The Mucky Duck is back!
Nearly four months after Hurricane Ian ripped through Captiva and Sanibel Islands, The Mucky Duck restaurant is open again!
After months of cleanup, it’s a day Mucky Duck fans have anxiously awaited. But be prepared for a wait; the restaurant has been packed since reopening. People are lining up on Andy Rosse Lane well before the restaurant opens, in hopes of getting a parking space.
The Mucky Ruck Reopens
If you’re lucky enough to get a coveted spot, be prepared for a wait. Outdoor seating fills up almost instantly and a line to eat inside forms well ahead of opening. It’s a welcome sign to see it this busy.
You may remember images of the restaurant – and the street leading to it – surrounded by and covered in sand after the storm. Remarkably, the inside is unchanged. The warm wood interior is untouched. Duck footprints still mark the path to the restroom. You’d never know it faced a hurricane head-on by looking at it.
It’s the best feeling to be back on the island, having a meal in a familiar place, looking out at the glistening gulf waters. The local economy depends on tourists and it’s heartwarming to see business booming again.
(Almost) All Your Favorites
The restaurant is serving up the same menu as before but a handful of items aren’t yet available. So hang tight! They’re working with what they have and they’re doing a seamless job at it.
It’s hard to miss the giant smiles on the servers’ faces. Customers are happy to be back and the restaurant is happy to see them. There’s a feeling of renewal. Employees aren’t just serving up good food. They’re dishing out fun pranks, bringing much-needed smiles and laughter to this community.
Same Place, Different View
Does the patio look the same? No. Does it feel the same? Yes. But better. After nearly losing it to one of the worst hurricanes to rip through the area, you can’t help but have an even greater appreciation for the island. Joni Mitchell was right. You don’t know what you’ve got til it’s gone. Or in this case, almost gone.
Unfortunately, the sea oats and greenery that once separated The Mucky Duck patio from the beach, are gone. But what you have now is an unobstructed view of the gulf.
The outdoor bar has not been replaced, but the beachside chairs and patio tables are back. So is the ring toss game.
Never Happier To Wait For a Table
It may be tough to snag a parking spot or a table but it’s also good news. Because business is again booming in a place that couldn’t deserve it more.
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