provided to The Santiva Chronicle
Reopened June 4 in its pre-Ian storefront at 2407 Periwinkle Way, The Sanibel Sprout officially celebrated its endurance through and after the storm with a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting Aug. 20. Since May 2024, owner Jianna Senkeleski operated out of a food truck parked in that same location at Islander Center, to where she had moved after COVID shutdowns.
The Sanibel Sprout brand — known for its organic, healthy eats – has been around for more than 10 years, Senkeleski says, originally at Bailey Center. “It was founded by Nikki Rood, an incredible chef and mentor who inspired me deeply and created such a beautiful foundation for what the Sprout is today.”
The new Sprout has moved into coffeehouse territory. Lattes, cappuccinos, and iced coffees now share the menu with vegan specialties such as the Breakfast Bowl, smoothies, a veggie burger, and its ever-popular Coconut Bacon BLT.
“Our mission is still the same — wholesome, nourishing food made with whole ingredients — but now with even more options to meet everyone’s needs, including vegan favorites and beyond” said Senkeleski.
“Jianna stuck with it, and we are so proud to see the Sprout re-emerge into a permanent status,” said SanCap Chamber president and chief executive officer John Lai. “The eatery has a huge, devoted following that dearly had missed it and fills an important role in the islands’ culinary scene.”
“The chamber has been such a steady source of encouragement, always checking in and cheering us on,” says Senkeleski. “And the community — their love and prayers have been overwhelming. People have shown up for us in so many ways, and it’s the reason we’re able to open our doors again. It feels like family being reunited.”