Our Story

The Starting Line-up: How it All Began

Sanibel Grill opened its doors in 1991 as a waiting area for guests dining at The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market.

What started as a cozy spot to sip a drink while waiting for your table quickly transformed into the island’s first sports bar and a destination in its own right. Locals and visitors alike flocked to this casual, lively hangout, making it a favorite spot on Sanibel Island for great food, great drinks, and great times. Over the years, it has become an island icon known for its fun, casual atmosphere and welcoming vibe.

Seafood, Sports & Spirits – The Winning Trio

Our menu features fresh seafood, juicy burgers, flavorful quesadillas, tender BBQ ribs, and more – perfect for any craving. 

Pair your meal with a cold drink during our daily Happy Hour, and enjoy the casual, spirited atmosphere that has made Sanibel Grill a go-to spot for sports fans and food lovers alike.

14 large screens showing the best sports action!

Step into Sanibel Grill, and you’ll be greeted by walls lined with sports memorabilia and 14 large screens showing the best of NFL, NBA, NCAA, NHL, and MLB action. Whether you’re catching the big game or just looking for a fun place to unwind, the “Grill” has you covered.

The Man in the Photos

Who is that man in all the photos, how does he meet all those people, and are all the pictures real? That man is Matt Asen, and he is the proprietor of the Timbers and the Sanibel Grill. He meets people just about everywhere (ALWAYS carrying a camera), and YES they’re ALL REAL!

What started with a picture of West German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt in 1982 at the Timbers original location on Rabbit Road, has evolved into an extensive and eclectic photo collection. Matt’s thirty-year journey of FUN, FAN FARE and FILM includes regular diners like Chris Berman, Willard Scott and Ted Koppel I. Besides the pictures that have been taken at the restaurant, Matt has journeyed across the country posing with baseball, football and basketball hall of famers. He has met Olympians, TV and movie greats, hockey legends, doctors, politicians, and even a few people that are literally out of this world (astronauts Scott Carpenter and David Wolfe).

With Matt, It’s always a snapshot, a smile and a handshake. Only one of the photos inside the Grill is computer enhanced. Can you guess which one? Here’s a clue …. he’s a sultan.

Call ahead seating: (239) 472-4453

Please call ahead 30 minutes prior to your arrival. We will place you in line for a table. We are unable to quote wait times due to games.

Our affiliation with the renowned Prawnbroker Restaurant Group, a multi-concept seafood restaurant group that set sail in Florida’s culinary waters in 1978, solidifies our commitment to excellence in seafood cuisine and genuine hospitality. Visit our other Prawnbroker Restaurant Group establishments:

East Coast

West Coast

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