Ario

On its climb to reach JW Marriott status by early 2017, the former Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort created something rare and precious. It starts with fine beef aged 35 days in an on-premise aging room, but do not dismiss Ario as just another high-priced steakhouse. High-priced it is, but you get what you pay for – exquisite quality. Just sit at the display kitchen counter to see chefs at work – a cross between surgeons, artists and magicians. The totally original ice-fire décor of Ario carries the illusion of magic. Then there's the magic-in-your-mouth. Homemade sunflower seed rolls with cinnamon and citrus notes served with butternut squash butter. Charred Portuguese octopus with ink aioli and fried green tomatoes. Miso cod with watercress puree. Bone-in filet mignon and wagyu ribeye. Onion rings with foie gras gravy. Passion fruit crème brulee. Sigh!