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NO _ 5 0 7
0 5 _ 2 0 21
Features THE RISE OF LUXURY CONSIGNMENT
Craig Hildebrand
112
12
GULFSHORE LIFE
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designed by James Kunstel, ASID
Our interior designers will create rooms you’ll love for the places you live. Get started by visiting our stores! You’ll find a different selection of home furnishings at each store— and everything in our collection is always available for immediate delivery.
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NO _ 5 0 7
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Features DESIGNERS’ INSPIRED WO R K S PAC E S 124
TH E M ATSUMOTOS’ SANIBEL LEGACY
Artist Ikki Matsumoto, courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich
138
16
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NO _ 5 0 7
0 5 _ 2 0 21
IN EVERY ISSUE 32 Editor ’s Note 34 From our CA B 36 Gulfshore T reasures
CONTENTS Departments
102 Guest List 280 Parting Shot BEST OF 40 Musical High Note: Opera Naples
44 Rising Star: Musician Ben Allen
76 Hot W heels: Ferrari of Naples
50 Must- See Show: Female A rt at T he Baker Museum
82 Upgrade: T he Rit z- Carlton Resorts
54 Cultural Ma ven: Director A nnet te T rossbach
86 Environmental Win: Everglades Restoration
60 Culinar y Standout: Se venth South Craf t Food + Drink
90 Changemaker: Collaborator y
66 Culinar y Stars: Resilient Eateries
96 Ode to an Icon: T he Naples Beach Hotel & G olf Club
72 Ne wcomer: Campiello’s Sean Smith
INSIDER Cultural Maven
54
Annette Trossbach, the Laboratory Theater of Florida’s artistic director, built her barrier-breaking troupe
Erik Kellar
through sheer will.
20
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
NO _ 5 0 7
CONTENTS Depart ments
0 5 _ 2 0 21
HOME
H E A LTHY LI F E
210 St ylish Debut: Casa Italia
240 Shop Clean: Conscious Space
216 Coveted Listings 2020 -2021
246 High Per formance: Doctor-Made Skincare
TASTE OF THE GULF 258 Spirited Sipper: T he Jungle Bird cocktail 264 Dining Guide: 150+ Essential Restaurants
H OM E St ylish Debut
210
At his two new showrooms in Naples, Casa Italia’s Osvaldo Pancaro specializes in sleek designs from top
Volume 51/Number 7, Gulfshore Life (ISSN 0745-0079) is published monthly, 12 times a year, by Gulfshore Life Media, LLC., 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134. Subscription price is $19.95 per year. For customer service inquiries, subscription inquiries or to change your address by providing both the old and new addresses, contact: Subscription Department, Gulfshore Life Media, LLC, 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134. Telephone (239) 498-8501 or email subscriptions@gulfshorelife.com. Periodicals postage paid at Bonita Springs, FL, and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2021 by Gulfshore Life Media, LLC, Library of Congress Card No. 8538973. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts without return postage will not be returned. DISCLAIMER: Advertisements in the publication do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law.
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COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD
Scott Burgess President and CEO David Lawrence Center 2018 Man of the Year
Mary Susan Clinton Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation Founder, Gallien Global Vision Inc. 2002 Woman of the Year
Denise Cobb Chair, Community Advisory Board Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year
Shirlene Elkins Real Estate Professional, John R. Wood Properties Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2003 Woman of the Year
Ellin Goetz President, Goetz+Stropes Landscape Architects 2000 Woman of the Year
Mark Loren Head Jewelry Designer/Owner, Mark Loren Designs 2016 Man of the Year
Gail Markham Founding Partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company 2011 Woman of the Year
Elliott H. Singer Managing Director and Founder, Fairview Advisors Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation Memberat-Large
Adria Starkey President, Collier, Finemark National Bank & Trust, Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year
Shelly Stayer President/Co-Owner, Johnsonville Foods 2013 Woman of the Year
Sandra Stilwell Youngquist Owner and CEO, Stilwell Enterprises 2006 Woman of the Year
28
GULFSHORE LIFE
Brian Tietz (8); Courtesy Shirlene Elkins, Ellin Goetz, Mark Loren, Shelly Stayer/Roland Scarpa
Ingrid Aielli Co-Owner, Aielli Group 2016 Woman of the Year
g ulf shorelife.com
M A K I N G
G U L F S H O R E
L I F E
NO _ 5 0 7
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ON THE COVER Photographed on location at Kalea Bay in Naples by Gio Alma. On the cover, the model wears a Printed Ring One-Piece Swimsuit from Tory Burch at Waterside Shops (toryburch.com). Model Krista Lynn, Elite Stylist Kendall Farr
30
GULFSHORE LIFE
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Passion. Vision. Trust.
OLDE NAPLES • GINSBERGEYE.COM • 239.325.2015
FROM THE EDITOR
T H E BE S T O F T H E GU L F
NO _ 5 0 7
0 5 _ 2 0 21
In Gulfshore Life—and espe-
you, our best treasures are the
west Florida could you have a
cially in this annual Best of the
natural ones.
project like this with an 18-year
Gulfshore issue—our mission is
Some of the most heartening
deadline to solve all social issues
to highlight the best of paradise.
news to emerge in the last year
in the region. You’ll start to hear
When considering the past year,
surrounds Everglades resto-
more about it this month when
there is no shortage of stories to
ration. Writer Tess Lopez, on p.
Sarah Owen and her team roll out
choose from. During what has
86, and our board member Ellin
the NASA-like effort, which Lane
been a difficult time, our region
Goetz, on p. 34, report on a recent
Nieset reports about on p. 90.
has continued to rise. From the
bill approved that will help fund a
If there is any doubt as to why
creative talent—current (Opera
reservoir to redirect clean water
we call Southwest Florida para-
Naples; The Laboratory Theater
to flow as close as possible to what
dise (and humbly believe that’s
of Florida) and past (Ikki Matsu-
nature intended and support sev-
more apt here than elsewhere),
moto)—to the sleek cultural and
eral other essential initiatives.
this is it. Beyond the beaches and
culinary offerings featured in this
Meanwhile, local groups are
weather, to us “paradise” is this
issue, this part of Florida stands
making headway in getting gov-
community that invests in the
apart as singular.
ernment to approve billions more
things and ideas it holds dear.
It’s no wonder people are flock-
needed for Everglades rehab.
ing to our coast. If you’re new to
If you want to consider our
town, welcome. We hope to help
human capital, just look at the
acquaint you with your adopted
Southwest Florida Community
hometown and the things that
Foundation’s new Collaboratory
root locals here. Largely, that
project. The group has already
would be the people, whom I’m
had a coworking space by this
sure you’re are finding incredibly
name since 2018, and now the
welcoming. But even they’ll tell
entire organization is rebranding
Stephanie Granada Editor-in-Chief
Anna Gunselman
under the Collaboratory moniker and structuring itself to be able to address problems and foster real change. Perhaps only in South-
32
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
fo llow u s on facebook & instag r am @mari ssanap les
sh op on li n e at ma ri ssac olle ct i on s.c om
239.263.4333 | 1167 THIRD STREET SOUTH, NAPLES
FROM THE COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD
I T ' S NOW O R N E V E RGL A D E S
NO _ 5 0 7
I spent my childhood in a place
last November. This program
and purify billions of gallons of
where the impacts of develop-
acquires suitable wild lands from
water before being sent south
ment contrasted madly with the
willing sellers for public use and
to renourish the Everglades and
natural environment. Staten
protection of water and natural
Florida Bay.
Island was still rich with the ves-
resources, including portions
These long-overdue projects
tiges of a more rural past when a
of the Gordon River Greenway,
will directly impact our shores
bridge was built connecting the
which is enjoyed by all today.
by reducing red tide, which is
island with the rest of New York
I first discovered the mysteri-
exasperated by damaging water
City. Houses sprouted willy-nilly
ous Everglades landscape while
filled with toxic blue-green algae
across this newly lucrative
driving the Tamiami Trail, with
that is now flushed out to tide. I’ve
landscape. As a kid, I remember
its ditches filled with gators and
never been so hopeful as now that
hearing my parents decry the
skies full of enormous wading
we’re seeing bipartisan support in
damaging influences of poor plan-
birds—and oh, those mosquitoes!
Washington and Tallahassee for
ning for the island where their
I had no inkling of the multiple
funding for these critical projects
families lived for four generations
influences this River of Grass has
that will help our waters flow
and witnessing their involvement
on our lives. Thanks to the advo-
clean and clear again. Our time is
protecting remaining wild lands.
cacy of The Everglades Founda-
truly Now or Neverglades.
Moving to Naples in the mid-
tion, we now know the crucial
’80s was eerily reminiscent of that
role restoration of this national
childhood experience of growth
treasure plays in our economic
competing with nature. Like most
and ecological health. It’s the
everyone who arrives in Florida, I
drinking water source for more
knew little about this place other
than 9 million of us, provides a
than loving our beaches and our
buffer against storm damage and
sunny weather. My involvement
acts as a “carbon bank” that will
in local land protection was an
play a key role in America’s effort
effort to balance some of these
to reduce carbon emissions.
growth pressures. I dragged all
Reservoirs are nearing com-
my friends and family into three
pletion along the Caloosahatchee
successful Conservation Collier
and St. Lucie rivers and work has
campaigns—most recently just
begun on a reservoir to store
34
GULFSHORE LIFE
Ellin Goetz
Landscape architect; Vice Chair of The Everglades Foundation
g ulf shorelife.com
Courtesy Ellin Goetz
0 5 _ 2 0 21
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37
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NO _ 5 0 7
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BEST OF THE ARTS, F O O D , SF TOYOLD E + C O +M N MAT U NUIR TY E
Title: Info goes here and here _ 0 0for season 2020 -2021, featuring Ferrari, A look at the people, places and things ofpnote
Erik Kellar
Opera Naples, Ben Allen and Collaborator y.
MUSICAL HIGH NOTE
CURTAIN CALL
BEST OF
Opera Naples grows and adapts with the community. By Jaynie Bartley Photography by Brian Tietz
Opera Naples used its pandemic hia-
When it started in 2005 as the first
tus productively, taking the opportu-
opera company in Naples, the goal
nity to revamp the David and Cecile
was to reach a broader audience by
Wang Opera Center, reimagine the
hosting classic opera performances
2021 lineup and launch the city’s
at affordable prices. Over the years,
first opera festival at Baker Park. The
artistic director Ramón Tebar and
opera company also inaugurated
executive director Sondra Quinn have
Arthrex’s new outdoor event space
expanded on that vision by adding
in February, when it hosted one of
outdoor shows that allow for larger,
the first in-person events since the
more casual audiences, and intimate
pandemic and raised $542,000.
dinner performances to connect
The centerpiece of these recent
directly with fans.
efforts, though, may be the renovated
In 2015, Tebar also introduced
opera center, which was energized
the artists-in-residence program,
by a $1 million pledge from longtime
which brings up-and-coming talent
supporter Cecile Wang in June 2020.
to perform throughout the season
The space now sports a 300-seat
and teach Collier County students
theater (50 additional seats from
through the group’s music education
before), as well as a new lobby, an
programs. The residency had the
improved control booth for better
largest number of applicants this
sound quality and a separate event
season, resulting in a stellar cast,
room for preshow and intermission
comprised of soulful mezzo-soprano
drinks. It’s good, too, considering the
Cara Collins; tenor Bradley Bickhardt,
rate at which the company is growing.
who holds an Encouragement Award
40
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Clockwise: Opera Naples’ 2020-2021 resident artists, mezzo-soprano Cara Collins, baritone Darren Drone, tenor Bradley Bickhardt and soprano Meredith Wohlgemuth on the steps at Baker Park, site of the city’s first opera festival.
BEST OF
41
Artistic director Ramón Tebar (opposite; center) helped lead recent efforts, which include renovating the David and Cecile Wang Opera Center, hosting the outdoor Opera Under the Stars festival and drawing the largest number of artists-in-residence applicants.
42
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
BEST OF MUSICAL HIGH NOTE
from the Metropolitan Opera National
Artis—Naples performances with an
Council; Juilliard-trained soprano Mer-
opera festival like those popular in Europe
edith Wohlgemuth; and baritone Darren
and some American cities. The pandemic
Drone, who starred as Riff in this season’s
and the creation of Baker Park, an ideal
West Side Story.
venue, accelerated those plans. The group
As developments forged on within the
collaborated with The Naples Players on
Wang Opera Center, the company got to
the pro lighting and sound systems, and
work on staging the region’s first opera
in March, Opera Naples performed four
festival—a longtime vision for Tebar.
sold-out shows that included perfor-
Working from his native Spain, where he
mances by tenor Joseph Calleja—a per-
was held up throughout the pandemic,
sonal friend of Tebar’s who, as the artistic
Tebar consolidated the full season into
director says, only sings in two other U.S.
a four-day festival featuring La Traviata
cities outside of Naples: New York, at
and West Side Story (done in operatic
the Metropolitan Opera, and Chicago,
style, as composer Leonard Bernstein
at the Lyric Opera. “There’s this quote in
originally intended). The latter is another
English, ‘When life gives you lemons,’”
example of Opera Naples remixing the
Tebar says, adding that the pandemic
genre to delight existing fans and draw in
forced arts groups to embrace outdoor
new listeners.
venues—a format that proved valuable
Tebar had long planned to add to the slate of existing Wang Opera Center and
to artists and attendees. “I think this is something that should stay in Naples.”
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RISING STAR
THAT COUNTRY SOUND BEST OF
Following an appearance on NBC’s The Voice, Estero country music artist Ben Allen plans on playing the long game. By Garret K. Woodward
tenacity, the director encouraged
my closet that I hadn’t played in
call last year led to a nationally
him to audition one more time for
years. One day I picked it up and
televised appearance for country
the massively popular program.
started to learn how to play it,”
singer Ben Allen, the frontman
Three days later, Allen found
Allen says. In 2009, he relocated
of the Ben Allen Group and one
himself in North Carolina trying
to Florida, where he worked for
of the brightest stars in the local
out for the show. He made the cut
the Collier County Water Distri-
music scene currently.
and was soon on a plane to Los
bution Department. He started
In the past, the 43-year-old
Angeles to begin filming. “It’s just
playing at bars and open mic
had applied to go on NBC’s sing-
amazing to be able to carry that
nights around town. “Something
ing competition show The Voice
whole experience around inside of
clicked inside of me—I wanted to
several times, but nothing had
you,” Allen says. “Wherever you go
be a performer.”
come of it. About a year ago, while
or whatever stage you go on from
Although Allen didn’t end up
scrolling through his phone, he
that point forward, you’ve got
with The Voice crown, he was a
came across the number of the
that memory and that confidence
semifinalist amid fierce compe-
show’s casting director, whom he
of believing in yourself with what
tition. He also benefited from
had interacted with during a pre-
you want to do.”
coaching by Blake Shelton, one
vious audition. Allen wasn’t sure
The sights and sounds of Holly-
of the show’s judges and a hero
the casting director would even
wood are a far cry from the start-
of Allen’s—personally and pro-
remember him, let alone be inter-
ing line for Allen, who grew up in
fessionally. “His personality is so
ested in trying out the Estero per-
rural East Tennessee. As a kid, he
magnetic. He comes across very
former again, but Allen figured he
participated in choir, but didn’t
honest and real, which means
had nothing to lose and made the
start taking music seriously until
something to me,” Allen says.
call. Impressed by the musician’s
his early 30s. “I had this guitar in
“Country is about music that
44
GULFSHORE LIFE
opportunity to work with an idol of his, fellow country musician Blake Shelton.
What started as a chance phone
A chance call to a casting director won Ben Allen a spot on The Voice and an
Photography by Erik Kellar
g ulf shorelife.com
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BEST OF RISING STAR
Allen’s brand of modern country mixes the classic vibratos associated with Ronnie Dunn with a country twang reminiscent of Hank Williams Jr.
46
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
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BEST OF RISING STAR
speaks to people—there’s a lot of truth in the songs.” His appearance garnered him plenty of attention around town, too. When he got back to Estero, civic leaders presented him with a key to the city—a gesture of gratitude for the exposure the community received during the time he was on The Voice. “It’s something I will always treasure,” Allen says. “Not exactly sure what the key fits but I’ll keep trying until it unlocks something.” It must have brought him luck, because a few days
Earlier this year, Estero officials granted the 43-year-old musician
later he performed to a sellout crowd at
the key to the city as an honor for representing Southwest Florida
Hertz Arena.
on the national stage.
Since his time on NBC, Allen has been constantly told to pack his bags and guitar, and head for the bright lights of Nashville. But, the funny thing is, Allen had
good. It’s about doing what feels right and
already done the “Nashville thing,” living
focusing on career longevity,” he says.
Now, the phone is ringing and Allen is grateful to answer the call. “To get to a
and working just north of Music City for
So, he works on developing his sound
point where people want to book you and
a period before moving to Florida. “I love
and onstage performance with his four
know your reputation? It’s a wonderful
the life that I’ve built in Southwest Flor-
band members. Whether it be gigs around
feeling,” Allen says. “You know, I grew up
ida. This is my base location and it works
the corner on a neighborhood stage or
in a small-town, blue-collar mentality.
well for me,” he says.
private affairs for fans, Allen offers a
And down here? It’s still a small town,
Being in his 40s while his music career
unique brand of modern country music:
but it’s more that there is no collar color.
is taking off also allows him some wisdom
He possesses that classic vibrato similar
You throw the collar away because you’re
in his perspective. “I’m not automatically
to Ronnie Dunn and Craig Morgan, as
having a good time, you’re enjoying a
taking everything that gets offered to
well as a country twang akin to Randy
lifestyle—and I want to help with that
me, seeing as it could do more harm than
Houser and Hank Williams Jr.
through my music.”
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GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
M U S T- S E E S H OW
IT’S A WOM AN’S WORLD
BEST OF
The Baker Museum celebrates female talent with three exhibits
By Jordan Levin
Bringing art lovers and excite-
centennial of women’s right to
and styles, from founding AAA
ment back to The Baker Museum
vote in 2020 inspired her, as did
members on the cutting edge of
after a more than two-year ren-
the museum’s many female lead-
their time (like Esphyr Slobod-
ovation and expansion, as well
ers, which also includes board
kina and Alice Trumbull Mason)
as a pandemic-induced closure,
chair Lois D. Juliber and recently
to contemporary artists (like Ce
was a challenge. But Naples’
hired museum director and chief
Roser and Irene Rousseau). “This
leading visual arts institution has
curator Courtney McNeil. “I felt
show highlights that women were
responded with a stellar slate of
a real energy and unity around
working in abstraction from the
shows, including some anchored
celebrating women artists,” van
beginning,” McNeil says. It also
around female artists whose
Bergen says.
provides a sense of continuum
work is bursting with color and
The centerpiece show is the
over time and shows how artists
inspiration. “We were making
touring exhibit Blurring Bound-
are all building on what came
lemonade out of lemons,” says
aries: The Women of American
before, she adds.
Artis—Naples CEO and president
Abstract Artists, 1936-Present.
The variety of styles in the
Kathleen van Bergen.
The American Abstract Art-
exhibit helps open up a genre
When a previously planned
ists (AAA), founded in 1936 to
that some find intimidating. “In a
exhibition was postponed to a
advocate for abstraction when
lot of cases, the average museum
future season due to the impact
it was seen as alienating and
visitor thinks there’s some secret
and uncertainty created by the
un-American, was a rare group
to understanding abstraction,”
pandemic, van Bergen began
that welcomed women as artists,
McNeil says. “This show demys-
looking for an alternative that
not just muses or models. Blur-
tifies that and invites visitors to
played to the museum’s per-
ring Boundaries triumphantly
make multiple interpretations.”
manent collection, which hosts
proclaims their impact. The 56
Playing off Blurring Boundar-
a wealth of female artists. The
works range across generations
ies, van Bergen and the curatorial
50
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum/Slobodkina Foundation; From the Collection of Laurie Fendrich and Peter Plagens Courtesy Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum/© Estate of Charmion von Wiegand; Michael Rosenfeld Gallery LLC, New York, NY
showing through July 25.
g ulf shorelife.com
See Charmion von Wiegand’s No. 157 (above) at Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum’s current show Making a Mark: American Women Artists. Esphyr Slobodkina’s The Red L Abstraction (opposite) is on display during a concurrent show, Blurring Boundaries: The Women of American Abstract Artists, 1936-Present.
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BEST OF M U S T- S E E S H OW
team decided to showcase the many female artists in the permanent collection with Making a Mark: American Women Artists, which runs concurrently. It includes little-seen gems by famous names like Georgia O’Keeffe, Helen Frankenthaler and Niki de Saint Phalle. Appropriately, some works come from donations made by major collector, benefactor and longtime Naples resident Olga Hirshhorn, who passed away in 2015. “We were looking for overlaps, but also finding pearls in our collection that were not on view previously,” McNeil explains. The female focus continues within Artis—Naples’ Hayes Hall Galleries with Florida Contemporary, featuring celebrated regional artists Elisabeth Condon, Lilian Garcia-Roig and Carrie Sieh. The show spreads breathtakingly across the concert hall’s spacious lobbies: Garcia-Roig’s lush Banyan as Metaphor is a dizzying evocation of a surreal tropical jungle, while Condon’s Wallpaper Dragon explodes abstraction and references to Chinese painting across a 30-foot expanse. Each artist draws inspiration from Florida’s unique landscape. It’s yet another side of the vitality of this museumwide celebration of the female gaze.
g ulf shorelife.com
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C U L T U R A L M AV E N
STAGE RIGHT BEST OF
Director Annette Trossbach has spent a career knocking down doors; that persistence keeps her indie theater company at the forefront of the performing arts scene. By Stephanie Davis Photography by Erik Kellar
Laboratory Theater of Florida pro-
down their sets—lighting, props and
interviewed for a job in props and
ducing artistic director Annette
all—every night, and then put every-
special effects. The three recruited,
Trossbach tried for three years to get
thing back up for each performance.
charmed and cajoled other talented
the rights to produce the Southwest
Actors used a back storage area as a
theater artists to join their burgeoning
Florida premier of In the Heights, the
dressing room.
troupe with promises of unique produc-
hit Broadway musical by Tony Award
From the beginning, Trossbach
tions, meaty roles and opportunities
winner Lin-Manuel Miranda. It’s
was intent on pushing the envelope to
to play outside of the box. It was 2009,
hard for a theater that’s not affiliated
deliver theater unlike anything seen in
and the company grew with actors, set
with Actors’ Equity Association—
the region at the time. “Our first pro-
designers and stage managers. They
the union for professional theater
duction was Shakespeare’s Macbeth—I
rehearsed wherever they could, used
performers—to obtain the rights for
had seen little, or no, Shakespeare
their own belongings as props and
such a hot title. Preference is given to
being done in this area,” she says. Tra-
engaged in guerrilla marketing by
union groups, which can then reserve
ditionally, local groups have produced
passing out flyers on the streets of
the sole rights to produce the title in
comedy and light-hearted plays that
downtown Fort Myers wearing Shake-
their region for up to two years. For
appeal to a snowbird demographic.
spearean garb. The women worked
a community theater company to get
Undaunted by the lofty undertaking of
around the clock, keeping their day
a show like this takes serious effort.
this British classic, she dove headfirst
jobs, while growing the Lab on nights and weekends.
But Trossbach is known for her per-
into the production, not shying away
sistence. In 2008, when she founded the
from the gory aspects of the story to
Trossbach was used to the pace.
Laboratory Theater, she was the only
make it exciting for younger audiences.
Born in Germany to parents who
female artistic director in Lee County.
That’s how Lab Theater got started—
worked in government and were
With no theater space of her own, she
with like-minded theater makers who
often transferred for their jobs, she
rented the Sidney & Berne Davis Art
wanted to do work that wasn’t being
had moved around Europe more
Center to hold performances. Because
done in Fort Myers. At first, it was just
than a dozen times by the time she
the center was often filled with art
Trossbach, Louise Wigglesworth, whom
graduated from East 15 Acting School
openings, fundraisers and other events,
she met in a Shakespeare discussion
at the University of Essex in London
Trossbach and her troupe would take
group, and Nykkie Rizley, whom she
with degrees in acting and directing.
54
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
As leader of the Laboratory Theater of Florida, Annette Trossbach tried for three years to get access to the sought-after In the Heights musical, which will debut early next year. She’s used the same tenacity to build her independent troupe since launching in 2008.
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BEST OF C U L T U R A L M AV E N
Having to meet new friends, adapt to new schools and settle into unfamiliar environments was almost like reinventing herself with each move. But one constant stood out: Trossbach’s love of theater. She also always loved teaching, so when an opportunity came for her to move to Fort Myers to teach theater at Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School, she took the leap. Once relocated, Trossbach was anxious to get involved in the theater scene, but local companies weren’t producing the type of plays that appealed to her, like Shakespeare. She also still wanted to continue in education, so she launched the Laboratory Theater with the idea of creating an experimental company where actors and other theater professionals could stretch their boundaries. “We sometimes refer to Lab as a ‘teaching theater’—I’m interested in teaching actors movement and vocal techniques, and how to dissect a play and its characters,” she says. “Some people need to get the physical parts first, like a character’s walk, and then they dive into the text of the play, while others examine the playwright’s words over and over until they develop the character from the inside out. I like to be able to give
Trossbach’s Laboratory Theater is known for pushing the envelope, with
them the tools to work in the way
its bold, issues-driven productions and experimental, education-centric
that’s best for them.”
approach to developing actors and other theater talent.
Since the onset, the group vowed to support the classics, but also to
56
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
produce edgier plays that others in the area might not touch. It didn’t take long before Trossbach was searching for a permanent home for the Lab. In 2011, she found a 1920s church to rent on the edge of downtown Fort Myers in the up-and-coming Gardner’s Park neighborhood. By that time, the Lab Theater was a nonprofit organization with a board of directors, a small staff and an edu-
new and exciting—it’s the kind of
cation program, which blossomed
show that’s part of our mission.”
with a focus on boundary-pushing,
The production was set to open in
inclusive theater. Six years later,
March of 2020. When COVID-19 hit,
when the group was able to purchase
the team transitioned to producing
the building, the first thing Tross-
smaller plays via Zoom, while post-
bach did was paint the beige exterior
poning In the Heights until things
pink and hang a rainbow flag at the
started to open up. But then, not
entrance. “Sometimes people call
wanting to diminish the impact of
us the ‘gay’ theater,” she says with a
the play by hosting it with a restrict-
laugh. “And that’s fine. We work hard
ed-size audience, Trossbach decided
to be all inclusive—not only when it
to reschedule for the 2021-2022 sea-
comes to the LGBTQ+ community,
son. In the meantime, the Lab The-
but also with color-conscious casting.
ater pushed forward with new plays,
Lab is a haven for anyone who wants
including the racy Botticelli in the Fire
to be involved.”
by Jordan Tannahill; David Mamet’s
That’s one of the reasons that she
Race, a think piece centered around
was so determined to produce In the
a racially charged sex crime, which
Heights, which is comprised of mostly
runs until May 15; and in June, Sun-
Latino and Black actors and set in the
set Schmoulevard, a campy send-up of
largely Latino neighborhood of Wash-
the 1950 classic film that Trossbach
ington Heights in New York City.
promises will be “full of drag queens,
“We’re committed to casting actors of
kitsch and laughs.”
color in the roles,” she says. “That also
As for the next season, it’s already
means reaching out to minority com-
shaping up to be a stellar offering.
munities for talent and for audiences,
Leading up to the March 4 opening of
which is what Lab Theater is all about.
In the Heights, the Lab Theater opens
So, the show isn’t just entertaining,
with the musical version of The Color
BEST OF
57
“When your journey includes us, you travel better.”
BEST OF
—Our promise to you!
C U L T U R A L M AV E N
Purple, which features an all-Black,
Lee McCarthy President
mostly female cast. In many ways, local audiences are better prepared for shows like
36 NINTH STREET SOUTH SUITE 3 NAPLES, FL 34102 239.263.4433 MADTRAVEL.COM
these now, and that’s in large part due to the influence the Lab Theater and Trossbach have had in the area. “Theater has grown exponentially in Lee County,” she says. “A lot of the
2021 MAGIC UNDER THE MANGROVES
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for helping us move our mission forward. Thank you for making our 17th annual Magic Under the MangrovesTM virtual gala a success! Your support provides key funding that directly enhances the Conservancy’s mission of protecting Southwest Florida’s water, land, wildlife and future. Special thanks to our Event Chair, Katrina Lundmark-Kash, and Vice Chair, Carol Walter, on their exceptional leadership.
work we do is risky, or risqué, but it has its own balance with the more mainstream material we do now and then. If you’re lucky enough to be able to take artistic risks, you should go for it. I think every theater in Southwest Florida tries to take risks and introduce their audiences to new and thought-provoking material, and that’s how it should be.” A lot has changed for Lab as it has grown over the years, but Trossbach’s dedication remains the same. She has
Presented by
been known to wake before sunrise, and she rarely gets to bed before 2 a.m., as she plots the theater’s future.
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“Maybe it’s my German work ethic,” she says. “But I’m committed and
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dedicated—not only to Laboratory Theater of Florida, but to growing the arts scene in Southwest Florida.
Benefitting
It’s going to take all of us.”
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CULINARY STANDOUT
IT TAKES T WO
BEST OF
A perfect flurry of circumstances in an imperfect year led to the chef-bartender collaboration behind Seventh South Craft Food + Drink. By Dorothea Hunter Sönne Photography by Brian Tietz
Two blocks away from Fifth Avenue
directly preceded theirs in the same
But, “damn, do we focus when we’re
South, the new Seventh South Craft
location, 7th Avenue Social. The two
making something for a customer,”
Food + Drink is a short walk from the
met through Nardis’ wife, Erin, when
Nardis says.
downtown action, but a languid eve-
she and Larkin helped open The Con-
ning on its bougainvillea-bordered
tinental’s bar in 2014.
patio can feel like a world away.
They put in a lot of sweat equity over the summer to transform the
They were drawn to the space
space, laying bricks to extend the
The owners are a pair of industry
because of the location, which is the
patio area, designing and installing
friends: Adam Nardis, who had been
first element of its name; the second
wood wall panels for the interior and
the executive chef at M Waterfront
half is a nod to their mission, and
sourcing art and furniture that reflect
Grille for eight years, and Barry
their efforts to bring out the best in
a traditional American brasserie with
Larkin, who most recently was the
each other. The executive chef and
a modern touch. The food and the
bar manager at the restaurant that
bartender teamed up to have the
drinks came together organically,
kitchen and bar work in tandem to
some inspired by the local ingredi-
put an equal emphasis on quality,
ents available, such as day-boat fish.
made-from-scratch cuisine and
What’s reeled in that morning ends
cocktails. “There are collaborations
up on your plate, served, depending
of kitchen and bar, chef and bar man-
on the season, with perhaps a piquant
ager, all over bigger cities. It doesn’t
romesco sauce or a seven-herb pesto.
then become so front-of-the-house
Inspiration also comes from the herb
and back-of-the-house. We wanted to
and lettuce garden Colusa Farms
idea-share—that’s the main concept
helped them install at the restaurant.
of this restaurant,” Nardis says.
60
GULFSHORE LIFE
The story of how the pair decided to
Nardis and Larkin aren’t the type
plunge headfirst into restaurant own-
to take themselves too seriously; the
ership in the middle of a once-in-a-
two aim for whimsy in what they do.
century pandemic is as much a tale of
g ulf shorelife.com
One of the most exciting restaurants to debut amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Seventh South Craft Food + Drink in Naples is led by chef Adam Nardis (above) and bartender Barry Larkin.
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Larkin (top) and Nardis work in tandem to place equal emphasis on the culinary and cocktail offerings. Another standout feature: Seventh South’s late-night service, offering elevated fare until 1 a.m. daily. Opposite: The Sometimes You Don’t cocktail, a coconut-infused Scotch sipper.
62
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
BEST OF CULINARY STANDOUT
the interconnectedness of the local dining
asked if he’d sell them 7th Avenue Social.
scene as it is of anything else. You could
Later that week, the three were meeting
call it luck, fate or crazy coincidence,
to discuss the deal.
but the advent of COVID-19 arguably
Knowing what it takes to open and how
helped Larkin and Nardis embark on this
important it is to launch before Novem-
journey. The two had been on the same
ber to catch the start of the season, Larkin
trajectory: Each had for years wanted to
and Nardis plowed forward, picking a
open his own restaurant. Nardis, who was
name, designing a logo and writing reci-
mentored by Chris and Peter Sereno of M
pes before the ink was even on the paper.
Waterfront Grille since 2005, had been
They signed the deal Aug. 30, and the rest
weekend brunch and late-night dining.
looking at properties for the better part
was history—the pair met their internal
You can order truffle butter-crumb-and
of a decade. Larkin, who dove deep into
deadline by welcoming their first guests
Gruyere-dusted oysters or crisp fritters
the world of bespoke cocktailing as the
Oct. 13. “People would ask me if it was
dripping with melted goat cheese and
bar manager at The Continental, left there
borderline cocky to open a restaurant in
blood orange-pecan marmalade into the
about two years ago. At his interview for
COVID, and I’d say ‘Yes, but we saw it as
wee hours because, as they note, almost
the job at 7th Avenue Social, Larkin says
an opportunity,’” Nardis explains. “Usu-
nowhere else is offering it.
he looked its owner Jerry Alajajian in the
ally there are 30 restaurants that open
Because the duo is dedicated to chang-
eye and said, “In two years, I want to own
every season, and this year there are six.”
ing their menus regularly, what may have
my own restaurant.” Alajajian answered
In a way, the pandemic provided a fortu-
stunned in February won’t be available
back, “I hope I can help you do that.”
itous moment to enter the competitive
now. “You’re not going to see asparagus
Naples market.
in October or butternut squash in April.
Fast-forward to the pandemic, and Alajajian closed 7th Avenue Social with
Another unintended, but happy, con-
Four seasons, four menus. That’s my
the intention of reopening in October
sequence has been fewer crowds at the
(he also owns Hogfish Harry’s, another
beginning, a make-or-break period for
Take the bread pudding on the opening
restaurant that opened in 2020 to rave
a restaurant. “COVID has extended the
menu, for example. It started as a pump-
reviews, and Island Gypsy Cafe & Marina
honeymoon period for us—we were for-
kin bread pudding that has since morphed
Bar). Sensing opportunity amid the global
tunate that it was slower,” Larkin says,
into a peach cobbler flavored one topped
chaos, Larkin called Nardis and asked if
noting it helped them find their groove
with housemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch
he wanted to open a restaurant with him.
and perfect their consistency.
ice cream. One dish that’s not going any-
structure,” Nardis says.
Oddly enough, Nardis’ wife had a dream
Ambitious by any yardstick, Larkin
where, however, is the ahi egg roll starter
a month before that the two had started a
and Nardis set Seventh South’s hours
that Larkin calls the best appetizer he’s
restaurant together. He naturally said yes.
to be round-the-clock. They’re doing
ever had (the deep-fried tuna melts into
Larkin met with Alajajian on July 5 and
lunch and dinner service daily, plus
a cashew-and-daikon slaw that’s kicked
BEST OF
63
BEST OF
CULINARY STANDOUT
Don’t count on having the same dish in the spring that you had in the fall. “Four seasons, four menus. That’s my structure,” Nardis says. Above: Canadian halibut with roasted garlic hash brown.
up with dueling zesty sauces). He and
kiss of lemongrass and basil. All of Lar-
And he’s nailed it. The place has that
Nardis also decided the pastas have to
kin’s drinks incorporate top-class spirits
familial, welcoming feel you get at some-
stay. Both of them have Italian ancestry
with housemade infusions, syrups and
one’s home. That’s in part because all the
and won’t settle for anything less than
bitters. Everything is fresh.
staffers are friends. Every server and man-
the highest grade Caputo semolina flour,
A cornerstone of the epicurean experi-
ager seems motivated to make each guest
which Nardis says gives the noodles their
ence that they’re hoping to amplify is the
feel well cared for, too. It’s a testament to
signature al dente spring (not cooking
Craft Counter. Physically at the mid-point
the culture Nardis and Larkin have fos-
duration, as commonly held).
in the restaurant between the bar and the
tered by picking people who were inter-
Larkin’s bar book is filled with detailed
dining room, the long high-top sitting
twined from years of working together at
notes on every cocktail they’ve ever
under pendant lights occupies a symbolic
various local restaurants. “It’s so nice to
served. It’s tucked behind the bar, should
space for their version of a chef (and bar-
see that these servers are loyal and they
a patron come in wanting a drink sam-
tender) table experience. For a fixed price,
followed us here,” Larkin says. “People
pled months beforehand. The Iceberg
four courses, each paired with four cock-
just don’t jump into a new restaurant.
Theory was one of Seventh South’s first
tails or wine, are brought out. Then Larkin
But they had confidence in what we were
bestsellers, named after Ernest Hem-
and Nardis narrate the story behind each
putting out there. It’s very humbling.” As
ingway’s revolutionary writing style and
pairing for an injection of entertainment.
the accolades keep coming in—which they
a play on his favorite drink, the daiquiri.
Nardis’ goal for the restaurant is to have
no doubt will—that humility and gratitude
It uses Codigo blanco tequila with fresh-
a couple look at each other while leaving
will continue to serve their team and their
squeezed grapefruit and lime juice, and a
and say, “Well, that was fun.”
visitors well.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Earth, Air, Fire, Water + secret family formulas + generations
=
Pottery As Art Old 41 Road
Historic Bonita Springs
CULINARY STARS
STAYING POWER
BEST OF
We salute the superhumans who continued offering innovative dining options despite pandemic odds. By Chelle Koster Walton
You could not have convinced me, one
appeased, staff must store the tables
year ago, that the restaurant indus-
each night, but they do so happily to
try would power through the long
keep things moving forward. Gloria
pandemic months with such vigor,
M. Jordan-Cabral of Fort Myers’ La
imagination and bravado. Moving,
Trattoria Cafe Napoli fame, took out-
shaking, expanding, reinventing.
door dining to new heights with her
Who could have thought that restau-
three-acre, special-event kitchen,
rant and drinkery owners would take
dining and entertainment space at
advantage of pandemic economics to
Dim Jandy Ranch in Fort Myers. Lake
meet new needs in creative ways that
Park Diner, contrary to the trend,
we once thought were impossible?
added a new air-conditioned indoor
They are superhumans in the world
space, but with an open-air feel, to its
of small business and hospitality, and
previous all-outdoor layout. Some changed their footprints,
Many restaurants bolstered their
refreshed concepts and mounted
staying power by increasing outdoor
major renovations, often related
seating. Bar Tulia on Fifth Avenue
to social distancing. In Cape Coral,
South added Nonna’s Garden with
Overtime Pizzeria & Sports Pub went
50 seats, and then went on to assem-
upstairs and upscale with its nightlife-
ble a spinoff hybrid in Mercato,
happening The Loft at OT. Bistro 821,
which launched in April. Alexander’s
Fifth Avenue South’s game-changer
Restaurant in midtown Naples, added
back in 1994, underwent its most
six more tables to its already highly
extensive renovation to date. “After
demanded three-level garden space.
the shutdown, we decided we didn’t
To keep fellow tenants of the plaza
want to be the guys who just rode the
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GULFSHORE LIFE
Brian Tietz (2); Courtesy Bistro 821
I salute them.
g ulf shorelife.com
Local restaurants have been a study in resilience. Vincenzo Betulia (left) added the 50-seat Nonna’s Garden to his Bar Tulia (below) and is debuting second Tulia locale at Mercato; Bistro 821 (right) underwent a major renovation.
pandemic out,” Jesse Housman, who has been involved in the restaurant since it sparked downtown’s dining renaissance, says. “‘Don’t lose confidence in the bistro’ was the message we wanted to send.” Another Fifth Avenue restaurant, Pazzo! Cucina Italiana pushed onward with its plan to up its luxury factor to the tune of $1 million to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Down the street, Vergina came back after the stay-at-home order with a new look and sound system. It opened up its space by eighty-sixing the marble columns and making other cosmetic improvements. At D’Amico & Sons in mid-Naples, a full renovation produced Ziggy D’Amico’s Whiskey Bar & Diner. Along with the new look inside and for its 100-seat patio, came a fresh concept that updated the menu and added a craft cocktail program at its marble-topped bar. One of four Brooks Burgers locations in Naples, too, upscaled its concept, when Brooks Tavern & Grill added steaks and seafood to its Logan Landings’ menu. A number of food and beverage venues opened spinoffs and brand-new ventures—or are working to, anyway. Sails Restaurant makes the biggest splash with two new restaurants expected to open this year. Its next-door Sava explores
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Narrative Coffee Roasters (above) is set to open an outpost in the Naples Design District this month. Also in Naples, chef Eli Kaimeh (opposite), formerly of Per Se, was hired to oversee all of Sails’ culinary operations, including its two new restaurants.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
BEST OF
Courtesy: Narrative Coffee Roasters; Sails
CULINARY STARS
an eat-for-health concept in a French farm-
ian concept in Isles of Capri, and branded
house setting, while The Butcher brings a
it as Osteria Capri. The restaurant opened
design-forward steakhouse to North Naples.
in October. Speaking of Sanibel, Jeramie
To boot, in February, Sails’ owners hired Eli
and Debra Campana, masterminds behind
Kaimeh, former chef de cuisine of Thomas
Paper Fig Kitchen, partnered with James
Keller’s legendary New York restaurant Per
Beard-recognized chef Don Yamauchi and his
Se to manage all of their culinary operations.
wife Cleta Yamauchi, to open the island’s only
On the coffeehouse front, two favorites
Mexican-inspired dining. Their 400 Rabbits
expanded. Slated for this month, Narrative
emerged after totally rehabbing the old Doc
Coffee Roasters transports its concept (but
Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille with a clean South-
with a different aesthetic), to the Naples
western look.
Design District. Bonita Springs’ Downtown
Just off Sanibel, the owner of Dante’s Coal
Coffee and Wine Company jumps to a corner
Fired Kitchen, which redefined mall dining at
just down the street with The Bohemian. The
Sanibel Outlets, opened suave Bluwave Lob-
restaurant from Brandon and Cailtin Schewe,
ster House in the same complex earlier this
the couple credited with fueling downtown
year. Specializing in New England seafood,
Bonita’s cultural growth, promises to take
craft cocktails and contemporary design
a playful design and culinary direction—
elements, it brings its glassed-in kitchen/raw
unconventional and chef-driven—when it
bar into the dining room and a splashy water
opens this summer.
feature to the bar. Taking over the former
On Sanibel, chef A.J. Black closed Il Tesoro
Adidas storefront, it follows a recent trend
and opened another “treasured” fine Ital-
where the fallout of restaurants and retail,
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BEST OF CULINARY STARS
Sails’ Veljko Pavicevic (above), who will soon open a high-end steakhouse and a healthcentric modern American locale. Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki (top right) opened in Cape
particularly franchises, has proven valu-
a clientele that “doesn’t want to deal with
Jungle Bird became a permanent fixture
able to independent restaurateurs.
finding a place to park downtown.”
among the local dining scene.
Christopher Blauvelt, who cloned The
Jeremy Vincent, owner of the new
I’ll never go so far as to think that the
Standard Restaurant, his popular down-
Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki in Cape Coral,
challenge of the COVID -19 era was a
town Fort Myers restaurant, to take over
was able to turn a struggling restaurant
good thing for the restaurant industry.
the vacated former Square 1 Burgers &
to his advantage, partnering with Red-
In the case of Southwest Florida, how-
Bar space at Page Field Commons, says
fish Point to start as a pop-up concept
ever, it has brought independent restau-
he negotiated a great lease agreement.
in August. “It just took off because of
rateurs to their feet with indomitable
The new restaurant opened in February
the pandemic,” he says. “People were so
will and superhuman effort to stand
with the same from-scratch menu, local
ready to be back to normal again. People
firm, adapt and fortify when the chips
art, music and drag-queen tomfoolery for
were so stir-crazy.” Three months later,
are down.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Brian Tietz; Courtesy Sails
Coral in spite of COVID-19 challenges.
NEWCOMER
THIRD ACTS
BEST OF
Campiello’s new general manager brings two decades of experience working around the globe, including at the Michelin-starred Marea. By Lane Nieset Photography by Brian Tietz
Three days before Dubai went into
team at Michael White’s flagship
for Outstanding Service. Working
lockdown last spring, Sean Smith,
New York restaurant, Marea, where
alongside Marea beverage director,
who was working at the time as gen-
he stayed for 10 years before launch-
Francesco Grosso, who oversaw the
eral manager at the second outpost
ing the first international location in
extensive list of more than 750 dif-
for the Michelin-starred Marea, flew
Dubai. As general manager at Marea,
ferent selections, Smith also honed
back to the United States. He had
Smith coordinated daily restaurant
his wine knowledge. As D’Amico puts
spent about a year and a half in Dubai
operations, maintained customer
it, his “level of style, professionalism
overseeing the restaurant’s opening
service expectations and managed
and sense of hospitality that is both
and planned to return to New York
front- and back-of-house duties. He
natural and learned” is what made
City in June to work on a new project
sees the key to success in his role
Smith the perfect candidate for the
with the same company. Then the
as knowing “how to best utilize the
role at Campiello. Over his 20 years
pandemic set in.
various skill sets of the team mem-
in the restaurant industry, Smith says
With his plans to return to New
bers and understanding how they
he’s constantly learning and growing
York off the table, he started talking
complement each other,” he says.
with each experience. Dubai, for
with friend and restaurateur Paul
“Everyone has their own strengths
example, was a challenge since he
Fleming, who connected him with
and weaknesses, and it’s a matter of
was not only opening a restaurant,
D’Amico & Partners CEO, Richard
focusing on the strengths.” From the
he was navigating the different needs
D’Amico. “It was our conversations
diner standpoint, the general man-
and expectations of another culture.
that drew me to Campiello,” Smith
ager sets the tone for the experience
“New York is always viewed as the
says. “The D’Amico brothers have
at the restaurant—and Smith knows
world’s melting pot, but the mix of
been in the business for over 30 years
how to do this well.
cultures and people in Dubai is unsur-
and designed a great concept.”
While at Marea, Smith’s manage-
passed,” he says.
Smith and his wife moved down in
ment skills helped the restaurant
Smith has always seen the industry
September and he stepped into the
maintain two Michelin stars and earn
as a ticket to travel. During off-season
role as general manager at the restau-
a James Beard Award for Best New
while working at Marea, he explored
rant. Smith was part of the opening
Restaurant, as well as nominations
the mazelike medinas of Marrakesh;
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With 20 years in the restaurant industry, Sean Smith brings a “level of style, professionalism and sense of hospitality that is both natural and learned,” Campiello owner Richard D’Amico says.
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BEST OF NEWCOMER
Smith spent a year and a half in Dubai and 10 years in New York before coming to Naples. “If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s to enjoy where you are,” he says.
ventured to tiny villages in the mountains in northern Laos; and ate his way around the west coast of Mexico. Like most of us, Smith looks forward to traveling again when it’s safe to do so, and exploring more of Southwest Florida, but his main priority at the moment is ensuring the comfort and safety of the restaurant’s guests and team. He wants things to go smoothly during an already challenging time. “If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s to enjoy where you are,” he says. “The changes wrought by COVID are a huge disrupter to everything, but to restaurants especially. The pandemic has certainly been humbling, but it has allowed for more appreciation of things once taken for granted.”
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GULFSHORE LIFE
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E FFO R T LE SS R E SOR T ST YLE LIVING IN A P E R FEC T LY T UCK E D AWAY TR O P ICA L E NCL AVE
New construction homes, resort style living, and ideal location just west of U.S. 41 combine to embody the ultimate Southwest Florida lifestyle. Conveniently located on Coconut Road just ¼ mile from the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, Coconut Landing will feature 25 single family homes, each one boasting seamless indoor/outdoor living, open and uplifting floor plans, and a sparkling private pool. With incredible surroundings, VIP membership option to the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, and nearby beaches, golf, shopping, and dining, Coconut Landing will invite you to enjoy every moment, whether relaxing at home or stepping out. Pre-construction offerings starting from the high $900,000’s.* *Pricing and availability subject to change.
C O C O N U T- L A N D I N G .C O M 45 2 8 CO CO NUT ROAD, ES TERO, FLORIDA
Katherine Marx 239.298.4351 kmarx@headwaters-development.com headwaters-development.com PO Box 110062, Naples, Fl. 34108
HOT WHEELS
SEEING RED
BEST OF
One of the buzziest launches of the season, the Ferrari of Naples dealership is as striking outside as the supercars found inside. By Michael Korb Photography by Erik Kellar
When you’re an auto manufacturer
Naples dealership reportedly sold
known for world-class styling, you
dozens of Ferraris in its first month
had better be willing to put some
implies the city was more than ready
serious thought into the architecture
for its own outpost. All you need to
and design of your dealerships. When
do is drive by the 58,000-square-foot
Italian exotic car builder Ferrari
structure to know this dealership is,
arrived in Naples with its first deal-
pun intended, firing on all cylinders.
ership here late last year, it did just
Not only is it visually striking, but it
that with a building that was not only
is wisely located at the mouth of one
a testament to attitude and excess,
of this nation’s most exclusive golf
but also functionality and form.
enclaves—The Old Collier Golf Club.
That Ferrari chose to come to
Members of the club, many of whom
Naples is not all that surprising.
enjoy billionaire status, must pass
What is surprising is that it took so
the dealership every time they hit
long. Although the marque has been
the links.
appreciated in the area for decades
For the rest of us driving by along
(Naples has had Cars on 5th—a Fer-
Tamiami Trail North, the allure
rari Club-organized event—since
comes from a dynamic facade fea-
2002), buyers had to service their
turing a sloping arm that in many
cars at Ferrari dealerships on the
ways recalls the spectator bridges of
east coast or in Tampa. News that the
international race tracks that Fer-
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GULFSHORE LIFE
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Ferrari’s first dealership in Southwest Florida rolled into town with a built-in legion of local fans and a sleek building in North Naples that makes a stunning impression.
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BEST OF HOT WHEELS
sions from different views,” the Penney Design lead design architect on the project, Peter Beylo, says. “When you are out in front you have one viewing experience, but coming from other directions you have a much different sense of this facade, particularly with the ‘tilting leg’ element.” That “leg ” angles forward and to the side. The architects knew how that angle would play in space and that it would add a powerful statement, especially when standing underneath. To put it in modern vernacular, it is Instagram worthy. A majority of the front of the
78
rari regularly dominates. But
Wide World Ferrari in Spring Val-
building is covered in silver
the design is purely the creative
ley, New York. “High-end brands
Aluminum Composite Material
work of Maryland architecture
tend to give you more latitude,”
(ACM), while the tilted leg and
firm Penney Design Group.
Jon Penney of Penney Design
its canopy is clad in gray ACM
Bonita Springs-based commer-
Group says. “A lot of the form
with an accent band of red (with a
cial builder EnviroStruct LLC
does have to follow the function.
white stripe) lining a portion of its
handled construction.
But we wanted to create some
undercarriage. Its grain direction
With more than 1,000 deal-
motion and a nice place to view
reads as a folded-over piece. Cor-
ership designs to their credit,
these beautiful works of art. You
rugated steel covers a boxed area
the Penney Design Group is
will not see another Ferrari deal-
along the southern edge, which
no stranger to creating jewel
ership that looks like this.”
encompasses the “presentation
boxes of automotive excellence.
The architects took Collier
room,” where new owners take
They’ve even designed more
County design requirements into
delivery of their vehicles, often
than two dozen dealerships for
consideration when designing the
with a dramatic reveal from under
the New York-based New Coun-
project, but didn’t hold back on
a silk cover.
try Motor Car Group, which in
the shape of things. “We were try-
Once inside, functionality
addition to this dealership, also
ing to come up with a concept that
makes things more businesslike.
owns Ferrari of Palm Beach and
gave you really dynamic expres-
The interior of the two-story
GULFSHORE LIFE
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Inside, the cars are the stars. Models are displayed like works of art throughout the showroom.
BEST OF
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In season, the dealership hosts Exotics & Espresso events for local car lovers.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
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BEST OF HOT WHEELS
building allows for an enormous
machines is never far from mind.
amount of space to display new
Take the very deliberate place-
cars under LED lighting, playfully
ment of the service department’s
called “light clouds.” They likely
dyno—or dynometer—where
make a difference after hours, as
cars are strapped down and run
the building’s expansive use of
through the gears to measure
floor-to-ceiling windows makes
things like horsepower and top
natural light the perfect element,
speed. The cars are screaming
especially when gleaming across
literally feet behind a thin layer
the mirror-like finishes of new
of glass adjoining the service
Ferraris. And that is exactly the
department’s waiting lounge. It
point of the showroom’s interior—
seems you buy a Ferrari as much
the cars are the stars. No need to
for the sound as the speed.
dazzle with over-the-top interior
Toward the back of the space,
design when clean lines and a few
overlooking the golf course,
small lounges filled with the latest
is the dealership’s pre-owned
in Italian leather furniture will do
collection, which can house
(for those moments when you’re
approximately 40 exotics at any
waiting for an oil change or sitting
given time.
with a sales associate trying to
Since its arrival, the dealership
pick out the perfect brake caliper
has been prominent in the social
or carpet colors). Clean white
scene, serving as the host locale
walls throughout act as exhibit
for several nonprofit events, gath-
spaces for framed, large-scale
ering area car lovers for monthly
photography of the marque’s most
Exotics & Espresso events in sea-
recent offerings and a few classics,
son and sponsoring major local
hung as though they’re headed to
car shows and rallies for Ferrari
the Museum of Modern Art.
Club members. A grand opening
This is, after all, an automotive place of worship, and the love of
INSIDER
is expected to take place later this year. Guidare veloce!
81
UPGRADE
CHECKING IN
BEST OF
Two The Ritz-Carlton resorts in Naples unveil splashy upgrades to their picturesque properties.
When The Ritz-Carlton group opened
in a category all its own in Naples.
its first hotel in Naples, it marked a
During the past year, the team worked
moment for the city. Many say that’s
to carve out a 600-foot lazy river that
when Naples began to transform
runs along the greens, new pools for
itself from quiet fishing village into
kids and adults, three water slides and
a cosmopolitan hub. Now, as the city
Ría, a contemporary outdoor restau-
continues to grow and evolve, its
rant that plates beautiful dishes with
heritage resorts are evolving with it.
flavors that nod to Mexico, Argentina
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples,
and Peru.
recently unveiled a splashy multimil-
While the water park features will
lion dollar expansion that includes a
only be available to The Ritz-Carlton
bigger event lawn, as well as an out-
guests (at least at first), anyone can
door restaurant and bar. This month,
stop by Ría for fun cocktails like the
the resort is slated to debut the latest
Victoria, a refreshing take on the clas-
part of the project, The Reservoir—an
sic mojito, or to try chef Aldo Novoa
on-site water park that spans more
Rodriguez’s empanadas, ceviche or
than 14,000 square feet and stands
the savory, Mayan-inspired tacos
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GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples
By Jaynie Bartley
g ulf shorelife.com
As part of its transformation, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, plans to debut The Reservoir, a 14,000-squarefoot water park this month.
BEST OF
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BEST OF UPGRADE
The project includes the already open Ría, a chic, poolside restaurant. Across town, on the beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, recently started on its own
de cochinita pibíl estilo yucatán. The modest portions leave plenty of room for dulce de leche filled Alfajores, a recipe the Mexican chef inherited from his grandmother. Just outside of Ría’s main dining patio, you might also find yourself hobnobbing at a fundraiser on the new 3,600-square-foot event lawn, which provides picturesque views of the Greg Norman-designed greens at Tiburon Golf Club—a perfect addition to the hotel’s reputation as a stellar event space. Meanwhile, at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples—the city’s original The Ritz-Carlton property—the resort is embarking on its own major facelift and expansion that will add 92 rooms and suites, and design updates throughout the property.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
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Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples
multimillion dollar renovation.
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• Popular Davenport Model • 3 BR, 3.5 BA + Den/Office, 2 CG $610,000 MLS# 220063381 Tina Tusack 239.634.3810
BEST OF
ENVIRONMENTAL WIN
ROAD TO RESTOR ATION A historic $250 million bill marks a big step forward for the Everglades’ future, starting with the construction of an essential reservoir.
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Getty
By Tess Lopez
GULFSHORE LIFE
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"He has underestimated you for the last time."
Divorce and Family Law
2 3 9 3 3 4 7 6 9 6 wilbursmith.law
2 2 0 0 B ro a d w a y, F o r t M y e r s , F L 3 3 9 0 1
BEST OF ENVIRONMENTAL WIN
Plans are in motion to revive the parched Everglades, which include the construction of the
The concern for the wellbeing of the
region. The funds go toward projects out-
Lake Okeechobee, the reservoir will
Everglades dates back to the late 1940s
lined in the Comprehensive Everglades
store 240,000 acre-feet of water (about
when the land south of Lake Okeechobee
Restoration Plan, a long-term roadmap
7.8 trillion gallons), clean it through an
was eyed for early agricultural pursuits.
authorized by Congress in 2000. “One
adjacent stormwater treatment area
At that time, the government ordered
of the things we always point out is that
and funnel it south into the Everglades.
thousands of miles of canals and berms
Everglades restoration will protect water
“The benefits include a 55% reduction in
to be constructed to redirect excess
supply for 8 million Floridians,” Marisa
damaging discharges to the estuaries,”
water from the lake and surrounding
Carrozzo, the Everglades and water
Carrozzo explains. She adds that the
areas out onto Florida’s east and west
policy manager for the Conservancy of
allocation of the funding should keep
coasts, rather than following its natu-
Southwest Florida, says. “As we’re restor-
the construction timeline on track, with
ral flow south into the Everglades and
ing the natural sheet flow of water—to the
expected completion in 2026.
Florida Bay. Decades of this routine left
extent that we can, given the alterations
Among other things, the remaining
the wetlands parched and deposited pol-
to the system—we’re helping to recharge
funding is set to help rehydrate coastal
lutants from nearby farmlands into the
the aquifers. It’s helpful for resiliency in
wetlands on the east coast and restore
estuaries at the mouths of both coasts.
the face of sea level rise and tide change,
55,000 acres of damaged lands in Collier
This has led to complicated problems,
buffering against storm surge, against
County’s Picayune Strand State Forest,
like the toxic algal blooms that ravaged
extreme weather impact. It ensures the
where the Conservancy worked with the
Southwest Florida.
soil and habitat remain healthy.”
state to buy land from a failed develop-
Last year’s congressional passage of a
Establishing the Everglades Agricul-
ment project, and rehabbed it with pump
$250 million proposal to fund Everglades
tural Area (EAA) Reservoir is a big part
stations to restore the natural flow of
restoration is not only a triumph for
of the project, with approximately $76
water. “It’s an exciting project because
conservationists hoping to reverse the
million of the total funding designated
they’re starting to see the natural habitat
damage, but for everyone living in the
for its construction. Located south of
rebound,” Carrozzo says.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
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Getty
Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir.
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CHANGEMAKER
SOCIAL STUDIES BEST OF
Southwest Florida Community Foundation launches a bold experiment in community problem-solving, guided by the principles that author and activist Dan Pallotta has been laying out for years.
Courtesy Dan Pallotta
By Lane Nieset
NASA didn’t build the Lunar Module,
munity faces stems from a lack of
says. “I thought so many nonprofits
or design the space suits, or even code
hierarchy. “We aren’t organized to
and boards are seeking this kind of
computers for the Apollo program.
solve problems,” he says. Instead of
inspiration and engagement. They’re
It did something even more signifi-
setting up a community’s leadership
trapped by the constraints that Dan
cant—it coordinated all the moving
like a pyramid model, where someone
lays out in his TED Talk and book.”
parts. Over the last year, the South-
is delegating, there’s a flat line with
During the TED2013 talk which
west Florida Community Foundation,
everyone—school superintendents,
received more than 5 million views,
which has been rebranded as Collab-
police chiefs, heads of nonprofits—
Pallotta urged viewers to “change
oratory, has been creating a new con-
on equal footing; no one is at the top.
the way we think about changing the
text for community problem-solving
“What you would need is an entity to
world” by incorporating principles
by taking a cue from NASA. With the
coordinate these people that has the
of the corporate world into the non-
help of activist and humanitarian
personnel and time—something like
profit sector and investing in talent
Dan Pallotta, it’s aligning the vision
NASA,” he says.
to fuel growth. He shared the story
of organizations across the region in
Sarah Owen, president and CEO
of how he launched the first Califor-
a bold effort to make all five counties
of Fort Myers-based Collaboratory,
nia AIDSRide charity bike ride for
fully equitable in an 18-year timeline.
started following Pallotta around
research in 1993. He invested $50,000
“Collaboratory has set a deadline in
2008, when his book Uncharitable—
in seed money from a gay rights group
the solving of these community issues
which Stanford Social Innovation
in Los Angeles, and they netted more
and had the courage to say ‘yes,’” Pal-
Review said “deserves to become the
than $1 million during the first event
lotta says. “Southwest Florida is not
nonprofit sector’s new manifesto”—
alone. When organizers wanted to
New York; it’s a smaller community
was released. Her shift into philan-
expand to New York two years later,
where you can really experiment and
thropy from investor relations and
Pallotta did something unheard of in
explore. They’re modeling the kind
corporate communications coincided
the nonprofit sector: He purchased
of leadership and behavior we need
with the book’s debut. “It was a great
a full-page ad in the Sunday edition
more of in the U.S. to make progress
time for me to be exposed to that
of The New York Times. The $40,000
on our big social problems.”
kind of thinking because I had come
ad helped generate $2.5 million in
According to Pallotta, the large
out of corporate America and I was
revenue. He blurred the line to show
social dilemmas nearly every com-
navigating the charitable sector,” she
that a nonprofit can, and perhaps
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Courtesy Collaboratory/Reagan Rule (3)
Launching this month, the project will rebrand the Southwest Florida Community Foundation as Collaboratory, which is also the name of the coworking space the group debuted in 2018.
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BEST OF CHANGEMAKER
should, operate like a for-profit in
organization to be effective, it has to
both the two-year-old space and the
order to succeed. He wanted to turn
use 99 cents of every dollar raised for
reconfigured organization. Pallotta
the concept of “overhead” upside
programs,” she says.
and his consultancy agency, Adver-
down, but his organization was crit-
In 2018, she invited Pallotta to lead
tising for Humanity, are part of the
icized for spending 40% of its gross
a one-day training at Collaboratory.
small circle of advisers laying out
on staffing and marketing, and Pal-
After the event, the 123 board mem-
the roadmap for the long-term strat-
lotta TeamWorks, a company of 350,
bers from 32 nonprofits who attended
egy, which will be announced this
crumbled overnight as a result. Still,
wanted “more, more, more,” Owen
month. The new Collaboratory aims
he remained committed to the mes-
says. “That’s when we started work-
to end the region’s social issues in 18
sage. In the TED talk, he reasons that
ing with him on how to move beyond
years—the time it takes a child born
if a nonprofit pays salaries equivalent
a one-day training to really activate
today to reach adulthood. “If you go
to what executives would receive in
this thinking to create the change we
into any major American city and put
the corporate world, it could attract
all want to see in the region.”
it under the microscope, what you’ll
top talent, reduce turnover and have
This is where the 18-year time-
find is hundreds of disconnected
a stronger impact on the cause they’re
line—or conversation, as Owen calls
organizations across government,
championing. The ethos resonated
it—began. Part of the work has been
business, nonprofit sectors,” Pallotta
with Owens, who draws from her
rebranding the Southwest Florida
says. “If you’re going to solve some of
background in the corporate world.
Community Foundation as simply
these big problems—homelessness,
“We have to bust the myth that for an
Collaboratory, which represents
illiteracy, hunger—you have to start with children being born today.” When considering their impact, Owen thinks about a newborn and what Southwest Florida would need to look like for that child to reach adulthood in an equitable community with every opportunity to succeed. The 45-year-old Southwest Florida Community Foundation, which operates as a small business, donating $6 million annually to various causes, will maintain its core structure that focuses on grant-making, sustainability and scholarships, and will introduce departments like brainstorming, as well as a chief collaboration officer to manage the new structure. And by
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investing in brain capital and recruiting
rebuilding in a strategic fashion. Acting
check-ups, which will require voting for
leaders from companies like Google, the
as a coordinating body, bringing together
more funding for grassroots organizing.
goal is to make this a long-term project.
everything from health centers to uni-
“If you try to solve one problem alone,
“We have to be willing to fail and exper-
versities, Collaboratory will fundraise to
you’ll get undermined by other problems
iment—and embrace failure until we get
collect data and conduct brainstorming
that impact it,” Pallotta says. “It’s easier
it right. Most organizations, especially
sessions, as well as encourage creativity
to tackle all of them in an integrated and
those involved in community-solving in
when thinking of problems—and how to
holistic way.”
our region, aren’t set up that way, because
solve them—in a new collective way. For
The name Collaboratory reflects how
if they fail, there’s a terrible article that
example, if a community wants to solve
integral each member and organization
comes out and no one will donate any-
issues related to public education, they
in the region is to the overall project—and
more—and that’s the end of it.”
have to consider early childhood educa-
community’s—success. This is why the
In a way, they’re following a philosophy
tion, which means it’s necessary to look at
organization is investing in billboards
similar to that of Elon Musk. Collabora-
maternal health and the transportation
and advertisements to explain the con-
tory is breaking down a complicated,
system, to ensure women in underserved
cept and get people on board. “We are
multilayered process to its core parts and
areas are getting to the gynecologist for
really launching it as the greatest prob-
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778 Tamiami Trail North Naples, Florida 34102 (239) 434-5900 Mon-Fri 9:30-5:30 Sat 9-5
Courtesy Collaboratory/Reagan Rule
CHANGEMAKER
lem-solving initiative in American history,” Owen says. “That’s what we believe, and we want every person in the region to be involved.” Owen and the Collaboratory team recognize the effort is lofty. But she says they are willing to “be laughed at” and to fail—essential elements for executing bold visions. “I grew up watching 60 Minutes, and my dream is that one day we’ll hear the tick, tick, tick, and the host will
The group plans to use strategies from the for-profit world to tackle
say, ‘We’re coming to you from this small
issues ranging from healthcare to education in a holistic way. The
town in Southwest Florida, where they
goal: to create a fully equitable community in an 18-year timeline.
have created a model to solve all the social problems in a region.’”
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ODE TO AN ICON
OUR PL ACE IN THE SUN
BEST OF
this month, the Watkins children reflect on growing up at the iconic “Beach Club.” By Glenn Watkins
My earliest memories all revolve
to play and devour the best curly fries
around the Naples Beach Hotel &
in the world. Like many people in
Golf Club, or what we all simply
Naples, my siblings and I have held dif-
and lovingly call the Beach Club.
ferent jobs at the Beach Club over the
My brother, sister and I would trail
years. My mom enlisted us all to help
behind my father like three red-
plaster Jim Rice tiles into the empty
headed ducklings—following his lead
pools during construction. I served as
as we greeted guests, walked through
hostess at our beachfront restaurant,
the kitchens and picked up even the
HB’s on the Gulf. My brother’s first job
smallest bits of trash we saw. I remem-
at the hotel was making sno-cones for
ber every tree we’ve ever climbed on
kids at the Beach Kids’ Club. My sister
the property and every birthday party
recalls one of her first days working at
my friends had on the lawn. On Easter,
the poolside bar and hearing across
we’d sprint across the golf course with
the radio, “the King is headed to the
other kids at the annual egg hunt—
pool.” Immediately, everyone leaped
memories surpassed only by ones of
into action, straightening name tags,
flying down the water slide with the
scouring the pool deck for anything
families of staff at family fun day.
out of place and wiping down an
As we got older, the Beach Club
already spotless bar. When our dad
became more than our favorite place
came around the corner on one of his
96
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy The Watkins Family (2); Craig Hildebrand
Ahead of the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club shuttering its doors
g ulf shorelife.com
After 75 years in business, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club closes this month. The occasion brings a flood of memories to Glenn, Rhys and Oona Watkins, whose father, Michael Watkins, co-owns the hotel and serves as president with his brother, Henry Watkins III, as executive vice president. Left, from top: Glenn with Michael; Glenn climbing trees at the on-site HB’s on the Gulf restaurant.
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The Beach Club, as the resort is known locally, holds a special place in the hearts of many, but none more than the Watkins family. Above: Oona, Rhys and Glenn with their mother Ellin Goetz and family friends. Right: The children at Easter festivities on the property. Top right: Michael Watkins with chef Marwan Kassem, who has worked with the hotel for 21 years.
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Courtesy The Watkins Family (5)
ODE TO AN ICON
regular walkabouts, she realized the
beach. It seemed like the entire town
tell me how much their families love
radio alert was for him.
would show up on Sundays for live
returning year after year.
The Beach Club has always been
music and wild dancing under the
To run a hotel, it takes a village. In
a place for the community to come
chickee hut. Family and close friends
our case, it’s that village that makes
together. In high school, we celebrated
have gotten married on the front lawn
the resort so special. The hotel
Senior Skip Day and prom at the hotel
and returned to watch their kids get
wouldn’t function without people like
(which admittedly made it a bit diffi-
married on that very same patch of
Jason Parsons, our general manager,
cult for me to escape the watchful eyes
grass. We’ll be lucky enough to watch
who can solve any problem that comes
of my parents and sister, who even
my own brother get married on that
up in our crazy business. Our staff’s
dipped their heads in to check out the
lawn in just a few weeks.
dedication to creating such a unique
dancing). Although I left Naples to
I know this story is not unique. The
place for guests and the Naples com-
attend college in upstate New York,
Beach Club holds a special place in the
munity is unparalleled. When people
I relished coming back home to the
hearts of many in Naples. The wel-
start working at the Beach Club, they
sunshine and warmth. I’d run into
coming family atmosphere has kept
often stay. So many hotel staff who
so many familiar Naples High School
guests coming back for generations.
watched us grow up are still there
faces enjoying summer jazz concerts
My dad’s absolute favorite thing is
today. They’re welcoming guests
on the lawn or watching sunset at the
walking around the hotel, connect-
through our lobby doors, answering
ing with staff and guests. Whenever
calls at the front desk, whipping up
we’re there with him, it’s impossible
fish tacos and chocolate chip cookies,
to make it across the property with-
doing paperwork, serving a killer rum
out someone stopping him to catch
punch, cleaning rooms and watering
up or thanking him for making such
the plants. They make up an incred-
an incredible home away from home
ible team that breathes life into our
for their families. Over the past few
hotel. There are too many wonderful
years, I’ve had so many friends tell me
employees—past and present—to
how much the Beach Club means to
name here. But one thing is for sure,
them. While wearing my Beach Club
my dad knows them all.
hat around Washington, D.C., I’ve
Over the past year and a half, Rhys,
even had complete strangers stop and
Oona and I have been lucky enough to
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BEST OF ODE TO AN ICON
The Watkins family gathers in 2019 in front of the iconic coquina shell entrance sign.
spend the majority of our time in Naples,
our final season is here. But we know the
Over the past 75 years, our hotel has
reliving memories at the Beach Club
stories created here will forever bind us all
created countless memories for my fam-
from all walks of our lives—and making
to a place that has been such a special part
ily and friends. It did the same for people
new ones. My brother and sister are back
of our community. It’s a timeless piece
who traveled across the globe in hopes
working at the hotel in operations and
of local history, where elements of Old
of catching a green flash—that fabled
marketing, helping out wherever needed
Naples effortlessly mingle with the new.
fleeting burst of green light that may be
during the transition (and still picking
There’s nothing better than listening to
seen at sunset when conditions are just
up any speck of trash they see, just as our
my grandmother, Mary Watkins, tell sto-
right—at the Beach Bar and to see their
father has always done).
ries of the old days at the Beach Club or
favorite hotel staff every year. Because of
Though I’m back in D.C. now, I seize
hearing about the shenanigans that went
this, I know the memory and impact of the
every chance I get to come home and
on when the Beach Club was the center
Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club will live
spend time with my family at the Beach
of the Naples social scene in the ’50s and
on long after our doors close this May, and
Club. It’s a bittersweet feeling knowing
’60s when there wasn’t much else in town.
that’s something to be celebrated.
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g ulf shorelife.com
Courtesy The Watkins Family
From left: Rhys, Glenn, Michael and Oona; Ellin Goetz stands at top right.
“
I was widowed and broken, now restoring
HOPE
for the future.”
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BUCKET LIST BASH Hosted in support of American Cancer Society at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Ph ot ograp hy by AP Al ex a nd e r
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1 Beverly Fanning, Jeannine Stetson
5 Nina Van Arsdale, Daryl Berg
2 Yasmin and Erik Papenfuss
6 Kimmy and Jimmy Keys
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3 Richard Lublin
7 Dan and Kathy Mezzalingua
8
8 Anita Lovse, Jennifer McCurry
7
4 Guests dine in the courtyard
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HOPE GALA VIRTUAL TELETHON Hosted in support of JDRF at Elite Jets P ho t o g ra p hy by L a ure n M a ri e
1 Ryann Cindrich, Danielle Otto 2 Jennifer Shanahan, Amy Quinn
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3 Laina Kennedy
1
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5
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BEST OF GUEST LIST
KEEP ON TRUCKIN’ Hosted in support of Cancer Alliance of Naples at Celebration Park P h o to g ra p hy by Lau r en Mar ie
1 Guests dine from food trucks 2 Sue and Paul Rokela, Kallyn and Tom Doman
1
3 Ben Allen
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4 Troy Shell-Masouras, Sharla Gayle Patterson
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5 Stephanie Prebish, Nelly Shotwell
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R END
1. Ruffles are back in the spotlight, which is why you’ll adore this Marilyn’s White Ruffle Blouse. With its feminine style, it’s a wardrobe staple for every woman. Available at Marilyn’s, 375 5th Ave. S., Naples (239) 206-4460; marilynhellman.com 2. The easiest summer dress is this tiered mini with a blue palm pattern, smocking and ruffles. Just throw it on to look instantly cute and put together. Available at Jennifer’s, 13251 McGregor Blvd., Ste. 111-1, Fort Myers. (239) 481-8582; jennifersfortmyers.com
3. Go from day to night with this versatile, polyester Black Ruffle Babydoll Top with keyhole front. Available at Stella Saint Boutique, 9371 Cypress Lake Drive, Unit 7, Fort Myers. (239) 437-4480; stellasaintboutique.com 4. You’ll feel like you’re on Grecian holiday in this tiered mini dress with ruffles trimmed on the sleeves. The dress, made in Greece, is perfect to transition from work to play. Available at ROUZE, 494 5th St. S., Naples. (239) 692-8253; shoprouze.com
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NO _ 5 0 7
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Features
“If you live on Sanibel Island, there’s inspiration ever y where you turn—you just have to look.” — Steve Saa r i, author of Captivated: The A r t of Ik k i Matsumoto
p _ 13 8
112
T he Rise of Luxur y Consignment
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Designers’ Inspired Work Spaces
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T he Matsumotos’ Sanibel Legacy
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I I
W ith new res ale platfor ms, Marissa Collections and Yamron Jewelers tap into the circular fashion economy and work side-by-side with their most devoted clients. By Emily Farra Photography by Craig Hildebrand
Here’s a little fashion business
ing brick-and-mortar La Maison
news that’s hitting close to home:
Yamron at Waterside Shops.
The vintage, consignment and
It’s easy enough to understand
resale market is booming, and
why designers have recently
the realities of 2020 only accel-
warmed up to the idea of selling
These pages reflect pieces
erated the trend. We see this on a
secondhand. Faced with closed
from Yamron Jewelers’ new
global scale—luxury consignment
stores and excess inventory, con-
luxury consignment boutique,
site The RealReal, for example,
signing turned out to be a respon-
La Maison Yamron. Along with
received a record-breaking influx
sible way to clear out their stock
Marissa Collections’ resale
of merch directly from designers—
and start fresh for 2021.
e-shop, ReVision, the boutique
many of whom avoided the topic entirely just a few years ago.
Local retailers follow a similar
is changing perceptions and
logic. While in the past, shops
shopping habits around pre-
Locally, two major players
and its customers may have
owned luxury. From left: David
launched their own luxury
balked at the thought of dealing
Webb Emerald, Sapphire
consignment shops in the past
in pre-owned goods, moods are
& Diamond Bracelet and
year: Marissa Collections, with
increasingly changing—especially
Cabochon Coral & Diamond
its online-based ReVision, and
now as we peer into closets stuffed
Ring. Previous page: BVLGARI
Yamron Jewelers, with its glitter-
with barely worn clothes and
B.Zero1 Diamond Bracelet.
114
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ART OF STYLE
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Caption goes here and here with some words in bold
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GULFSHORE LIFE
These two new retailer concepts focus on high-end pieces, some of which are collectible, vintage or otherwise hard to track down. Left: 14-Karat White Gold Diamond & Sapphire Bead Necklace.
accessories. That silky gown you bought for the fundraiser circuit? Unworn, likely still with tags. The heels you loved wearing to committee meetings? Collecting dust, surely. Even before the pandemic, we tended to hold onto things we no longer needed simply because we weren’t sure what to do with them (or didn’t have time to haggle with consignment and vintage purveyors). It would be so much easier if you could just take that evening gown back to the store you found it in—say, Marissa Collections—and have them resell it to someone who’d love it anew. But it’s not just the practicalities that appeal to fashion lovers. The process and quality-control surrounding pre-owned fashion has also scaled up significantly. On Marissa Collections’ online shopping platform ReVision, which quietly launched last fall, you’ll find many of the same designers as are stocked in its
117
flamingo-pink flagship: pleated
tidy example of a retailer “closing
Erdem skirts, flowery Oscar de la
the loop” and owning the full life
Renta dresses, metallic Alexander
cycle of its products.
McQueen clutches. The team of
Jay Hartington, CEO of Marissa
expert buyers trade only in gently
Collections, has already seen items
worn clothing and accessories,
sell in a matter of hours through
much of it originally purchased at
ReVision. “We’ve had such a
the boutique. How it works is sim-
great reaction from our clients,”
Many of the items stocked
ilar to any consignment shop or
he says. “We’re able to give them
at La Maison Yamron are
website: ReVision’s team assesses
a higher value than if you went
emblematic statement pieces
and authenticates your items, pub-
through a traditional consign-
from top jewelry houses. From
lishes them on their site and shares
ment website, and they can turn
left: Cartier 18-Karat Yellow
the profits with you when they’ve
around and spend their earnings
Gold Diamond Trinity Earrings;
sold. A big difference is that while
on our new merchandise.” That
Panthère de Cartier Pavé Ring.
other consignment shops’ prod-
it’s an inherently sustainable prac-
ucts come from all over, here it’s
tice—getting more use out of our
all happening under one roof—a
clothes, and reframing our ideas
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g ulf shorelife.com
While part of the draw for consignment is finding designer pieces at a fraction of the cost, with high jewelry and luxury watches, the value can increase with time. Left: Oscar Heyman 3-Stone Diamond & Sapphire Ring.
about new versus old—is simply a bonus. “There’s nothing worse than going into your closet and seeing a bunch of stuff you never wore,” Hartington adds. “Now, you can get something back for it—it’s a win-win for everyone.” Some women will shop ReVision for its eco-conscious bona fides; others will delight in scoring a designer dress for a sliver of the retail price; and some will invest in pieces they missed out on, like an early-2000s Fendi Spy Bag. La Maison Yamron, an extension of Yamron Jewelers, has a similar approach—though with a stunning storefront dedicated to the category. Located just a few doors down from its flagship, La Maison offers exclusively vintage and pre-owned pieces. The shop’s director and boutique manager, Dominique Rodenbach-Dubuc, said the idea was born from the “incredible demand” from clients. Many are drawn to the one-of-a-
12 1
kind nature of pre-owned jewelry,
in the collections anymore, but
especially items that are no longer
people still dream about them,”
produced, while others come to La
Rodenbach-Dubuc says.
Maison to sell or trade their own
Rodenbach-Dubuc has already
jewels (some purchased at Yam-
noticed a surge of interest in
ron, some not) for a fresh alter-
watches from her male clients.
native. From David Webb cocktail
“There is a really high market for
rings to Bvlgari Serpenti collars
pre-owned watches, and some are
and Cartier Love bracelets, the
even more expensive than when
From left: Panthère de Cartier
range is broad but hypercurated,
they were new because they are
Pendant; Harry Winston
sourced with Yamron’s collectors
so rare,” she says.
Colombian Emerald & Diamond
and connoisseurs in mind. The
Admittedly, that has little to do
focus is on limited-edition col-
with sustainability, but it’s a com-
from La Maison Yamron, prices
lectibles, one-of-a-kind designs,
pelling parable for where fashion
upon request.
cult-status items and vintage
could go next, with coveted jew-
pieces—some dating back to the
elry and other accessories gaining
early 1900s. “Some of these incred-
value with age and designer ward-
ible high jewelry pieces aren’t
robes extending their life cycles.
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Ring. All fine jewelry pictured is
12 3
D E S I G N E D T O W O R K In a time when the home office has been elevated to new heights, three new designer showrooms exemplify the art of the creative work space. By Michael Korb
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GULFSHORE LIFE
Dwayne Bergmann’s new Naples showroom is like a gallery of his own creations, with everything in it designed by him. “For me, it’s an amalgamation of where I’ve been from a creative perspective to where I want to go and we are going,” he says.
D WA Y N E B E R G M A N N INTERIORS D OW N T OW N NA P L E S
Dwayne Bergmann may not be a
expression; it is not for everyone,”
household name just yet, but he’s
Bergmann says. He points out he
working on it—diligently. The
created the cabinet line for the
designer opened a large working
person who wants to see some-
showroom in Fort Myers (where
thing artistic in their home—not
he’s based) in 2014, and now that
just another brown or gray box.
he’s launched his own epony-
The showroom is laid out to
mous cabinet line, he’s decided
look like a pied-à-terre. Upon
it’s time to have a presence in
entering, there’s a receiving desk
Naples. “It is the first look at
under a dramatic slotted wood
everything designed and created
frame with Art Deco lighting and
by Dwayne Bergmann, the brand,”
an emerald green Dahlia chair. To
the designer says. While there is
the right, is a small kitchen area
a functioning design studio in
with a stadium-shaped island. On
the back of the 1,400-square-foot
the opposite walls, Bergmann has
space, the “eye-candy” you expe-
placed three unique bathroom
rience when you first walk in is all
vanities separated by arched
a part of the Dwayne Bergmann
beams. Next up is a lounge/bar
line. Every piece of furniture
area with a black-and-white bar,
here is his creation. “I am not
sofa and coffee table—again, all
just putting my name on another
designed by him.
line,” Bergmann says. “These are truly unique and different pieces.” The line is best described as a Brian Tietz (2)
fusion of styles: a bit Art Deco, a bit Hollywood glamour, a bit midcentury modern; but with its own personality. “This is an artistic
12 7
The designer sees the space
tional herringbone pattern. The
as a place for conversation. An
walls are blush, while lighting
enthusiastic baker, he plans to
is predominantly oversized and
offer guests his own nondairy ice
sporting a matte satin brass
cream, homemade cookies and
finish. Coming full circle, the
cinnamon rolls. If conversations
back conference room includes
run longer, it’s designed beauti-
the very first piece of furniture
fully for catered working dinners.
Bergmann created: a large dining
And while the showroom is filled
table made of a pre-Civil War-era
with exquisite accessories, the
slab of cherry and Lucite that
pieces are not immediately avail-
has been in his home for years.
able; they must be ordered.
“For me, it’s an amalgamation of
The floor throughout is a dis-
where I’ve been from a creative
tressed bleached oak in a tradi-
perspective to where I want to go and we are going,” Bergmann on my computer, sketching and drawing, and sitting with clients. And, it’s a little piece of home.”
12 8
GULFSHORE LIFE
Brian Tietz (3)
says. “That’s where I’ll be working
A worldly elegance pervades through Bergmann’s space, which is filled with Art Deco touches. The showroom also serves as a place to display the designer’s year-old line of custom cabinetry.
12 9
WILFREDO EMANUEL
Interior designer Wilfredo
French-made floors are massive
Emanuel doesn’t believe in being
slabs of glass with an agate design
bashful. He infuses his designs
illuminated from below with LED
with enough glamour and style to
mats. The walls are a mix of black-
make even the most jaded among
and-gold Enigma wallpaper from
us stop and take notice. And his
Farrow & Ball that recalls the
showroom at 4760 Tamiami Trail
encoding machine invented by
N. is just a sample of his opulent
Alan Turing. Floating shelves
aesthetic. The pièce de résistance
are faced with faux grass. The
might be the showroom’s con-
opposite wall is floor-to-ceiling
ference room. “I wanted it to be
glass which looks out into the
like a dream,” Emanuel says. “It’s
boutique—that is until Emanuel
where I do my presentations, so
flips a switch and the wall imme-
I wanted an illuminated floor, so
diately frosts, adding to the sur-
people feel like they are floating
real surroundings. At the far end,
out of their reality. I want to have
a built-in media center wrapped
all of their attention so they say,
in a liquid gold finish houses
‘Oh my God. Give me more!’”
a large television screen and
It’s almost hard to imagine
shelving to display his numerous
more from that vantage point. The
professional awards. The floating
13 0
GULFSHORE LIFE
Harry De Zitter; Robin Hill
I N C E N T R A L NA P L E S
Designer Wilfredo Emanuel’s conference room is a focal point of his new showroom, with its illuminated floor, ebony conference table with 24-karat gold detailing and floor-to-ceiling windows that frost on command. “I wanted it to be like a dream,” he says.
13 1
13 2
Emanuel’s showroom also has a design shop with opulent furnishings, art and accessories.
ceiling mimics the gold and black
to $12,000. The space includes a
detail and continues to blur the
floating gold bar that can move
line spatially. The recessed light-
during events. The showroom
ing features Swarovski crystals.
even has a bathroom that is just as
Even the custom ebony wood
glamorous with a gold toilet and
conference table from Costa
fixtures, as well as Louis Vuitton
Rica is filled with a 24-karat gold
logo-embossed mirrors.
detail. And the chairs feature gold
Emanuel’s personal office fea-
crocodile-embossed leather seat
tures a cork media wall painted to
covers. Both the table and chairs
match the Enigma wallpaper used
make use of clear Lucite legs to
elsewhere, black walls and a white
keep the floating vibe going.
glass desk that not only raises and
If you think that’s too much,
lowers, but is illuminated from
you’ve come to the wrong place.
below for drawing. “Ever since
It’s all fairly reasonable if you
I was a kid, I liked to be around
appreciate glorious excess. The
white because it reminds me of
magic continues to the main
having a white canvas,” Emanuel
boutique, where dark walls and
says. “It allows me to create any-
ceilings pop against extreme
thing. I work with so many colors
large-scale, white porcelain tiles
that I need to be in a clean, white
with Calacatta gold veining.
environment.”
Somewhere in between are all
Robin Hill (3)
manner of gold, silver and glass shelves displaying exclusive accessories and art available for sale, ranging in price from $30
13 3
LISA KAHN DESIGNS I N L A K E PA R K , NA P L E S
Serene. Peaceful. Tranquil. Those
who visit, but also those who work
words sum up the approach of
there. You need only take one
designer Lisa Kahn. Her knack
step inside to experience a sense
for exuding calm and elegance
of ease. A large moss-covered
through her designs has drawn
wall with crystals nods to nature
Lisa Kahn is in the business of
raves from some of Naples’ most
and spirituality, symbolizing the
designing beautiful, serene
envied homeowners. When she
mind-body-spirit connection.
sanctuaries for her clients, so it
decided to buy the building that
“You are embraced with a beau-
only made sense that she create
houses her new showroom at 1148
tiful, soft, clean energy,” Kahn
one for herself with her showroom
Goodlette-Frank Road, she was
says. And, she wove that idea into
and office. “It’s not just something
aware that to be in the business of
every decision, from the floor-
we talk about,” she says. “This is a
designing sanctuaries for others,
boards to the paint to the ceilings
practice.”
she had to create that for herself.
and wallpapers. “Beyond wanting
“It’s not just something we talk
to create a space that makes my
about—this is a practice,” she says.
clients walk in and say, ‘Wow, I’d
She created the showroom with
like this for my home or work-
all of the elements she under-
place,’ I wanted it for me. I can’t
stands promote harmony and
possibly deliver those kinds of
healing, not only to the people
goods unless I am coming out of it every single day.” was first coming into her own understanding of what a sanctuary should be, Kahn had a busi-
13 4
GULFSHORE LIFE
Brian Tietz (2)
Earlier in her career, when she
13 5
ness coach tell her to “live your
scent of essential oils gently waft
brand.” With this space she is
through the air. A design library
doing just that. Kahn created the
fills the center of the building,
moss feature wall herself, expend-
reminding visitors that this is, in
ing 30 hours and thousands of
fact, a place of business.
pieces of preserved greenery. She
Her own office is bathed in a
designed the upper left corner to
soft blue paint, appropriately
represent spirituality, while the
called Meditative, and features a
lower right represents the body.
gallery nook displaying artwork
It’s a feast for the eyes.
from Paris and a settee from
Crystals find their way not
Anthropologie wrapped in a vari-
only into that wall, but also to
ety of distinct fabrics. Her live-
the chandeliers and accessories.
edge desk was custom made from
Soothing music, some created
a slab of black walnut, recalling
by Kahn’s husband, Philip Allen
other uses of wood and greenery
(a composer and her marketing
throughout. And the fact that she
director), fills the space, while the
loves walking around barefoot in her office directed the choice of a plush wool rug in a watercolor design to add yet another tactile experience to the space. While she may not invite you to take off your shoes, the feeling you’ll be left with is pure relaxation.
13 6
GULFSHORE LIFE
Early in her career, Kahn was advised to “live your brand,” and that is exactly what she does with her showroom, which doubles as a sanctuary with crystals,
Brian Tietz (3)
greenery, soothing shades and objects that inspire her.
13 7
B Y
J A Y N I E
B A R T L E Y
Fo l l ow i n g t h e f i r s t b o o k t o a r c h i ve I k k i M a t s u m o t o ’s wo r k , we t ra vel t o S a n i b el w i t h h i s d a u g h t e r t o t ra c e t h e i m p a c t t h e a r t i s t a n d h i s w i f e h a d o n t h e i s l a n d .
THE M ATSU MOTO TOUCH
14 0
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich (3; this and previous page)
Artist Ikki Matsumoto’s whimsi-
artist’s work has been compiled
cal depictions of Sanibel’s wildlife
into a published collection.
have become like emblems for
Considering the place the
the island. His Sandpiper pieces,
Matsumotos hold in island lore,
inspired by the birds flocking
it’s fitting that the project would
to the receding tide, pecking at
be born on its sandy shores. A
coquinas and scurrying away
few years after Ikki passed away
from the incoming waves, can be
in 2013, Steve Saari, a creative
found in galleries, businesses and
director and fellow Sanibel res-
homes across the world. Those
ident, called upon Polly and the
needle-beaked birds earned him
Matsumotos’ daughter, Amy
great acclaim (Ikki was tapped
Matsumoto Urich, to help cre-
by Nancy Reagan to create an
ate a book to span Ikki’s artistic
Ikki Matsumoto became famous for his
Easter egg for the White House
career. “My wife Karen actually
Sandpiper series, inspired by watching
after gaining recognition for the
said, ‘I wonder why there isn’t a
the birds play on Sanibel’s beaches.
Sandpipers), and they only rep-
book of Ikki’s work?’” he says. “I
Opposite: House Guests From Ohio.
resent a fraction of the impact he
called Polly shortly after that and
and his wife, Polly, had on Sanibel.
got the idea and ball rolling.” Flip-
Together, they helped shape the
ping through the pages, you see
island into the colorful place that
how the island developed—and,
it is today.
in many ways, blissfully didn’t
His work, along with resear-
develop—with the Matsumotos
ched history and personal stories
since their arrival in the ’70s. For
about his family’s life in Southwest
anyone who grew up in this area,
Florida are chronicled in Capti-
the lighthearted, delightful appeal
vated: The Art of Ikki Matsumoto.
of Ikki’s wildlife illustrations
Released last fall, the book, which
serve as a reminder to stop and
recently won the Richard E. Rice
appreciate our environment. His
Gold Medal Prize for Visual Arts
ability to translate the whimsy of
from the Florida Book Awards,
our shores onto paper draws so
marks the first time the prolific
many of us in. It’s also a quality
14 1
14 2
would eat it, but we loved helping
more these days. That’s in part
him collect them.”
why earlier this year, I met with
Amy, Saari and I start our jour-
Amy and Saari to see the island
ney at the new campus for BIG
through Ikki and his family’s eyes.
ARTS, an organization that Ikki
Driving over the Sanibel Cause-
and Polly helped launch in the
way, I can imagine a young Ikki
late ’70s with a handful of fellow
sitting at the Lighthouse Beach
artists, who would meet at each
with Amy as a child, sketching out
other’s homes and host events
plans for a Sandpiper piece. “We
wherever they could. “But then
lived off of those Sandpipers,” she
mom found the cottage,” Amy
later tells me as we’re standing by
says. That cottage became the
the beach. “That’s what fed us.”
foundation of BIG ARTS, which
Though each of the Matsumoto
the arts group eventually built
clan eventually moved away from
around to include more spaces
Along with his wife, Polly (above, right),
Sanibel, the island remains a big
to showcase. In 2019, the cottage
the illustrator is credited with fueling
part of their lives. Amy often visits
was torn down and a new facility
Sanibel’s arts scene. Above: Feeder
with her own kids, bringing them
was constructed, fully equipped
Invader. Opposite: On the porch of the
to art galleries and to the beaches
to host large-scale performances,
family’s first home on the island, the
to look for coquinas in the sand,
exhibitions and an assortment of
historic Burnap Cottage.
like she did with her dad as a child.
art classes for the community. “It
“Dad would make coquina soup,”
all came from that idea back in the
she says with a laugh. “No one else
’70s,” Saari says. “They said, ‘Let’s
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich (3)
that we seem to need and long for
14 3
14 4
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich (3)
get something going here, let’s get
a brighter, more eccentric future
organized and let’s get together.’”
for the coastal town.
That was in the early days when
Just a short walk across the park-
the family first moved to Sanibel.
ing lot from BIG ARTS, we enter
After a successful, albeit cre-
the Sanibel Historical Museum
atively unfulfilling, 16-year career
and Village to see their first fam-
in advertising in Ohio, in the mid
ily home on the island: the Burnap
’70s, Ikki and Polly decided to
Cottage, which was built in 1898,
leave the winters behind and
and has since been moved around
pursue art full time. They drove
the island, expanded upon and
up and down the coasts of Florida
ultimately restored to its original
and settled on Sanibel with their
form. Amy walks through the main
three kids. “If you live on Sanibel
room, pointing to a spot on the floor
Island, there’s inspiration every-
where Ikki would lay out prints of
where you turn—you just have to
his work; a window that used to
look,” Saari says. “As an artist, it
lead to her shared bedroom with
spoke to Ikki’s soul.” They moved
her brothers, back when the home
down in 1975, just after Sanibel
had a second-story addition; the
had been incorporated as a city
straight line between the front and
The artist earned the nickname Picky Ikki
with rules set in place to preserve
back doors that created a rug-rus-
for his meticulous approach. Above: Ibis,
nature and prevent urbanization.
tling draft when the breeze came
painted sometime between 1985 and 1987.
It was also a time when many
through. “It looks about the same
Opposite: Ikki and Polly with their two sons,
islanders wanted to maintain a
as I remember it,” she says, walking
Tai (left) and Bin (right).
cohesive slate of white and neu-
over to a display with photos of
tral-toned buildings. But, the
Esperanza Woodring, the well-
Matsumotos and other locals saw
known fishing guide who lived
14 5
Ikki considered famed illustrator and conservationist Charley Harper (above) a mentor, but it was his life at home and the island that inspired most of his
next door to the Matsumotos on
include illustrations such as Girl
his soon-to-be wife, Polly Adam-
Woodring Road in the ’70s and
on Swing, which depicts Amy
son, and his mentor, renowned
’80s. “She was like a grandma to
playing with butterflies beneath
illustrator and conservationist
me,” Amy says.
the trees at their family home in
Charley Harper. Known for styl-
As the youngest Matsumoto
Ohio before moving to the island;
ized wildlife prints, Harper taught
child, Amy spent most of her life
Bird? What Bird? that shows their
Ikki his motto to “never count the
on Sanibel, often helping her par-
family cat Chica looking guilty
feathers in the wings; just count
ents in their gallery and tagging
with lovebird feathers protruding
the wings”—the Cincinatti-based
along at art shows. In the rearview
from her jaws; and Jump for Joy, a
artist’s sentiment for describing
mirror, I can see her face light up
technicolor, exuberant depiction
his style, which he called minimal
as we drive along Tarpon Bay
of the Gulf ’s playful dolphins.
realism, creating distinct shapes
Road, one of the island’s streets
One of the last pages in the book
and textures that tell a story
where she once roamed. Her eyes
shows an unfinished sketch of
without excessive brushstrokes
crinkle to reveal a smile behind
three burrowing owls perched on
or details.
her mask, as she reminisces about
a branch, a piece Ikki worked on
Around 11 a.m., we pull into
her family’s time on the island.
in the final days of his life. Much
the gravel parking lot and walk
“You asked me about a place on
like the area’s wildlife, moments
up to the robin’s-egg blue build-
the island that inspired him,” Amy
with Ikki’s family served as great
ing, with periwinkle fencing
tells me, as we’re driving toward
inspirations for his work.
that Polly painted and Ikki
our next stop, Tower Gallery, the
Son of famed Japanese cartoon-
decorated with fish cutouts and
co-op that her parents helped
ist Katsuji Matsumoto, Ikki was
silhouetted aluminum panels
form in the 1980s. “Well, I would
destined for an artistic life. He
in a sunset design. “The colors
just say it’s the island.” That is evi-
left Tokyo in the mid ’50s to join
were controversial, right?” Saari
dent in the pages that fill the book
his brother at an art school in the
asks. “Oh God, they about died,”
she curated with Saari, which
U.S., where he met fiber artist and
Amy responds, with a laugh.
14 6
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich (2)
pieces. Bird? What Bird? (opposite), features the family cat Chica.
14 7
14 8
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich (3)
“The whole island was white and
low artist found for Amy to pick
beige, but then mom painted this
up. The cormorants’ colors have
purple, blue and green.” Other
faded with time, but Amy says it’s
locals tried to get her to repaint
nothing she can’t remedy with a
it, but Polly didn’t budge. “Five
trip to her printer for a color cor-
years later, all the buildings were
rection. Having spent so much
painted blue and orange,” Amy
time with her mother and father
says. “She was an influencer.”
making prints of Ikki’s work, she’s
Once in the gallery, artist Katie
no stranger to the process. Today,
Gardenia, who also founded the
Amy has her own line of custom
Bubble Room restaurant, shares
prints, tumblers, T-shirts and
her own memories of Ikki. “When
shoes, which she sells through her
we would do an art show together,
online shop It’s A Little Over The
I would have to tell him to stop
Top. “I never did go to art school,”
telling me stories because I
Amy says. “I think I was scared of
couldn’t stop laughing,” Gardenia
competing with them.”
says. She’s working the front desk
Ikki and Polly were known on
at the artist co-op, which once
the island for their vastly different,
served as Ikki and Polly’s studio
yet compatible, styles. While Ikki’s
gallery. Polly, a talented artist in
stark linework in his silkscreens
her own right, represented Ikki
and acrylic paintings earned him
and managed his flourishing
the nickname Picky Ikki from his
career. The Matsumotos were a
best friend and printer Dennis
close-knit family, and when Amy
Clark, they still represented his
wasn’t at school, she’d often be in
quick wit and sense of humor
the gallery with her parents. Saari
with playful scenes and names
remembers visiting and seeing a
like Oh, Go Fly A Kite! and Oh,
young Amy stringing shells and
Fiddler Sticks! His wife’s mixed-
The Matsumotos were involved in founding
beads together for the jewelry she
medium work also played on
Sanibel’s BIG ARTS cultural center and Tower
would sell at the shop. The gallery
island themes, mixing shells, tiny
Gallery co-op. Above: Oh, Go Fly a Kite! reflects
still sells prints and originals of
figurines and other found items
the humor in Ikki’s work.
Ikki’s work. Gardenia points us
with her own woven patterns.
to an upstairs closet where she’s
While his work may be famed,
been holding an Ikki print a fel-
both of them were considered
14 9
instrumental in shaping Sanibel’s
last February drew a passionate
arts scene and recognized for their
crowd for both artists. “I had never
contributions to the community.
experienced such strong emotions,
The couple donated art to various
like the people that loved your
charities on the island, and Ikki’s
mom’s work,” Saari says to Amy
designs were a staple on T-shirts
with the waves crashing in the
and fliers for the Rotary Club of
background as we make our way
Sanibel-Captiva’s events, plus
to our last stop, the umbrella-lined
other local organizations. Saari
Bowman’s Beach. “I mean, there
points out, as we look at some
were tears in their eyes. And then
of Ikki’s work in Tower Gallery,
everybody knew Ikki, and we knew
even his library card has one of
he was already kind of a legend
the artist’s creations on it.
here. But, your mom’s fans surprised me.” Amy responds proudly, “They loved her, too.”
Matsumotos rarely saved copies
We end our tour where it all
of Ikki’s works. Between Amy,
began: out on the beach, waiting
Saari and Polly, it took about three
for the sandpipers to flock to the
years of searching social media,
waves as Ikki did, looking at the
calling galleries and talking to
shells scattered throughout the
local collectors to complete the
sand that may have made a neck-
book, which includes more than
lace for a teenaged Amy or provide
100 of his creations, along with
the finishing touch woven into
work done by Polly, who passed
one of Polly’s 3-D creations. And I
away in 2019 before the book was
know, this was, and always will be,
completed. The Alliance for the
the Matsumotos’ island.
Arts’ retrospective for the couple
15 0
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amy Matsumoto Urich (3)
Since the couple used profits from works to pay the bills, the
For three years, Amy Matsumoto Urich (above) worked with her late mother and creative director Steve Saari, collecting prints and stories from collectors, dealers and social media fans to create Captivated: The Art of Ikki Matsumoto, the first printed collection of Ikki’s work. Left: Oh, Fiddler Sticks!
151
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Cyndie Witthuhn ARNP-BC
Mention this ad and save your first appointment!
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Best Med Spa and injectables in Lee County
UNBELIEVABLE LOOKS WAREHOUSE PRICES HOMETOWN SERVICE One-of-A-Kind Treasures, Perfect Accessories, or A Room Full of Exquisite Furniture. We Have It All, And At Greater Savings Than You Thought Possible!
5450 TAMIAMI TRAIL N. • NAPLES • 239.594.1555 W W W. A L I S O N C R A I G H O M E . CO M FA M I LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D, C E L E B R AT I N G O U R 2 0 T H Y E A R !
SIGHTSEEING TOUR
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
COLLIER Winner
TENNIS FACILITY
Naples Princess Cruises Finalists
Naples Trolley Tours Pure Florida Treasure Seekers Shell Tours LEE Winner
Captiva Cruises Finalists
Adventures in Paradise
COLLIER Winner
Naples Lakes Country Club Finalists
Cambier Park Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club LEE Winner
The Forest Country Club Finalists
Fort Myers Racquet Club
Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club
BMW of Fort Myers
AUTOMOTIVE
Val Ward Cadillac
LUXURY CAR DEALERSHIP
LUXURY CAR REPAIR
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
DeVoe Cadillac Finalists
Germain BMW of Naples Germain Lexus of Naples LEE Winner
Scanlon Lexus of Fort Myers
Finalists
LEE Winner
Legendary Automotive and Truck Repair Service Finalists
Hunt Automotive Terry Wynter Auto Service Center
Lexpert Automotive
Straight from New York Bagels LEE Winner
Stuff A Bagel Finalists
Bagel Factory Fresh Bagels & More
FOOD & DRINK
BAKERY
BAGEL
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Supreme Auto Collision Zoran's Custom Colors and Restoration
COLLIER Winner
Brooklyn Dough with a Hole Finalists
Empire Bagel Factory
Angelic Desserts Finalists
Epiphany Gluten Free Bakery Mikkelsen’s Pastry Shop
A NEW LEVEL OF
Fine Dining Recognized as one of the best, most awarded restaurants on the Gulfshore, Angelina’s Ristorante offers Italian food and world-class refreshments as you’ve never experienced. Whether you choose to dine in our luxurious dining rooms or under the stars on our patio, your experience will be unmatched in every way. Taste for yourself why we’re known as one of the best!
Make a reservation today. (239) 390-3187 | AngelinasofBonitaSprings.com 24041 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 16 0
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA…
Build with Beattie!
PAUL BEATTIE, President
Stop Dreaming…Start Living! Custom Home Builder & Remodeler www.beattiedev.com | 239-257-3295
LEE Winner
Bailey's General Store Finalists
Amore Italian Market & Bakery Norman Love Confections BARBECUE COLLIER Winner
Fuse BBQ Finalists
Industry Beer & BBQ Michelbob’s
Finalists
LEE Winner
Cabbage Key
Finalists
Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille
Rib City BIG8 BBQ Smoke'n Pit BBQ BARTENDER (ESTABLISHMENT) COLLIER Winner
Finalists
FUSE Global Cuisine
LEE Winner
Groceries • Hardware • Gifts
BLOODY MARY
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
BOAT ACCESS (RESTAURANT)
Oil Well Craft Beer
FUSE Global Cuisine
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Cabbage Key Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille BREAKFAST COLLIER Winner
Skillets
Finalists
Industry Beer & BBQ
Finalists
The Dock at Crayton Cove
The Dock at Crayton Cove
Cove Inn on Naples Bay
Oak & Stone
The French Brasserie Rustique
Island Gypsy Cafe
Finalists
Jane's Cafe on 3rd
Snook Inn
LEE Winner
LEE
LEE Winner
Fort Myers Brewing Company
Nice Guys Pizza
World of Beer
BEER LIST
LEE Winner
Sidebar
Finalists
Fathoms Restaurant & Bar Lobster Lady Seafood Market & Bistro
Finalists
Bar Tulia
Finalists
No.3 Craft Brews & Beer Bar
Winner
Cork Soakers Deck and Wine Bar
Skillets
Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill
thank you for your votes!
Finalists
Artisan Eatery CRaVE Restaurant
Serving Sanibel and Captiva Since 1899
2477 Periwinkle Way • Sanibel, Florida • 239-558-0548 • baileys-sanibel.com • OPEN 7 DAYS 7AM - 7 PM (due to COVID)
Bailey’s is thrilled, humbled and thankful to have been selected as a finalist in these categories for
BEST OF THE GULFSHORE 2021!
Come experience our award-winning coffee shop, wine department and delicious bakery items for yourself, as well as ALL our incredible products and services. We think you’ll agree... being BEST is a Bailey’s tradition!
BEST COFFEE SHOP
BEST WINE STORE
BEST BAKERY
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
20% OFF + A FREE GIFT at your first visit
**SWFL’S LEADING ACNE SPECIALISTS**
BEAUTY RITUAL skincare
SKINCARE | BROWS | LASHES www.beautyritualskincare.com 1 34 51 M C G RE G O R B LVD , S U ITE 34 FO RT MYE RS , FL 3 3 9 1 9
T H A N K YO U F O R V O T I N G U S “ T H E B E S T ” !
A sincere thanks to all for the past 23 years! 865 Fifth Avenue South (239) 594-5557
PROUD TO REPRESENT THE
OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA!
Independent PK3-12 College Prep School 8141 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33919 239-415-8945 www.canterburyfortmyers.org
BRUNCH
BURGER
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Finalists
Jane’s Cafe on 3rd The French Brasserie Rustique The Rooster Food + Drink LEE Winner
Artisan Eatery Finalists
10 Twenty Five CRaVE Restaurant Skinny Dawgz Brunchery
Brooks Burgers
The French Brasserie Rustique
Seed to Table
Finalists
Two Guys Kitchen & Catering
Kilwins
Finalists
Wynn's Market
LEE Winner
Olde Naples Chocolate
Finalists
LEE Winner
Alexander's Restaurant
Jimmy P's
Campiello
Lake Park Diner
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Ford's Garage Finalists
Artisan Eatery Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery BUSINESS LUNCH COLLIER Winner
LEE Winner
Mario’s Meat Market and Deli Finalists
The Veranda
Jimmy P’s
Finalists
Paesano’s Italian Fresh Market
Cristof's on McGregor
CATERER
Artisan Eatery
BUTCHER SHOP / MEAT MARKET COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Crave Culinaire Finalists
Jimmy P’s
I Love Curry
Jamie's Cuisine Mario's Meat Market and Deli Paesano's Italian Fresh Market Personal Touch Catering
Finalists
Norman Love Confections Finalists
Gulf Coast Fudge Co. Noela Chocolate & Confections
CHOCOLATE SHOP
COFFEE SHOP
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Norman Love Confections
Narrative Coffee Roasters
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR UNPARALLELED FURNITURE CONSIGNMENT
WWW.CONSIGNDESIGNBONITASPRINGS.COM RECYCLE, REPURPOSE, REUSE, DESIGN CONSULTANTS
239.221.3541
25987 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL, BONITA SPRINGS, FL 34134 | INFO@CONSIGNDESIGNBONITASPRINGS.COM
THAN K YOU FOR NOMINATING US AS A FINALIST
FOR LEE COUNTY’S BEST:
Chef Tim Yoa & Healy Yoa, OWNERS
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
• • • • • •
Breakfast Brunch Business Lunch Dessert Burger Sandwich
• • • • •
Farm–to–Table General Excellence Health/Organic New Restaurant Take Out
open daily • catering available • breakfast • brunch • lunch • dinner 8951 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33912 239.887.4844 artisaneatery.com • #artiseaneatery239
16 8
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
BEST SAL AD •
BEST BURGER
THANK YOU
to our guests for nominating us “Best of” the Gulfshore 2021!
HEALTHY / ORGANIC RESTAURANT
NAPLES: 944 7th Ave. N.
Phone: 239-228-6351
•
BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
ORDER ONLINE:
TheLakeParkDiner.com
Finalists
Bad Ass Coffee
Company Naples Beach Brewery
Kunjani Craft Coffee
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Urban Buzz Coffee Finalists
Bailey's General Store Chocolattés Coffee & Roasting
Fort Myers Brewing Co. Finalists
Millenial Brewing Company Momentum Brewhouse CRAFT COCKTAILS
Sidebar LEE Winner
Nice Guys Pizza Finalists
Angelina's Ristorante Point 57
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Finalists
Finalists
Tarpon Lodge Angelina's Ristorante The Veranda
DATE NIGHT COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Tony's Off Third
CRAFT BREWERY COLLIER Winner
Oil Well Craft Beer Finalists
Ankrolab Brewing
COLLIER Winner
Bar Tulia Finalists
FUSE Global Cuisine
Finalists
Alexander's Restaurant FUSE Global Cuisine
The Melting Pot The Veranda DOUGHNUTS
DESSERT (RESTAURANT ONLY)
Bleu Provence
Bubble Room
Finalists
Alexander's Restaurant Sails
COLLIER Winner
Peace Love & Little Donuts
Finalists
Divine Donuts Trackside Donuts FAMILY FRIENDLY COLLIER Winner
Lake Park Diner Finalists
Brooks Burgers
Finalists
Tacos & Tequila Cantina
Duck Donuts
LEE Winner
Dojo Doughnuts
LEE Winner
Bennett's Fresh Roast
Artisan Eatery Finalists
Mel's Diner Pinchers
WE ARE YOUR
360° THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
DREAM FIT
FITNESS SOLUTION
8646 Gladiolus Drive, Unit 402
We Change Lives.
Fort Myers, FL 33908
Everything we do stems from those three words. We are committed to providing our members with the tools and support necessary to make the change they dream of. We believe in fitness, we believe in you.
WWW.DREAMFITFL.COM
239-236-1618
H ETNI TCI C I IN ND D IIAANN C UCI S A U T AHU ET N U I INSE I N E
BEST RATED INDIAN RESTAURANT IN NAPLES
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
SCAN QR CODE TO SEE OUR MENU
975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, Florida 34108 | Phone: (239) 591-5156 email: info@leindya.com | www.leindya.com
FARM TO TABLE COLLIER Winner
Seed to Table Finalists
I Love Curry
Finalists
Chez Boet
Kareem's Lebanese Kitchen
Finalists
The French Brasserie Rustique
Mediterrano
Cousins Maine Lobster
Food & Thought
Martin Fierro
The Local
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm Finalists
LEE Winner
Azure
Finalists
Ma Petite Crêperie
Ma Petite Crêperie
Finalists
My Sweet Art
Death by Taco
Artisan Eatery
Wicked Streatery
Buckingham Farms
FRENCH
FOOD TRUCK
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
LEE Winner
COLLIER Winner
Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro
COLLIER Winner
Bleu Provence
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Finalists
Ada's Natural Market
Two Meatballs in the Kitchen
The Greek Spot
Fresh Catch Bistro
Finalists
The Seaside Bar
Nomiki's Plakka Greek Restaurant Plaka Restaurant HAPPY HOUR
GREEK/MIDDLE EASTERN
Caffé Milano
HEALTHY/ ORGANIC
COLLIER Winner
Food & Thought
Artisan Eatery Finalists
Café YOU HIBACHI COLLIER Winner
Hibachi of Japan Finalists
Bar Tulia
Lake Park Diner
Finalists
DaRuMa Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge
Finalists
Organically Twisted
Ninja Steak & Sushi Bar
COLLIER Winner
Aqua
AESTHETICS LASERS WELLNESS ANTI AGING
SKIN SERVICES
INJECTABLES
BBL,™ HALO™, diVa TREATMENTS
FILLERS
SILHOUETTE INSTALIFT™
BIOTE HORMONE THERAPY
HYDRAFACIALS
PRP HAIR RESTORATION
CHEMICAL PEELS
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
MICRONEEDLING
FIBB DRIP
DERMAPLANING
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
VOTED BEST OF THE GULFSHORE 2020 & 2021 12424 BRANTLEY COMMONS CT. FORT MYERS, FL 33907
239.322.3815
INFO@FACEITBOTOXBAR.COM WWW.FACEITBOTOXBAR.COM
LONGLEY
KITCHENS
WWW.LONGLEYKITCHENS.COM
|
|
239-433-0113
16283 S. Tamiami Tri, Ft. Myers, FL 33908
THE
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF GULFSHORE!
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
CABINETRY, COUNTERTOPS, FLOORING, AND MORE! FULL SERVICE REMODELER
Thank You For nominating us again.
an
Th
eG
k
Best Bank - Collier County
olden R ule B
www.firstfloridaintegritybank.com
(877)-763-0244
Resized-Half-page-gsl.indd 1
3/25/2021 6:06:43 PM
CHEERS!BEST! THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST CRAFT BREWERY
BEST BEER LIST
*Photo taken pre-Covid
ALWAYS THE WINNER FOR BEST CUSTOMERS! LOCATED IN GATEWAY 12811 COMMERCE LAKES DRIVE, SUITE 28, FORT MYERS • 239.313.6576 • FMBREW.COM
®
The Florida Architect
®
975 6th Avenue South, Suite 200, Naples, FL 34102 | 239-331-7092 Naples, FL | Palm Beach, FL | Charleston, SC | Greenville, SC | Highlands, NC | Aspen, CO www.mhkap.com
LEE Winner
Kumo Japanese Steakhouse Finalists
DaRuMa Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge Osaka Japanese Steak House
LEE Winner
the Kitchen
LEE Winner
Sylwia's Ice Cream
Finalists
Mansala Mantra – The Indian Bistro
Finalists
Love Boat Ice Cream Norman Love Confections
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
JUICE BAR
Spice Club Indian Grill
COLLIER Winner
ITALIAN
Royal Scoop
COLLIER Winner
21 Spices by Chef Asif
Cibo
India's Grill
INDIAN ICE CREAM
Angelina's Ristorante
COLLIER Winner
FUSE Global Cuisine Finalists
COLLIER Winner
D’Amico’s The Continental Finalists
Kelly's Fish House Dining Room
Juicelation
Tony's Off Third
Finalists
Veranda E
Keylime Bistro
Winner
COLLIER Winner
Delicious Raw
Osteria Tulia
Food & Thought
LEE Winner
Cabbage Key
Finalists
LEE Winner
Finalists
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille
Harold's
LATE-NIGHT DINING
Campiello
I Love Curry
Molto Trattoria
Ada's Natural Market
Norman Love Confections
Le Indya
LEE Winner
Kreips & Juices
Finalists
BEST KEPT SECRET
Alexander's Restaurant
Kilwins
Finalists
Savoury Spoon
Finalists
Two Meatballs in
Tarpon Lodge Artisan Eatery
KEY LIME PIE
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
MORE THAN JUST BOWLING… 3 times Winner of “BEST OF THE GULFSHORE”
LA SE R TAG
TO P QU AL IT Y DI NI NG
G AM E ZO N ES
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
WWW.HEADPINZ.COM
NAPLES | FT. MYERS | CAPE CORAL
ITA L I A N H O M E M A D E C U I SINE P I Z Z A N A P O LE TA N A
Molto – Italian for “plenty of” is a Trattoria serving fresh, intimate and truly authentic Italian cuisine “simply my mom in the kitchen” is our motto and she shares traditional family recipes! All our pastas and sauces are homemade and we pride ourselves on using only the very best quality ingredients. We invite you to come and dine with us! Serving lunch and dinner. Molto Trattoria and Bar
368 5th Ave S, Naples, Florida
(239) 261-5853
NEW LOCATION
975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Suite 108 Naples, FL 34110
For new hours, visiting procedures and to pre-purchase timed-entry tickets, please visit our website at HMCEC.org or call 239-263-9200.
2021 Finalist "Best Museum Collier County"
Life’s Short, Eat Dessert First!
Follow Us: mmscafe royalscoopberkshire royalscoopberkshire mmscafe
Royal Scoop at Berkshire Commons
M & M’s Cafe at Tin City
(239) 231-4544 www.royalscoop.com
(239) 261-5317 www.cafemnm.com
7335 Radio Rd., Suite 104, Naples, FL 34104
1200 5th Ave S., Suite 122, Naples, FL 34102
INNOVATIVE EARLY LEARNING - 12TH GRADE COLLEGE-PREPARATORY INDEPENDENT PRIVATE SCHOOL
7100 DAVIS BOULEVARD, NAPLES, FL 34104 (239) 793-1986 | SEACREST.ORG
Bar Tulia Finalists
La Trattoria Seventh South Craft Food + Drink
Aqua Beach Box Cafe
Seventh South Craft Food + Drink Sidebar
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Finalists
Roadhouse Cafe Finalists
LEE Winner
Fathoms Restaurant & Bar
Finalists
Miceli's Restaurant
Nice Guys Pizza Downtown House of Pizza The Seaside Bar LIVE MUSIC COLLIER Winner
Seed to Table
Pizza & Brew
Drink
Angelina's Ristorante
Twisted Sheep Pizza & Brew
FUSE Global Cuisine
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
The Seaside Bar
Finalists
Finalists
Fresh Catch Bistro
Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki
The Veranda
The Greek Spot
NEW RESTAURANT
OVERALL EXCELLENCE
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Tarpon Lodge Finalists
LEE Winner
Downtown House of Pizza Finalists
Fine Folk Pizza
Artisan Eatery
Nice Guys Pizza
The Veranda
PLACE TO WATCH A GAME
PIZZA MARTINI COLLIER Winner
FUSE Global Cuisine Finalists
La Trattoria
I Love Curry
Alexander's Restaurant
Finalists
Seventh South Craft Food +
Finalists
Bleu Provence
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
LowBrow Pizza & Beer
Foxboro Sports Tavern Finalists
Bokampers
Finalists
Joey D's Twisted Sheep
Tavern on the Bay
JEWELRY DESIGNS
DESIGNER
l
JEWELER
l
GOLDSMITH
marklorendesigns.com
13351 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL l (239) 482-4664
Simply the Best!
Our traditional, fresh baked, kettle-boiled bagels have been VOTED BEST BAGEL IN SOUTH WEST FLORIDA by Gulfshore Life, also offering Bialys, pastries, cinnamon rolls, New York-style deli sandwiches and delicious house made salads and spreads. Stop by for breakfast or lunch seven days a week and find out why people say Straight From New York Bagels are Simply the Best! CATERING AND ONLINE ORDER ALSO AVAILABLE!
FARMERS MARKET LOCATIONS LAKES PARK, FORT MYERS
SOUTH COLLIER, NAPLES
VANDERBILT BEACH, NAPLES
FORT MYERS BEACH
3RD STREET, NAPLES
MARCO ISLAND
THE PROMENADE, BONITA SPRINGS
SANIBEL ISLAND
COCONUT POINT, ESTERO
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
4550 Executive Drive Naples FL 34119 (239) 596-9933
STRAIGHTFROMNY.COM Mon–Fri 6 a.m.–2 p.m. Sat & Sun 7 a.m.–2 p.m.
24830 S Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134 (239) 676-9184
LEE Winner
Overtime Pizzeria and Sports Pub Finalists
Ron Dao's Stevie Tomato’s Sports Page PRIVATE ROOM
Ristorante Finalists
KJ's Steakhouse The Veranda RAMEN
Slurping Dragon
SANDWICH SHOP
RAW BAR COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
The Claw Bar
Larry's Lunch Box
Finalists
The Bay House
COLLIER Winner
Namba Ramen & Sushi
Sails
Finalists
Bistro 821 Bleu Provence LEE Winner
Angelina's
Fuji Sushi Bar & Asian Bistro Zen Asian BBQ
Finalists
LEE Winner
Finalists
Blue Pointe
Cristof's on McGregor Jason's Deli
Finalists
Izzy's Fish & Oyster
LYNQ
Pho 99
Finalists
Swan River Seafood
Seed to Table
Artisan Eatery
Rusty's Raw Bar & Grill
Finalists
Sea Salt
Oil Well Craft Beer LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Winner
USS Nemo
Lake Park Diner Giardino Gourmet Salads
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Fuse BBQ
Captain & Krewe Seafood Market & Raw Bar
SALAD
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Lobster Lady Seafood Market & Bistro
Finalists
Merrick Seafood
Artisan Eatery Jason's Deli Mario's Meat Market and Deli
Finalists
Tarpon Lodge SPECIAL OCCASION
SEAFOOD COLLIER
COLLIER Winner
Enjoy the good life
TH ANK Y O U FOR VO T ING US
BEST BOAT RENTAL (239) 530-5134
|
NBRBoatRental.com
|
1500 FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH, NAPLES, FL 34102
1
RESIDENTIAL STUDIO
COMMERCIAL STUDIO
FEASIBILITY
BUY
REAL ESTATE SERVICES In-house real estate services provided by REALTOR® Courtney Jones of Premiere Plus Realty
WDG Architecture | Planning + Interiors 239.594.9778
wdg-architecture.com
633 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 300 | Naples, FL 34102
SELL
Bleu Provence Finalists
Alexander's Restaurant
Wynn's Market LEE Winner
Paesano's Italian Fresh Market
Sails LEE Winner
The Veranda Finalists
Finalists
DeRomo's Gourmet Market
Angelina's Ristorante
Mario's Meat Market and Deli
Tarpon Lodge
STEAK
SPECIALTY MARKET
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Seed to Table Finalists
Three60 Market
Continental
Tarpon Lodge
LEE Winner
Fresh Catch Bistro
Jimmy P’s Charred North Finalists
Chops City Grill KJ's Steakhouse The Veranda SUNSET VIEW COLLIER Winner
The Turtle Club
Jimmy P’s Charred
BALEEN Naples
Finalists
Gumbo Limbo
Chops City Grill D’Amico’s The
Finalists
LEE Winner
Origami
Finalists
The Mucky Duck SUSHI COLLIER Winner
TACOS
TAPAS
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Tacos & Tequila Cantina
Lamoraga
Finalists
Bar Tulia
Sushi-Thai
Taqueria San Julian
Finalists
Turco Taco
NAMBA Ramen & Sushi
Finalists
Bodega Olé LEE Winner
LEE Winner
La Trattoria Cafe Napoli
Finalists
Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki
Tacos & Tequila Cantina
Sushi One LEE Winner
MAKS Asian Kitchen & Sushi Finalists
Finalists
Death by Taco
Liberty
Tacos y Ceviches Taqueria San Julian
Blu Sushi
LOVE is the Thank you for selecting Norman Love Confections as your best choice yet again! We are honored to be voted BEST Chocolate Shop and Gelato in Naples and Fort Myers, and the BEST Bakery in Fort Myers and appreciate all the customers who enjoy shopping and dining with us throughout Southwest Florida.
THE
BEST OF the
GULFSHORE
2016
THE
BEST OF the
GULFSHORE
2017
THE
BEST OF the
GULFSHORE
2018
NAPLES | FORT MYERS | MCGREGOR | MIROMAR OUTLETS | WHOLE FOODS | SARASOTA VISIT US ON THE WEB AT NORMANLOVECONFECTIONS.COM
THAI COLLIER Winner
Sushi-Thai Finalists
Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche Thai Udon Café LEE Winner
Bangkok Thai Restaurant Finalists
Sails LEE Winner
Angelina's Ristorante Finalists
Azure
El Gaucho Inca WINE STORE COLLIER Winner
Natural Wine Naples Finalists
Three60 Market
Siam Hut
The Wine Store
Sushi-Thai Too
LEE Winner
WINE BAR COLLIER Winner
Palace Pub & Wine Bar Finalists
The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar
Bailey's General Store
Finalists
Golden Rind Cheese & Wine
Bleu Provence Sidebar LEE Winner
Palace Pub & Wine Bar Finalists
Angelina's Ristorante The Wine Room WINE LIST COLLIER Winner
Bleu Provence Finalists
The French Brasserie Rustique
WINGS COLLIER Winner
LowBrow Pizza & Beer Finalists
Beach Box Café Foxboro Sports Tavern Nemo's Sports Café LEE Winner
Buffalo Chips Finalists
Hogbody’s Bar & Gril Wicked Wings ‘n
AGENDA
18 7
Gutter Credit
iv sitlocoautrion! new
18 8
@shoprouze shoprouze.com GULFSHORE
LIFE
239.692.8253 494 5th Street South, Naples, FL 34102 g ulf shorelife.com
YOU MAKE US FEEL LIKE ROYALTY We love creating memorable vacation experiences for our guests. Your support means Royal Shell is a finalist in Gulfshore Life’s “Best of the Gulfshore” awards for Best Vacation Rental Company in Lee and Collier counties. If we’ve had the privilege of hosting your local staycation and made you feel like royalty, please honor us with your vote. Thank you for your support. #RoyalShellStyle
RoyalShell.com • 239.237.1753
Local
Bank. Commitment. Decisions.
Thank you for voting us as one of the best, Southwest Florida!
As Southwest Florida’s largest community bank, we offer all the same services and benefits of a big box bank – but better with fee-free products like business and platinum personal checking accounts. With us, you get more than a bank – you get a partner who cares. Our customers are more than account numbers to us – they’re our partners, neighbors and friends. Over 18 years, we’ve expanded to eight full-service locations across Lee County to provide smart, thoughtful banking solutions that meet your banking needs, all while remaining devoted to serving the community we all love. NMLS #411904
239-472-6100 | www.SanCapBank.com Locally Owned and Operated AGENDA
18 9
A R C H I T E C T U R E J OYC E O W E N S
THE
BEST
OF THE GULFSHORE 2021
ARCHITECTURE
INTERIORS
239 425 5773
COMMERCIAL
RESIDENTIAL
STUDIOAJO.COM
Thank you FOR YOUR VOTE! APR 15 – MAY 22
MAY 27 – JUN 26
JUL 1 – AUG 14
1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers 239.278.4422 • BroadwayPalm.com
Things
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Gulfshore Chiropractic
CHIROPRACTOR
DAY SPA
EYEBROW SHAPING
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Gulf Coast Spine & Sport
Woodhouse Day Spa Finalists
Hideout Boutique
Finalists
Zazzi Lash Studio
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Finalists
Finalists
Burn Boot Camp
NCH Wellness Center
LEE Winner
Beauty Ritual Skincare
Skin Deep Naples
Tru Glō Medspa
Spavia Day Spa
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Synergy Health
Back in Motion
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HOME
Zach Stovall
p_ 210
210
St ylish Debut: Casa Italia
216
Coveted Listings
STYLISH DEBUT
FROM ITALY WITH LOVE
Osvaldo Pancaro elevates Naples design offerings with a new showroom that trades in high-end Italian furnishings. By Rima Suqi Photography by Zach Stovall
Like many design professionals in
ent on the exteriors, but the interi-
he’ll showcase his full collection of
Southwest Florida, Osvaldo “Ozzie”
ors were taking more eclectic and
Italian brands, plus new lighting
Pancaro is attune to the stark shift
transitional approaches. This was
from Spain-based Santa & Cole.
taking place with local interior
the perfect time for him to tap his
Pancaro’s love for design was most
design. When he opened his first Casa
connections with sleek brands like
likely inherited. He spent his forma-
Italia showroom in Estero’s Miromar
Cattelan Italia (and later, Minotti
tive years in Los Angeles where his
Design Center, it was right around
and Poltrona Frau), to bring the same
father, Osvaldo Pancaro Sr., had a
when styles were starting to evolve,
sophisticated looks he offered on the
wall and ceiling upholstery business,
he says. While most home design still
east coast of Florida. He still goes to
and worked his magic in countless
followed the Mediterranean style
Italy twice a year to scope out new
celebrity homes, including those
of architecture, the interiors were
designs straight from the factories of
of Steve McQueen, Raquel Welch,
becoming more streamlined and
his partner brands.
Rock Hudson and Gene Hackman. A
contemporary. Pancaro’s eyes were
Last year, he opened a showroom
young Pancaro often accompanied his
fixed on the future, with his range of
focused on Minotti at the newly
father to job sites, but he now jokes
sleek furnishings from brands such as
opened The Collective design hub
he was more interested in exploring
Tacchini and Pianca. Now, the Casa
in Naples Design District. It’s one of
the homes than doing any real work.
Italia world is expanding.
only 12 in the country to carry the
Pancaro senior was even tapped by
Pancaro, who was born in Argen-
brand and one of five showrooms to
the legendary Los Angeles interior
tina to a father whose family hails
stock exclusively Minotti products.
designer Ted Graber to work on the
from Italy and a mother whose roots
Surrounded by some of the best in
Reagan White House. “My father did
are in Spain, moved to the area after
the local home design scene, Pancaro
the wall upholstery in the Lincoln
15 years spent managing a high-
thought it fitting to display one of
sitting room and also in Nancy Rea-
end Italian furniture showroom in
his top brands there. He’s also since
gan’s bedroom,” Pancaro recalls. “I
Fort Lauderdale. When he moved
closed the showroom in Estero, and is
didn’t have clearance to help inside
to Naples in 2006, Pancaro says the
about to debut a Third Avenue North
the White House, but I did help with
Mediterranean look was still appar-
locale in downtown Naples, where
the sewing and handling of fabrics.”
210
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
HOME
After owning his Casa Italia showroom in Estero for years, Osvaldo “Ozzie” Pancaro debuts two new locations at The Collective in the Naples Design District and on Third Avenue North.
HOME
2 11
HOME STYLISH DEBUT
With a focus on Italian-made contemporary furnishings, Pancaro stocks brands such as Tacchini, Pianca, Cattelan Italia, Minotti and Poltrona Frau.
While there’s a stylistic cavern
impeccable craftsmanship, attention to
a lot of the brands we carry and very well-
between the era of homes that featured
detail and the importance of attentive,
versed on what they want.”
upholstered ceilings and the modern
responsive customer service. He’s
Even if they’re not in the market for a
Italian showrooms he now inhabits,
developed a loyal clientele who have
clean-lined sectional, midcentury modern
Pancaro did learn valuable life lessons
bought homes in the area—including
inspired side chair or a chic suspended
and tools of the trade that form
a fair amount of Europeans, who he
light fixture, they’ll often stop by The
the hallmarks of his company today:
describes as “sophisticated, familiar with
Collective showroom to chat with Pancaro
2 12
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
HOME STYLISH DEBUT
ON VIEW THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6, 2021 Included with general Garden admission
Advance ticket reservations required
Casa Italia will soon offer company-provided transportation–a Tesla–to shuttle clients between the two Naples locations.
4820 BAYSHORE DRIVE NAPLES, FL 34112 239.643.7275 | NAPLESGARDEN.ORG
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while enjoying a cappuccino or Aperol
and plans to add company-provided
spritz on the outdoor terrace. “You can see
transportation—a Tesla—to shuttle
the whole design district from up here,” he
clients between the two showrooms. For
says. “Everything from throwback shops
him, it’s all about developing personal
to high-end European. It’s a great feeling.”
relationships with clients. “People here
As he prepares to debut his second
expect quality, and they also like to see
Naples location, Pancaro is pondering the
the same faces,” he says. “We want to make
addition of a third Casa Italia, which would
sure everything we do maintains the level
focus on outdoor furnishings. He also
of service, responsiveness, longevity and
considers new ways to serve his clientele
support for clients.”
g ulf shorelife.com
OUR DESIGN STUDIO NOW OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS
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CRC1331863
COVETED LISTINGS
DREA M HOMES
HOME
The real estate market saw a boom throughout 2020, with multimillion dollar listings and style to spare. By Tess Lopez
One may have predicted that COVID-
many of these older estates were
19 would spur a wave of interest in
demolished. Only a handful remain,
Southwest Florida real estate, as peo-
including the 1926 Mizner-designed
ple escaped the cities and searched for
estate at 670 Gulf Shore Blvd. S. in
sunny climes. But few could have pre-
Port Royal that sold for $22.5 million
dicted just how much. Pending sales
in January.
nearly doubled over 2019, and median
Dante DiSabato, the agent repre-
prices jumped. Sought-after listings in
senting the buyer and the seller, says
premium locales led to a record-break-
the four-bedroom and five-bathroom
ing $18.2 billion in residential sales in
home is his favorite in the city. Though
Collier County, (Lee County closed the
it has undergone several remodels
year with $8.2 billion). Here are a few
over the years, its exterior and several
recent listings that mark the pinnacle
parts of the interior—like the Spanish
of the market.
tile inserts on the stairs—remain true everyone comes to Naples wanting
Many of the Spanish and Mediterra-
new, but if you can find something
nean Revival homes that punctuate
historical that’s been updated, it has
Palm Beach were the brainchild of
that charm,” DiSabato says.
praised California-born architect
A covered, open lounge area mir-
Addison Mizner. Mizner carried his
roring the pillared veranda runs
eye for opulent structural design to the
the length of the lap pool outdoors,
Gulf in the 1920s, setting the tone for
anchoring the home in the center of
years to come. As the decades passed,
the 1.1-acre property, where mani-
2 16
GULFSHORE LIFE
Courtesy Amerivest Realty (2)
to the original architecture. “I think Historic Estate
g ulf shorelife.com
cured hedges border brick walkways and palms loom over courtyard fountains and pools. “Not a day goes by where you don’t see someone stop and take a photo of it,” DiSabato says of the landscaping. Stylish Origins in Fort Myers When Chico’s founders Marvin and Helene Gralnick were searching for a home in the late ’90s near the headquarters of their fashion company, which they started on Sanibel Island in 1983, they opted for a sprawling 35-acre estate in Fort Myers. The couple’s late friend and architect Joseph St. Cyr customized the blueprints for a modern, Florida cottage-style home on the gated lot. The winding, wooded drive and the lily pond affords the owners a secluded, rural feel, despite being close to town. In 2019, they listed the property with Joan Crompton, of Coldwell Banker Realty, who notes that prospective buyers are enchanted by this quality. Upon stepping inside, the space takes on a sudden urban aesthetic. An open area with bamboo flooring sets off the industrial details, like the kitchThis 1926 Port Royal estate designed by Addison Mizner has
en’s stainless steel cabinets and floor,
undergone several remodels over time, but it remains true to its
and the vaulted ceilings with skylights.
original charm.
A lifetime of international travel and appreciation for arts led the Gralnicks
HOME
2 17
HOME COVETED LISTINGS
to accentuate each room with sculptural pieces and hand-crafted doors imported from around the world. Marvin, an artist himself, uses the studio to create expressive paintings akin to the works of Jean-Michel Basquiat. A warehouse-sized space with a loft toward the back of the home serves as a gallery and showroom. The home isn’t only for artists—car enthusiasts will can store their babies in the four-stalled, air-conditioned garage that sits in the driveway. The garage includes a loft overhead, and glass doors to showcase each automobile—with roll-down shutters for extra security. Across from the garage, just steps from the main residence, is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom guest house. And, there’s room for others, too. The opposite end of the property and another home. Explaining why he chose the area, Marvin adds that it’s “close to Inter-
Outside, the sprawling 35-acre Fort Myers estate of Marvin and
state 75 and 41 as well as all the area
Helene Gralnick, the founders of Chico’s, has a secluded, rural
has to offer, but very much in a country
feel. But inside, the aesthetic is urban, industrial and modern.
setting. Modern, classic, simple, functional, elegant architecture never goes
2 18
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Courtesy Coldwell Banker Realty (2)
includes the original art studio, duplex
QUAIL WEST REALTY NAPLES, FLORIDA
THE GRIFFERTY GROUP IS NOW QUAIL WEST REALTY
HONESTY... INTEGRITY... PASSION FOR SERVICE
Call or email us for a complimentary consultation. Tom Grifferty, Realtor®
Carmen Grifferty, Realtor®
Kim Basa, Realtor®
Matt Wood, Realtor®
John Burdick, Realtor®
239-293-9560 TGrifferty@JohnRWood.com
239-293-9570 CGrifferty@JohnRWood.com
239-572-5212 KBasa@JohnRWood.com
239-963-7423 MWood@JohnRWood.com
860-384-3278 JBurdick@JohnRWood.com
QuailWestRealty.com
HOME COVETED LISTINGS
This coastal contemporary Marco Island home features 469 feet of
out of style.” The home was listed at $5.9
coastal contemporary abode suited exactly
a terrace overlooking the water. Earthy
million as of early April.
to his liking. Jutting out into Collier Bay,
shellstone tiles are a subtle nod to the
the 8,675-square-foot home has 469 feet
surroundings while transferring the focus
One-in-a-Million in Marco
of water frontage that “doesn’t restrict
to the open living area on the ground floor.
Jim Prange, the listing agent for Premier
the kind of boat you have,” Prange notes.
Just above, a large opening in the ceiling
Sotheby’s International Realty, witnessed
A wraparound lanai, with an infinity edge
gives rise to views through the home up to
two phenomena over the last year: the low-
pool, spa and water features, overlooks the
the third floor, with a series of staircases
est real estate inventory on Marco Island
view. Around the front of the home, a soar-
looming overhead—just like a castle.
since he moved there in 1980 and the rapid
ing porte-cochère and a five-car garage
sale of this home, or “castle” as he calls it.
ensures ample room for the finest rides;
Contemporary Stunner in Naples
“Marco hasn’t had a custom home to that
the interior accommodates all the guests.
Builder London Bay Homes paired up
magnitude built for somebody,” Prange
In addition to four en-suite bedrooms,
with Kukk Architecture & Design and
says. “The island needed it.” The home
there’s a master suite and kitchen on both
Romanza Interior Design to create this
in question was built for a buyer who
the first and second floor for separate
ultramodern estate on another desirable
purchased an entire finger of Hideaway
living spaces. Those seeking some extra
Port Royal plot at 700 Admiralty Parade
Beach, combined two lots at the tip and
privacy can stow away to the third floor,
West, looking out to Keewaydin Island.
directed the three-year construction of a
which includes a bonus sitting area and
Inside, Romanza’s Michael Scott com-
220
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Courtesy Premier Sotheby’s International Realty/Michael Anderson
water frontage.
THE MOORINGS LA PERLE
NEW CONSTRUCTION LUXURY WATERFRONT RESIDENCES The newest Moorings luxury condominium residence constructed in over a decade. Placed in an ideal location affording residents spectacular water vistas, boat dockage and steps to the famous Naples beaches. La Perle will be a true gem honoring its namesake.
ONLY THE FINEST IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND FINISHES. priced from $2,810,000
For more information, please contact Exclusive Listing Agent:
TIMOTHY P. SAVAGE, P.A. PRINCIPAL | REALTOR®
239.821.7576 w tim@gcipnaples.com
® Representing the Finest Properties in Naples and Boca Grande, Florida 1144 Third Street South w 691 Fifth Avenue South w 707 12th Avenue South w Naples, Florida 34102 2425 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 102, Naples Florida 34103 w 239.434.2558 VISIT US AT:
www.laperlenaples.com w www.gcipnaples.com
HOME COVETED LISTINGS
bined cream walls with blonde maple in the flooring, tray ceilings and range hood to unify the spaces and nod to the natural elements outside. He called in Soho Kitchens and Design to assemble Shaker-style cabinets along the kitchen wall and in the two islands to maximize storage space. With five bedrooms, five full and two half bathrooms, plus an additional multipurpose room, the home needed to maintain its modern appeal without compromising on the comfortable atmosphere. To achieve this, the team dreamed up an abundance of long, vertical windows in nearly every room to pull in more sunlight and water views. Scott anchored the his-and-hers studies with elements like suede wallcovering and a leather chair to balance the lighter walls and trim. The bonus room was converted into an entertainment space, with a black, built-in media wall and a full bar. The back patio—fully equipped with a kitchen, fire pit, infinity-edge pool and lounge areas—makes the transithe pocket doors in the entertainment room and main living area). Add in the technological software that enables Modern blonde wood combines with sleek surfaces in this Port Roy-
control of the interior lighting, shut-
al modern compound, where lighting, shades and other comforts
ters, shades and pool and landscape
are tech-enabled and the aesthetic is pure luxury.
lighting, and it’s easy to see why this property fetched $18.5 million and several awards.
222
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Courtesy London Bay Homes/Venjhamin Reyes
tion to outdoor living simple (as do
For Over 15 Years The #1 Mother - Daughter Real Estate Team IN THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MARKET • Over One Billion in Closed Sales with satisfied clients • Both have unrivaled backgrounds as regional and office managers in the Luxury Real Estate Market • Full time professionals whose focus is YOUR Real Estate needs • From Pittsburgh, PA • Unmatched levels of productivity and success • Proud to support local charities from every transaction
Please call us for all your Real Estate needs! buabellsellsnaples.com buabellgroup@johnrwood.com Emily 239-659-6115 Tade 239-595-0097
Naples
Emily K. Bua | Tade Bua-Bell
T O P %
1
A series of R.G. Designs and Potter Homes collaborations are making a mark on Bonita Beach with multistory abodes steps to the sand.
HOME
M A R K E T WATC H
An observant eye is quick to notice the
The direct beach access is a big appeal,
on top. The general layout incorporates
crop of stylish homes going up on Bonita
but also the quieter locale compared to
the common areas, like the kitchen and
Springs’ Hickory Boulevard. A series of
Fort Myers and Naples.
great room, with a couple bedrooms on
similar multistory homes, many of which
Until recently, older homes from the
the first floor, facing the road. Guest bed-
were mapped out by R.G. Designs and
’60s and ’70s sat on the 50-foot-wide par-
rooms, the master suite and a study are
built by Potter Homes, sprang up on the
cels along Hickory. Those moving to the
situated upstairs, for a total living space
waterfront stretch within a matter of
area wanting ocean views found them-
of more than 5,000-square-feet.
months. Individually, they’ve made up
selves with little options other than to
The homes are outfitted with smart
some of the highest-priced sales in Lee
purchase the lots and rebuild. And when
technology, like automated lighting and
County for 2020.
building, the company aims to impress.
motorized shutters, for extra coastal
Ryan Potter, a partner at Potter Homes,
The facade of each home is nearly sym-
comforts, and an elevated infinity pool
explains that despite all the similarities,
metrical: the front door sits in the middle,
just beyond the pocket sliders blends in
these builds aren’t part of a residential
with a garage door on either side and win-
with the coast, for “a view that can’t be
community; they’re custom projects.
dows for different rooms stacked neatly
beat,” Potter says.
224
GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
Courtesy Potter Homes
BONITA SPRINGS’ HICKORY BOULEVARD BOOM
Choose wisely when selecting a real estate professional to help you navigate the shifting market.
Contact me today for a private consultation
239.571.5474 Kimberly.Wagner@PremierSIR.com KimberlyWagner.PremierSothebysRealty.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
2021 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA FIVE STAR AWARD WINNERS
FS-3
Featured winners from our Five Star Professional Section.
F S - 1 — LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM
FS-4
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Uncovering Southwest Florida's elite real estate agents, mortgage professionals and home/auto insurance professionals REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Five Star Professional partnered with Gulfshore Life magazine to identify real estate, mortgage and insurance professionals in the Southwest Florida area w ho de l i ve r o u t s t and i ng s e r v i ce and cl ient satisfaction. The Five Star Professional research team surveyed homebuyers, home sellers and industry peers, and analyzed online consumer evaluations. Survey respondents rated their service professional on criteria such as overall satisfaction and whether they would recommend the provider to a friend. The research methodology allows no more than 7% of professionals in each category to receive the award.
RECOGNIZING OUTSTANDING Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Professionals and Home/Auto Insurance Professionals
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL
PROPRIETARY RESEARCH PROCESS Nomination of Candidates The Five Star Professional research team surveyed homebuyers, home sellers and industry peers, and analyzed online consumer evaluations to identify professionals that excel in key attributes of customer service.
Evaluation Score Using our scoring algorithm, each nominee is given an evaluation score based on surveys in our database. High scorers are named candidates.
RISING STAR AWARD WINNERS Meet the next wave of outstanding real estate agents and mortgage professionals in the Southwest Florida area! Five Star Professional’s research team contacted real estate and mortgage industry veterans and consumers to identify up-and-coming professionals in the industry. Rising Star award winners are held in high regard by their peers and mentors and have received a qualifying nomination for the award. Evaluators were asked to identify a real estate agent or mortgage professional who has been in the industry for five years or less and embodies professional excellence, exhibits superior customer service and shows great potential to excel in their profession. All Rising Star award winners must be actively licensed, satisfy minimum production criteria and have a favorable regulatory history to be eligible for award consideration.
RESEARCH — How Our Winners Are Chosen • The 2021 Five Star Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Professionals and Home/Auto Insurance Professionals do not pay a fee to be included in the research or the final lists. • Each professional is screened against state governing bodies to verify that licenses are current and no disciplinary actions are pending. • The inclusion of a real estate agent, mortgage professional or insurance professional on the final list should not be construed as an endorsement by Five Star Professional or Gulfshore Life magazine.
Candidate Submission of Business Information Candidates must complete either an online or over-the-phone interview.
Eligibility Criteria Candidates must be in the industry for at least five years, have a favorable regulatory history and meet minimum production thresholds.
Blue Ribbon Panel A Blue Ribbon panel of industry experts reviews the final list of candidates.
Determination of Award Winners Professionals who satisfied each of the following objective criteria were named a 2021 Southwest Florida-area Five Star Real Estate Agent, Five Star Mortgage Professional or Five Star Home/Auto Insurance Professional: Evaluation Criteria: 1. Qualifying rating. Eligibility Criteria: 2. Holds an active license and employed in their field for a minimum of three years.
3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review. 4. Satisfies minimum production on a one-year and three-year basis. 5. Successful completion of a Blue Ribbon Panel review.
Real estate agents, mortgage professionals and home/auto insurance professionals are pooled only with other candidates from their profession. The final list of 2021 Southwest Florida area Five Star award winners is a select group, representing approximately 1% of real estate agents, 2% of mortgage professionals and 1% of home/auto insurance professionals in the area. To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.
Final Selection Less than 7% of professionals in the market are selected.
2021 227
LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM — F S - 2
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Downing-Frye Realty
Real Estate Agent 2021 Winner 8950 Fontana Del Sol Way, Suite 100 • Naples, FL 34109 Cell: 239-877-0015 mattbnaples@gmail.com • www.mattbianchini.com 228
GULFSHORE LIFE
F S - 3 — LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM
Originally from Massachusetts, Matt Bianchini moved to Naples in 2012. He has two daughters, Katie and Maddy, and owned a car dealership in Naples before getting into real estate. He got his real estate license in June of 2019. Matt played college golf at the University of Tennessee at Martin, played professionally for a couple of years and then competed nationally in some of the biggest tournaments in the world, including the 2012 U.S. Amateur Championship. Matt Joined Downing-Frye Realty in January of 2020, and in his first 12 months with Downing-Frye Realty, he had 36 closed and pending sales adding up to $15 million. He has also reached the best of Zillow status in 2020. Matt has been named 2020 Downing-Frye Realty Naples Rising Star. Gutter Credit
Matt Bianchini
g ulf shorelife.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
John Castilone Senior Loan Officer, NMLS 148406 Two-Year Winner Bay Equity LLC NMLS 76988 18 SE 20th Court • Cape Coral, FL 33904 Cell: 239-900-5209 • Office: 612-387-6638 jcastilone@bayeq.com • bayequityhomeloans.com/john-castilone
For almost 20 years, John Castilone has helped hundreds of families achieve their dreams of homeownership. John’s top priority is to ensure his clients are educated about each step of the loan process. “My goal is to have you feel as you have acquired a trusted advisor, friend and mortgage professional,” said John. John has a well-rounded understanding of how to work effectively with borrowers and Realtors, with a focus on providing outstanding service and building long-lasting relationships. With conventional, jumbo, down payment assistance, FHA, USDA, VA and more, John and Bay Equity offer a wide array of loan products as well as state-of-the-art technology tools to make closing home loans faster and easier. Bay Equity LLC. Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Restrictions may apply. Rates may not be available at time of application. Information and/ or data are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval. Not all loans or products are available in all states. Bay Equity LLC, 770 Tamalpais Drive, Suite 207 Corte Madera, CA 94925. Florida Mortgage Lender Servicer License, Minnesota Residential Mortgage Originator License #MN-MO-76988.1. Minnesota Residential Mortgage Servicer License #MN-MS-76988.2 #MLD1014. NMLS ID#76988 | NMLS consumer access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/76988. BECH-210203-3.0. 229
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Sandra Carano Realtor, SRES®, e-PRO®
Your Dream Home Awaits • • • • •
100% committed to my clients Excellent customer service Skilled negotiator Integrity Referral-based business
Thank you to my many clients for taking the time to recognize me for the prestigious Five Star Real Estate Agent award. I couldn’t have done it without you. As a full-time Realtor, I feel privileged to be working with you and always strive to exceed your expectations. Thank you for your reviews and referrals.
7
YEAR WINNER
8955 Fontana Del Sol Way • Naples, FL 34109 Phone: 239-200-0531 • sandracsells@gmail.com naplesfloridahomerealty.com
Seven-year winner Sandra Carano, Realtor, SRES®, e-PRO® FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Mari Vesci Broker Associate
The Vesci Team
Photo 4” wide by 6” high at 300 dpi. Maximum of 6 people.
• Focuses on beach and waterfront properties, upscale condos and luxury homes • Guides buyers and sellers through every aspect of the real estate transaction with diligence and ease
Mari is originally from the summer destination of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. She was drawn to Naples for its pristine beaches, sunshine and emerging real estate market. She has been a top-ranking broker associate in Naples for 34 years. Mari joined forces with John R. Wood Properties to further her long, successful career in beach and waterfront residential sales. Let her market knowledge and negotiation skills coupled with cuttingedge technology guide you in all your real estate acquisitions.
4
Four-year winner Mari Vesci, Broker Associate
John R. Wood Properties
870 97th Avenue • Naples, FL 34108 Phone: 239-269-8889 • mari@vesci.com • vesci.com Gutter Credit
YEAR WINNER
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
230
GULFSHORE LIFE
F S - 5 — LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM
g ulf shorelife.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Blake Owen Selling Southwest Florida’s Finest Waterfront and Golf Course Communities • Local knowledge matters — Naples resident since 1992 • Market expertise matters — helping buyers and sellers since 2003 • Expert advisor for resort and golf lifestyles — PGA club professional for 10 years Blake is a fierce advocate for his customers and skilled in cultivating trusting, long-lasting relationships with his customers and network of fellow Realtors. He is a proud member of the Naples Area Board of Realtors, Florida Association of Realtors and National Association of Realtors with expertise not only in golf course communities but in areas west of U.S. 41 such as Vanderbilt Beach, Pelican Bay, Park Shore, The Moorings, Coquina Sands, Old Naples, Port Royal, Bonita Beach, Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island.
9
YEAR WINNER
325 Vanderbilt Beach Road • Naples, FL 34108 Phone: 239-594-9494 • Phone: 239-273-3117 blake.owen@premiersir.com • www.blakeowen.com
Nine-year winner Blake Owen FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Garren Everett Grup Realtor, ABR®, CLHMS, CDPE, CNE, GRI, SFR®
Bring Your Highest Expectations™ • More than 18 years of real estate expertise with the leader in luxury real estate • Leading an experienced team serving all of Southwest Florida Photo 4” wide by 6” high at 300 dpi. Maximum of 6 people.
For more than 18 years, Garren Grup has been associated with John R. Wood Properties, the leader in Southwest Florida real estate, and has been counseling customers from all over the world. Now more than ever, you need someone who aggressively and successfully continues to negotiate the best scenario when purchasing or selling Southwest Florida residential and commercial properties. Garren excels in formulating solutions to challenges facing buyers and sellers of properties at all price points. Through his extensive knowledge of new home construction, as well as existing luxury and resort-style communities, he is committed to delivering an exceptional experience. He locates the best value and community to complement his buyers and develops strong marketing plans for his sellers by highlighting the unique properties of their home.
8
YEAR WINNER
3255 Tamiami Trail • Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-289-8619 Garren@BuyUpNaples.com www.HomesInNaplesToBonita.com
Eight-year winner Garren Everett Grup, P.A. FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
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LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM — F S - 6
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Kimberley Menkhorst Real Estate Agent
Naples Premier Luxury Real Estate Agent • Top 15% of agents nationwide (Homesnap) • Extensive background in Naples’ luxury market Kim Menkhorst, founder of Lavish Listing Naples Group within Premiere Plus Realty, is the area’s premiere luxury residential real estate expert. Armed with an extensive background in luxury homes and marketing, Kim offers a different service than most of her peers.
Photo 4” wide by 6” high at 300 dpi. Maximum of 6 people.
Kim says, “part of my success has been focusing on the customers’ wants, including if they aren’t ready to buy or sell right now. It’s being a resource for them and, in addition, creating a custom marketing proposal for their property based on their unique selling points and targeting the ideal buyer.” Having lived in Naples for over 14 years, Kim started in real estate because of her love for the city and what it has to offer. Even within Kim’s first 12 months in real estate, she has more than $20 million in listings alone. Kim knows what buyers and sellers are looking for in an agent and she proves it. With more than 50 five-star reviews, her clients would agree she is the top choice for buying, selling or investing in Naples, Florida 1100 S Fifth Avenue, Suite 101B • Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 239-776-0093 kim@lavishlistingsnaples.com www.lavishluxuryhomesnaples.com
Premiere Plus
2021 winner Kimberley Menkhorst
RISING STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Dena Wilcoxen
Erica Eister
Sales Professional
Broker Associate
24880 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 1 Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-989-2436 denawilcoxen@gmail.com www.denawilcoxen.com @denawilcoxen The Power of Experience, The Benefit of Results
• Over 21 years of experience • Top 3% of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty • ABR®, GRI, CSMS • 2019 Realtor of the Year (Bonita Springs-Estero Realtors) • 2021 board president (Bonita Springs-Estero Realtors) I look forward to putting my knowledge, experience and connections to work for you to help make your real estate experience a pleasant and successful journey. Personalized, professional service is what I offer by marketing your home at the highest level possible and maximizing your investment in the years to come. Adding you to my list of satisfied customers is my goal! FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
232
GULFSHORE LIFE
F S - 7 — LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM
9
YEAR WINNER
Bringing People and Homes Together in Southwest Florida
• Always putting clients first • Expansive market knowledge of gated and non-gated communities • New construction and renovation expertise • Effective marketing strategies to sell properties • A top-producing golf, boat and tennis community agent • Social media presence Erica Eister has dedicated her real estate career to successfully reaching the goals of her clients in the luxury markets of Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples, Marco Island and Fort Myers. FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
g ulf shorelife.com
Gutter Credit
7
YEAR WINNER
Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Estero, FL 33928 Phone: 239-898-4077 erica@eisterland.com www.esterobonitahomes.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Tricia McIlwain
Kurt E. Hoenig
Realtor, PSA
Real Estate Professional
John R. Wood Properties
United Real Estate Infinity 12220 Towne Lake Drive Fort Myers, Florida 33913 Phone: 239-595-2200 KurtHoenigUnitedInfinity@gmail.com www.kurtehoenig.com
3255 N Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-961-1801 tmcilwain@johnrwood.com www.gulfluxuryrealty.com Integrity. Tenacity. Your Realtor and Friend. • Certified Intrinsic Feng Shui professional • Focus areas: Park Shore, Moorings, Pelican Bay and Autumn Woods • Excellent client relationships and referrals • Soccer coach A consummate professional with detailed market knowledge, Tricia also brings sincerity and an element of humanity to the business of buying and selling real estate. She always places her clients’ interests above all other considerations and is dedicated to their needs throughout and after the real estate experience. Tricia is an integral part of the Naples community and has three wonderful children, Hutton, Kiersten and McClain.
9
Southern Hospitality with a Midwestern Work Ethic
YEAR WINNER
• 30-year Naples resident • Animal advocate • Hawkeyes fan • Pie lover With over 21 years in real estate and a prior progressive career in hospitality management, I know how people want to be treated. I promise to tell you what you need to know, not just what you want to hear! That’s my job!
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Gayle Satcher, P.A.
Sue Ellen Mathers ABR®, SRES®, CNE, MBA, Lic. 3130294
Realtor, CLHMS
720 5th Avenue, S, Suite 201 Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 239-450-4828 gayle@gaylesatcher.com www.gaylesatcher.com Trusted • Experienced • Luxury • Global • Over 35 years’ experience • Million-dollar producer • Luxury properties specialist Gayle is a highly distinguished luxury real estate agent professional. She has called Naples and Southwest Florida home since 2001 and has been helping her clients achieve their real estate objectives with a committed drive to make the journey seamless and efficient. Gayle’s knowledge of the Southwest Florida real estate market, her insightful market analysis comprehension, attention to detail and her focus on concierge customer service ensure her clients she has their best interest first and foremost. FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
8
YEAR WINNER
Left to right: Eight-year winner Sue Mathers; Ashley Wells
Mathers and Wells — When Every Detail Matters • Award-winning top producers by Bonita Springs-Estero Association of Realtors For many people, real estate represents their largest investment. Trust, integrity and knowledge are critical elements when engaging a licensed professional to represent you, whether buying or selling property. We thank our many clients for recognizing the dedication, service and results we provide. Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-877-2726 sueellen@royalshellsales.com www.sueellenmathers.com FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Sue Myhelic
Anita Colletti, P.A.
Realtor
ABR®, AHWD, C2EX, CDPE, CIPS, CNE, CRS, e-PRO®, GRI, RSPS, SFR®
151 Conners Avenue Naples, FL 34108 Direct: 239-216-6444 Office: 239-598-2441 sue@suemyhelic.com
14
YEAR WINNER
If You Dream It, I’ll Find It
• Caters to housing needs in the southwest corridor from Fort Myers Beach to Marco Island • Over 25 years of experience and familiarity with the Naples and Collier County real estate market • Excited to share the opportunities this region has to offer with new homebuyers to make their dreams come true Finding you the right location is what I love to do, whether it’s a home or a condo near the beach or on a golf course. The possibilities are endless and the bargains are at an all-time high. Naples is once again affordable, and I am in your corner, sharing my wealth of knowledge and expertise to reach all of your real estate goals. No question goes unanswered — I am there for you from start to finish. Call me today and let me find your dream home now!
275 Broad Avenue S Naples, FL 34102 Direct: 239-250-0700 AColletti@JohnRWood.com www.AnitaRealtor.com
8
YEAR WINNER
• 2014 Realtor of the Year, Bonita Springs-Estero Association of Realtors Anita specializes in Naples-area luxury properties and high-quality investment real estate. Her comprehensive experience includes not only residential resales and preconstruction but also more complicated transactions such as residential trades, 1031 tax-free exchanges and self-directed IRAs. Anita is known for her dedication to professionalism and above-and-beyond customer service. She is a leading advocate for local, state and national homeownership rights legislation and proudly donates a portion of each closing to various charities.
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Robert L. Nardi
Nandy Miller
Broker, Realtor, e-PRO®, ABR®, RSPS
Realtor, ABR®, CRS, GRI
• Over 18 years of real estate experience • Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist • Treating every customer like our only customer
9 YEAR
WINNER
After working with a global real estate company for five years, Robert Nardi discovered the need for a boutique real estate firm that specialized in meeting its customers’ needs. Robert created Nardi Realty to ensure each customer and property has the opportunity to be handled with the care and attention it deserves. 3400 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 103 • Naples, FL 34103 Cell: 239-293-3592 • Office: 239-213-1616 robert@nardirealty.com • nardirealty.com FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Extraordinary Homes Require Extraordinary Service
14
YEAR WINNER
• Gulf Coast to golf course — Nandy knows Naples • Global advertising and professional marketing • Satisfying and quick results A 20-year resident of Naples and a member of the John R. Wood Hall of Fame, Nandy’s experience and local knowledge is an asset to both buyers and sellers. Her personal attention and dedication to professionalism will exceed your expectations, making your next real estate transaction go smoothly. 225 Banyan Boulevard, Suite 110 • Naples, FL 34102 Cell: 239-248-4414 • Direct: 239-659-6326 nandy@johnrwood.com • nandyknowsnaples.com FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Jim Mayer Realtor
I am your Naples information resource!
“Remember your goals and don’t let emotions make the decisions.” — Five Star award winner Gutter Credit
15
YEAR WINNER
• Board of directors member, John R. Wood Properties • Sales Hall of Fame, John R. Wood Properties • 15-year Five Star Real Estate Agent featured in Gulfshore Life magazine • Over 20 years of experience
787 Fifth Avenue S • Naples, FL 34102 Office: 239-434-0101 • Cell: 239-290-9685 jmayer@johnrwood.com • mayerteamnaples.com FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
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F S - 9 — LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM
g ulf shorelife.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
George Messeha
Cindy Kruesi
Realtor, Lic. SL3202212
Broker Associate
• Representing individual and corporate clients • Passionate about excellence and success I am honored to receive this prestigious award for the eighth year. Thank you to all of my clients who entrusted me with serving their real estate needs. Nothing makes me happier than helping my clients settle into their dream homes or get the best value for their properties. Providing excellence is the one thing I do not negotiate. As a dedicated Realtor, your best interest is my highest priority.
8
YEAR WINNER
17
YEAR WINNER
• 17-year Five Star Real Estate Agent award winner Cindy began her real estate career in upstate New York in 1975. She relocated to Southwest Florida in 1994 and has since been listing and selling residential real estate with John R. Wood Properties. Cindy has the Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI) designations and has been awarded Realtor Emeritus status. As a broker associate, Cindy stands ready to assist you with a purchase or a sale. 26269 S Tamiami Trail • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-495-4113 • Cell: 239-564-1921 cindykruesi@johnrwood.com • www.cindykruesi.com
1495 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 1 • Naples, FL 34109 • Phone: 239-404-7428 mmesseha@yahoo.com • georgesellsnaples.com FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Harriet Harnar, P.A.
14
YEAR WINNER
Alicia Galante
Sales Associate, CRS, CSP
Broker-Associate, CRS, ABR®, CIPS, RSPS, SCIS, CNE
• Over 29 years’ experience in real estate • Fair, honest and reputable • Seeks clients’ viewpoints Harriet is a truly dedicated professional who is passionate about helping her clients reach their personal real estate goals. Harriet thanks her loyal and satisfied clients for recognizing her excellent customer service and for referring her to family and friends. There is no greater reward!
Real estate reality — just what is the new normal? Today more than ever, educating clients is key. Information that is seen as a commodity, readily available with just a few clicks, will need some interpretation. Buyers and sellers: Just what is a Zestimate anyway? And, if banks don’t accept estimates, why would you accept a Zestimate? Licensed since 1988, my reputation is based on results that my buyers and sellers achieve.
15
YEAR WINNER
27400 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 4 • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Cell: 239-273-5443 • Office: 239-405-6204 harriet.harnar@premiersir.com • harrietharnar.com
7950 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Suite 2 • Fort Myers, FL 33907 Phone: 239-850-7653 aliciagalante@att.net • aliciagalante.com
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
Rosemary Scheetz-Bruce
Wendy L. Hayes
• 35 years of selling and listing real estate • General agent working in Bonita Springs, Estero and Naples • Selling luxury homes, condos and new construction • Believes experience isn’t expensive, it’s priceless Following the pattern of growth from Pelican Bay and Bonita Springs to Estero and the Brooks, she has developed a wealth of experience helping clients find the perfect home in a community matched to their wants and needs.
• Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS) • Million-Dollar Guild™ award winner • Multiyear, top-tier platinum award winner (DNFR) Wendy devotes herself to providing complete real estate concierge service. Whether you are a novice or seasoned buyer, seller or investor, she will be by your side every step of the way. Wendy is known for her hard work, integrity, negotiating skills and high level of client service.
Realtor
8
YEAR WINNER
Keller Williams Elite
Realtor, RSPS, CNE, CLHMS
5
YEAR WINNER
26381 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 300 • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Cell: 239-633-5987 • Office: 239-949-8338 rosemary@rosemaryscheetz-bruce.com
FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
8950 Fontana Del Sol Way, Suite 100 • Naples, FL 34109 Phone: 239-777-3960 luxuryhomes@wendynaples.com • www.wendynaples.com FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT AWARD WINNER
An outstanding professional works in their clients’ comfort zone. Make sure before hiring a professional you understand how they handle their professional life.
LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM — F S - 10
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Linda Culotta Broker, Owner, Loan Officer, NMLS 213838, Co. NMLS19446985
Committed To Providing Financial Solutions for Homeownership • Important to budget first • List out must-haves • Perfect homes are worth a few extra dollars
As a seasoned mortgage professional, I offer the highest level of customer service in residential financing. I provide my clients with the best possible scenarios, including current market information, competitively low interest rates and a wide array of products offered by lenders to help make their decisions comfortably. First and foremost, my goal is to assist with improving clients’ lifestyles. By constantly evaluating the market while keeping my customers informed, I stand strong as an honest and experienced mortgage professional.
2
YEAR WINNER Two-year winner Linda Culotta
Market Rate Mortgages
8446 Karina Court • Naples, FL 34114 Phone: 239-398-3978 linda@marketratemortgages.com www.lindaculotta.com
FIVE STAR MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL AWARD WINNER
Sylvia Connor Vice President, Senior Residential Loan Consultant, NMLS 387184
Experience and Knowledge Will Create a Good Mortgage • Naples-area board of Realtors • Naples and Bonita Springs Women’s Council of Realtors member • Board member of Bonita Springs-Estero Realtors
Sylvia is a high-achieving mortgage professional, serving the Naples area for over four decades. As a trusted advisor, she goes beyond her scope of work to ensure no detail is overlooked. She is an advocate for her profession and the community, as is evident from her memberships listed above. In her 50th year of mortgage banking, Sylvia ended 2020 closings in excess of $35 million.
10 YEAR
WINNER
Gutter Credit
6435 Naples Boulevard • Naples, FL 34109 Phone: 239-495-4172 • sylvia.connor@firsthorizon.com
Ten-year winner Sylvia Connor FIVE STAR MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL AWARD WINNER
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F S - 11 — LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM
g ulf shorelife.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.
Real Estate Agents
Barbara Klare ∙ Jones & Co. Realty
Rhonda Lynn Diner ∙ Sun Realty
Robert Vesci ∙ John R. Wood Properties
All Areas
Vito Kostrzewski ∙ Jones & Co. Realty
Tony Erpenbeck III ∙ Keller Williams
Mimy von Schreiner ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Marie J. Benoit ∙ RE/MAX
Estero
Joyce A. Etchison ∙ Amerivest Realty
Karen Wasserman ∙ Sun Realty
Kellie J. Brown ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Kevin E. Yankow ∙ KEY Real Estate, Inc.
Billie Jean Jean Ferguson ∙ Downing-Frye Realty
Deborah Zvibleman ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Douglas W. Buchanan ∙ Wentworth Realty Group
Fort Myers
Bridgette Catherine Foster ∙ Downing-Frye Realty, Inc.
Saint James City
Cathy Canelli ∙ CENTURY 21
Susan Bryant ∙ RE/MAX Realty Group
Charles Gallo ∙ MVP Realty
Terri B. James ∙ Pine Island Realty, Inc.
Sandra Carano ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Page 5
Denise Donna Corey ∙ VIP Realty
Peggy Garrity ∙ William Raveis Real Estate
Sanibel
Christopher Cioffi ∙ No Nonsense Real Estate, P.A.
Tammy J. Cook ∙ Keller Williams
Ralph Gorton ∙ John R. Brady
Jean Williamson ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Diana Coyle ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Jolene Hardy ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Erica Eister ∙ Eister & Company Page 7
Deborah Hopple ∙ Right Choice Realty
Garren Everett Grup ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 6
Rising Star Real Estate Agents
Alicia Galante ∙ CornerStone Coastal Properties Page 10
Julie Anne Hummel ∙ RE/MAX
Kurt E. Hoenig ∙ United Real Estate Infinity Page 8 Bill Hogerhuis ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Alan Bennett Levi ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Jeff Jordan ∙ Keller Williams Tim Kennedy ∙ VIP Realty
Lehigh Acres Roxann James ∙ United Real Estate Infinity
Sally Masters ∙ Signature International Premier Properties
Marco Island
Christine Million ∙ Florida Complete Realty
Diane Beattie ∙ RE/MAX
Susan S. Owens ∙ Amerivest Realty/The Susan Owens Team
Jon Busch ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Rosemary Scheetz-Bruce ∙ Keller Williams Elite Page 10 Linda R. Schmidt ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Noelle Allison Tietz ∙ Realty Rents & Sale Bruce Van Buskirk ∙ DomainRealty.com, LLC Dorenda E. Wentworth ∙ Wentworth Realty Group James F. Westerfield ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Dena Wilcoxen ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Page 7
Bonita Springs Harriet Harnar, P.A. ∙ Sotheby’s International Realty Page 10
Jennifer Drake ∙ RE/MAX Affinity Plus Lori Lynne Holland ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Wendy L. Hayes ∙ Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. Page 10 Odamis Martinez Houston ∙ Keller Williams Realty Naples/Caine Luxury Team
Amarilys Alvarez ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
Sally Kellogg ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Naples
Fatima S. Khokhar ∙ Sotheby’s International Realty Cindy Kruesi ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 10 Jeff Mann ∙ Downing-Frye Realty Jim Mayer ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 9 Tricia McIlwain ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 8 George Messeha ∙ MVP Realty Page 10 Bruce Miller ∙ William Raveis Real Estate
Matt Bianchini ∙ Downing-Frye Realty Page 3
Nancy Bjork ∙ John R. Wood Properties Kimberley Menkhorst ∙ Premiere Plus Page 7
Mortgage Professionals Mary Adams ∙ NewRez Mortgage John Castilone ∙ Bay Equity Home Loans Page 4 Beth A. Cherry ∙ Waterstone Mortgage Sylvia Connor ∙ First Horizon Bank Page 11
Donna Marie Kittle ∙ RE/MAX Affinity Plus
Nandy Miller ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 9
Carla Masse ∙ Sun Realty
Sue Myhelic ∙ Gulf Breeze Real Estate Page 9
Chris Sullivan ∙ RE/MAX
Robert L. Nardi ∙ Nardi Realty Page 9
Christine Waldren ∙ RE/MAX
Blake Owen ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Page 6
Jeannette Farr ∙ The Moore Lending Group
Susan Barton ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Kim Pojeta ∙ MVP Realty
Kelly Rebimbas ∙ Guaranteed Rate Affinity
Laurie Ann Bellico ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Julie Rembos ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Jane Wingate ∙ Gulf Coast Mortgage of Naples
Janet Berry ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
David J. Roy ∙ Downing-Frye Realty
Bob Brewer ∙ Downing-Frye Realty
Gayle Satcher, P.A. ∙ William Raveis Real Estate Page 8
Rising Star Mortgage Professional
Naples
Sue Ellen Mathers ∙ Royal Shell Page 8
Laurie G. Cassell ∙ MVP Realty
Kyle R. Suhr ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Anita Colletti, P.A. ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 9
Lauren M. Vallozzi ∙ Downing-Frye Realty
Maureen G. Gobbi ∙ RE/MAX
Lisa Denove ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
Heidi Ann Varsames ∙ Heidi A. Varsames P.A.
Lynn Hesselbach ∙ Miloff Aubuchon Realty
Jerry DiGiacomo ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Mari Vesci ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 5
Cape Coral
All Areas
David Tate ∙ John R.Wood Properties
Linda Culotta ∙ Market Rate Mortgages Page 11 Michelle D’Auria ∙ American Bank & Trust Scott Digregorio ∙ Primary Residential Mortgage
Esmeralda Marpali ∙ Finance of America Mortgage
Home/Auto Insurance Professionals Chris Mitchel ∙ Brightway Insurance/The Smith and Mitchell Agency Matt Nance ∙ Responsive Insurance
REALTOR® is a federally registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a Member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM — F S - 12
Experience the Millennium Difference Welcome Our New Healthcare Providers in Lee County
Thomas R. Mitchell, M.D. Family Medicine, Cape Coral
Dora V. Ancaya, M.D. Internal Medicine, Fort Myers
Jeffrey Martin, D.O. Dermatology, Fort Myers
Fariha Abbasi-Feinberg, M.D. Sleep Medicine, Fort Myers
Connect Today! (844) CALL-MPG
www.MillenniumPhysician.com
Brian D. Zelis, M.D. Family Medicine, Estero
Juan Carrere, M.D. Gastroenterology, Fort Myers
NO _ 5 0 7
0 5 _ 2 0 21
TH E L AT E S T I N W E LL N E S S
Brian Tietz
p_ 240
240
Retail T herapy: Conscious Space
246
T he T reat ment: Doctor-Made Skincare
Through her boutique, which is considered a first of its kind for the region, Cathy Shepardson promotes zero-waste living, which emphasizes buying fewer, better and local products.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
RETAIL THERAPY
MINDFUL M ATTERS
HEALTHY LIFE
Meet Cathy Shepardson, who runs Fort Myers’ zero-waste shop Conscious Space, with eco-friendly wellness, beauty and household goods. By Mariah Hebbeln Photography by Brian Tietz
After graduating from Florida Gulf
tropical permaculture farm, from
Coast University in 2019, Cathy Shep-
money I’d saved up from selling
ardson sought to put into action the
coconut bowls and hand-dyed reus-
principles she’d learned about sus-
able bags that I made. I was there for
tainable living. That fall, she opened
a month and a half and loved it, but
Conscious Space, a Fort Myers shop
it felt a little like being in retirement
that embodies her zero-waste philos-
already. I wanted to do more for the
ophy. The boutique—filled with hand-
earth. I had this vision of a creative
blended bitters and facial serums,
space, a lounge full of natural mate-
coconut bowls, bamboo home goods
rials and things made from the earth.
and herbal blends bottled in reus-
I also wanted to build a community
able glass containers—specializes in
of people who share a passion for the
artisanal and holistic products made
earth and natural products.
with natural ingredients and recycled
Zero-waste stores have many bar-
materials. Her goal: to educate the
riers to entry. Sourcing is an issue.
community and make it easier for
Where can I get this product sustain-
others to carry a lighter ecological
ably? Meaning, who will ship it with-
footprint. We talked with Shepard-
out all the plastic or without using a
son about her approach and building
lot of fuel? It’s a new idea. Two-thirds
a conscientious community.
of our products are made locally. The makers will drop off boxes of new
The Beginning: “After I graduated,
items on their way home. The goods
I booked a flight to Maui, Hawaii, to
are handmade so the least waste pos-
work with my friend on an organic
sible is used. With our Golden Milk
H E A LT H Y L I F E
2 41
HEALTHY LIFE RETAIL THERAPY
Cacao Latte mix, for example, we’ll
perfection. Look in your bedroom,
encourage people to bring the glass
bathroom and kitchen. Pick one thing
back to refill their next order in the
in each room that can be replaced
same container.”
with a sustainable alternative, like swapping your plastic toothbrush
Living Zero-Waste: “It’s a mentality
for a bamboo option. Most people
and a commitment to a greater role.
use about 300 toothbrushes in their
Zero-waste requires thought and
lifetime. Multiply that by the number
consideration for everything. The
of people living in the United States
hardest part is finding items that are
alone, that’s 1 billion toothbrushes a
sustainable, use minimal packaging
year going into the landfill—50 million
and function as well as mainstream
pounds of waste.
options. For the products we source
I tell people to try to find the product
that are not made locally, I will
with the least amount of plastic pack-
research the company to learn their
aging or energy spent on shipping. The
chain of production. Rustic Strength,
most sustainable products are often
one of our brands, makes laundry
made by hand and sourced locally.”
detergent without parabens, perfumes, phthalates or other chemicals,
Operating Through a Pandemic:
and their Close the Loop Program
“My fear was that people wouldn’t be
lets you send back bags to be cleaned
able to financially afford the lifestyle
and reused.
anymore. Thankfully, I have a diverse
In the beginning, you make one
audience. My customers are people
or two changes. Don’t strive for
who prioritize the planet over profit.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
Two-thirds of the items at the shop are made in Southwest Florida, many with packaging materials that can be reused. “The most sustainable products are often made by hand and sourced local,” Shepardson says.
HEALTHY LIFE RETAIL THERAPY
The FGCU grad just launched a workshop space and classes to help others live low-waste.
It was my goal to offer products and respect the economic climate. I did in-store appointments and offered private pick-up times. I had to get creative. It helps that working with local makers, two-thirds of the products in the store are consigned.” What’s Next: “Now, we just opened a workshop space to educate and empower more people with the tools and skills to start living sustainably. Right now, I’m planning a class, Herbalism and Sustainable Business 101. We want to help people live a lower waste lifestyle by growing more of their own food and medicine. I’ve spoken at a number of schools, and I find that a large portion of my customers are the students who have heard me speak. We can see how what we’re doing is impacting their buying habits, starting now when they’re young. My hope is that as a society we’ll commit to these zero-waste practices.”
g ulf shorelife.com
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THE TREATMENT
BEAUT Y IN A BOTTLE
HEALTHY LIFE
One of Naples’ most respected plastic surgeons launches a skincare line that uses scientific research and industry know-how to turn back time. By Carolynn Grimes
targeting aging in a 360-degree
experiences coalesced to help her
way—from daily maintenance to
look far for strong, female role
develop into an accomplished and
enhancing treatments.
models. Her mother graduated
compassionate surgeon, who is
As the daughter of immigrants
from medical school in India and
now among the region’s most
and a wife and mother of three,
started her own cardiology prac-
sought-after.
Gill is the real deal. She easily
tice in the United States while at
The founder of Aesthetics in
relates to patients discussing
the same time earning an MBA.
Plastic Surgery by Kiran Gill,
marriage, kids and balancing a
This made a big mark on a young
MD FACS, a boutique practice
demanding career. “Every patient
Gill, who would accompany her
in Naples that incorporates a spa
should feel like the office knows
mother to work, waiting in the
and an on-site surgical center, Gill
you,” Gill says, explaining her
doctors’ lounge for hours while
is board-certified in plastic and
patient-centric approach to care.
mom completed her rounds. The
reconstructive surgery and fel-
One of the only female plastic
treat? The promise of a shopping
lowship-trained at the prestigious
surgeons in the area, Gill has
trip at the end of the day. Gill still
The Few Institute in Chicago.
seen the field change over the
remembers her first visit to the
She recently launched her own
last 20 years from a time when it
Merle Norman beauty counter.
line of medical-grade skincare
was dominated by men. “In 1976,
In school, Gill excelled in aca-
with a range of five products that
when my mom and dad moved
demics and athletics, as captain
directly target anti-aging and one
to the United States from India,
of Georgetown University ’s
of the top concerns in Florida: sun
there were virtually no women
Division I women’s volleyball
damage. Her goal: to help women
in surgery, and it was especially
team, while cultivating her long-
feel confident in their skin by
hard for my mom as a foreign
246
GULFSHORE LIFE
grade skincare products.
held interest in beauty. All these
geon Kiran Gill didn’t have to
is now tackling aging and sun damage with her own line of five medical-
Growing up, Naples plastic sur-
One of the most sought-after plastic surgeons in the region, Dr. Kiran Gill
Photography by Erik Kellar
g ulf shorelife.com
H E A LT H Y L I F E
247
HEALTHY LIFE THE TREATMENT
Gill’s products aim to fill gaps she identified within the skincare market and can be used in concert with clinical treatments for more advanced results.
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medical grad wanting to go into surgery,”
The other elements of her practice
the medical-grade skincare products
she says. When Gill told her mother that
naturally evolved from there. “I feel like
she sells in her practice, there were some
she had decided on plastic surgery as her
some of the aesthetic procedures are
gaps in the range of the products. So, she
specialty, she said, “You are my daughter.”
reconstructive. The changes a woman’s
spent the last few years researching and
Gill didn’t know that her mother had once
body and skin go through with age, child-
working to produce a line of products that
been a surgical intern. “Like me, surgery
bearing and menopause are significant. I
complement what is on the market from
was her natural inclination,” she says.
have gone through that myself with three
luxury beauty brands. “I didn’t want to
kids. When I hit 40, I was like, ‘What just
recreate what is already out there, but I
happened?’” she says with a laugh.
wanted to add to what many lines were
The reconstructive element of plastic surgery is what initially brought Gill
missing,” she says.
to Naples from the Chicago area. She
Since starting her practice three years
noticed a gap in breast reconstruction
ago, one thing Gill has noticed is the
While many medical-grade prod-
options for breast cancer patients in
number of patients concerned with sun
ucts target anti-aging, there is a gap in
Southwest Florida. “At that time, there
damage. She had patients coming in with
treatment for discoloration and hyper-
were not very many plastic surgeons—
sunspots, melasma and wrinkles that
pigmentation—two issues exacerbated
and no women doctors—focusing on
their skincare regimens weren’t effec-
by sun exposure, Gill says. Combined
breast reconstruction,” she says.
tively treating. She realized that within
with treatments she offers in the clinic,
This year was unlike anything we have experienced. What remained a constant was the need to raise vital research dollars and keep advancing towards a cure. Because of your support, we have done just this! A special thank you to our Gala Co-Chairs Julie Danner and Ashley Gerry; our Live Auction Chair David Collar; our South Gulf Coast Board of Directors; and all of our sponsors, silent auction donors, volunteers, guests, viewers, Fund A Cure donors, and auction winners who supported us at this year's JDRF Hope Gala Virtual Telethon! You are helping us turn Type One into Type None!
SILVER SPONSORS
PROGRAM PRESENTED BY
REGISTRATION SPONSOR
Deborah & John P. Nuzzo VIP GALA SPONSOR
"KIDS SAY THE DARNDEST THINGS" VIDEO SPONSOR
MAGAZINE SPONSOR: GOLD SPONSOR MEDIA SPONSORS: SUPPORTED BY
HEALTHY LIFE THE TREATMENT
WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF SPORTS INJURIES AND CHRONIC PAIN, DR. CHIP SHEMANSKY IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE BEST BONITA, ESTERO AND NAPLES CHIROPRACTORS. THE BEST CHIROPRACTOR SHOULD BE YOUR CHIROPRACTOR.
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CHICAGO
DALLAS
NAPLES
NO _ 5 0 7
The Gone Girl cocktail at Chops City Grill in Naples, photographed by Tina Sargeant
TASTE OF THE GULF
p_ 264
258
Spirited Sipper: T he Jungle Bird cocktail
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Dining Guide: 150 -Plus Essential Restaurants
0 5 _ 2 0 21
Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki, which started as a pop-up bar at the now-defunct Redfish Point, quickly surged in popularity and became a mainstay in Cape Coral. Owner Jeremy Vincent thinks up the bright, expertly layered drinks, while chef Nick Hartmann develops the island-hopping dishes.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
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SPIRITED SIPPER
A RETURN TO TIKI
TASTE OF THE GULF
At Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki, its all about that throwback, beachy culture—and the bar's namesake cocktail celebrates that best.
Brian Tietz
By Chelle Koster Walton
Jeremy Vincent first fell in love
Easy, he fell in love with the tiki
with the Jungle Bird cocktail at
bar concept—not what he calls the
Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 in
“Florida tiki bar,” but authentic
New Orleans in 2017. “The Jungle
tiki bars. Little did he know that he
Bird is an interesting cocktail,”
was among a growing culture with
he says. “It is simple and diverse
its own forums and drinkers who
enough. To me, it’s the perfect
travel far and wide for tiki drinks.
cocktail—Campari and rum rich
Started in the 1930s at such
in banana flavor, it’s really bal-
classics as Beachcomber Don’s
anced. It’s just sweet and bitter
and Trader Vic’s, tiki bars used
enough, not overpowering.”
good rum and fresh juices to con-
He loved the cocktail so much,
coct drinks like the Mai Tai and
he decided to name his Cape
Zombie. “Tiki has kind of been
Coral bar and restaurant for it.
watered down over the past 20
“It played perfectly in with the
to 30 years with mixers and corn
theme and vegetation here,” Vin-
syrups, cheaper booze, thick gross
cent says.
syrupy concoctions,” Vincent
For not only did he fall in love
says. “We broke it down into more
with one cocktail there in the Big
a simple process using recipes
TA S T E O F T H E G U L F
259
TASTE OF THE GULF SPIRITED SIPPER
The bar— with its lush patio, perfect for day sipping—delves deep into tiki lore, with a focus on authentic recipes
Courtesy Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki
dug up from the history books.
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GULFSHORE LIFE
g ulf shorelife.com
TASTE OF THE GULF SPIRITED SIPPER
Made with quality rum and fresh juices, the Jungle Bird cocktail is a
from old-school tiki books—not
For others, who think all that’s
really sweet, syrupy, coconuty;
required is a thatched roof, it’s
more boozy with good aged rum
an education process. “Tiki bars
and fresh juice.”
are supposed to be dollar shots
Vincent carried the concept
and $1.50 beers,” Vincent says.
of an authentic tiki bar with him
Some people come into the lush
since then. So, when the owners at
courtyard that separates two
Redfish Point restaurant, where
interior dining and bar spaces
he was consulting at the time,
expecting the typical cheap
talked about closing after the
bar food and coconut shrimp.
COVID-19 shutdown, the former
“Chef Nick [Hartmann] and I
manager at Fathoms and Gather
decided to make food we’d like
restaurants pulled a menu out of
to eat and a little more unique…
his pocket. “We joked. They were
a bar we would like to go to,” he
like ‘you always keep this in your
says. Tiki drinks and summer
pocket?’” Vincent says.
belong together, he adds. So, this
In August, they agreed to part-
month, he shares his slightly
ner on a pop-up Jungle Bird. By
tweaked rendition of the Jungle
November, immediate popular-
Bird, served up traditionally in
ity made it a permanent fixture.
a tiki-style mug. Tiki lore traces
So-called tiki nerds come from
its invention to the Hilton Kuala
as far as Miami and Orlando.
Lumpur in Malaysia, circa 1970.
262
GULFSHORE LIFE
Brian Tietz (4)
refreshing, balanced ode to tiki culture and traces its roots to Malaysia.
g ulf shorelife.com
J UN GLE B IR D CO CK TA IL Serving: 1 Time: 1 minute (without syrup) • 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice • 1/2 ounce demerara simple syrup (equal parts demerara sugar and water, heated until sugar dissolves) • 1 1/2 ounces pineapple juice • 1/2 ounce Campari • 1 1/2 ounces Cruzan Black Strap Rum* Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into tiki mug. *Bartender’s note: “You can use other dark rums, but it won’t be the same. There’s no other like it,” Vincent says of the blackstrap molasses rum.
TA S T E O F T H E G U L F
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TA S T E O F T H E G U L F
DINING GUIDE The Dining Guide is crafted each month based on editorial discretion, as well as inclusion of restaurants that advertise regularly (denoted by an asterisk). All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified. Please email diningout@gulfshorelife.com to report changes in a restaurant’s location, prices or menu. As conditions are constantly changing during the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend you contact the restaurants for the latest information.
DINING GUIDE KEY:
b
Brunch
o
Outside Dining
p
Pet-Friendly
v
Valet
w
Water Views
The recently renovated Chops City Grill, on Fifth Avenue South in Naples, exemplifies
264
GULFSHORE LIFE
Tina Sargeant
the modern American steakhouse with its baroque-inspired interiors and premium cuts.
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MARCO ISL AND Ario 400 S. Collier Blvd., 394-2511. jwmarriottmarcoisland.com. This contemporary fine dining restaurant at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort has exciting culinary offerings, including an impressive bar program. $$$$ STEAK
ov
The Oyster Society 599 S. Collier Blvd., 394-3474. theoystersociety.com. With a plethora of bivalves to choose from (more than eight daily), plus a raw bar, sushi and fresh catches, this chic Art Deco-style eatery won’t disappoint. $$$$ SEAFOOD
o
Sale e Pepe 480 S. Collier Blvd., 3931600. sale-e-pepe.com. A long-standing gem with an oceanfront patio in the Marco Beach Ocean Resort, it’s known for its authentic Italian dishes with a haute twist and a formidable wine cellar. $$$$ ITALIAN
bovw NAPLES
THIRD STREET SOUTH Barbatella 1290 Third St. S., 263-1955. barbatellanaples.com. Casual Italian cuisine from the people behind Sea Salt.
Meet up at the trendy wine bar or on the relaxed patio.
$$$ ITALIAN
op
The Bevy 360 12th Ave. S., 228-4220. naplesbevy.com. Enjoy premium craft cocktails and varied influences at this Third Street locale. The open-air setup with a retractable roof is nothing short of impressive, too. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
Campiello/The Club Room 1177 Third St. S., 435-1166. campiellonaples.com. A favorite for its contemporary Italian cuisine and courtyard. Last year, The Club Room, a restaurant within, launched with an its own menu, drinks
and live music most nights. $$$$ ITALIAN
opv
D’Amico’s The Continental 1205 Third St. S., 659-0007. damicoscontinental.com. Experience top-quality cuts of steak from around the globe that are enhanced by stylish modern decor, private cabanas and a “cocktail lab.” $$$$ STEAK
opv
Jane’s Cafe on 3rd 1209 Third St. S., 261-2253. janesgardencafe.com. Folks come for the lobster Benedict and stuffed French toast, but they stay to sit around the lovely koi fountain on the sunny patio. $$ CASUAL
bopv
HALF-PRICED
BOTTLES OF WINE
EVERY TUESDAY *ALL WINES UP TO $100 EACH
2200 EDWARDS DRIVE FORT MYERS, FL 33901 239.314.3800 LUMINARYHOTEL.COM/TASTE
TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
Ridgway Bar & Grill 1300 Third St. S., 262-5500. ridgwaybarandgrill.com. A quintessential Old Naples restaurant with creative American fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
Sea Salt 1186 Third St. S., 434-7258. seasaltnaples.com. A local favorite for sophisticated seafood and its accompaniments. Monthly wine dinners and other events are not to be missed. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
opv
FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro 865 Fifth Ave. S., 594-5557. bhabhabistro.com. Find exquisite Persian cuisine in this recently refreshed jewel box of a dining room. Choose from a variety of authentic fare, plus unique twists to vegetables, lamb, chicken, beef and more. $$$$ MIDDLE EASTERN
o
zo Betulia, expect exquisite escargot and steak tartare in a buzzworthy atmosphere. $$$ FRENCH
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Hobnob Kitchen & Bar 720 Fifth Ave. S., Unit 101, 580-0070. hobnobnaples.com. Updated takes on American cuisine in a cool, contemporary dining room. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Ocean Prime 699 Fifth Ave. S., 430-0404. ocean-prime.com. National restaurateur Cameron Mitchell presents an upscale, fromscratch kitchen mixing surf and turf, an elegant dining room and highly attentive service. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
v
Osteria Tulia/Bar Tulia 466 Fifth Ave. S., 213-2073. osteriatulia.com. Expect Sicilian-inspired dishes served in a rustic-chic setting or the Bar Tulia gastropub, which has unbeatable craft cocktails. $$$ ITALIAN
Bistro 821 821 Fifth Ave. S., 261-5821. bistro821.com. Kitchen open for the eyes of the customers and a menu filled with originality. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
opv
Pazzo! Cucina Italiana 853 Fifth Ave. S., 434-8494. pazzoitaliancafe.com. Beautiful presentations and twists on Italian favorites. $$$$ ITALIAN
opv
Chops City Grill 837 Fifth Ave. S., 262-4677. chopscitygrill.com. Fine steaks are served at this elegant, baroque-inspired steakhouse that was renovated in 2019.
Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Local seafood in a casual setting.
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The French Brasserie Rustique 365 Fifth Ave. S., 315-4019. thefrenchnaples.com. From celebrated local chef Vincen-
Riverwalk* 1200 Fifth Ave. S., 263-2734. riverwalktincity.com. This is a
$$$$ STEAK
266
$$$ SEAFOOD
GULFSHORE LIFE
favorite in Tin City, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the river. Open for lunch, Sunday brunch and dinner. $$$ SEAFOOD
ow
Sails Restaurant 301 Fifth Ave. S., 360-2000. sailsrestaurants.com. This refined eatery and raw bar recently lured chef Eli Kaimeh, who has multiple Michelin stars to his name, to further elevate its large selection of international fish, unusual crudos and impeccable service. A spectacular Sunday champagne brunch is a destination in itself. $$$$ SEAFOOD
opvb
Sushi Thai Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. sushithaitoo.com. Large selection of sushi and Thai dishes. $$$ ASIAN
opv
Truluck’s 698 Fourth Ave. S., 530-3131. trulucks.com. The fine dining locale touts seafood from the Gulf and beyond. $$$$ SEAFOOD
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Veranda E 290 Fifth Ave. S., 659-3466. hotelescalante.com. A courtyard setting and menu with both Asian and French influences in the Hotel Escalante.
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
DOWNTOWN NAPLES The Claw Bar 221 Ninth St. S., 231-3912. theclawbar.com. Expect Southern charm in spades, the
best oysters (hot and cold), exquisite seafood masterpieces and cocktails with flair. $$$$ SEAFOOD
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Grappino 90 9th St N., 331-4325. grappinonaples.com. New from the Aielli Group, this Italian eatery offers a fine selection of charcuterie and bruschetta as well as build-your-own pasta dishes and pizzas. $$$ ITALIAN
op
The Lake Park Diner 944 Seventh Ave N., 228-6351. thelakeparkdiner.com. Grab and go or sit on the outdoor patio. From the team behind The Bevy, this casual spot serves healthy, organic fare with many vegan options, plus diner classics including milkshakes. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
Seventh South Craft Food + Drink 849 Seventh Ave S., 231-4553. seventhsouth.com. Adam Nardis, the former executive chef of M Waterfront Grille, and Barry Larkin, the former bar manager of 7th Avenue Social, teamed up to launch this new eatery with a focus on seasonal ingredients that’s the best restaurant to have launched in the past year. $$$ AMERICAN
The Rooster Food + Drink 600 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Suite 101, 228-5973. theroosternaples.com. A breakfast and lunch spot with elaborate dishes, like braised short ribs over grits with salsa verde. Dinner is served Wednesday through Friday in season. $$ CASUAL
op
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BAYFRONT Stoney’s Steakhouse 403 Bayfront Place, 435-9353. stoneyssteakhouse.com. Formerly K-Prime Steakhouse, this stately dining room features prime cuts and great herb-crusted prime rib. Slated to reopen soon. $$$$ STEAK CRAY TON COVE Bleu Provence 1234 Eighth St. S., 261-8239. bleuprovencenaples.com. It channels the south of France in Old Naples with amazing food and a stunning wine list. It’s consistently one of the Gulfshore’s best restaurants. $$$$ FRENCH
opv
Chez Boët 755 12th Ave. S., 643-6177. chezboetnaples.com. French staples with a personal touch from the husband-wife owners, plus a full bar. $$$$ FRENCH
opw
The Dock at Crayton Cove* 845 12th Ave. S., 263-9940. dockcraytoncove.com. A longtime favorite, this laidback spot serves Florida seafood on Naples Bay. $$$ SEAFOOD
opw
EAST NAPLES 21 Spices by Chef Asif 4270 Tamiami Trail E. #21, 919-8830. 21spicesdining. com. No average curry house (but you can get great chicken tikka masala). It features an
award-winning chef and a full bar. $$$ INDIAN
in a fun, art-filled atmosphere.
op
op
Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen 4270 Tamiami Trail E., 3154167. kareemskitchen.com. Locals rave about the authentic seven types of hummus and entrees like roasted chicken with za’atar-spiced potatoes.
Rumba Cuban Café 1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., 659-2996. rumbacuban cafe.com. Classic Cuban cuisine with fun twists and attentive service. $$$
$$$ MIDDLE EASTERN
o
LowBrow Pizza & Beer 3148 Tamiami Trail E., 5296919. lowbrowpizzaandbeer. com. Gourmet pies with artisanal cheeses and unique toppings made from scratch are fired in a wood-burning oven; served with craft brews
HHHHI
$$ ITALIAN
LATIN AMERICAN
o
Texas Tony’s* 4519 Tamiami Trail E., 7328392. texastonys.com. Ribs, brisket and more are complemented by a large selection of beer at this eatery. $$ BARBECUE
o
Three60 Market 2891 Bayview Drive, Naples,
Photo courtesy of Maxwell Mackenzie
Yelp / TripAdvisor
Photo: Jonathon Hunt
WATERFRONT PARADISE
Tarpon Lodge and Restaurant offers a tranquil getaway steeped in “Old Florida” tradition. Famous for its acclaimed dining, whispering Gulf breezes, and spectacular nightly sunset shows. TARPONLODGE.COM 13771 WATERFRONT DR PINE ISLAND, FL 239-283-3999
COME BY CAR OR BOAT: N 26.39.562 W 82.9.180
TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
732-7331. three60market.com. A breakfast and lunch cafe with gourmet flair and an extensive wine shop that offers dinner carryout specials. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
opw
$$ LATIN AMERICAN
op
MIDTOWN Alexander’s Restaurant 4077 Tamiami Trail N., 2624999. alexandersnaples.com. The menus are filled with seafood and tastes from around the world, presented in a modern cafe and lush garden atmosphere. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
Andre’s Steakhouse 2800 Tamiami Trail N., 2635851. If you’re a fan of Peter Luger, opt for this tiny joint founded by one of its former chefs. $$$$ STEAK
op
Cibao Grille 814 Neapolitan Way, 4346653. cibaogrille.com. Caribbean dishes from the owners’ native Dominican Republic mix with American classics. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
Dorona 2110 Tamiami Trail N., 5292819. doronanaples.com. Upscale-casual steakhouse from the owners with a delightfully diverse menu. $$$$ STEAK
opb
Escargot 41 4339 Tamiami Trail N., 7935000. escargot41.com. This traditional French restaurant features a page of escargot specials alone, plus a large wine list. $$$ FRENCH
op
Fernández the Bull 3375 Pine Ridge Road, Unit 101, 653-9097; 1201 Piper Blvd. Unit 10, 254-9855. fernandezthebull.com. Great, authentic Cuban dishes.
Food & Thought 2132 Tamiami Trail N., 2132222. foodandthought.com. An organic grocer and counter-service cafe with raw and vegan options. $ VEGETARIAN
op
Fujiyama 2555 Tamiami Trail N., 261-4332. naplesfujiyama. com. Japanese master chefs prepare dinners with flair at your hibachi table. $$$ ASIAN
o
FUSE Global Cuisine/ FUSE BBQ 2500 Tamiami Trail N. #115, 455-4585. fuseglobalcuisine. com. Cuisines from around the world at the fine dining Fuse; insanely good barbecue next door. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
op
Harold’s Place 2555 Tamiami Trail N., 263-7254. naplesharoldsplace. com. This chickee bar serves an award-winning charbroiled burger. $ CASUAL
op
Hogfish Harry’s 600 Neapolitan Way, 7767623. hogfishharrys.com. Expect an airy island feel with a streamlined menu that is following a commitment to sourcing 90% of it from local fishermen. $$$ SEAFOOD
o
Hyde N Chic 923 Creech Rd., 404-3065, hydenchicrestaurant.com. An evening spent in chef Andy Hyde’s artfully appointed dining room with him guiding you through his eclectic, inspired tasting menus is an inimitable experience in fine dining. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Jimmy P’s Charred 1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 643-2427; 25301 Tamiami Trail S., Bonita Springs, 390-0301. jimmypscharred.com. A casual steakhouse specializing in wagyu beef from Naples’ longtime trusted butcher. $$$$ STEAK
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Lamoraga Restaurant 3936 Tamiami Trail N., 3313669, lamoragarestaurant.com. Contemporary upscale twists on Spanish dishes, plus other small plates. $$$$ SPANISH
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Le Indya 975 Pine Ridge Road, 591-5156. leindya.com. The authentic Indian cuisine here has attracted many fans since its recent debut and features an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan fare. $$ INDIAN
The Local 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, 596-3276. thelocalnaples. com. Locally sourced, healthy cuisine. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
o
Martin Fierro 13040 Livingston Road, 3004777. martinfierrorestaurant. com. Authentic Argentinian and Uruguayan parrillada, with grass-fed beef and tango music. $$$ LATIN AMERICAN
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GULFSHORE LIFE
Moura Bistro 3369 Pine Ridge Road, 7388883. mourabistro.com. A tiny spot with flavorful selections of Lebanese fare, like falafel, tabbouleh, shawarma and kebabs. $$$ MIDDLE EASTERN
o
Shula’s Steak House
430-4999. shulasnaples. com. Expect classic steakhouse fare from Hall-ofFame Coach Don Shula. $$$$ STEAK
Swan River Seafood and Fish Market
3741 Tamiami Trail N., 4037000. swanriverseafood. com. Find Cape Cod-style seafood, and a market with a fresh catches, Angus beef, wine and more.
$$$ SEAFOOD
o
USS Nemo
3745 Tamiami Trail N., 2616366. ussnemorestaurant. com. Masterful creations using fresh seafood from a classically trained chef who is among the best in Southwest Florida. $$$ SEAFOOD
o
THE VILL AGE SHOPS ON VENETIAN BAY Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 6495552. baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com. Here, you’ll find more than 200 feet of waterfront dining, inside and out. Enjoy live music at the deck bar. $$$$ SEAFOOD
opv
M Waterfront Grille 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 263-4421. mwaterfrontgrille. com. Expect organic meat,
g ulf shorelife.com
seafood and produce served in the main dining room with bay views, plus a full bar and front terrace. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Steakhouse dining on the waterfront, featuring USDA prime meats and Maine lobster. $$$$ STEAK
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MiraMare Ristorante
4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 430-6273. miramarenaples. com. Come for the waterfront patio, stay for large portions of calamari and chicken francese. $$$ ITALIAN
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WATERSIDE SHOPS True Food Kitchen 5375 Tamiami Trail N. Suite 15, 431-4580. truefoodkitchen. com. The majority of the menu caters to vegetarians, but it’s a perfect place for flexitarians, too. $$$ VEGETARIAN
o T-Michaels Steak and Lobster House 4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 261-0622. t-michaels.com.
598-5707. laplayaresort.com. A beachfront wraparound terrace sets the stage for the creative cuisine at the LaPlaya resort. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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The Bay House/The Claw Bar at Tierney’s Tavern 799 Walkerbilt Road, 591-3837. bayhousenaples.com. Enjoy the Southern-inspired menus with panoramic views of a mangrove-lined waterway, or the rustic tavern and bar with live music every night.
Black Forest Restaurant Immokalee Road, 592-4784. blackforestnaples.com. Classic German and Austrian dishes in an intimate setting in the Green Tree Plaza.
$$$$ SEAFOOD
NORTH NAPLES Baleen 9891 Gulf Shore Drive,
European coffee and pastries are the backbone here, plus a tightly edited gourmet menu from acclaimed chef David Rashty. $$ ITALIAN
ovwb Bella Mia Italian Cafe 808 Wiggins Pass Road, 2503310. bellamiaitaliancafe.com.
$$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN
Bone Hook Brewing Co. 1514 Immokalee Road, 6318522. bonehookbrewing.com. This well-respected microbrewery now has a taproom with a full kitchen, table service and grub. $$ BAR BITES
op
DRY AGED
ON-PREMISE
LIVE MUSIC • OUTDOOR HEATED DINING & FIRE PITS • SAT AND SUN BRUNCH • FULL LIQUOR LICENSE
Reserve your individual steak now.
239-208-8518
2150 West First Street Fort Myers, Fl 33901
www.kingskitchenandbar.com www.facebook.com/kingskitchenandbar
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Renoir painting at Côte D’Azur, a North Naples staple of fine French cuisine. The restaurant’s cassolette d’escargots and foie gras is not to be missed.
$$ FRENCH
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Côte d’Azur 11224 Tamiami Trail N., 5978867. cotedazurrestaurant. com. Delectable French cuisine offering everything from filet mignon to quail in a cozy Provençal setting. $$$$ FRENCH
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The Crust
8004 Trail Blvd., 244-8488. thecrustpizza.net. With a huge bar and games on TV, it’s one of Naples’ most popular pizza joints, specializing in thin-crust pies cut into bite-size squares, plus salads and subs. $$ ITALIAN DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge*
241 Center St. N., 591-1200. darumarestaurant.com. Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. Teriyaki steak, filet mignon, chicken, seafood,
GULFSHORE LIFE
tempura and sushi. $$$$ ASIAN
Deep Lagoon Seafood & Fish Market*
10395 Tamiami Trail N., 631-6266. deeplagoon.com. At this fresh concept from the family behind Pinchers, there’s an extensive seafood market. $$$ SEAFOOD
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Dusk 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com. Known for some of the most intriguing sushi around, this lounge in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is full of dark corners and couches, plus a patio
overlooking the Gulf. $$$$ ASIAN
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Grain De Café
8803 Tamiami Trail N., 594-8081. frenchcafenaples. com. Waiting in the line is worth it for the freshest pain au chocolat, quiches and crepes. $$ FRENCH
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The Grill
280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com. This steakhouse in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, evokes the ambience of an elegant private club. $$$$ STEAK
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Vanessa Rogers
Café Gourmand 9853 Tamiami Trail N., 260-7109. cafegourmand. net. Try the best selection of crepes in Naples at this quaint spot. Tuesday-Sunday, white tablecloths come out at night for formal dinner service.
TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche 1575 Pine Ridge Road #9; 1514 Immokalee Road; 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 234-2442. komoonthai.com. A fun mix of Thai, Japanese and Peruvian fare. $$ ASIAN
Rocco’s Tacos
9123 Strada Place, 500-8226. roccostacos.com/naples. It’s a perpetual party at this lively joint which serves more than 400 tequilas. $$$ MEXICAN
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 631-6844. mistero1. com. “Extraordinary” isn’t hyperbole; try the star pizza for proof. $$ ITALIAN
THE PAVILION
BONITA SPRINGS
KC American Bistro 885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 566-2371. kcamericanbistro. com. Seasonal, regional American cuisine in a casually elegant setting from chef Keith Casey. Now has an Estero location, too.
Angelina’s Ristorante 24041 S. Tamiami Trail, 390-3187. angelinasofbonitasprings.com. Fine foods, lush banquettes and an award-winning wine list make for a top area restaurant.
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Namba
8847 Tamiami Trail N., 592-4992. nambanaples. com. This Japanese menu is limited to a remarkable selection of ramen, sushi and small plates. $$$ ASIAN Parmesan Pete’s
7935 Airport-Pulling Road, 992-3663. parmesanpetes. com. Order huge portions of Parmesans, meatballs and lasagna. $$$ ITALIAN
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The Turtle Club 9225 Gulf Shore Drive, 5926557. turtleclubnaples.com. Upscale casual beachfront restaurant offering coastal cuisine. $$$$ SEAFOOD
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Zen Asian BBQ 10823 Tamiami Trail N., 2607037. eatatzen.com. Pan-Asian fusion joint with sushi, ramen, bar bites and Korean barbecue. $$$ ASIAN
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MERCATO The Hampton Social 9114 Strada Place, 202-2038. thehamptonsocial.com. A lofty Chicago-export with a chic, rosé-all-day bar scene complemented by great seafood. $$$ SEAFOOD
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Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Tacos & Tequila Cantina
8971 Tamiami Trail N., 254-8226; 4834 Davis Blvd., 732-8226; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers, 330-8226. tacosandtequilanaples.com. Tacos with lots of clever spins, plus margaritas aplenty. $$ MEXICAN
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GALLERIA SHOPPES AT VANDERBILT Alpine Restaurant
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 325-9499. alpineofnaples.com. The best of German, Slovak, Czech, Polish and Hungarian cuisines. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN
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The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar
2343 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 513-0095. naples winecollection.com. An ode to Burgundy’s cellars, complete with continental small plates. $$$ BAR BITES
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$$$$ ITALIAN
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C Level Bistro & Wine Bar
4450 Bonita Beach Road, 221-7046. c-levelbar.com. Quiet and effortlessly refined, this intimate eatery is dependable for continental fare like steak au poivre and raspberry duck. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Cirella’s*
deromos.com. This restaurant with a big-city vibe is part and parcel of an Italian market, featuring fresh pastas, cheeses and baked goods. $$$$ ITALIAN
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Figs Grille 25987 S. Tamiami Trail #109, 390-1700. figsgrille.com. Refreshing fusion of Spanish, Turkish, Moroccan, Lebanese and French cuisines.
$$$ MEDITERRANEAN
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Olde Florida Chop House* 3401 Bay Commons Dr., 948-4400. oldefloridachophouse.com. Waterfront dining specializing in Florida-style dishes. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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The Other Side Bistro
24630 S. Tamiami Trail, 9927433. bonitaspringsbistro. com. Chef Brian McCarley serves comforting dishes with a modern flair. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
25265 Chamber of Commerce Drive, 948-3885. cirellasrestaurantsswfl.com. It’s an unusual combination that works—an Italian restaurant with a sushi bar. $$$ ITALIAN
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Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille
5370 Bonita Beach Road, 676-7777. coconutjacks.com. Quiet water views off Bonita Beach Road. Perfect for a quick bite. $$$ SEAFOOD
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DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant 26811 South Bay Drive, Suites 140 and 148, 325-3583.
TA S T E O F T H E G U L F
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Petar’s Restaurant
3300 Bonita Beach Road, Unit 120, 249-4064. petarsrestaurant.com. Chef Petar Al Kurdi has developed a strong following for his deftly and cleverly prepared continental cuisine. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD
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TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
Roy’s Restaurant 26831 South Bay Drive, 498-7697. roysrestaurant.com. Enjoy celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian and Pacific fusion fine dining. $$$$ ASIAN
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A Table Apart 4295 Bonita Beach Road, 2218540. atableapart.com. This restaurant fuses influences from all throughout the Pacific Rim. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN Tarpon Bay 5001 Coconut Road, 390-
4295. hyatt.com. Elegant waterfront dining at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. $$$$ SEAFOOD
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Wylds Café 4271 Bonita Beach Road, 9470408. wyldscafe.com. Three chefs join forces for a modern American fine dining experience at a reasonable price. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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ESTERO Divieto Ristorante 23161 Village Shops Way #101,
390-2977. divietoristorante. com. This place is famous for fettuccine Alfredo prepared in a hollowed-out Parmesan wheel. $$$ ITALIAN
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FORT MYERS BE ACH Fresh Catch Bistro
3040 Estero Blvd., 4632600. freshcatchbistro.com. A notch above the more casual fare on the beach without feeling stuffy. $$$ SEAFOOD
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Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a super-casual, family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD
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FORT MYERS SOUTH FORT MYERS Artisan Eatery
8951 Daniels Parkway, 887-4844. artisaneatery. com. Look beyond the counter service, soda machine and postage stamp size of
Casual but refined, KC American Bistro (with locations in Naples and Estero)
Vanessa Rogers
offers chef Keith Casey’s seasonal, regional recipes in a swanky setting.
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this cafe for outstanding eggs Benedict, flatbreads and daily specials. $$ CASUAL
Ember Korean Steakhouse
7091 College Parkway #9, 771-8818. emberfortmyers. com. A contemporary gem with everything from tabletop barbecue to fusion dishes and sushi. $$$ ASIAN Fancy’s Southern Café
8890 Salrose Lane #101, 561-2988. fancyssoutherncafe.com. Classic southern favorites served in a casually elegant atmosphere. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
Harold’s 15250 S. Tamiami Trail Suite 107, 849-0622. haroldscui-
sine.com. Chef Harold Balink presents farm-to-table cuisine and a large wine list in a cozy bistro setting. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
La Trattoria Café Napoli
Villas Plaza, 12377 S. Cleveland Ave., 931-0050. latrattoriacafenapoli.com. Known for chef-owner Gloria M. Jordan-Cabral’s paella, this Spanish restaurant features a variety of tapas, pasta and seafood dishes. $$$ MEDITERRANEAN
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Liberty
12995 S. Cleveland Ave. Ste. 112, 689-5528. eatliberty.us. A rising star chef owns and runs this 32-seat, dinner-only gem, where the flavors are progressive, artfully plated and constantly changing. Perfect for date night. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Osteria Celli
15880 Summerlin Road #308, 267-1310. osteriacelli. com. Authentic, freshly made pastas are a highlight of this upscale casual eatery. $$$ ITALIAN
Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties.
pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a casual and family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD
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The Saucy Meatball
12401 Commerce Lakes Drive, 800-7172. saucymeatball.com. A younger sister to the long popular 2 Meatballs in the Kitchen, this industrial-chic pizzeria also serves crave-worthy pasta dishes, salads, entrees. $$ ITALIAN
Silk Road
8646 Gladiolus Drive, 689-4845. Specializing in Central Asian cuisine, this place takes diners on a
Authentic Lebanese Cuisine VOTED BY THE GULFSHORE LIFE READERS • BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT • BEST MEDITERRANEAN • BEST KEPT SECRET RESTAURANT • BEST TAPAS RESTAURANT
DINE IN OR TAKE OUT, CALL TODAY FOR RESERVATIONS OR TO PLACE YOUR ORDER.
(239) 738-8883
3369 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109 www.MouraBistro.com Facebook/Moura.bistro
TAKE OUT AVAILABLE!
DAILY SPECIALS | FULL BAR
OPEN DAILY 11am - 10pm
TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
rewarding epicurean journey with Uzbek delicacies and traditional food and wine offerings from throughout the region. $$ ASIAN Viet Village 16571 S. Tamiami Trail, 208-8368. vietvillagefl.com. After an extensive renovation, this lovely Vietnamese spot reopened to critical acclaim; don’t miss the rare-beef pho and the special rice cooked in a clay pot. $$ ASIAN
BELL TOWER SHOPS DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge* 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., 344-0037. darumarestaurant.com. Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. Steak, chicken, seafood, tempura, sushi and more. $$$$ ASIAN
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CENTRAL FORT MYERS Chef Brooke’s Natural Café
1850 Boy Scout Drive #A106, 332-2433. chefbrookeonline.com. Organic,
gluten-free and vegan cuisine. Open until 4 p.m. $$ VEGETARIAN
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El Gaucho Inca 4383 Colonial Blvd., 275-7504. elgauchoinca.com. Traditional Argentinian and Peruvian food prepared to perfection. Thepersonal service is also a delight. $$ LATIN AMERICAN
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Ginger Bistro
4650 Cleveland Ave. #8, 689-3113; 2366 Surfside Blvd. Unit C-101, Cape
Coral, 558-8865. gingerbistrousa.com. Authentic Chinese fare, including dim sum and traditional Cantonese barbecue. $$ ASIAN KJ’s Steakhouse
10950 S. Cleveland Ave., 275-4745. kjsfreshgrill.com. The creators behind this upscale-casual chophouse pride themselves on aging and searing. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Sasse’s Restaurant
3651 Evans Ave., 2785544. sassesrestaurant.
Ario at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort serves cocktails that are as fanciful as
Courtesy Ario Restaurant
the stunning Gulf view.
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com. Northern Italian and European cuisine cooked in a wood-burning oven to critical acclaim. $$$$ ITALIAN
MCGREGOR CORRIDOR Azure
15301 McGregor Blvd., 288-4296. azurefortmyers. com. At this casual boîte, chef Joe Pittman excels at modernized classics.
415-4375. roadhousecafefl. com. There’s something for
everyone, with steaks as well as a wide range of dishes.
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS
Blanc
Bullig Coffee & Bites 1815 Fowler St., 703-2629. Thoroughly modern with a whimsical touch, Bullig has bespoke java brews that are works of art, plus savory and sweet waffles and more. Not open past 3 p.m. $ CASUAL
Cibo
Izzy’s Fish & Oyster 2282 First St., Fort Myers, 337-4999. izzysftmyers.com. A former Miami-based chef relocated his chic raw bar and New England-style seafood spot to the River District.
$$$ FRENCH
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13451 McGregor Blvd., 8873139. blancentertainment. com. The contemporary restaurant mixes trends, like sous vide and robata grilling, with a strong French influence. $$ FRENCH 454-3700. cibofortmyers. com. At Bridge Plaza, this Italian restaurant features seafood, steak, pasta— and an abundance of wines. $$$ ITALIAN
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Crave Restaurant
12901 McGregor Blvd., 4664663. cravemenu.com. The chef makes all the comfort food from scratch—down to the deli meat for breakfast and lunch.$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House* 14040 McGregor Blvd., 6895474. deeplagoon.com. This waterfront spot distinguishes itself with a raw bar and scenic marina views. $$$ SEAFOOD
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Roadhouse Café 15660 San Carlos Blvd.,
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$$$ SEAFOOD
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King’s Kitchen
2150 W. First St., 2088518. kingskitchenandbar. com. This laidback spot with a warehouse vibe and beer garden serves global comforts, like country fried chicken and mojo roast pork. $$ ECLECTIC
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Oxbow Bar & Grill 1300 Hendry St., 314-3856. oxbowfortmyers.com. On the banks of the Caloosahatchee, it’s under the Luminary Hotel & Co.’s umbrella and offers upscale-casual dockside dining with a Southern coastal flair. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Seed & Bean Market* 1520 Broadway, 243-8137.
To Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Keylime Bistro One Lucky Newsletter Subscriber Will Win A 2ct. Emerald & Diamond Ring. TO BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN, SIMPLY SUBSCRIBE.
RestaurantsOnCaptiva.com Live Entertainment Daily Sunday Jazz Brunch Late Night Lounge Outdoor Seating Walking Distance to the Beach RESERVATIONS ACCEPTED FOR PARTIES OF 5 OR MORE Open Daily 8AM – 10PM 11509 Andy Rosse Ln. Captiva Island, FL
239-395-4000
KeylimeBistroCaptiva.com
TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
seedandbeanmarket.com.
A shop selling all things CBD, plus a cute cafe serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$ CASUAL
Silver King Ocean Brasserie 2200 Edwards Drive, 833-9181512. luminaryhotel.com. It’s the signature restaurant inside the new Luminary Hotel & Co., and it’s serving up sophisticated coastal cuisine in a contemporary setting. $$$$ SEAFOOD
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The Standard 1520 Broadway, 219-6463.
thestandardftmyers.com.
Fresh and from-scratch eats and craft cocktails in a convivial atmosphere. $$$
Twisted Vine Bistro
2214 Bay Street, 226-1687. twistedvinebistro.com. Expect eclectic twists on grill and seafood dishes with a large wine list. The Barrel Room next door stocks rare whiskies and live blues. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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The Veranda 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 332-2065. verandarestaurant. com. Fort Myers’ grande dame; it’s where to dine on filet mignon and veal with topnotch service. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
NORTH FORT MYERS Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm 8250 Nalle Grade Road, 5676000. rosy-tomorrows.com. Enjoy breakfast and lunch Thursday through Sunday—as you graze, you can see the humanely raised longhorn cattle, hogs and chickens. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
1608. bleurendezvous.com. Chef Christian Vivet’s menu is lauded for its authentic cuisine. $$$$ FRENCH
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Cielo
1244 Periwinkle Way, 4725555. cielo-sanibel.com. The modern American fare is all made in-house. $$$$
MODERN AMERICAN
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SANIBEL ISL AND
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Multiple locations throughout Lee County. docfords.com.
Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro
2430 Periwinkle Way, 565-
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Go for the seafood, mojitos and its namesake rum bar. $$$ SEAFOOD
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MODERN AMERICAN
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T H E W E AT H E R A U T H O R I T Y
BECAUSE ACCURACY MATT ERS.
Matt Devitt Chief Meteorologist
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The Mad Hatter
6467 Sanibel Captiva Road, 472-0033. madhatterrestaurant.com. Whimsical beachfront fine dining. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen 1473 Periwinkle Way, 4722221. mudbugssanibel.com.
From the ornate wrought iron balustrade to a menu chock full of Crescent City classics like beignets and po’ boys, everything is designed to harken the French Quarter. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Sweet Melissa’s Café 1625 Periwinkle Way, 4721956. sweetmelissascafe. com. Chef Melissa Donahue-Talmage’s creative cuisine is not to be missed—she became Sanibel’s first semifinalist for a James Beard Award in 2019. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
NAPLES . FT. MYERS . SARASOTA
241 Center Street N, Naples, Florida 34108 239-591-1200 13499 South Cleveland Ave, Ft Myers, Florida 33907 239-344-0037 5459 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, Florida 34232 941-342-6600 4910 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231 941-552-9465
www.DaRuMaRestaurant.com
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T2
2340 Periwinkle Way, 558-8919. t2traders.com. This retro-chic spot serves short rib flatbreads, curried snapper and house-made bread pudding. $$$
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C APTIVA ISL AND Keylime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn* 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, 3954000. keylimebistrocaptiva. com. Colorful, with an island feel, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a full bar.
ANDY HYDE 923 Creech Road, Naples, FL 34103 Tel: 239-404-3065 www.hydenchicrestaurant.com Catering | Private Events | Off-site Events
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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At Liberty, in Fort Myers, chef Bob Boye plays with flavors and cooking techniques to concoct inventive small plates. Opposite: Bleu Provence is a favorite in Naples for its authentic French menu.
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RC Otter’s Island Eats* 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, 395-1142. captivaislandinn. com. This beachside restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to the tune of daily live music. $$ CASUAL
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Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, 472-6200. captivaislandinn. com. A step above the rest of the island’s beachy cafes, this spot serves selections such as paella and rack of lamb. $$$$ SEAFOOD
C APE COR AL & PINE ISL AND Blu Agave
1404 Cape Coral Parkway E., 471-2075. bluagaverestaurant.com. Expect Mexican
GULFSHORE LIFE
classics like tacos, enchiladas, margaritas and flan. $$ MEXICAN
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Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar 837 SE 47th Terrace, 542-6622. corksoakers.net. A delightfully irreverent tone shows in decor and menu (“The Hangover sandwich” and curry-brined wings). $$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Fathoms Restaurant & Bar
5785 Cape Harbour Drive,
542-0123. fathomsrestau rant.com. A modern Cape Harbour restaurant serving cuisine with international influences and authentic flavors. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Fish Tale Grill By Merrick Seafood
1229 SE 47th Terrace, 257-3167. fishtalegrill.com. Starting with fresh fish from the adjacent market, many popular items here earn descriptions like “the best I ever ate.” $$$$ SEAFOOD
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Vanessa Rogers; Erik Kellar
The Mucky Duck 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, 4723434. muckyduck.com. Expect a British pub vibe with seafood platters, beers and live music on the beach. $$$ CASUAL
TASTE OF THE GULF
DINING GUIDE
Gather
5971 Silver King Blvd., 6739939. gathercape.com. This eclectic Tarpon Point Marina spot is the product of two of the Cape’s most celebrated chefs. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki
1520 Lafayette St., 471-4111. junglebirdtiki.com. One of the most exciting restaurants to debut in 2020, it’s a sophisticated homage to all things tiki, with cocktails and nuanced dishes from across the Pacific Rim. $$$ ASIAN
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Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails
Slate’s
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
3522 Del Prado Blvd. S., 471-7785. point-57.com. A critically acclaimed menu is the bedrock of this upscale-casual eatery that is one of Lee County’s best.
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Rumrunners 5848 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0200. rumrunnersrestaurant.com. On a picturesque mangrove-lined canal, this laidback, indoor-outdoor spot offers dependable fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
4820 Candia St., 540-6800. slatescapecoral.com. New Orleans is evoked in all dishes, from the traditional to the inventive—as well as in the lively jazz lounge.
Texas Tony’s* 738 SW Pine Island Road, 3477033. texastonys.com. Enjoy ribs, brisket and a large selection of beer at this eatery from the folks behind Pinchers. $$ BARBECUE
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Tarpon Lodge Restaurant* 13771 Waterfront Dr., Bokeelia, 283-3999. tarponlodge.com. Imaginatively crafted lunch and dinner in a 1920s fishing lodge overlooking Pine Island Sound. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro/Nauti Mermaid 5961 Silver King Blvd., 5415600. Sit outside for views of an open bay and tasty entrees and sharing plates like Oysters Rockefeller. $$$ SEAFOOD
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Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery
927 E. Cape Coral Parkway, 994-3062. nevermindcapecoral.com. A hip spot with seriously good comfort food, strong cocktails and a fun atmosphere—where you’ll often find live music. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
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Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a super casual and family friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD
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TA S T E O F T H E G U L F
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PARTING SHOT
I SSU E November 2015
ED I T O R Da vid Sendler
S T O RY “A Quiet Power ”
FA M I LY T I E S Many trace their introduction and/or courtship with Southwest Florida to the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Some vacationed there at first or attended a wedding on the picturesque grounds before deciding to make Naples home. For others, friendships were forged during the Sunday music sessions or sunsets at HB’s on the Gulf. And while the and community fixture Michael Watkins (pictured above with his parents, Mary and Henry B. Watkins, Jr., and brother Henry, on the left, at their home near the Naples Pier in the ‘60s) shares her and her siblings experience growing up at the resort, and why the Beach Club will forever hold a place in Naples’ heart.
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GL Archives
hotel is shuttering this month after 75 years, its influence endures. On. p. 96, Glenn Watkins, daughter of co-owner
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