Discovering Nav A Gator Bar Grill: A Riverside Culinary Gem
Nestled along the tranquil waterways of Arcadia, Florida, Nav A Gator Bar Grill stands as a beloved local institution, offering a unique blend of casual dining, vibrant atmosphere, and genuine Southern hospitality. Located at the specific address of 9700 SW Riverview Cir, Arcadia, FL 34269, United States, this establishment is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination where the pace slows down, the views are spectacular, and the food speaks to the heart of Floridian comfort cuisine. For years, Nav A Gator has cultivated a reputation built on fresh ingredients, generous portions, and an ambiance that perfectly captures the relaxed spirit of life near the water.
The experience at Nav A Gator is immediately immersive. As patrons arrive, they are greeted by the sights and sounds associated with waterfront dining—the gentle lapping of water, the open air, and the promise of a satisfying meal. It’s the kind of spot where locals gather after a long day and visitors seek an authentic taste of the region away from the typical tourist traps. The commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of the operation, from the attentive service to the carefully curated menu that honors regional culinary traditions while still offering familiar favorites.
Understanding what makes Nav A Gator Bar Grill a standout requires looking beyond the physical location. It is the synergy between the setting, the community focus, and the culinary execution that solidifies its standing. Whether you are seeking a casual lunch break, a lively dinner gathering, or simply a place to enjoy a sunset cocktail, this venue consistently delivers an experience that feels both special and comfortably familiar. The dedication to creating a welcoming environment ensures that every guest feels like a regular from their very first visit.
What truly sets Nav A Gator apart in the competitive Florida dining scene are several key distinguishing features that patrons consistently praise and return for:
Prime Waterfront Location and Atmosphere: Situated directly on the river, the restaurant capitalizes on its scenic surroundings. The outdoor seating areas provide unparalleled views, making it an ideal setting for enjoying meals while watching the local wildlife or simply taking in the serene Florida landscape. This natural backdrop significantly enhances the dining experience, transforming a simple meal into a memorable occasion.
Commitment to Fresh, Regional Flavors: While the menu encompasses a wide array of appealing options, there is a noticeable emphasis on incorporating fresh, locally relevant ingredients where possible. This dedication ensures that the dishes served are vibrant, flavorful, and reflective of the culinary heritage of the region, appealing to those who appreciate authentic taste profiles.
A Truly Casual and Inclusive Vibe: Nav A Gator excels at maintaining an unpretentious, laid-back atmosphere. It successfully bridges the gap between a full-service restaurant and a relaxed bar setting. This inclusivity means that families, solo diners, and large groups all feel equally comfortable enjoying the offerings, fostering a strong sense of community among its patrons.
Consistent Service Excellence: Beyond the food and the view, the staff at Nav A Gator are frequently highlighted for their friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable service. They play a crucial role in upholding the restaurant's reputation, ensuring that the dining flow is smooth and that guest needs are met with genuine warmth and professionalism.
In conclusion, Nav A Gator Bar Grill at 9700 SW Riverview Cir is a cornerstone of the Arcadia community, offering a compelling proposition for anyone seeking quality food in an exceptional setting. It represents the best of Florida’s casual waterfront dining culture—a place where the quality of the meal is matched only by the beauty of the surroundings and the warmth of the welcome. It remains a highly recommended stop for those exploring the area or for locals looking for their reliable, favorite gathering spot.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Bar games
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Live music
Live performances
Quiz night
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Dancing
Food
Food at bar
Happy-hour drinks
Happy-hour food
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Outside food allowed
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Menus
Appetizers
Gator BitesUS$20.34
Conch FrittersUS$20.34
Chicken Tenders AppUS$13.14
Shrimp SkewersUS$15.54
Full Peel And Eat ShrimpUS$27.54
Half Pound Peel And Eat ShrimpUS$15.54
Meat And Cheese BoardUS$15.54
Smoked Fish DipUS$16.74
Pub PretzelsUS$13.14
Ahi TunaUS$16.74
Buffalo CauliflowerUS$11.94
Basket French FriesUS$8.34
Basket OringsUS$13.14
Basket Cajun ChipzUS$10.74
Salads
Florida SaladUS$14.34
Nav Cobb SaladUS$14.34
Nav House SaladUS$13.14
Caesar SaladUS$14.34
Wraps
Chicken Bacon Ranch WrapUS$16.74
Ceaser WrapUS$16.74
Blackened Fish WrapUS$23.94
Burgers
CheeseburgerUS$16.74
Cowboy BurgerUS$19.14
Rum Bucket BurgerUS$17.94
Black And Blue BurgerUS$19.14
Mushroom Swiss BurgerUS$17.94
Surf & Turf BurgerUS$21.54
Baskets
Crab Cake BasketUS$26.34
Fried Shrimp BasketUS$19.14
Coconut ShrimpUS$20.34
Chicken Tender BasketUS$16.74
Fish And ChipsUS$20.34
Sandwiches
Big Fish SandwichUS$20.34
Red Fish SandwichUS$23.94
Grouper SandwichUS$34.74
Mahi Mahi SandwichUS$32.34
Chimi Chicken CheesesteakUS$19.14
Shrimp Po BoyUS$20.34
Stuffed Crab Grilled CheeseUS$21.54
Fish Reuben
Garlic Aoili Ham And SwissUS$19.14
Smoked Sausage HoagieUS$16.74
Ultimate BLTUS$17.94
Entrees
Grouper EntreeUS$34.74
Mahi Mahi EntreeUS$32.34
Redfish EntreeUS$25.14
Steak Cut Of The Day-RibeyeUS$32.34
Surf And TurfUS$28.74
Shrimp Skewers EntreeUS$20.34
Southern Style Crab CakesUS$29.94
Snapper EntreeUS$27.54
Specials
**WITH**US$0.00
Grouper Fish Dip WrapUS$20.34
Kids Menu
Kids HamburgerUS$9.54
Kids Chicken BasketUS$9.54
Kids Fried ShrimpUS$9.54
Kids Mini Corn DogsUS$9.54
Mac And CheeseUS$7.14
Kids Grilled CheeseUS$9.54
Sides
Side Of ColeslawUS$4.20
Side Of VeggiesUS$4.20
Side Potato SaladUS$4.20
Side Macaroni SaladUS$4.20
Side Mashed PotatoesUS$4.20
Side SaladUS$4.74
Mandarian OrangesUS$3.00
Add-Ons
ADD Rum Bucket SauceUS$2.34
ADD Sauteed MushroomsUS$2.34
ADD Grilled OnionsUS$2.34
Add Shrimp SkewerUS$7.14
ADD BaconUS$2.40
ADD Extra DressingUS$0.60
Bag Of ChipsUS$3.60
4oz Beer Cheese SideUS$4.74
Nav SauceUS$0.60
Photos
Reviews Nav A Gator Bar Grill
Kathy
11-12-2025
After living here all of our lives,this is our first experience at nav-a-gator and it was a good one. What on Sunday and only sat inside because we wanted to watch the bucs game which they had on in the air-conditioned space amongst four or five other TVs. The staff is amazing and friendly. This is truly a local spot. They have music almost daily specials daily and I would like to go back for that all. You can eat fish fry. They offer redfish, mahi and grouper in addition to haddock. However, we got the shrimp basket and I should have asked. However it was not fresh shrimp. It was frozen. It was still good, with the onion rings, which also tasted Frozen. The showstopper was conch fritters which had huge chunks of conch in them and were delicious in flavor the best we've ever had and we've had a lot of conch fritters. We would have loved to have sat outside. Listened to the band next to the water but the bucks game trumped our visit. This is such a great spot! Had Good vibe. Can't wait to go back.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Live music
Heidi Moody
07-11-2025
Food is amazing, it's fresh. The drinks are cold and the service is always top notch. Been here twice in 1 week. Highly recommend you come and see this gem!! Right on the water. Its beautiful
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Fish and Chips, Cowboy Burger, Coconut Shrimp, Red Fish
Group size
5-8 people
Lori Galster
02-11-2025
Great portions and good price. Had the blackened shrimp and received two skewers so a dozen shrimp. We did the $7 add on of shrimp and got 18 more, a great value. My husband had the big fish sandwich. It was literally 8" long. Casual … More
Kristen acosta
21-10-2025
We were out of town, camping at myakka river state park and decided to stop at here on the way back home. I was very impressed from start to finish. We had Molly as our server, who was so sweet and hospitable. Definitely a top notch server. … More
Karen Atkins
19-09-2025
Nav-A-Gator Bar & Grill is a simple and colorful place with a Florida feel: fresh fish and seafood, "gator bites" and hearty meals, plus a bar with cocktails. Set in a natural setting by the river, with a veranda, live music, and a relaxed … More
tiff lane
05-09-2025
Wait staff is amazing. Food is amazing. George's hand made desserts from scratch are best around.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Wait time
No wait
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Kid-friendliness
Has games for kids to play with and a sandbox. Also can hold a live gator at the boat office/gift shop for the tours. Plenty of room to run outside
Brian Skelton
27-08-2025
We came here for an air boat ride. It was great fun. John our guide was great. We caught an alligator rights next to us while drifting along and then a manatee too. Well worth the cost. More
Alicia Galarza
24-08-2025
It was my first time at this wonderful place, with girlfriends! We love the atmosphere as it’s a very welcoming place. You can enjoy nature away from the crowds. We were celebrating a bachelorette and the service was great and fun … More
Chris Pietrowicz
10-08-2025
I can't say enough good about this place. Hope I remember her name correctly, I believe it was Christina that was our server. She was awesome. Cheerful, attentive. Great suggestions. The food was outstanding. 10 out of 10 will return
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Dave Rogers
16-07-2025
This is areally nice bar-and-grill. They have a decent size menu with a large variety of stuff to eat. Primarily Seafood, but many other options as well. They have a little park outback with some places to sit and some activities for the kids and a small gift shop.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Not sure
Dietary restrictions
You are pretty much in control of what you eat there so diet shouldn't be a problem.
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Kid-friendliness
Looks like there are a lot of activities out back for kids.
Wheelchair accessibility
Maybe, but tight.
JR harvey
17-06-2025
Nav A Gator has it all this time of year. Perfect weather great location and excellent food. I had the Mahi Melt with a side salad.. just like a tuna melt only using fresh Mahi mahi instead of tuna . Excellent sandwich and salad with fresh … More
Andrew Gummo
15-05-2025
Nav-A-Gator is a hidden gem! The mahi mahi fish dip was absolutely incredible—super fresh, smoky, and packed with flavor. Paired it with a cold drink from the bar (great selection and strong pours), and it was the perfect combo. The real standout was the airboat tour—fun, fast, and full of wildlife sightings. Our captain was friendly and knowledgeable, making the whole experience even better. If you’re in the area, don’t miss this place. Great food, great drinks, and an unforgettable adventure all in one stop! PS (if you are looking for a drink, they do not serve alcohol before 1:00 on Sundays due to county regulations)
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
1 person, 2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people, 9+ people, Suitable for all group sizes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Mary Ulmer
14-05-2025
We haven't been back since the hurricane but we made a great decision coming back today. The food was phenomenal. Even with the heat, there's seating with umbrellas. Devon was on it. She was amazing. We enjoyed it here so much that we stayed to have additional drinks. More
Melissa kalnai
12-05-2025
Really good and unique spot! We had a big group, and everyone ordered something different and rest assured, everything was excellent. From the burger, shrimp, mahi mahi, and crab cake to the fries, mashed potatoes, and gator bites, everything hit the mark. Even the daily homemade dessert was a delicious finish. Very friendly staff!
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Gator Bites, Fried Shrimp Basket
Group size
5-8 people
Recommendation for vegetarians
Not sure
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Gulf Coast Terry
09-05-2025
Nav-A-Gator Bar& Grill
This place was such a surprise to me. It’s old school Florida for sure. It’s nothing fancy very basic but the food so good. On the inside a big bar and plenty of seating but the outside I believe that’s where the magic is. Lots of tables with umbrellas, a 2nd Bar and a stage for live music. It’s a very laid-back atmosphere and the servers are so friendly they treat you like family. I loved the food and was surprised it was so good. For an appetizer we ordered the Fried Clam Strips and for our main meal my wife and I ordered a well-done Surf & Turf Burger with Fries, and our friend ordered the House Salad. The Clam Strips came out 1st the basket was packed with Strips, and they were so very good. Our main orders came out fast and the plates were filled with the Burger & Fries. The Salad was in a huge bowl filled to the top. I can’t say enough good things about our Burgers. They were done perfectly and so juicy and the tops was packed with Crab Meat. Even the Fries were coated and all so good. Our friends Salad looked fresh and was packed with all the toppings. All our food was served hot and very tasty. Our waitress Kaedyn was amazing in taking care of us checking on us and answering any questions we had. Even some of the other waitress came by and talked to us they were all friendly and could not do enough for us. The live music took our experience to the next level. Out of my 174 reviews this was the best burger I’ve have in SW Florida so far. You must stop by and give this place a try you won’t be sorry and I for one can’t wait to get back. I must give this place 5 stars for the food, the service, and the great vibe.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Gulf Coast Terry
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
For outside seating enter to the right of the building on the stoned lot
Wheelchair accessibility
Its all flat easy in & Out
Dr. Lillian Tirado
24-03-2025
We are not from this area but we love to try new restaurants and with a high rating! This one showed up in my feed and we decided to try it! What a wonderful experience! The place feels like you are in the beach! The atmosphere and ambiance were superb. Our server, Meg, was outstanding! The food was fresh and delicious! 🤤 If I could give them a 10 out of 10, I would! Definitely recommend this place! Next time in this area I will definitely return back and ask for Meg! ♥️🙌🏻
Another update - Visit today 05.25.2025
Everything was perfect! Natalie was our server and she was amazing! Last time we had Key Lime 🍋🟩 Pie and it was delicious! Today we had Key Lime Cheesecake and it was spectacular! George is the baker and his desserts are all excellent! Keep up the amazing food and service! Will definitely go back every time we are in this area. ♥️♥️♥️
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Very quiet
Group size
2 people
Wait time
No wait
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Daniella Breneman
28-02-2025
Service was amazing along with the bartender. Live music on the weekends , air boat tours . A great place to hang out ...
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Special events
Live music
Recommendation for vegetarians
Highly recommend
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Patty curran
26-02-2025
Great little place on the water! had a great time and plan to return in July! hoping to catch a live band this trip More
Ryan kamba
13-02-2025
Had a fantastic time at Nav-A-Gator Bar & Grill in Arcadia! I tried the crab grilled cheese and it was absolutely delicious – rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Our waitress, Kaylee, was amazing – fun, attentive, and prompt with … More
Jessie Denton
26-12-2024
The food is great, always hot fresh and full of flavor and the portion sizes are good. However, the service is slow. We hadn’t been back since 6 months ago because of it. We tried it again today and it was the same thing. 15 mins to even … More
Reviews Nav A Gator Bar Grill