Punta Gorda, located on Florida's west coast, has access to some of the best seafood in the country between fresh catches from the Gulf of Mexico and the occasional catfish or bass out of the Everglades. From the most casual beach bar to a fancy restaurant, fresh seafood can be found in abundance. Menu favorites include shrimp po'boys or shrimp and grits along with grilled mahi mahi or grouper. During certain seasons, mini lobsters and stone crabs make an appearance on most menus. If you're in the mood for something other than seafood, Punta Gorda has everything from fabulous Italian and Asian restaurants to American bistros. Given Florida's summer heat and warm winters, menus typically feature refreshing dishes that include citrus flavors and lighter sauces.