Maria's Smokehouse and Seafood Restaurant — Restaurant in Florida

Went in with an open mind based upon negative reviews. Tried to engage Maria from the moment I walked in but she couldn't be bothered. Place didnt seem too busy. Ordered drinks and when they came ordered an appetizer. Took 30 mins for the appetizer which she delivered to the wrong table at first and when we got it was meh. She dropped it off so quickly I couldn't order more drinks.

30 mins later still no entree and no check in for more drinks. We were in the back so when I saw her pop up in the front I whistled to get her attention. She came down and I ordered a second round and asked that she not forget us. Some old timer at the next table had tinnitus and my whistle affected him more than the squawking parrots.

Decided to leave and asked all the diners how they could put up with this. They all seemed like they were in the twilight zone. I was waiting for John Quinones to jump out. A regular who was witness to all this tried to go up front to help Maria with my drink order. I paid for my appetizer and drinks and told Maria I couldn't wait any longer amongst other things. I understand it's a family business but if shes too tight to hire one wait staff to help it's pitiful. Her constant replay to my points were "Ok, Happy New Year".

As I explained to the regular who tried to help out I'm just like Maria. I'm a legal immigrant in the service industry and like Maria a Republican but I would never treat my clients like that. My outburst prompted a table of 5 up front to ask for to go boxes. Their meal had yet to arrive. They finally found sense.

For basis; I was with my wife and 3 kids including 2 teenage girls and hated to have to go there. So if you go, bring your own drinks and some cards to keep yourself occupied and see if you make it to the entree. I would guess Maria doesn't care because she doesn't have to care. She and the experience are definitely unique and I have a story to share.

Maria, hope you had a Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year.

PS - parking is limited and restrooms are outside. Went to Smokin' Oyster Brewery and had a...

We are full time residents in Ft.Myers. We have been going to Marias since 1973. We never had a bad meal ,ever. The smokehouse is known worldwide, I personally know forigners from various countries who take back smoked fish whenever they visit. Many part-time and full-time residents eat here regularly. The smoked fish is smoked on site and you could smell that great aroma when they are smokin. The ambiance of the reasturant is part of the Island experiance, live exotic birds and waterview too. Maria and family take pride in their cooking, gumbos, spicy colslaw, and a great variety of Marias special recipes, all a culinary delight. The fish AUCE is a regular item, cooked fresh and has a unique coating . The smoked fish spread is like no other. Maria and family really know how to please your taste buds. As for the negative reviews, Marias has been around a LONG time, it's proven itself for around fifty+ years back when the arches and the old swing bridge were the entrance to the beach.those are gone and Marias is still here. I have seen many reasturants come and go, the great ones are still here because they know how to take care of their customers and serve great food. Thank you Maria and family for all the fantastic...

Decided to try this place after reading the reviews, it just happened to be next to the pier where a fishing boat I was chartering is docked. You may feel like you need your hepatitis shots updated when you walk in because it literally is a shack, but the food and the service was off the charts! I returned several times over the next couple days... despite Maria being out of town, it was delicious. I'd like to try some of the dishes she cooks herself! Tried the stuffed mushroom caps, the seafood fondue and smoked amberjack for appetizers, all were outstanding. Three entre's were ordered, the salmon duval was scrumptious, smothered in a topping packed with shrimp etc. The crawfish etouffee is the best I have had in Florida and the "all you can eat" fish fry was great! The white fish was VERY lightly breaded and flash fried, not at all greasy, A health conscious person would have no problem dusting off a plate of that fish...if you are able to convince them to try it. Prices were very reasonable, less than most other places around them. I can't wait to return again and again as I left each time with a big smile on my face and wanting to try more but...