Any good places for lunch in the area? We like local places, not chains. Thank you in advance.

Interesting concept. For the most part I'd prefer a really good chain to a local place that isn't so good, which these days can often be the case. Don't misunderstand me, I'm not usually big on chains either, but you're talking about restaurant franchise heaven here when you mention Port Charlotte.

In any case, the only fun and atmospheric non chain place I can think of in that area is Captain's Table at Fisherman's Village which is actually in Punta Gorda.

We stopped and ate at a Lighthouse somethingorother right by the older bridge on the Port Charlotte Side of the River, which looked nice, but it made Red Lobster seem like a gourmet paradise.

Sorry that I also do not have local places in Port Charlotte but across the bridge in Punta Gorda on West Marion Street we've enjoyed the food at both the Red Fish Chop House and the River City Grill. (I've heard that it's the same owner for both of them.)

Port Charlotte has no interesting privately owned restaurants that I know of. There was an interesting Cuban restaurant about 10 years ago, very elegant with french service but it died and was torn down. Some interesting things are happening in Punta Gorda, post hurricane Charley. LMF

Thanks for the responses. We have been to Fisherman's Village a few times and have never been really impressed with any of the eateries there. But having said that, it still seems like a work in progress over there so maybe in the future things will improve.
I have heard of River City Grill from a few times and it is on my list to try.
I guess I was hoping that maybe Port Charlotte has gotten something new since I have been there. We have gone to Gater'z a couple of times and its been pretty good. Decent service and the burgers are great but we were looking for something else.
Thanks for the ideas everyone.

River City Grill is excellent. It is very busy and crowded, but that is kind of nice in a somewhat sleepy area - makes you feel like you are in a happenin' place. I would expect Red Fish Chop House to be equally good.