Marek's Collier House Restaurant: Voted Marco Island's Best Fine Dining Restaurant

The was the website for Marek's Collier House Restaurant from 2001 till their current website at www.mareksmarcoisland.com/​was created.
The content below is from the site's archived pages.

Enjoy exquisite fine dining in the luxuriously restored historical home of Captain Bill Collier. International award winning Chef/Owner Peter Marek (Triple Gold Medal Winner World Culinary Olympics) and his wife Penny offer a unique menu of delicious and delectable gourmet dishes with beautifully presented Continental and Seafood specialties. Voted Marco Island's Best Fine Dining Restaurant 8 years in a row. The impeccable service, romantic atmosphere and award winning cuisine makes Marek's a dining experience not to be missed. For a truly memorable evening, experience the charm and intimacy of this beautiful restaurant.

Marek's Collier House Restaurant

1121 Bald Eagle Drive ~ Marco Island, Florida

239-642-9948

Marek's Est 1996

HISTORY

We first discovered Marco Island whilst vacationing in 1984 and instantly fell in love with this tiny piece of Paradise. In 1995 we moved from the other side of "the pond", purchased Captain Bill Collier's historical home and transformed it into one of Marco's premier dining establishments.

We have tried to give the illusion of being in one's sitting room from the Old English Library Section of the room and the verandah dining area to the luxurious decor. The walls of the main room and Library Section are adorned with a collection of Russel Flint watercolor paintings in heavy gold frames which we brought with us from Europe along with various culinary awards, medals and trophies which Peter has won over the years at International Culinary Competitions

Our aim is to provide something different to diners in Southwest Florida and give them a relaxed and comfortable, though elegant dining experience. Peter has received numerous International culinary awards on the world circuit (including three Gold Medals in the Culinary Olympics in Frankfurt, Germany), and has even cooked for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We have been Double Platinum Plate award winners since 1996 and are extremely proud to be voted Marco Island's Best Fine Dining Restaurant.

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CAPTAIN BILL COLLIER'S HOUSE (built 1882)

THE HISTORY OF CAPTAIN BILL COLLIER

Much of the history of early modern Marco Island may be told in the lives of three families who have played leading roles in the three centuries of population of the island. They are the W.T. Collier family at Marco, especially one son, W. D. "Captain Bill", the Barfields at Caxambas and the Pettits at Goodland Point. Indeed it is believed that the Colliers were the first permanent American settlers to Marco.

In 1870 W.T. Collier brought his wife and nine children down the Atlantic coast in a two masted schooner, Robert E. Lee, from Tennessee. They ran into a storm at Indian Key which damaged the vessel considerably but after some repairs they took on some 15,000 feet of lumber with which to build a house when they reached their destination.

They built their first home just west of Collier Creek across from what is now Old Marco. After a hurricane destroyed the structure three years later, they built on the other side of the creek. Soon after this time other settlers began to arrive on Marco and a fair trade of vegetables, furs and fish began with Key West. On October 20th, 1888 William D. "Captain Bill" Collier received a commission as postmaster, making Marco the second post office in the county. It had been called Malco for some time because of the mistaken assumption that there was another Marco in Florida. Apart from completing some building work for lodging, Captain Bill also had a boat yard which was becoming very established by the late 1880's. He built a store which stands at the waterfront and to it came Indians bringing hides, furs and feathers to trade. Hiram Newell recorded in 1889 that sometimes 30 or 40 canoes were gathered there.

Collier developed into a successful entrepreneur and he played a key role in helping to guide the business expansion of the island as it moved into the 20th century. Like so many others, Captain Bill operated a boat service. In March 1898 one of his schooners, Speedwell, was on a scheduled trip to Key West to pick up supplies and carry passengers. The schooner met with a tragic accident when a squall of Marquesas, hit the boat 18 miles off Key West, she overturned and three of Captain Bill's sons (aged 8,6 and 4) along with 6 other people drowned. Captain Bill himself was thrown clear along with two deck hands and another passenger. The boys were buried in the little cemetery off Bald Eagle Drive and a grave stone still marks their resting place today. The tragedy was to affect Captain Bill Collier for the rest of his life, but he continued his struggle of making a living for himself and his wife on Marco Island. Two years after the tragedy he maintained a 5,000 tree coconut grove on the island and planted an orange grove at Henderson Creek. In 1902, his good friend Marcus Wilson convinced him to invest in a cleaning supply company he had started. Wilson Products sold everything from soaps to various sizes of wholesale trash bags for businesses. Back then they did not have cheap plastic, so trash bags were made primariy of strong paper. They had a modern version of a mop that was a huge seller in the larger cities. In 1904, a large national detergents manufacturer offered to buy Wilson Products, and Bill made a windfall. He used these funds to build a number of houses and later represented the area of the Lee County Board of Commissioners. It was at this time that he began his avid interest in the growing clam industry on the island. In 1908 Captain Bill invented a clam dredging machine and at Caxambas a canning factory was established in 1904. In 1920 Florida was on the eve of the land boom of the 1920's and remote Marco became the feel that stirring impulse of growth. Captain Bill cut a road to the south beach about a mile from the Marco Townsite for tourists and locals.

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Peter Marek, M.C.F.A.,C.G. - Chef/Owner

Peter was born in Kenya and completed his professional training at Westminister Catering College in London where he met his wife Penny. Since graduation from Catering College, Peter worked at the world famous and renowned Savoy Hotel in London before moving to the Island of Jersey in 1970 - where Penny comes from. On arrival in Jersey in 1970 Peter and Penny managed the family hotel and restaurant. Peter then went on to be Executive Head Chef at the Lobster Pot Hotel and Restaurant and The Little Grove Hotel in Jersey where he gained the premier Restaurant Award and later the L'Horizon Hotel in Jersey until October 1995 (where he also gained the Premier Restaurant Award). Over the years Peter has won several major National and International Awards on the Culinary Scene including to name but a few.

Peter Marek was presented to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, May 1989. He received a thank you letter from Buckingham Palace for the dessert he made for the Queen.

Executive Chef Awarded Ordre de Napoleon

Peter Marek, President of the Jersey Chef's Circle and Executive Head Chef at the Hotel L'Horizon, has received international recognition for his efforts - already recognized locally with his long run of successes in the Salon Culinaire.

The Cognac House of Courvoisier known, apart from its superior brandy, also for its Book of the Best, has also been the instigator of the Ordre de Napoleon, a select group to which election honours those who have achieved special success in their chosen professions.

One of the four new members to be inaugurated into the Order, Peter was inducted at the Chateau Courvoisier in Jarnac, one of the Cognac towns. "We were particularly pleased that we were able to have Jersey featured in this role of honour" said Colin Gallichan of J.J. Le Sueur, the agents for Courvoisier in Jersey. "It is easy enough for someone to be recommended for the Ordre, but another thing altogether to become accepted. It is a great honour for Peter and also one for Jersey cuisine and will be a tremendous boast of confidence for all the team before the Culinary Olympics in Frankfurt this year".

 

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More Background On Marek's Collier House Restaurant (source #1)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant, nestled on Marco Island, Florida, embodies a rich tapestry of history, culinary mastery, and familial legacy that continues to captivate both locals and visitors alike. Established in the historical home of Captain Bill Collier, a pioneering figure in Marco Island's early development, the restaurant offers patrons a unique dining experience that marries the elegance of English heritage with the charm of Old Florida.

The Collier family, led by W.T. Collier, set the foundation for what would become a long-standing tradition of hospitality on Marco Island, arriving in 1870. Their legacy, especially that of Capt. Bill Collier, who built the iconic house in 1882, has been preserved and celebrated through Marek's establishment. This house, now a Florida historical landmark, has weathered many storms and generations, becoming a beacon of the island's rich history​.

Peter and Penny Marek, the proprietors of Marek's Collier House, carry on the tradition of excellence and hospitality that the Collier family began. Chef Peter Marek, born in Kenya and formally educated in culinary arts in England, alongside his wife Penny, embarked on their journey with Marek's Collier House after falling in love with Marco Island in 1984, much like the Colliers did centuries before. Chef Peter's accolades are numerous, including formal recognition from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in May 1989 and awards from the World Culinary Olympics, showcasing his culinary expertise and dedication to the art of fine dining​.

Marek's Collier House Restaurant is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, both in the ambiance and in the culinary offerings. The restaurant features decorations and artifacts from the Mareks' home in the Channel Islands, providing a cozy, yet elegant setting that complements the exceptional dining experience. Chef Peter's commitment to culinary excellence is evident in every dish, with menu offerings such as mahi mahi banana egg rolls with sweet chili dipping sauce, fresh stone crab quiche, and macadamia nut encrusted grouper, each prepared with precision and creative flair.

Florida Trend Magazine has recognized Marek's Collier House among the top restaurants in Florida, placing Chef Peter Marek among the ranks of the world's finest culinary creators. The restaurant operates Monday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. until closing, welcoming guests to experience a blend of English elegance and Old Florida charm that continues to enrich Marco Island's dining scene​.
In summary, Marek's Collier House Restaurant is not just a place to dine; it's a destination that offers a journey through time, where the legacy of two families intertwines to provide a dining experience filled with history, hospitality, and culinary excellence.

 

More Background On Marek's Collier House Restaurant (source #2)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant: A Historic Gem on Marco Island

Tucked away on a quiet street in Marco Island, Florida, Marek's Collier House Restaurant stands as a testament to the area's rich history and culinary excellence. This fine dining establishment, housed in the beautifully restored 1882 home of Captain Bill Collier, offers guests a truly unique and memorable experience.

A Step Back in Time
The moment you step through the doors of Marek's Collier House, you're transported back in time. The historic building, with its elegant decor and cozy ambiance, exudes a sense of charm and sophistication. The walls adorned with watercolor paintings and culinary awards create an atmosphere that pays homage to the restaurant's storied past.

Culinary Mastery
At the helm of Marek's Collier House is the renowned Chef Peter Marek, a Triple Gold Medal Winner at the World Culinary Olympics. With a passion for excellence and a commitment to using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients, Marek's menu is a celebration of flavors and creativity.

Reviews and Accolades
Marek's Collier House has consistently received rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. The Naples Daily News lauds the restaurant's "exquisite cuisine" and "impeccable service," while TripAdvisor reviewers praise the "romantic atmosphere" and "unforgettable dining experience." The restaurant has also been voted Marco Island's Best Fine Dining Restaurant numerous times, a testament to its enduring popularity and quality.

A Piece of Marco Island History
Beyond its culinary delights, Marek's Collier House is deeply rooted in the history of Marco Island. Captain Bill Collier, the original owner of the home, was a prominent figure in the island's early development. He served as the second postmaster on Marco and played a significant role in the area's trade and business expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Whether you're a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a truly exceptional dining experience, Marek's Collier House Restaurant is a must-visit destination on Marco Island. With its rich heritage, stunning atmosphere, and culinary excellence, it offers a truly unforgettable evening.

 

Popularity (#1)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant enjoys significant popularity among both locals and tourists on Marco Island, reflecting a high level of satisfaction among its patrons. The restaurant boasts a 4.4-star rating out of 167 reviews, underscoring its reputation for delivering renowned seafood-focused Continental cuisine within the intimate setting of a circa-1882 house.

Customers have praised the restaurant for its phenomenal dining experience, noting the exceptional quality of the food, the cozy ambiance, and the diligent work of the staff to ensure a memorable experience. The uniqueness of dining in a historical house that has been preserved and repurposed into a restaurant adds to its allure, making it one of Marco Island's best-kept secrets​.

While most reviews highlight the exceptional food quality, ambiance, and service, there have been instances of dissatisfaction, primarily related to seating arrangements and service interactions. For example, one visitor expressed disappointment over being denied seating at an initially half-empty venue and at the bar, despite previous positive experiences. This indicates that while Marek's is highly regarded for its culinary offerings, there may be room for improvement in customer service and flexibility​.

In summary, Marek's Collier House Restaurant is celebrated for its unique combination of exquisite cuisine, historical charm, and attentive service, making it a standout dining destination on Marco Island. Despite isolated instances of customer service concerns, the restaurant's overall popularity and high ratings attest to its status as a top choice for fine dining in the area.

 

Press & Media Coverage (#1)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant has attracted considerable attention and acclaim through various forms of press and media coverage, emphasizing its unique culinary offerings, historic setting, and the passionate dedication of its proprietors, Peter and Penny Marek. Articles and features highlight the restaurant's evolution from a historic home into a premier dining destination on Marco Island, Florida, under the stewardship of the Mareks who have successfully blended their rich European culinary heritage with the local Floridian charm.

In a detailed feature by the Naples News, the Marek's commitment to culinary excellence is showcased alongside the restaurant's rich history rooted in the legacy of Marco Island's early settlers, the Collier family. Chef Peter Marek's international recognition, including awards at the World Culinary Olympics and an encounter with Queen Elizabeth II, are noted as part of the establishment's allure. This coverage paints a vivid picture of a dining experience that offers not just food, but a journey through history and a celebration of culinary artistry​.

Further press coverage detailed the Mareks' expansion efforts with the introduction of a new bar and restaurant concept adjacent to the original dining establishment, aiming to provide a more casual yet equally refined dining experience. This new venture was designed to complement the existing restaurant's offerings, providing a wider range of options for patrons seeking the quality and creativity synonymous with the Marek's brand, but in a more relaxed setting. The expansion was reported to include a diverse menu featuring both trendy and classic dishes, emphasizing freshness, quality, and the chef's meticulous attention to detail​.

Through these pieces of coverage, it's clear that Marek's Collier House Restaurant not only serves as a testament to the Marek family's culinary expertise but also as a beacon of Marco Island's vibrant history and culture. The restaurant's ability to adapt and expand while maintaining its core values of quality, hospitality, and historical preservation continues to endear it to both locals and visitors alike, securing its place as a cornerstone of the island's dining scene.

 

Audience (#1)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant caters to a diverse audience that appreciates fine dining within a unique historical setting. Based on press coverage, reviews, and the restaurant's history, the following groups are among its primary audience:

1. Culinary Enthusiasts and Foodies: Individuals who seek out unique and high-quality dining experiences are naturally drawn to Marek's. The restaurant's reputation for exquisite seafood-focused Continental cuisine, as detailed in reviews and articles, along with Chef Peter Marek's international culinary awards, make it a destination for those who appreciate gastronomic artistry​​.

2. History and Culture Buffs: The restaurant's location in the historical home of Captain Bill Collier and its connection to Marco Island's early settlers appeal to those interested in local history and heritage. The preservation of this historic site as a fine dining establishment adds a layer of cultural significance, attracting patrons who enjoy a meal with a side of history.

3. Romantic Diners: The intimate dining setting, combined with the romantic atmosphere of a luxuriously restored historical home, makes Marek's Collier House Restaurant a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic evening out. The detailed coverage of the restaurant's ambiance, along with mentions of its status as a venue for memorable evenings, underscores its appeal to this demographic.

4. Locals and Tourists Seeking an Authentic Marco Island Experience: Both residents and visitors to Marco Island who wish to experience an integral part of the island's dining scene and history are drawn to Marek's. The restaurant's deep roots in the community, along with its recognition as a top dining destination on the island, make it appealing to those wanting to immerse themselves in the local culture.

5. Special Occasions and Celebratory Groups: The restaurant's reputation for impeccable service and the ability to host private parties makes it a sought-after location for celebrating special occasions, such as anniversaries, birthdays, and small wedding receptions​.

6. Casual Diners Seeking Quality in a Relaxed Atmosphere: With the expansion of The Bar and Bistro, Marek's has also catered to those looking for a more casual dining experience without compromising on the quality of food and preparation that the Marek name represents. This addition broadens its appeal to a wider audience, including families and groups looking for a blend of refinement and a laid-back setting​.

Marek's Collier House Restaurant's audience is multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of diners who share a common appreciation for quality, history, and the art of fine dining within a unique and storied setting.

 

Audience (#2)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant primarily caters to a few key audience segments:

1. Locals and residents of Marco Island/Southwest Florida Many reviews and articles mention that Marek's is a beloved fine dining spot for locals and residents of Marco Island and the surrounding Southwest Florida area. As a long-standing, acclaimed restaurant voted "Best Fine Dining" numerous times, it has cultivated a loyal following among the local population.
2. Tourists and visitors to Marco Island With its historic significance, elegant ambiance, and focus on exceptional cuisine, Marek's appears to be a popular destination for tourists visiting Marco Island. Reviews highlight it as a "must-visit" and praise the "unforgettable dining experience", suggesting it appeals to visitors seeking a high-end, memorable meal.
3. Food enthusiasts and culinary travelers The reputation of Chef Peter Marek, a Triple Gold Medalist at the Culinary Olympics, likely draws interest from food enthusiasts and "culinary travelers" seeking out acclaimed chefs and restaurants. Reviews mention the "exquisite cuisine", indicating an audience of discerning diners.
4. Couples/romance-seekers Multiple reviews characterize Marek's as "romantic" with a special, intimate ambiance. This positioning seems to make it a preferred spot for couples celebrating anniversaries, date nights, or other romantic occasions.
5. History/culture buffs As one of the few remaining historic buildings on Marco Island housed in an 1882 home, Marek's could appeal to travelers interested in historic preservation and experiencing the island's cultural heritage through dining.

While the restaurant likely has some broader appeal, the audience seems focused on locals, high-end tourists, food connoisseurs, couples, and history buffs - segments willing to splurge on an upscale, elegant dining experience steeped in culinary excellence and Marco Island tradition.

 

Known For (#1)

Marek's Collier House Restaurant is renowned for several key attributes that contribute to its distinguished reputation on Marco Island and beyond:

1. Exquisite Fine Dining in a Historical Setting: The restaurant operates within the beautifully restored historical home of Captain Bill Collier, providing an elegant and romantic atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. The combination of luxurious decor and the historical significance of the building makes it unique among dining establishments​​.