After weathering a series of challenges—including permitting delays and the impact of Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton—Keylime Bistro on Captiva Island officially reopened its doors on May 24. To celebrate this milestone, the SanCap Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 27, honoring the resilience and determination behind one of Captiva’s most beloved dining spots.
A Symbol of Island Resilience
Chamber President and CEO John Lai praised the efforts of owner Sandy Stilwell Youngquist, calling her achievement a symbol of perseverance and community leadership.
“We are so proud of owner Sandy Stilwell Youngquist for arriving at this peak achievement at the flagship property in her kingdom of Captiva hospitality,” said Lai. “She has set a remarkable example for fellow island businesses to work hard, believe, and endure. Congratulations!”
Youngquist echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the important role the chamber has played throughout the island’s recovery.
“The chamber has been invaluable in keeping the business community together and celebrating each opening of businesses,” she said. “We’ve all been through a lot, and I appreciate having the chamber as our voice to the community.”
Supporting the Community After the Storm
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in September 2022, Youngquist and her team were among the first to step in and support Captiva’s recovery efforts. She personally ran three boats to transport residents and workers back to the island, helping jumpstart the rebuilding process.
She even loaned her Jeep and S Car Go Trolley—a whimsical tram-like vehicle—to island firefighters who were without transportation.
“It was pretty funny to see the first responders running around the island in my Jeep that looks like a snail,” she recalled.
Growth Beyond Captiva
Despite the setbacks, Youngquist has continued to expand the Keylime Bistro brand. She opened a second location in Boca Grande, which had been in development prior to the hurricanes and reopened just last month after damage repairs. A third Keylime Bistro is currently under construction at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and is expected to open by November.
In addition to the bistro, Youngquist has reopened several other Captiva staples, including:
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RC Otter’s Island Eats
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Cantina Captiva
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Sunshine Seafood Café
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Portions of the Captiva Island Inn, including two houses and guest rooms
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Latte Da Coffee Shop, expected to reopen this summer
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New inn buildings, with construction starting later this year
Visit Keylime Bistro
Located at 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, Keylime Bistro is once again serving up its signature key lime pie and tropical-inspired cuisine that has made it a local and visitor favorite.
