Excitement is swirling in Fort Myers, Florida, as the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre has once again made its mark on the national stage. The beloved venue, known for its unique blend of fine dining and entertainment, has been ranked sixth in the 2026 USA Today’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards, climbing from tenth place in 2025. This recognition is a testament to the theater’s enduring appeal and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for its guests. As News-Press highlights, Broadway Palm stands out as one of the few dinner theaters remaining in Florida, ensuring its legacy in a day and age where such venues are becoming increasingly rare.
With over 33 years of history, the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre has become a staple in the community. The theater, which opened in 1993 in a former Publix grocery store, initially started with just 25 employees. Today, it boasts a dedicated team of around 225, working under the guidance of current owner Will Prather. He took over the reins after his father, Tom Prather, retired and passed away in 2023. The Prather family has been instrumental in the theater’s continued success, with an annual budget of approximately $10 million fostering a vibrant cultural hub in the area.
A Culinary and Cultural Delight
What’s better than a night filled with laughter, drama, and a scrumptious meal? Dinner theaters, like Broadway Palm, elegantly marry the world of culinary delights with the magic of live performance. According to 10Best, these venues offer guests a unique experience where they can enjoy a rotating calendar of plays and musicals, delivered by talented actors in a comfortable setting. Whether it’s a buffet or plated dinner served prior to the show, patrons can indulge in a delightful meal while sitting back to enjoy the entertainment.
Broadway Palm features a diverse array of performances, from beloved classics like ‘Annie’ and ‘Cats’ to special productions geared towards younger audiences, complete with a unique kids’ menu. This commitment to varying their offerings helps to ensure that every guest finds something to enjoy. With historical attendance surpassing 4.3 million since its inception, it is evident that the community appreciates and values what Broadway Palm provides.
Onward and Upward for Dinner Theaters
Ranked among the best in the nation, Broadway Palm shares the stage with esteemed dining theaters such as Alhambra Theatre & Dining in Jacksonville, which claimed the top spot in 2025. The complete rankings for 2026 showcase a blend of locations across the U.S., reinforcing the vibrant dinner theater scene. Here’s a quick look at the top ten:
| Rank | Theatre | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Theatre & Restaurant | Overland Park, Kansas |
| 2 | Alhambra Theatre & Dining | Jacksonville, Florida |
| 3 | Toby’s Dinner Theatre | Columbia, Maryland |
| 4 | Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre | Lancaster, Pennsylvania |
| 5 | Mosley Street Melodrama | Wichita, Kansas |
| 6 | Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre | Fort Myers, Florida |
| 7 | Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse | Rock Island, Illinois |
| 8 | Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre | Indianapolis |
| 9 | Derby Dinner Playhouse | Clarksville, Indiana |
| 10 | Silver Dollar City’s Showboat | Branson, Missouri |
As the curtain rises on another season, Broadway Palm continues to thrive amid a competitive landscape. With its rich history, a focus on community, and a dedication to delivering high-quality entertainment, it is clear that Fort Myers has something truly special. Here’s to the nights filled with laughter, delicious meals, and unforgettable moments! Whether you’re a long-time patron or looking to indulge in a first-time experience, there is something to be said for a night at Broadway Palm.