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 eight 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.
Photo by Cathy Salustri
And they have an incredible restaurant, Harvest & Wisdom.
Harvest & Wisdom at Shangri-La Sprinsgs
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.
Photo by Cathy Salustri
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.
Photo by Cathy Salustri
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 Rd, Bonita Springs. Shangrilasprings.com; 239-949-0749.
If you want more history of the Shangri-La, check out my podcast co-host Rick Kilby’s post about it.
This article also appeared in The Gabber Newspaper, online and in print, in February 2026.
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