In just the last six months, Cape Harbour in southwest Cape Coral has become as well known for its restaurants as for its million-dollar waterfront homes. There, the restaurateurs behind the hugely popular Rumrunners restaurant have established two new and diverse options for casual dining with The Joint and Run Agrounds.

Located just a stone’s throw from Rumrunners, amid the development’s retail shops and art galleries, the pair overlook the Cape Harbour marina. Each provides a unique backdrop for unwinding with friends and family or conducting informal meetings with business associates.
Promoted as a place “where noshing is the order of the day,” The Joint illustrates the distinction between eating out and dining out. Similar to tapas, the restaurant’s star attraction is its small plates listed on the menu under “Nosh,” which is Yiddish for “snack.” As such, portions are sized like appetizers vs. entrees, with prices to match ($6.95-$16.95).

The idea is to order several different items and enjoy a little taste of everything. While the concept of noshing is a dieter’s delight, it is also a boon to those who can’t decide what to order when everything on the menu looks good. “Mixed with another small plate, you don’t have to commit,” says Jeff Gately, one of several partners in the three waterfront restaurants. “You can have the best of all worlds and share it with friends.”

There’s much to share, judging from the menu’s broad array of small plates, stone-fired pizzetas, salads, sandwiches and sides. Nosh favorites include the Scallop & Shrimp Ceviche (served with fresh lime, avocado butter & crispy tortilla), Shitake Mushroom & Pork Potstickers (served with Ponzu dipping sauce) and Shrimp Tacquito (made with a unique fire roasted pepper sauce and served over Southwestern slaw).

Any of the above would go well with The Joint’s 12-inch, gourmet pizzetas or highly original sandwiches. Best-sellers include The Boston Roll (chilled crab and lobster seafood salad served on a pretzel roll) and Grilled Kobe Beef Sliders (a high-class version of White Castle or Krystal burgers, made with Wisconsin Swiss cheese, caramelized onion and pickle). All sandwiches come with a choice of delicious vegetable slaw, pasta salad or homemade butter potato chips.

In addition to a full liquor bar, The Joint has a well-rounded list of red and white wines (many available by the glass), along with domestic and imported draft and bottled beer.

To further enhance The Joint’s casual atmosphere and encourage spontaneity, reservations are not accepted. If there’s a wait, patrons may pass the time over drinks at the adjoining Longboards Cabana Bar or stroll the shops and enjoy Cape Harbour’s amenities. Customers can also call ahead for carryout, which makes it especially convenient for those on the way home from work or a night at the movies.

Separated from The Joint by a shared patio known as Expo Island, Run Agrounds Premium Coffee & Ice Cream offers additional options for those seeking a light bite, a refreshing fruit smoothie or a quick coffee or tea pick-me-up. In addition to dozens of specialty coffees, coffee drinks , lattes and chai lattes (hot, iced or blended), there are various coffee cream drinks (blended and non-blended), as well as fruit smoothies and green tea freezes made with premium fruit purees.

Also, sweet lovers of all ages will appreciate the restaurant’s freshly-baked croissants, cakes and pastries, including scones and Danish, as well as its chilled treats, available by the cone or cup. In addition to sorbet (including a couple of sugar-free flavors), Run Agrounds makes more than a dozen flavors of Gelato on site daily.

The premium Italian ice cream contains 25% less fat than American brands and therefore is kept at a slightly higher temperature than regular ice cream. This gives gelato a silky smooth texture and much more flavor than most of its “lite” counterparts.

WiFi Internet access and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating make Run Agrounds a relaxing place for social or business purposes. Customers can also enjoy live entertainment every Tuesday from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. on Expo Island (weather permitting).

The Joint and Run Agrounds seem to have entered the market at just the right time. As gas prices soar, real estate values fall and disposable income shrinks, they offer something for everyone in Southwest Florida at pleasantly palatable prices.

(The Joint and Run Agrounds are open 7 days at 5848 Cape Harbour Drive in Cape Coral. The Joint is open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. - midnight; carryout available. Phone: 239-542-0123. Run Agrounds is open from 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Phone: 239-542-0212.)