest Florida locations for his aunt and uncle and plans to expand into Bonita Springs in the coming year.
For Estero residents and visitors alike, Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls offers a welcome new reason to slow down at Coconut Point and savor a little taste of New England on the Gulf Coast.
OUR FAVORITES:
Classic Lobster Roll
Classic Lobster Roll — A generous heaping of delicious, fresh Maine lobster served chilled with mayo and lemon butter. One of the various combo orders includes a drink and soup; our choice was a bowl of hearty New England Clam Chowder.
Lobster Salad
Lobster Salad – A “greener” option is the lobster salad, featuring that classic, mouth-watering Maine lobster over fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, goat cheese and dried cranberries. This combo featured organic Maine root beer and delectable lobster bisque.
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
8017 Plaza del Lago Drive, Suite 107
Estero, FL 33928
239.317.2827
THE TOASTED YOLK CAFE
The Toasted Yolk Cafe
One of Estero’s newest breakfast destinations is making every morning feel like a celebration. The Toasted Yolk Cafe brings upbeat energy, chef-inspired comfort food and signature cocktails, inviting guests to embrace its playful motto: “It’s never too early to get toasted.”
Founded in 2010 in Texas by longtime friends and restaurant veterans Chris and Kelly Milton and Mathew DeMott, The Toasted Yolk Cafe was created with a simple mission to elevate breakfast, brunch and lunch beyond the ordinary. What began as a single neighborhood café has grown to more than 50 locations across the country, including two corporate stores in Sarasota, earning a loyal following for its scratch-made dishes, creative cocktails and welcoming Texan hospitality.
The Estero restaurant, located on U.S. 41 across from Coconut Point in the former space of Zoe’s Kitchen, marks the eighth location in Florida so far. Bright natural light, cheerful yellow accents and contemporary finishes create a lively, but casual atmosphere in the spacious dining room, complete with a full bar.
The menu strikes a delicious balance between Southern comfort and modern brunch favorites. Signature dishes include the indulgent Cowboy Scramble, layered with biscuits, eggs, meats and sausage gravy, and other favorites like fluffy omelets, golden churro donuts, shrimp and grits, avocado toast, breakfast tacos, Benedicts and decadent French toast creations. The kitchen uses beef tallow for frying, which is a healthier, more flavorful option than processed oils.
Lighter appetites can choose from fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, salads and protein-packed breakfast bowls, while lunchtime diners will find stacked sandwiches, juicy burgers, wraps and hearty soups. Every plate is generously portioned.
The Toasted Yolk’s beverage menu is every bit as imaginative as its food. For those who prefer a boozy beginning, there are handcrafted mimosas, Bloody Marys, signature “Arnolds,” breakfast margaritas, Irish coffee and refreshing seasonal cocktails, alongside equally satisfying non-alcoholic drinks such as fresh juices and immunity boosting “energizers,” premium coffees, cold brew and specialty espresso drinks.
There are even “pup menu” options for furry friends, including thirst-quenching “dogtails” and “pawtio treats” such as the tailwagger bowl, complete with chicken, rice and kale.
Adding even more value are the cafe’s weekday specials. Monday through Friday, guests can enjoy rotating Toast-Worthy Selects for just $10.99, while limited-time seasonal offerings keep the menu fresh throughout the year. Catering is also available with reasonably priced, generous catering packages that accommodate everything from large corporate events to church meetings. Their “Toasted After Dark” program allows guests to rent out the whole restaurant.
Unique breakfast, brunch and lunch creations abound at The Toasted Yolk. Stop in and enjoy an atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down and savor their meal as an occasion to be toasted.
OUR FAVORITES:
Shrimp Grits
Shrimp and Grits —The Toasted Yolk’s signature cheese grits topped with sauteed garlic shrimp, bacon, cilantro and diced tomatoes, with a dash of cayenne. Is it breakfast or lunch? You decide. Either way, it’s a standout selection.
Southern Fried Arnold
Southern Fried Arnold — Two biscuit halves topped with hand-breaded chicken tenders and two poached eggs covered with country sausage gravy. Served with a side of junkyard hash brown casserole for a completely Southern and very filling meal.
The Toasted Yolk Cafe
22941 Lyden Drive
Estero, FL 33928
239.319.5603
We love Alba we have eaten there many times