Photo by Cathy Salustri
The single best thing I’ve eaten this year are the gluten-free key lime pancakes at Shangri-La Springs in Bonita Springs. And that isn’t solely my opinion: My road trip buddy, Joey Vars, does not have to eat gluten-free food, and he said this before I did.
A few years back, Joey and I created a presentation about historic hotels in Florida where people could still spend the night; I later published the list on my website, greatfloridaroadtrip.com. And late last year, a representative from Shangri-La Springs reached out and asked why I hadn’t included the Shangri-La. The honest answer? Neither of us knew it existed. But we’re always up for a road trip, and it took a while to get there in between already planned road trips and other work, last week, we finally made it down to tour the property, learn its history, and get a sense of the place.
We also learned why it wasn’t on our radar when we created the presentation: While Shangri-La Springs opened in the 1920s, it’s had episodic closures and only recently opened on a regular basis. But getting a room right now may be difficult: They only have 8 restored and available. But, in addition to a day spa that keeps the Southwest Florida locals coming in, they have regular Art & Soul night markets, yoga on the grounds, history tours, and a robust events calendar — all focused on health and wellness.
And they have an incredible restaurant, Harvest & Wisdom.
Harvest & Wisdom at Shangri-La Springs
The owners of the property have strong feelings about organic food, and the Shangri-La has certified organic gardens.
What they can’t grow, they attempt to get from Southwest Florida farmers, as they explain on their website: “Our goal is to source 100% sustainable, organically grown produce and protein, supporting regenerative agriculture. Southwest Florida is blessed with a plethora of dedicated farmers and farms who produce an incredible array of items we are proud to source in addition to our on-site delicacies.”
While organic doesn’t necessarily equate to tasty, at Harvest & Wisdom it does. Chef Amy Schmicker had her own restaurant on Sanibel (Sanibel Fresh), but Hurricane Ian destroyed it. She’s found her way to the Shangri-La, and if the grounds and history aren’t enough to tempt you here, her food is.
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(Florida) Adventure Awaits: Find more Florida adventures at GreatFloridaRoadTrip.com
Which brings us back to those pancakes. Joey had lamb for lunch and I had lane snapper. I wanted to bring home key lime pie for my husband and a chocolate peanut butter torte for myself, but before I could order, the server brought out a dessert sampler platter, compliments of the chef. I thought I was full until I took a tentative bite of the pancakes, at which point there was no turning back. Joey and I each ate one of the pancakes, declaring our undying love for them and, perhaps, the chef. He then made short work of the creme brûlée, I ate the chocolate peanut butter torte, and we shared the key lime, fruit, and whipped cream.
I did still bring a piece of key lime home for Barry, because, well, I’m not a monster. My only regret is that I didn’t bring home more of those pancakes.
Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Shangrilasprings.com; 239-949-0749.
