I spent the better part of last week with my family in beautiful Marco Island, Fla. With the relentless Chicago winter, all of us were ecstatic to spend time together in the warm environs of southern Florida.

Marco Island is the largest barrier island within the Ten Thousand Islands area of southwest Florida. It is about 17 square miles, housing about 16,000 residents.

My sister rented a house right off of the main street, and I planned on spending most of my time on the deck or at the beach, which was a comfortable three-block walk. This was as close to perfection as I could imagine.

I did abandon my plan a few times, mostly for food. My brother-in-law Scott met me at the Fort Myers Airport and drove us to meet the rest of the family at Nacho Mama’s, where a frozen pomegranate margarita was waiting for me in all of its chilly goodness. We shared shrimp quesadillas, seafood tacos and nachos. Everything was awesome (especially those margaritas)!

Later in the trip, we dined at Capt. Brien’s Seafood and Raw Bar. We all enjoyed our various selections, but the clam chowder and lobster bisque soups were very hearty and outrageously flavorful.

The Sunset Grille is a restaurant located right on the beach. Scott promised its chicken Philly sandwich rivaled the best we have eaten, and he was right. With a view overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and a pristine beach, this place is a winner!

The Snook Inn features waterside dining, great food, refreshing drinks and live entertainment. They also have a Marco River Cam, so your friends can watch you enjoying yourself in the warm and festive spot.

I also need to mention the Empire Bagel Factory, which makes the best bagels on the island. In fact, you should go early or make a bagel reservation, because they have been known to sell out.

These were my favorite eating (and drinking) spots on Marco Island. On our return trip next year, we might have to stay longer so we can hit these spots but still try some new places!

— John Wroblewski, online contributor