As Sanibel Island continues its remarkable recovery following Hurricane Ian, Clive Daniel Hospitality is proud to partner with Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant in the next phase of restoring one of the island’s most beloved gathering places.
Since reopening in January 2025, Thistle Lodge has once again welcomed guests to enjoy its renowned cuisine, warm hospitality, and breathtaking Gulf-front setting. Now, through a comprehensive interior enhancement initiative led by Clive Daniel Home Hospitality lead designer Maryanne Hubbell, the restaurant is further restoring the ambiance, character, and charm that have made Thistle Lodge a treasured part of Sanibel’s story for generations.
“The design thoughtfully balances preservation and renewal, honoring the restaurant’s established ambiance while introducing a fresh, contemporary interpretation of coastal design,” said Maryanne. “Layered textures, carefully curated materials, and refined detailing reinforce the warmth, and character guests have long associated with the space, ensuring the renewed interior feels both familiar and elevated.”
Located within the historic Casa Ybel Resort, Thistle Lodge has long served as a destination for celebrations, family gatherings, and unforgettable dining experiences. While the building itself has been beautifully restored following Hurricane Ian, Clive Daniel Hospitality is helping reimagine the interiors to honor the restaurant’s rich history while elevating the guest experience for years to come.
The enhancement project is currently underway and includes a series of carefully curated design improvements intended to create a more welcoming, comfortable, and refined atmosphere while preserving the spirit of the restaurant. Planned enhancements include:
- Repainted restrooms featuring updated colors
- New accent wallcoverings to introduce warmth and visual interest
- Acoustical wall treatments to enhance guest comfort
- Decorative lighting upgrades throughout the restaurant
- New furnishings at the entry to create a welcoming first impression
- Expansion of the restaurant’s wine collection
- Two custom-designed banquettes
- New wallcoverings and furnishings in the Gazebo Room
- Decorative metal screens at the banquette seating and bar area
- A fresh warm beige palette throughout the restaurant
Additional custom furnishings, custom banquettes, and a signature wine cabinet, are scheduled for installation this summer, completing the next phase of the restaurant’s restoration.
“Thistle Lodge represents so much more than a restaurant—it is a place where memories are made and traditions are celebrated,” said Nancy Woodhouse, VP Hospitality, Clive Daniel Home, “We are honored to partner with the Thistle Lodge team to help restore the warmth, character, and sense of connection that have defined this iconic destination for generations.”
As Sanibel continues rebuilding, the collaboration between Clive Daniel Hospitality and Thistle Lodge reflects a shared commitment to preserving the island’s treasured destinations while creating spaces that bring people together.
Today, Thistle Lodge remains open and welcoming guests, continuing its tradition of exceptional food, attentive service, and memorable experiences against one of Southwest Florida’s most beautiful backdrops. Clive Daniel Hospitality is proud to help ensure that tradition continues for many years to come.
