Leaving the criminal courtroom behind in Alexandria, Virginia and shedding those 3-piece suits, defense attorney Andy Meltz headed south for a life in the subtropics of Florida.  In 1993, with numerous pets in tow, Andy and his mate of 35 years, Sally Maitland, changed latitudes and careers.  Being drawn to the “Island Coast” of Florida they moved to a little fishing village on an island called Matlacha (where people come from far and wide to fish off the “Fishingmost Bridge” in the world) located on the Gulf of Mexico.

Having always had a passion for food and growing up near the Chesapeake Bay, Andy knew what fresh seafood was all about.  Coming from a long line of great cooks and “foodies” he naturally gravitated to everything seafood.

Andy worked for The Prawnbroker Group that owns several local restaurants including Matzaluna and The Timbers on Sanibel Island and the University Grill and Prawnbroker in Fort Myers.  While running their seafood markets he learned the business from the best.

When Hurricane Charley blew thru SW Florida in August 2004 Pine Island took a direct hit.  Everyone was in a state of disbelief at the destruction that was left behind and felt as though the island had suffered a huge amputation with the tremendous loss of trees, buildings and birds.  Everyone wondered if things would ever be the same – but people recovered, rebuilt and life went on. 

Andy’s market needed major repairs and restoration with the end-result being a great improvement!  Andy’s sister-in-law Gail Urso (Urso Designs of Grosse Pointe, Michigan) created a look that gives one the impression that they are entering a cool, tropical, marine environment.   It was turned into a beautiful store in a beautiful setting selling beautiful seafood.  

Andy’s Island Seafood opened in November of 2004 and in three years has earned the reputation of being a high quality seafood market with a friendly and knowledgeable staff.  What sets Andy’s apart from other fish markets is the clean, bright store that doesn’t smell like fish because we sell the freshest (non-threatened) fish you'll find anywhere.  We also sell 80% baked bread that you can take home, put in the oven and bake yourself, freshly baked desserts, fine wines, imported and microbrew beers, homemade fish spreads, chowders and smoked fish.  We have eco-friendly art, local jams and jellies and Andy's own line of sauces and spices are coming soon.  Matlacha is all about art & fish and you’ll find both at Andy’s.

Visit the Products Page to see what is available.

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