Cru Food And Wine - Fort Myers

I used to dine at CRU occasionally about a year ago, but back then, the management was different, and the atmosphere felt chaotic. The food was unexciting and uninspired. Now, however, the circus is gone, and Chef and owner Harold, along with his team, are doing an outstanding job! Thankfully, we no longer need to travel to Naples for a great meal!

My friend and I decided to sit outside by the bar to enjoy a couple of drinks. When the bartender came over to take our order, he asked for identification. I’m 26 years old and well above the legal drinking age, but since I haven’t yet received my Florida driver's license, I could only provide my old New York ID. Admittedly, the ID is a bit outdated and my hair color is different in the photo, but it's still clearly me! To my surprise, the bartender took my ID and asked if I had any other form of identification. I didn’t bring a credit card, so I told him no. His sarcastic comment about my ID looking like it was made in someone’s basement was uncalled for. Then, instead of returning my ID, he went around and showed it to the entire staff while pointing at our table, making me feel utterly embarrassed. Things took a turn for the worse when a particularly arrogant staff member approached me and asked again about my ID. I was furious but tried to remain calm, asking for my ID back with the intention of leaving. His response was appalling: he said they would keep my ID and that he was going to call the cops! I could hardly believe what I was hearing. After a moment, he backtracked and said they wouldn't call the police but simply wouldn’t serve me. I said that was fine and declared that I’d never spend my money where customers are treated with such disdain. I left and went to a dive bar instead because all I wanted was a drink. I’d much rather be at a laid-back spot where I'm treated with respect than at a pretentious, overpriced restaurant where the staff treats patrons like they’re beneath them. I've never felt so degraded in my life. I don’t understand how the staff thinks they’re superior to everyone else. It’s as if they’re on a power trip, which is just sad. Honestly, I’m a young woman who dresses well and takes pride in my appearance, but I wouldn't bother going back to prove a point. Rather, I hope that this review helps someone else choose a different venue. I strongly advise against going to Cru unless you want to be treated poorly!

The food was outstanding, but the service was very disappointing. I waited over 45 minutes to be served, and when I inquired about the timing of my dinner, I was told there had been a mix-up in the kitchen. There was no offer of an appetizer or wine to tide me over during the wait. After a long wait, my dinner finally arrived, but I won't be returning.

This place isn't just over-rated, it is awful. Don't waste your money.

I've been to hundreds of restaurants around the world and very rarely do I come across a restaurant that can put it all together. Cru Lush Wines and Pure Foods, located in the bell Towers Shops in Ft Myers, does just that. From service and atmosphere, to creative and trendy food and wine, these guys hit it all. During my 4th visit (and most recent) I was able to meet CIA and Daniel Boulud trained Executive Chef Brian Roland and the General Manager Michael Knox. Both were young, knowledgeable, and gave that special personal touch that most restaurants have lost. They seem to compliment each other well with their food and wine knowledge. Their staff follows their lead in knowledge and service, making this the perfect recipe for success. Enjoy a creative cocktail and great tapas style appetizers and flatbread pizzas in their bar/lounge, either inside or outside. Check this hotspot out during happy hour, they have a 2 for 1 deal on just about everything from 4-7pm. Live music on Saturday nights. They opened for lunch a few months ago, but I have yet to try it. The menu looks great though! I will definitely be back soon, and highly recommend this restaurant to anyone in Southwest Florida.