A New Garden-to-Table Dining Concept Rooted in Nature & Sustainability
Cape Coral, FL (Restaurant News Release) Opened this month, El Jardín in Cape Coral introduces a distinct dining experience rooted in exceptional ingredients, thoughtful sourcing, and a celebratory blend of both Latin and Japanese culinary traditions. El Jardín’s main goal is to redefine local dining options by thoughtfully sourcing sustainable ingredients and applying healthier alternatives to traditional cooking methods.
At El Jardín, quality begins at the source. The restaurant proudly partners with local Southwest Florida farms, fisheries, ranchers, and artisans whenever possible, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. From locally caught seafood and farm-fresh produce to carefully selected meats, every dish is crafted from scratch with a commitment to sustainability, authenticity, and uncompromising bold flavors.
“By supporting local producers, farmers, ranchers, and fishermen, El Jardín aims to strengthen the connections that make Southwest Florida unique while delivering food that is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared,” says owner Brad Cozza. “Every meal is designed to highlight the natural character of its ingredients, creating an experience that is both elevated and approachable.”
Drawing inspiration from the rich culinary heritage of both Latin America and Japan, El Jardín’s menu honors time-tested techniques while embracing the abundance and diversity of each region complementing dishes patrons know and love. The result is a dining experience that feels both globally inspired and deeply connected to the local community. The restaurant’s dedication to quality extends well beyond its ingredients. El Jardín proudly cooks without seed oils; instead utilizing avocado oil and traditional beef tallow in its kitchen. This intentional approach reflects the restaurant’s belief that every ingredient matters – from those prominently featured on the plate to those working behind the scenes.
Guests can begin with standout starters such as the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, featuring yellowfin tuna, spicy aioli, and scallions, or the in house-made empanadas with a choice of Queso, a savory blend of four cheeses topped with salsa Verde, the Short Rib topped with caramelized onion, Gruyere and a Miso Chili glaze or the Pollo featuring roasted chicken, Pomodoro, Mozzarella and topped with Chipotle crèma. The Cigaros El Jardín offer another signature bite, combining smoked ham, mojo pork, grain mustard aioli, and togarashi in a crispy, flavor-packed roll.
Freshness takes center stage in selections from the garden, including the Garden Chop, prepared with Florida greens, baby heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, asparagus, and seasonal vegetables, served with a choice of champagne vinaigrette or miso vinaigrette.
Guests can enjoy the Miso Mojo Beef served with charred bok choy and cilantro lime rice or the Yuzu Adobo Half Chicken with local vegetables over a cilantro fried rice. Also, a standout on the menu is the Smash Burger, featuring Angus beef patties, bacon jam, house pickles, umami onions, and secret sauce on a potato bun.
As for the cocktails, the restaurant will feature the same cocktail menu as Escondido Lounge, however some herbaceous add-ons include the Jardín of Eden, a fresh blend of mezcal, celery, chartreuse and lime, and the Garden Margarita made with tequila, snap pea cordial, pineapple, and lime.
El Jardín will be open Wednesday-Saturday from 5PM to 9PM and 5PM to 10PM on weekends for the summer. For additional information please visit ElJardin-Escondido.com.
For Media Inquiries:
Cheryl Kate Mazor
cheryl@trinitygrouppr.com
Courtney Greenberg
courtney@trinitygrouppr.com