A Taste of What’s to Come: Acqua Bistecca Brings Fire, Flavor & Fine Dining to Saltleaf

Big news for lovers of great food and beautiful views: Acqua Bistecca, Saltleaf’s highly anticipated waterfront restaurant, is set to open in winter 2026, and it’s already making waves. The concept comes from James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Mina, who brings his signature blend of sophistication and soul to this unique dining destination.

Located along the shimmering shoreline of Estero Bay, Acqua Bistecca is where wood-fired steaks, fresh Gulf seafood, and refined Italian cuisine come together in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can expect handcrafted pastas, vibrant antipasti, and seasonal vegetables plated with precision - each dish an homage to Italy’s coastal flavors, delivered with Gulf Coast flair.

Of course, no visit would be complete without a sunset. As day turns to evening, enjoy a front-row seat to the view from the raw bar with oysters and a Negroni mignonette, or dig into a charred steak brushed with red Lambrusco butter—a rich, unforgettable signature of what’s sure to become your new favorite spot.

Behind the Bistecca: Progress at Saltleaf

Excitement is building - literally. Saltleaf’s first residential tower has now reached its full height of 22 stories, and progress is visible on all fronts. The Sunset Lounge is taking shape with ceiling work underway (we can almost taste that first pineapple mojito), and gorgeous terrazzo tile has arrived for the grand lobby entrance. Meanwhile, the construction of Acqua Bistecca, along with new roads and the Saltleaf Marina, is moving full steam ahead. 

Meet the Visionaries Behind the Magic

Saltleaf is the work of London Bay, celebrating 35 years of excellence in Southwest Florida. With more than 450 design awards and a reputation for luxurious coastal communities and custom homes, their vision for Saltleaf is unmatched. The project also includes an all-star lineup of design collaborators: Arquitectonica for architecture, Meyer Davis for interiors, and EDSA for landscape design. This dream team is building not just a restaurant or a tower, but an entirely new coastal village experience.

Coming Soon: Life at Its Fullest

With construction in full swing and Acqua Bistecca preparing to welcome guests in 2026, Saltleaf is well on its way to becoming one of Southwest Florida’s most exciting lifestyle destinations.