Gulfshore Life May 2021

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Features THE RISE OF LUXURY CONSIGNMENT

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Features DESIGNERS’ INSPIRED WO R K S PAC E S 124

TH E M ATSUMOTOS’ SANIBEL LEGACY

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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

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CONTENTS Depart ments

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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.

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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

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M A K I N G

G U L F S H O R E

L I F E

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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

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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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downtown Naples. Read about his and other designers’ new spaces on p. 124.

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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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43

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

BEST OF

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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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GULFSHORE LIFE

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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.

BEST OF

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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.”

74

GULFSHORE LIFE

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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.

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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.

BEST OF

77

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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Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples

multimillion dollar renovation.

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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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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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91

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

BEST OF

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BEST OF

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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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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BEST OF

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

BEST OF

99

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.

10 0

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy The Watkins Family

From left: Rhys, Glenn, Michael and Oona; Ellin Goetz stands at top right.

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5 Nina Van Arsdale, Daryl Berg

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R END

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NO _ 5 0 7

0 5 _ 2 0 21

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

124

Designers’ Inspired Work Spaces

138

T he Matsumotos’ Sanibel Legacy

B E T

T

E R

W

T

H

M

E

T

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

GULFSHORE LIFE

ART OF STYLE

11 5

Caption goes here and here with some words in bold

116

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

11 8

GULFSHORE LIFE

12 0

GULFSHORE LIFE

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.

12 2

GULFSHORE LIFE

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

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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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F I N A L I S T S

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

ART GALLERY

COLLIER Winner

COLLIER Winner

Harmon-Meek Gallery Finalists

Arsenault Studio & Banyan Arts Gallery Emily James Art LEE Winner

DAAS CO-OP Finalists

Bokeelia Art Gallery Hirdie Girdie Art Gallery

HeadPinz Entertainment Center Finalists

Mercato Silverspot Cinema LEE Winner

HeadPinz Entertainment Center Finalists

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Hertz Arena KIDS’ BIRTHDAY VENUE

EVENT VENUE COLLIER Winner

Naples Lakes Country Club

COLLIER Winner

InPlay! Family Fun Finalists

Finalists

Alyssa's Animal Sanctuary

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples

Artis—Naples

LEE Winner

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Finalists

Hertz Arena The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon

15 6

LEE Winner

We Rock the Spectrum Finalists

Board & Brush Creative Studio Sky Zone

A R E

L I S T E D

MUSEUM COLLIER Winner

The Baker Museum Finalists

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center LEE Winner

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Finalists

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum The IMAG History & Science Center PERFORMING ARTS CENTER COLLIER Winner

Artis—Naples Finalists

Gulfshore Playhouse The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre LEE Winner

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Finalists

Alliance for the Arts

GULFSHORE LIFE

I N

A L P H A B E T I C A L

O R D E R .

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club

ATTRACTIONS

Fort Myers Country Club

FAMILY FUN ACTIVITY

HISTORICAL SITE

COLLIER Winner

COLLIER Winner

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Finalists

Historic Palm Cottage Finalists

NATURE & WILDLIFE VIEWING COLLIER Winner

Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Finalists

Naples Botanical Garden

Naples Botanical Garden

Naples Depot Museum

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

Rising Tide Explorers

Naples Pier

LEE Winner

LEE Winner

Board & Brush Creative Studio Finalists

HeadPinz Entertainment Center PopStroke

LEE Winner

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Finalists

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Mound House

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Koreshan State Park

Finalists

HOTEL/RESORT GOLF COURSE COLLIER Winner

Naples Lakes Country Club Finalists

Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club Naples Grande Golf Club LEE Winner

The Forest Country Club Finalists

Bonita Bay Club Cypress Lake Golf Club

COLLIER Winner

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Finalists

LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club LEE Winner

Tarpon Lodge Finalists

Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina South Seas Island Resort

OVERALL ATTRACTION Winner

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Finalists

Naples Botanical Garden Rising Tide Explorers LEE Winner

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Finalists

Cabbage Key Shell Factory & Nature Park

g ulf shorelife.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S PREMIER UPSCALE MED SPA

Thanks

l u f i t u a e B

Our heartfelt appreciation to the customers who voted us BEST Med Spa and injectables in Lee County!

(239) 936-3333

www.AASMedSpa.com

12734 Kenwood Lane, Suite 75, Fort Myers, FL 33907

Cyndie Witthuhn ARNP-BC

Mention this ad and save your first appointment!

$15 off

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

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Hours: Open 9am – 4pm Mon-Th, 8am – 5pm Fri, 8am – 3pm Sat, Closed Sun 206

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Zach Stovall

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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

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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

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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

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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-

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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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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

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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

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Gutter Credit

7

YEAR WINNER

Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Estero, FL 33928 Phone: 239-898-4077 erica@eisterland.com www.esterobonitahomes.com

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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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LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM — F S - 8

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

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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

236

GULFSHORE LIFE

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

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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-

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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

264

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.

258

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

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.

260

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

263

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.

g ulf shorelife.com

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

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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

opv

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.

opv

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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

ov

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

ov

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

g ulf shorelife.com

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

o

Lamoraga Restaurant 3936 Tamiami Trail N., 3313669, lamoragarestaurant.com.

Contemporary upscale twists on Spanish dishes, plus other small plates. $$$$ SPANISH

opv

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

o 268

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

vw

ovwb

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

ovw

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

ovw

bo

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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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.

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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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