Cape Coral, FL (Restaurant News Release) Cape Coral is about to get a taste of secret sophistication with the grand opening of Escondido Lounge, a speakeasy-style mezcal and tequila lounge slated to open this month. This is the second location for the brand in southwest Florida.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Cape Coral on the main drag, Escondido Lounge promises to be a haven for aficionados of craft mixology, innovative bar bites, indulgent desserts, and live music alike. This is a joint project founded by Kilgore Culinary Group which is owned and operated by renowned Miami Chef Bradley Kilgore of international acclaim, Southwest Florida entrepreneur, Brad Cozza, and local restaurateurs Ozzie Morrobel and Max Curtis.
“After such a great reception at the first location in downtown Fort Myers, my team and I decided to capitalize off of the explosive new growth in South Cape with projects such as The Cove and Bimini Basin which is recently completed. We firmly believe South Cape is ready for this type of concept, and can’t wait for everyone to experience Escondido Lounge,” says Cozza.
Designed to evoke the allure and mystique of a bygone era, Escondido (which means “hidden” in Spanish) Lounge welcomes guests into an intimate and ambient setting where the artistry of mixology takes center stage. Enter through the walk-in cooler door (identical to the Fort Myers location) and patrons can indulge in an extensive selection of premium mezcal and tequilas, handpicked for their quality and authenticity. The drink menu also puts emphasis on properly executed classic craft cocktails presented in a fun – and very Instagramable way- while also showcasing creative combinations and unique flavor profiles.
Notable highlights will include the “Smoked Old Fashioned,” a timeless classic with a modern twist made with premium bourbon, house-made smoked demerara syrup and a dash of aromatic bitters. The highlight is it’s served under a glass coche filled with rich cherrywood smoke unlocking an immersive sensory experience. Another standout is the “Henry Ford” which features Cachaca, Mozart dark chocolate, velvet Falernum, pineapple, lime, Verbena tea, soy milk and Orjat. Lastly, a fan favorite is the “Puerto Escondido Mezcalita” crafted with fresh passionfruit, mezcal, lime, habanero bitters and agave – whose name originated from another joint project between Cozza and Kilgore – the OCN Residences located in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. The Mezcalita cocktail also originated from Oaxaca, Mexico where the majority of mezcal is sourced from.
At Escondido Lounge, guests can look forward to an innovative menu featuring juxtaposed delights that celebrate flavor and fun. Standout dishes include:
- Platter of Caviar & Mozzarella Sticks: Chef Kilgore loves to take childhood classics and elevate them, and this decadent dish is no exception. Crispy, stretchy mozzarella sticks are presented as if they were the toast for your caviar service. Taking the stuffiness out of the mix, the other fun fact is that the caviar is made from black truffles and not fish.
- Umami Mami: Our next level Spicy Pepperoni while folding in umami miso into a hot honey glaze finished with garlic-chili crisp.
- Tuna Tartare: Hand cut wild ahi tuna filet is diced then glazed with a soy and tequila reduction paired with classic accompaniments like avocado and wonton crisps
Desserts are sure to impress with offerings like:
- Tart & Sharp: Limon sorbetto finished with a tableside pour of mezcal syrup.
- Mexican Chocolate Lava Cake: A decadent way to finish off the culinary experience and share if you are willing. Classic dark chocolate fondant spiked with cinnamon whiskey and Mexican spices, served a la mode with vanilla bean ice cream.
- Over-sized Red Velvet Cake: A sultry slice of classic red velvet cake layered with smooth cream cheese frosting. Soft, moist, and unapologetically decedent, it’s the perfect finish to your night.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a stunning mid-century style six-foot tall red chandelier and architectural wood slat columns inspired by the vibe of Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca while low level lounge seating line the walls and a chic elongated bar that can seat up to 20 occupies the other side. The 2,100 square foot lounge (double the size of the Fort Myers location) offers a private “safari” room that can be booked for events featuring a live edge dining table that seats up to 16 where fully composed dishes will be offered. Adding to the ambiance, live piano and jazz performances will fill the venue on select nights, providing a soulful backdrop to an evening of laid-back vibes and subtle indulgence. This promises to make Escondido Lounge Cape Coral not just a destination for drinks, but a cultural hub where music and libations harmoniously blend.
The speakeasy concept was inspired by the “Brad’s” recent joint project in Mexico, OCN Resorts & Residences, where Kilgore spearheaded the amenities food and beverage program. Chef Kilgore is fully committed to the Southwest FL area, with this second location as well as him and Cozza recently leased an additional space downtown which will house one of Kilgore’s well known Miami concepts June 2025.
Escondido Lounge invites locals and visitors alike to discover a new standard of style and entertainment in Cape Coral. Whether seeking a night out with friends, a romantic date, or simply a place to unwind, Escondido will not disappoint.
For more information, including hours of operation and upcoming events, please visit EscondidoLounge.com or check out @escondidolounge on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.