CJ’s on the Bay owners Curt and Jacquie Koon hail from colder regions of America and were immediately attracted to the small-town community vibe Marco Island offers. They added to the island vibe perfectly with CJ’s. The view of the marina and Smokehouse Bay makes a terrific backdrop for a special evening. Occasional live music is the icing on the cake. It’s a perfect place to finish a great day on Marco Island.
The menu at CJ’s on the Bay offers guests a wide choice of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, pasta, and seafood. CJ’s on the Bay opens for lunch service daily at 11:00 a.m. and stays open through 10:00 p.m.
CJ’s is the first restaurant in Marco Island to receive approval from the “Blue Zones Project” for featuring a variety of plant-based food selections. For example, the restaurant serves Beyond Burger, a plant-based meat alternative product that is also soy and gluten-free.
The restaurant is located in the Esplanade Shoppes at 740 N Collier Blvd and offers free waterfront access for boating. Guests can dine at the outside Gazebo bar and no reservations are accepted here. Alternatively, guests can reserve seating (strongly recommended) inside the dining room or on the adjacent outdoor patio. The dress code is “Island Casual.”
The restaurant offers select Happy Hour specials from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. while rotating specials are offered daily. Outside live entertainment is offered Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. while inside live entertainment is offered Thursday, Friday, and Saturday as of 8 p.m.
The Sun King has enjoyed drinks at CJ’s gazebo many times. It’s festive in season and picturesque year-round. Unlike most touristy restaurants with a view, the food quality isn’t sacrificed at CJ’s. The Sun King can vouch for their Filet Mignon and Mahi Mahi.