Sunday Supper

Beginning Monday, June 2, the Garden & Gun Club invites you to embark on a culinary journey celebrating the flavors of Florida in partnership with Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods. Throughout the week, the Club will present a curated menu crafted by James Beard Award semifinalist Melissa Donahue of Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant, showcasing the region’s coastal cuisine.

The collaboration culminates in a classic Sunday Supper, where chef Donahue will prepare a multicourse seafood meal that artfully captures the essence of the Sunshine State. Each dish will be thoughtfully paired with beverages to highlight the seasonal ingredients and rich culinary traditions of the destination.

Chef Melissa Donahue

Melissa Donahue, a renowned chef in Fort Myers, Florida, is celebrated for her innovative take on Southern cuisine. She gained national recognition as the owner and executive chef of Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant, becoming in 2019 the first Lee County chef nominated for a James Beard Award. Her experience at Union Square Café in Manhattan and Commander’s Palace in New Orleans shaped her signature blend of traditional Southern flavors and modern techniques. She has also showcased her skills on the Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay.

After Hurricane Ian destroyed Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant on Sanibel Island, Florida, Donahue remained resilient, continuing to serve her community before reopening in Fort Myers in March 2025. Committed to mentoring aspiring chefs, she emphasizes the importance of guidance in the culinary world. Her unwavering dedication to quality and innovation keeps her at the forefront of the industry.