Naples-Illustrated-January-2021

WINE PAIRINGS

for dinner with friends

ECO LUXURY Sustainable fashion for the New Year

DINING AWARDS Restaurants are surviving & thriving

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LISET ZELAYA, Sea Salt’s sommelier

11/21/20 5:59 PM

RR EE D D EE FFII N N EE LUXURY Over the past 26 years, we have been helping clients acquire fine jewelry, rare gemstones, and luxury timepieces. Come visit one of our locations to meet our friendly and knowledgeable staff and become a part of the Provident family.

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NAPLES I (239) 649-7737

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BUYING LUXURY ITEMS NOW Our art and antique experts and Graduate Gemologists pay the highest value for your items.

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RE E LUXURY RAECDQE U FIN Jarred Kaplan is a G.I.A. Graduate Gemologist and an owner of Provident Jewelry.

With over 26 years of experience, he offers an exceptional level of customer service and takes pride in helping his clients divest of pieces they no longer desire.

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NAPLES II (239) 649-7200

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VA N D E R B I LT BEACH

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EXPLORE THE NAPLES COLLECTION

M I C H A E L L AW L E R . C O M 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. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. Users may not copy, modify, reproduce, republish, distribute, display, or transmit for commercial, nonprofit, or public purposes all or any portion of this document except to the extent authorized by Michael Lawler 239.213.7474. Information is deemed accurate but not guaranteed. MGL_20006

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PA R K SHORE

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Your home is more than a building or an address. It’s where you

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254 Ridge Drive | Naples, Florida | PremierSothebysRealty.com

Bonita Springs | Broad Avenue | Captiva | Central Naples | Coconut Point Hyatt | Fifth Avenue | Harbour Point Marco Island | Mercato Sales Center | Poinciana | Rentals | Sanibel | Southeast Naples | The Village | Vanderbilt 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.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

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E V E R Y G R E AT D E S I G N B E G I N S W I T H A N E V E N B E T T E R S T O R Y. Y O U R S .

Discover how our acclaimed design team creates bespoke luxury interior design solutions driven by the chapters of your life that inspire you. Schedule a complimentary personal Design Profile at our inspiration studio located in Mercato, Naples or at DWest.com.

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DonWinklerNaples.com NAVIGATING YOUR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION WITH EASE Contact me today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

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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.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

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Every client is unique and deserves personalized advice

High net worth individuals and institutions choose Moran Wealth Management because our practice is built on a reputation for being great listeners. Understanding your goals and dreams is essential to the customized, comprehensive advice and guidance we provide. Unique people, like you, deserve dynamic solutions; contact us today and discover what extraordinary attention can mean for your financial future.

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BAY LAUREL ESTATES | LUXURY LIFESTYLE 5 BR+ DEN - 8732 PURSLANE DRIVE | $4,395,000

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The EARLS | LAPPIN Team #1 in Naples | #1 in Florida | #7 in U.S.A Real Trends ranking Wall Street Journal June 2020 Closed Sales Volume, small team

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PORT ROYAL | THREE HOMES ON NEARLY 4 ACRES BEACHFRONT - 2700 GORDON DRIVE | $65,000,000

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Edwards Asset Management is a separate entity from WFAFN. 1120-02556

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ROBERT T. EDWARDS President & Senior PIM Portfolio Manager

239.264.1000 EdwardsNaples.com 5811 Pelican Bay Blvd Suite 600, Naples, FL 34108

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CONTENTS

JANUARY 2021

FEATURES 79 / DINING AWARDS Our editor’s picks and readers’ choice for the best of the local culinary scene

By Mark Spivak

92 / AGENT OF CHANGE Guest curator Amanda Hearst showcases sustainable fashions Photography by Gabor Jurina

102 / TABLE TALK

Two chefs and a sommelier come together to unwind and reflect

By Christina Cush

LUMINAIRE FOTO

79

Smoked salmon with a strawberry and arugula salad at Bleu Provence

l NAPLESillustrated.com for the latest in all things luxury 16

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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CONTENTS

67 DEPARTMENTS 24 / FROM THE EDITOR 26 / SEEN Celebrating area business openings

INSIDER 35 / Q&A Behind the scenes of Alexander’s with the chef himself

36 / NEW & NOW East West Fine Art supports artist networking, the differences between decorators and designers, and more

40 / FINDS A haute haul from the Village Shops on Venetian Bay

STYLE 43 / THE LOOK Eco-chic accessories, plus a modern update to denim

46 / BIJOUX Have a ball with spherical jewelry

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62

ABODE 57 / DESIGN

East meets West in this condominium

62 / INSPIRED LIVING An intro to chinoiserie decor

64 / ELEMENTS Posh picks for outdoor spaces

DIANA TODOROVA PHOTOGRAPHY

ESCAPE 67 / WANDERLUST

18

The Ocean Club brings Hollywood glam to Paradise Island

By Daphne Nikolopoulos

72 / QUICK TRIPS The Hilton West Palm Beach offers the best of the city

By Mary Murray

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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Full-Service Interior Design Fine Furnishings Custom Remodeling Interior Architectural Detail New Construction Project Management

www.reneegaddis.com 239.431.8352 15940 Old 41 N., Suite 530 • Naples, FL 34110

See more work #reneegaddisinteriors

FL LICENSE IB26001518

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CONTENTS

113

74 / TRAVEL JOURNAL Restaurateur Michael Mir on where he’s going and where he’s been

76 / HIGH ROAD Land Rover’s Defender 110 is the ultimate marriage of form and function

By Howard Walker

EAT + DRINK 113 / DINING

Delight in innovative seafood at Hogfish Harry’s

114 / LOCAL BITES

A duo of creative desserts, an update on the Naples Winter Wine Festival, a primer on kava, and a farewell to HB’s on the Gulf

120 / OFF THE VINE MICHAEL CARONCHI

Discover premier Long Island wines

By Mark Spivak

BALANCE 123 / GET MOVING

The benefits of walking, plus four of the area’s top trails

124 / HEALTH & FITNESS

A yoga app to jump-start your day, the four brow commandments, and more

128 / BEAUTY CBD-infused products deliver a dose of nourishment

130 / WEALTH Expert insight into senior housing

AGENDA 153 / TOP BILLING

A new charitable concept with culinary roots and more cultural pursuits

BE SEEN 158 / SOCIAL SNAPSHOTS

123 ON THE COVER:

PHOTOGRAPHER: VANESSA ROGERS MODEL: LISET ZELAYA LOCATION: A HOME IN NAPLES’ MEDITERRA NEIGHBORHOOD

Events in support of the David Lawrence Center, C’Mon, and the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce

FAVORITE THINGS 160 / LEXIE VERBRUGGEN The baker’s top spots

20 NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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Publisher Kaleigh Grover Editor in Chief Christina Cush Creative Director Olga M. Gustine Executive Editor Mary Murray Fashion Editor Katherine Lande Wine & Spirits Editor Mark Spivak Automotive Editor Howard Walker Travel Editor Paul Rubio Web Editor Abigail Duffy Editorial Interns Megan Graham, Maddie Laufer, Kala Parkinson DESIGN Senior Art Director Ashley Meyer Art Directors Airielle Farley, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez-Maza CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Yelena Alpert, Lynne Groth, Judy Martel, Liza Grant Smith, Mary Thurman Yuhas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Caronchi, Gabor Jurina, Vanessa Rogers, Joachim Rønning SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Caronchi, Charlie McDonald, Reagan Rule, Tony Zollo ADVERTISING Account Managers Kathleen Beuttel, 239-298-7506, kbeuttel@naplesillustrated.com; Meegan Wyatt, 239-298-7511, mwyatt@naplesillustrated.com Advertising Services Coordinator Ashley Fleak PRODUCTION Production Director Selene M. Ceballo Production Manager Brian Beach Digital Pre-Press Specialist George Davis Digital Production Coordinator Kassandre Kallen Advertising Design Coordinators Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey OPERATIONS Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt Process Integration Manager Sue Martel Digital Operations Manager Bill Fleak Circulation/Subscriptions Administrator Marjorie Leiva Distribution Manager Judy Heflin Accounting Specialist Lourdes Linares Accounts Receivable Specialist Ana Coronel CUSTOM PUBLISHING Editor, Custom Content Cathy Chestnut Group Publisher Terry Duffy Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos SUBSCRIPTIONS 800-308-7346

In Memoriam Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013) HOUR MEDIA, LLC CEO Stefan Wanczyk President John Balardo PUBLISHERS OF: Palm Beach Illustrated • Naples Illustrated • Fort Lauderdale Illustrated • Orlando Illustrated • Palm Beach Charity Register Naples Charity Register • Florida Design • Florida Design Naples • Florida Design Miami • Florida Design Sourcebook • Palm Beach Relocation Guide • Fifth Avenue South • South Florida Baby and Beyond • The Jewel of Palm Beach: The Mar-a-Lago Club Traditions: The Breakers • Palm Beach 100 • Naples 100 • Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County • Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation • Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club • Naples on the Gulf: Naples Chamber of Commerce Jupiter • Stuart • Aventura • Community Foundation of Collier County Community Report

Naples Illustrated 3066 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103 • 239-434-6966 • Fax 239-435-0409 Naples Illustrated is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC • Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480

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NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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follow us on faceb ook & in stagr am @mari ssanap les

sh op on li n e at ma ri ssac olle ct i ons.c om

FOUNDRAE TRUNK SHOW JANUARY 19-20

239.263.4333 | 1167 THIRD STREET SOUTH, NAPLES

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FROM THE EDITOR

My mom’s father was in the restaurant business. I have so many great memories of him, a storytelling Greek man who loved to educate us grandkids on important things like the difference between frozen custard and ice cream. At one point, he owned a pastry shop in Brooklyn, New York. From there, he would make us the most amazing marzipan decorations to top off our birthday cakes. After dabbling in a few restaurants, he wrapped up his career by devoting several years to improving the nutritional quality (and taste) of the food served at a local all-boys Catholic high school.

My grandfather’s legacy is my appreciation for those who work in the food service industry. It takes an unusual blend of optimism, grit, patience, determination, talent, and business acumen to make a restaurant stand out and succeed. To me, one of the best ways to get to know Naples is to eat out. Recently, my husband and I decompressed from our workdays and devoured oysters and stone crab claws at Captain & Krewe. I also enjoyed an amazing meal at Pazzo! with Naples Illustrated’s publisher, Kaleigh Grover. We sipped cocktails at the bar, chatted with owner Skip Quillen, then sat down and ordered the specials—and they were, indeed, special.

Next, I dined with NI account manager Kathy Beuttel at Veranda E at the Hotel Escalante. The snapper was amazing, and the way it was fileted so expertly at our table was entertaining to watch.

Now, more than ever, it’s important to support the hardworking folks who own, run, and collect paychecks from Naples eateries. In a salute to all of them, whether they are mentioned here or not, we present our eighth annual Dining Awards, starting on page 79.

Maybe we featured some of your favorites in our editor’s picks. Or maybe the readers concur with your top spots. Maybe we missed something really wonderful. To keep things interesting, we added a few new categories, including Best Place to Dine with Kids and Best Place to Dine with your Dog. My pick for both would be The Lake Park Diner. I’m obsessed with their salmon Caesar salad.

When my college kid was in town this summer, I took her to 21 Spices. Chef Asif Syed graciously came to our table to see how we liked our food. Then he told her that every day he works to be the best at what he does, and that she should too, as an engineer in training. It was delightful to have chicken tikka masala, onion naan, and a side of a mini-Ted Talk. I got a kick out of his big “I beat Bobby Flay” personality and knew I had to figure out a way to get him into the pages of this magazine.

Turn to “Table Talk” on page 102 to see what happens when he sits down for a meal with Sea Salt’s sommelier, Liset Zelaya (our cover girl), and chef Paw Mikkelsen of Mikkelsen’s Pastry Shop. The wine pairings, food preparation, and conversation were all fantastic.

Next time you have a positive dining experience, share the kind words with your friends and social network. This kind of grassroots buzz is more helpful than we all realize. Cheers to 2021!

Christina Cush ccush@naplesillustrated.com

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REMY CUSH

MEALS to Remember

Above: Behind the scenes at our “Table Talk” feature shoot with photographer Vanessa Rogers.

Left: I got to pick up the gorgeous flowers for “Table Talk” from Greg Sari at the Garden District.

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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Re p u t a t io n a n d d esig n a es t h e t ic . B o t h ic o nic .

239-948-2400 | Collins-DuPont.com

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5 SEE CLEARLY WHO: Quigley Eye Specialists WHAT: VIP Grand Opening of the Q iLasik & Med Spa in Naples DETAILS: Special guests gathered to celebrate this new business venture, which provides advanced aesthetic services, the area’s first dry eye spa, and the new iLasik procedure.

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6 1. Kimmie Allender, Maidany Najarro, Brenda Goettemoeller 2. Ali Strauss, Britt Oleszczuk 3. Frances Wilhelm, Dr. Duane Wiggins, Dr. Stephen Prendiville 4. Amanda Bray, RaShawn Taylor 5. Ana Winokur, Mandy Leetang 6. Ben Lee, Tammy Cobb 7. Elena Davis, Alexa Massie 8. John Lane, Beth Huffman 9. Dr. Stephen Prendiville, Frances Wilhelm 10. Teresa Smith, Sheila Jegen

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MILA BRIDGER

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Marissa Collections · 1167 3rd Street South Naples, Florida 34102 · 239-263-4333

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GOING SWIMMINGLY 3

WHAT: Hogfish Harry’s VIP and Media Grand Opening Reception WHY: To introduce media, hotel concierges, and social media influencers to this new, tropical-inspired seafood restaurant DETAILS: Restaurateur Jerry Alajajian and fiancé Dayle Westover are focusing on a Southwest Florida favorite, hogfish, as the staple dish, along with classic seafood dishes and other entrees, soups, salads, appetizers, shareables, and desserts created by veteran Naples executive chef Everett Fromm. WHERE: Parkshore Resort, Naples

1. Dana Debski, Christine Ierardi, Megan and Matt Chionis 2. Dayle Westover, Jerry Alajajian, Leslie DeVito 3. Meegan Wyatt, Kaleigh Grover 4. Tara Settembre 5. Shelley Hobbs, Nicole Ryane 6. Rick Troyer, Cecilia Krause 7. Kevin Wood, Claudia Cienfero 8. Bailey Lardinois, Kassidy Owen 9. Judy Nielsen, Jayne Marisco

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DARREN MILES PHOTOGRAPHY

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INSIDER

Mussels with chorizo, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs

Q&A

Last year, Alexander’s celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in Naples. Chef Alexander Bernard grew up in Maine and graduated from Johnson & Wales culinary school in Rhode Island. His culinary journey included stints at the Fontainebleau Hotel on Miami Beach and at Key Largo’s Ocean Reef Resort, where he worked with Swedish chefs and honed his appreciation for classic, old-world techniques.

Upon moving to Naples, Bernard served as chef and partner at the nowdefunct Margaux’s before opening Alexander’s. His devoted clientele includes many regulars who have been dining with him for three decades. He hosts frequent cooking classes during the season and is the author of Alexander’s Restaurant Cookbook. Turn the page to read our Q&A with chef Bernard. (alexanders naples.com) —Mark Spivak

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MICHAEL CARONCHI

STILL COOKING

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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INSIDER STILL COOKING CONT.

Clockwise from left: Crispy duck with sweet potato flan, lingonberries, and a Port wine reduction; Faroe Island salmon atop spinach, parsnip puree, and a vanilla beansaffron emulsion; cauliflower and sweet potato curry with grilled shrimp and jasmine rice.

MICHAEL CARONCHI

NI: What are some tips for surviving 26 years in the restaurant business?

Bernard: Work hard, listen to your customers, and find your market niche; don’t try to be all things to all people. Be flexible—the importance of that was demonstrated last year, when we and many other restaurants had to shift to a carryout format. On

a practical level, open with enough capital to survive for two years until you become established.

Above all, don’t sit on your laurels—you need to continually change and market yourself.

You identify your cooking as “American cuisine.” What does that mean to you?

It really revolves around American applications to traditional European dishes. We have shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad, and macadamia-crusted snapper. But we also offer duck liver paté and veal ragout, and we even have a few Asian influences, such as our miso sea bass.

Your wife is a personal trainer and fitness instructor. Has that influenced your cooking style?

Absolutely. I have an emphasis on healthy eating that I might not have had otherwise. All our meats

CREATIVE TYPES

THE ART OF NETWORKING Mother-daughter duo Olga and Leeza Arkhangelskaya founded East West Fine Art 20 years ago, with the goal of creating a gallery that was more than just a selling space. In January of last year, East West Olga Arkhangelskaya with artist Joy Stanley launched a program to allow artists and clients to get to know one another in a casual setting. Initiatives like these, however, were temporarily put on pause due to COVID-19.

“When the Corona crisis hit, like every small business, traffic into the gallery fell,” says Olga.

“While we were temporarily stunned, we were not deterred.” Instead, they set up an online gallery and virtual studio to keep the interaction going. “This made it easier for our clients to get acquainted with Southwest Florida’s best artists—to view their new works, write to them, ask questions, schedule studio visits, and purchase original art directly from the artist’s studio.”

Since things have opened back up, East West has introduced an artist membership program.

“One local artist blossomed late in life,” explains Olga. “We sponsored his art in our studio, and then he went on to win awards. We like to think our encouragement helped him.”

The gallery works with artists in various stages who are seeking guidance in preparing their portfolios, tailoring artwork to a market, receiving professional advice, or gaining exposure.

Emerging artists can have consultations with gallery director Joann Clemente, who is a trained artist and art tutor with three decades of experience. (eastwestfineart.com) —Christina Cush

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are free from hormones and antibiotics, and we seek out sustainable seafood. We have a spa menu that changes every month: a freshly squeezed juice, an appetizer, and the choice of two entrées. And there are items on our menu such as the watermelon, burrata, and tomato salad with toasted pistachios.

How does today’s menu differ from 26 years ago?

The portions are slightly smaller, and the sauces are lighter but more intensely flavored.

Many of the items are presented differently— we’re using healthier side dishes, such as grains in place of mashed potatoes. We have appetizers like lettuce wraps filled with pulled duck, kimchee, and hoisin sauce that you never would have seen back then.

Many restaurants advertise farm-to-table cuisine. How are you different?

I’m not sure if we’re different, but we do source our ingredients as carefully as possible. We get about 70 percent of our meat and poultry from D’Artagnan Foods in New Jersey. Their animals are raised in a stress-free environment and are grain-fed without additives. We deal with small fisheries and selected fish farms. Most of our produce comes from Inyoni Farms, which is a USDA-certified organic family farm in Naples owned and operated by Nick Batty. We try to balance good nutrition with wellness.

You close for three months every summer.

How does that benefit you?

My wife and I rent a house in Carmel, California, near Big Sur, which is a beautiful part of the country. It gives us the chance to relax, go out to restaurants, and see what other chefs are doing.

Frequently we come up with new ideas or fresh angles on existing dishes.

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The perfect work life balance Imagine your next conference call with this as your backdrop. Where each and every day is filled with brilliant sunshine and glorious sunsets. If you can work from anywhere, why shouldn’t it be here? End your days the same way you start them. At home. Loving your life at Kalea Bay. Prices from $1.5 million | 13910 Old Coast Road, Naples, FL 34110 | KaleaBay.com | 239-793-0110 Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to this brochure and to the documents required by chapter 718.503, Florida statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee.

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11/19/20 11:10 AM

INSIDER HOME FRONT

DECORATOR VS. DESIGNER: What’s the difference?

Collins DuPont Design Group earned Sand Dollar Awards for this great room and master bath.

After you put away the holiday adornments and look at your home with fresh eyes, you may conclude that it’s time to shake things up. Since many of us are spending more time at home than ever before, we also might be taking notice of spaces in need of a refresh or rooms in need of repurposing. Homeowners’ thoughts are translating into action, with phones ringing in the offices of many Naples decorators and designers. “It is a very lively scene, and it is busier than it’s ever been,” says Sherri DuPont of Collins DuPont Design Group (collins-dupont.com). Both DuPont and her business partner, Kim Collins, graduated from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design before starting their enterprise and have since received four Sand Dollar Awards. Here’s what to consider when searching for a professional to suit your domestic dreams and needs: *Decorators can choose the furniture and accessories for any room. Though they do not usually have the same degree or training as a designer, many decorators offer an abundance of talent and possess excellent taste in home decor. If you are looking for advice on style or help choosing furniture, paint, wallpaper, lighting, art, or accessories, a decorator can aid in those decisions. *Designers have extra training and degrees or certifications. They are very helpful in working with architects and contractors on remodeling projects when it’s time to choose finishes (countertops, hardware, cabinetry, flooring, and more) or contemplate furniture orientation, color palettes, or a home’s flow. —Megan Graham

NAPLES NOTES

BELOW DECK WITH A YACHTING PRO Bill Charbonneau, the founder and principal of Naples Nantucket Yacht Group, grew up in Massachusetts and enjoyed summers in Cape Cod, where he slept with the windows open to hear the foghorn from the nearby lighthouse. “We had a boat anchored in front of that house, and I have an idyllic remembrance of the sea,” he says. “I always loved it and wanted to be on it.”

After graduating from Connecticut College, he worked in commercial and residential construction in the greater Boston area for almost 25 years. Then, a siren song pulled him to start something new: a charter yacht business he launched in 2005.

He and his partners acquired boats to-

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gether, and this joint-ownership model still propels the company today; owners share the yachts as assets, as well as split the revenue from the charters. Charbonneau has steadily built up a mighty fleet, with boats ranging in length from 35 to 131 feet and boasting a spectrum of amenities including hot tubs, Jet Skis, and paddleboats. He likes to name some of his boats Perseverance, a character trait he says got him through the financial crisis of 20072008 and the recent COVID-19 pandemic.

Providing five-star service on a floating vessel while following new health and safety protocols is possible, Charbonneau says. “We have our crews rapid tested in the mornings, and our boats are thoroughly sanitized. We wear masks for the comfort of our guests.

There’s plenty of sanitizer, and towels are washed constantly.”

In some ways, he notes, yachting is a great diversion during these times. “We’ve seen a positive trajectory in terms of bookings and reservations,” he says. “We’re up 25 to 30 percent from last year, and our clients who book every year for New Year’s Eve or other occasions have returned.” (naplesnantucket yachtgroup.com) —C.C.

AUTHOR’S CORNER

NI’S FOOD GUY PENS POLITICAL THRILLER For those of you who can’t get enough political intrigue, there’s Impeachment by Mark Spivak (City of Light Publishing, 2020). Spivak writes monthly for NI about restaurants, wine, and spirits, and is considered an expert on such matters. In the past eight years, he has authored two nonfiction books on the liquor world, Iconic Spirits and Moonshine Nation. He took his first foray into fiction in 2016 with Friend of the Devil, featuring a chef desperate for fame and fortune. He tried his hand at the political thriller genre with 2019’s The American Crusade. His latest work explores alliances and governmental disruptions through the lens of billionaire brothers Sheldon and Richard Haft. (markspivakbooks.com) —M.G.

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Make a statement by living a statement.

Only on the shores of Babcock Ranch’s shimmering lakes can you get away to nature’s quiet, or take a short stroll to farm-to-table dining, and still feel right at home. From the state-of-the-art wellness and fitness center with on-site health clinics, to a firstclass education system, America’s first solar-powered town is unlike anywhere else in the world.

Let us show you lakefront living that makes a statement.

custom Lakefront estate homes from $800s to over $1.5 miLLion 888.659.7488 | Babcockranch.com/lake-babcock-estates ©2020 Babcock Ranch. Broker participation is welcome. Prices, plans, specifications and community design are subject to change. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct information regarding Babcock Ranch, interested parties should refer to written materials provided by the developer, legislative acts related to Babcock Ranch and the covenants and restrictions of the Babcock Ranch Residential Association, Inc. The information provided above is not intended to be an offering and should be considered as informational only.

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INSIDER FINDS

Shoppers Gondola WILD

Enjoy the ambience of Venice, Italy, while treasure hunting or dining at this local destination

By Lynne Groth Who needs international travel when you can take in Mediterranean architecture reminiscent of Venice on the Paradise Coast? Nestled on the water, the Village Shops on Venetian Bay are home to more than 45 bayfront retailers and restaurants. Luxury goods available here include world-class fashion, fine art, home decor, timepieces, and jewelry.

ALL ABOUT APRIL Locally known as a “candy land for grandparents,” this children’s retailer carries clothing, toys, accessories, jewelry, books, and shoes for babies and children up to 14 years of age. The Catimini striped romper ($119) is matched with a playful companion from Jelly Cat ($29). (allaboutapril.com) EXQUISITE TIMEPIECES Although the sophisticated showroom features a selection of new and preowned high-end timepieces and accessories, customers know they can come in casually dressed and be treated to a glass of wine or an espresso. Beverage in hand, choose a timepiece for your collection. If you want to dress up your wrist, shop the Alexander Shorokhoff Kandy watch ($3,600) that is both modern and elegant. (exquisitetimepieces.com)

DIANE’S FINE FASHIONS Specializing in comfort and ease of wear and care, the husband-and-wife team of Diane and Pete Burke delivers customized service and a warm greeting upon arrival.

The reversible Rain Caper poncho ($68) fits in a matching bag and is available in a variety of prints. (239-213-4202)

PRATT’S SHOE SALON For 45 years, the family behind Pratt’s has put their heart and “soles” into providing Neapolitan customers with a personal touch as they hunt for shoes, handbags, and clothing. These popular flats by Vaneli Sahar in a camel dino print ($165) are perfect to wear for daytime into evening. (prattsshoesalon.com)

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J.MCLAUGHLIN The spectacular water view through the floor-to-ceiling windows at this apparel and accessories store gives shoppers the illusion of being on a large yacht. It’s fitting that one of its best-selling T-shirts is the Wavesong in Laurel Canyon Stripe ($168) featuring a boatneck with three-quarter sleeves in the brand’s signature fabric. (jmclaughlin.com)

MONDO UOMO The store’s bright blue exterior beckons while the interior marries a relaxed attitude with timeless men’s designer fashions. This Bugatchi OOH cotton shirt in vertical stripes ($149) is a wardrobe staple. Made from 95 percent cotton with elastane, it stretches, is wrinkle resistant, and is highly breathable. For chilly nights opt for this St. Croix zip mock sweater with shoulder details ($438). (mondouomo.com)

CASANOVA VENETIAN ART & GLASS Meander through a labyrinth of glass, Venetian masks, gilded mirrors, and original artworks. Owner Keith Davison buys from 40 glass blowers—most from Murano, Italy—seven jewelry makers, and five families who make the masks. This Messina vase ($4,900) is by renowned glass master Afro Celotto. (casanovavenetianglass.com)

WHISPERS OF NAPLES Sisters Andrea and Sherie Ellis opened this store for women who have a flair for fun fashions.

They hand-select jewelry and accessories from artists to complement their casual clothing.

One of their best-selling tops from Bella Dahl ($138) is paired with a Hearts tank ($55) and accessorized with jewelry designer Deborah Grivas’ hand-knitted, leathercord necklace with blue faceted stones ($114). (whispersofnaples.com)

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FABEC-YOUNG & COMPANY With Pinterest-worthy displays and lines that are otherwise found in Neiman’s or Barney’s, this home decor boutique and gift shop boasts glassware, dinnerware, table linens, and candles. Make your tabletop over-the-top with the Chilewich placemat ($20), Deborah Rhodes dinner napkin ($30), and Bodrum napkin ring ($12). (fabec-young-company.com) NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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11/29/20 7:04 PM

ACCESS HEALTHLINE YOUR NEW PHYSICIAN IS JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY

With hundreds of physicians and dozens of affiliated health service providers, Access Healthline is the most powerful source for all your healthcare needs. If you are looking for a doctor close to home, want more information about the services we offer, or have a question about NCH, call today and speak with one of our representatives about the many healthcare options and physician choices that are here for you, only at the NCH Healthcare System.

To speak with an Access Healthline representative, call us from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week at NCH-7777 (239-624-7777)

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STYLE 1

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Sustainable

SELECTIONS

Opt for pieces made using ecofriendly practices and materials

By Katherine Lande

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1. Bioluminesce felt hat in natural with a tonal grosgrain band butterfly bow ($1,325), Nick Fouquet, nickfouquet.com | 2. Jane bag in nude leather with rose-gold hardware (price upon request), Gabriela Hearst, gabrielahearst.com | 3. Mullu chandelier earrings in white onyx, red jasper, and rhodonite set in 24-karat gold-plated brass ($690), Monica Sordo, monicasordo.com | 4. Tortoise Bakelite bangle with red and pink inlay and pink sapphires ($7,840), Mark Davis, Betteridge, betteridge.com | 5. Crossbody Capsule handbag in scout tan ($159), Paravel, tourparavel. com | 6. Venturi tri-color sport sneakers in army ($175), Veja, Kirna ZabĂŞte, kirnazabete.com, veja-store.com

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STYLE THE LOOK

50 Shades of Denim

BLING RING Tiffany T T1 wide diamond bangle in 18-karat white gold ($30,000), Tiffany & Co., Naples, tiffany.com

AN EVERYDAY FABRIC GETS REIMAGINED AND ELEVATED

By Katherine Lande TINY DANCER Viva ballet flats in denim ($675), Salvatore Ferragamo, Naples, ferragamo.com

TO A T Denim T-clasp shoulder bag ($2,950), Tom Ford, tomford.com POSH PUFF Medium puffer monogram chain bag in denim and suede leather ($2,350), Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, ysl.com

SLICE AND DICE BB Knife denim mules ($950), Balenciaga, balenciaga.com

STYLE NOTES

CHANEL CRUISE 2021 Washed denim jacket ($2,950), washed denim jeans ($1,550), Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples, chanel.com

COLOR STORY: Chambray, faded, and indigo shades look fresh this season.

ICE, ICE, BABY: Denim and diamonds make the perfect pairing for day or night.

CLASSICAL NOTES: Opt for accessories that have timeless shapes and styles.

OFF THE CHAIN XL Pill link necklace with baguette diamonds ($21,600), Deborah Pagani, deborahpagani.com PUMP IT UP Indigo denim pumps with crystal embroidery ($995), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com DARK BLUE Denim crossbody clutch with embellished strass buckle ($1,595), Roger Vivier, rogervivier.com 44 NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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11/21/20 6:01 PM

THE DOCTORS OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA WOMEN’S GROUP Five Women, One Mission Since 2001 Southwest Florida Women’s Group has been providing exceptional, personalized Obstetrics and Gynecologic care to the women of Southwest Florida.

Dr. Betsy Brothers, Dr. Jennifer Bevins, Dr. Rose Nguyen, and Dr. Maria G. Pachori are proud to announce the newest member to our team, Dr. Alfonsina Garcia. We provide expert obstetric and gynecologic services from adolescence through maturity and are committed to a quality, personalized experience with the most advanced up-to-date technology in a caring and compassionate setting. Our team offers a range of high and low risk obstetrics, as well as routine, complex and surgical gynecological care.

From left: Dr. Rose Nguyen, Dr. Alfonsina Garcia, Dr. Jennifer Bevins, Dr. Maria G. Pachori & Dr. Betsy Brothers

Call for an appointment and allow the experts to take care of your OB/GYN needs.

239-593-0990

1890 Southwest Health Parkway, Suite 303 Naples, Florida, 34109 www.southwestfloridawomensgroup.com

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STYLE

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BIJOUX

Have a BALL

CIRCLE takes the square with swanky spherical jewels

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By Mary Murray

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1. GUIDING LIGHT Seaman Schepps Nantucket Lightship bead necklaces in 18-karat gold, $15,475 each.

Yamron Jewelers, Naples (yamron.com) 2. ORANGE CRUSH Assael Beyond Rare Melo Melo natural saltwater pearl set in a detachable cage pendant with diamonds on a platinum chain, $480,000.

Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples (saksfifthavenue.com) 3. UNDER THE SEA Yvel earrings with gold and brown South Sea pearls and cognac diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $7,313. (yvel.com) 4. SOLID GOLD Bondeye Jewelry ring in 14-karat gold, $895. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissa collections.com) 5. DESERT ROSE Cartier Cactus de Cartier ring with spinels and diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, $19,400. (cartier.com) 6. PAINT IT BLACK Lagos Black Caviar bracelet with black ceramic caviar beading and diamonds set in sterling silver, $1,450. (lagos.com) 7. THINK PINK Lugano Diamonds pink ball drop earrings with fancy pink and white diamonds set in 18-karat white and rose gold, price upon request. (luganodiamonds.com) 8. PARTY OF FIVE Kwiat bangle with diamonds and 18-karat gold and white gold, $4,650. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com)

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GOOD. CLEAN. FUN.

MOREINPARADISE.COM MUST BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OLD TO PLAY SLOTS AND TABLE GAMES OR TO RECEIVE SEMINOLE WILD CARD BENEFITS. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW HAS A GAMBLING PROBLEM, PLEASE CALL 1.888.ADMIT.IT.

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MINUTES AWAY FROM MORE

11/20/20 4:11 PM

Health

Here’s to Your

in 2021

Offering Primary and Specialty Care | Telehealth Walk-In Medical Centers | Lab Services COVID-19 Evaluation and Testing | Imaging Centers Physical Therapy and More

Schedule Today!

(844) CALL-MPG

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11/24/20 10:34 AM

For those who seek exceptional service

Contact us for a private consultation.

PremierSothebysRealty.com | 877.539.9865 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.

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Pine Ridge Estates

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254 Ridge Drive, Naples, FL 34108 | $7,850,000

Situated among 2.36 acres in sought-after Pine Ridge Estates, this custom home offers infinite possibilities for your ideal lifestyle. Built in 2017, the modern coastal-style estate encompasses 9,155 square feet of living space. The interior greets you with an open floor plan and delicate design. Built to the highest standards, attention to detail abounds with floor-to-ceiling windows, natural lighting, floating ceiling design, recessed cove lighting and walnut wood floors. Boasting a master suite with a sitting area, four additional bedroom suites, two home offices and a game room, there is plenty of space for extended family and guests. A gourmet kitchen with Wolf appliances, catering kitchen and wine cooler offer the perfect environment for entertaining. Additional features include a wardrobe dressing room, large living room, family room, dining room and a four-car garage. Out back is an oasis with a summer kitchen and bar overlooking the infinity-edge pool with fountain, spa and gas fire pit. Pine Ridge Estates is close to Waterside Shops, Mercato, Fifth Avenue South and the Gulf of Mexico. This meticulous masterpiece invites you to enjoy Florida living at its finest.

Each office is independently owned and operated.

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Lina Ayers LinaAyers.PremierSothebysRealty.com o 239.659.0099 | c 703.254.7400

12/2/20 12:33 PM

realtorconnect: Meet Jodi Hanson

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JODI HANSON is a 14-year veteran of the local real estate market. She began her career working for a local commercial development company in finance and investor relations.

Passionate about helping buyers find homes that they connect with emotionally, Jodi is able to draw upon her own investment experience to advise them on a property’s potential for financial gain. She utilizes the same concept with her sellers, helping them make the best decisions financially in order to bring them the best buyer and highest price for their property.

Jodi is highly knowledgeable about new construction, design and material sourcing. This valuable quality is priceless when working with customers seeking a renovation-worthy investment or the confidence that new construction is a quality build. Detail-oriented by nature, Jodi is hyper-focused on each property’s details.

She prides herself on truly engaging her customers, making them feel comfortable as she guides them through the process with ease.

Jodi was an Air Force aircrew veteran who was awarded multiple combat medals. Originally from Pittsburgh, she graduated from Franklin University in Ohio with degrees in business administration and finance. An artist and creative at heart, she has a deep passion for interior design, architecture, tropical landscaping and collecting exotic and rare plants. Jodi enjoys spending time with her family on their boat, visiting the area’s many local islands and marinas.

“For those with a vision”

Jodi Hanson Each office is independently owned and operated.

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jodi.hanson@premiersir.com o 239.948.4000 | c 239.246.7446 premiersothebysrealty.com

12/2/20 12:34 PM

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Toscana at Bay Colony

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8960 Bay Colony Drive, Unit #302, Naples, FL 34108

THIS LOVELY 3 BEDROOM, 3 bathroom condominium in Toscana at Bay Colony provides more than 2,500 square feet of living space and has some of the most beautiful preserve views in the area, including Clam Pass and the distant lights of Park Shore. The building’s southern exposure puts more sunlight on the pool deck than other Bay Colony high rises. The newly completed first floor renovation features a magnificent foyer and lobby, social room, fitness center and guest suites. You have easy access to your residence from a secure private elevator to your own front door, by stairs, or by an additional service elevator. The condominium is just a short walk to the stunning, completely remodeled Bay Colony Beach and Tennis Clubs (membership included). The Toscana is a superb building in exclusive, private, amenity-rich Bay Colony, and lends itself to enjoying a very desirable lifestyle.

ADDITIONAL HOME FEATURES: • Travertine marble floors • Plantation shutters • 9’ ceilings • Custom closets • Custom built-ins • Newer A/C units • Newly replaced appliances • Whole-house water filtration system • Extra storage • 2 under-building secured parking spaces conveniently located next to the elevator

Each office is independently owned and operated.

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Linda Richards Malone Linda.malone@premiersir.com o 239.434.2424 | c 239.595.9595

12/7/20 4:01 PM

realtorconnect: Meet The Kalb Group

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FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS, the Kalb Group has been selling and listing luxury real estate in wonderful areas across the country. Now back in the beautiful Sunshine State, they’re excited to call Naples, Florida home. They are thrilled to bring their well-established collaborative expertise to this spectacular area and partner with the Broad Avenue office of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

Michael and Kacie Kalb understand the stress in buying or selling a home, which is why their exceptional level of customer service, keen eye for detail, and extensive knowledge of the real estate market will make certain that your experience in buying or selling your home will leave you wanting to refer your friends and family. They are committed to providing an unsurpassed personalized service by using their combined understanding of the luxury real estate market in the Naples area to deliver a satisfactory, first-class experience that ensures that their customers can make the most informed decisions.

They are dedicated professionals with a deep passion for helping people achieve their real estate goals.

Kacie is a waterfront property specialist and Michael is a multidimensional veteran of the real estate industry with a successful history managing exclusive communities and brokerages in prominent cities in the United States. They are both members of the Naples Area Board of REALTORS®, Florida REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®.

Outside of the office, you’ll find them spending time with their two daughters, Abigail and Jillian, both of whom attend the Community School of Naples.

“Personalized, first-class service”

S p c C

Michael & Kacie Kalb Each office is independently owned and operated.

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michael.kalb@premiersir.com o 239.434.2424 | c 407.810.6244

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H w e t b m

kacie.kalb@premiersir.com o 239.434.2424 | c 912.322.6755

12/2/20 12:35 PM

BE WELL ADDRESSED™ Priced from $1.675M | TheRegentAtEastover.com Visit our sales center opening December 2020

Situated in one of Charlotte’s most prominent neighborhoods, The Regent is a private enclave of 32 elegant residences that blends Charlotte’s characteristic charm with modern elegance. The Regent is poised to become one of the Queen City’s most sought-after addresses.

Contact us today for a private consultation 704.859.8660 Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change, prior sale or withdrawal at any time without notice or obligation. Drawings, photographs, renderings, video, scale models, square footages, floor plans, elevations, features, colors and sizes are approximate for presentation purposes only and may vary from the homes as built. Home prices refer to the base price of the house and do not include options or premiums, unless otherwise indicated for a specific home. Nothing on our website should be construed as legal, accounting or tax advice. 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.

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LAKEWOOD RANCHCBONITA SPRINGS BROAD AVENUE CAPTIVA HARBOUR POINT CENTRAL NAPLES CLEARWATER FIFTH AVENUE GREY OAKS — ESTUARY LONGBOAT KEY MARCO ISLAND SANIBEL BANNER ELK SARASOTA — DOWNTOWN SOUTH TAMPA ST. ARMANDS ST. PETERSBURG SOUTHEAST NAPLES CHARLOTTE THE VILLAGE VANDERBILT VENICE DAYTONA NEW SMYRNA BEACH NORTH ORLANDO SOUTHEAST ORLANDO SOUTHWEST ORLANDO SPRUCE CREEK AND THE BEACHES LAKE NORMAN WINTER PARK ASHEVILLE BLOWING ROCK LINVILLE RIDGE SARASOTA — EAST LAKEWOOD RANCH BONITA SPRINGS BROAD AVENUE CAPTIVA HARBOUR POINT CENTRAL NAPLES CLEARWATER FIFTH AVENUE GREY OAKS — ESTUARY LONGBOAT KEY MARCO ISLAND SANIBEL BANNER ELK SARASOTA — DOWNTOWN SOUTH TAMPA ST. ARMANDS LAKEWOOD RANCH BONITA SPRINGS BROAD AVENUE CAPTIVA HARBOUR POINT CENTRAL NAPLES CLEARWATER FIFTH AVENUE GREY OAKS — ESTUARY LONGBOAT KEY MARCO ISLAND SANIBEL BANNER ELK SARASOTA — DOWNTOWN SOUTH TAMPA ST. ARMANDS ST. PETERSBURG SOUTHEAST NAPLES CHARLOTTE THE VILLAGE VANDERBILT VENICE DAYTONA NEW SMYRNA BEACH NORTH ORLANDO SOUTHEAST ORLANDO SOUTHWEST ORLANDO SPRUCE CREEK AND THE BEACHES LAKE NORMAN WINTER PARK ASHEVILLE BLOWING ROCK LINVILLE RIDGE SARASOTA — EAST LAKEWOOD RANCH BONITA SPRINGS BROAD AVENUE CAPTIVA HARBOUR POINT CENTRAL NAPLES CLEARWATER FIFTH AVENUE GREY OAKS— ESTUARY LONGBOAT KEY MARCO ISLAND SANIBEL BANNER ELK SARASOTA — DOWNTOWN SOUTH TAMPA ST. ARMANDS ST. PETERSBURG SOUTHEAST NAPLES CHARLOTTE THE VILLAGE VANDERBILT VENICE DAYTONA LAKEWOOD RANCH BONITA SPRINGS BROAD AVENUE CAPTIVA HARBOUR LAKEWOOD RANCHCBONITA SPRINGS BROAD AVENUE CAPTIVA HARBOUR POINT CENTRAL NAPLES CLEARWATER FIFTH AVENUE GREY OAKS — ESTUARY LONGBOAT KEY MARCO ISLAND SANIBEL BANNER ELK SARASOTA — DOWNTOWN SOUTH TAMPA ST. ARMANDS ST. PETERSBURG SOUTHEAST NAPLES CHARLOTTE THE VILLAGE VANDERBILT VENICE DAYTONA NEW SMYRNA BEACH NORTH ORLANDO

WE ARE

The Florida Gulf Coast Luxury Leader Passionate | Skilled | Dedicated | Award-winning Our remarkable agents are the absolute best in the business. You simply couldn’t be in better hands. We continue investing in game-changing technologies that help our agents do what they do even better: selling your home. These latest tools are a competitive necessity and a given as an innovator, yet this will always be a business first and foremost of relationships and trust. Our people are what truly make us special, as their talents are limitless.

We will never forget who we are: the local brokerage with the global reach. The one with the enduring brand and storied heritage that began in 1744. We market the homes of the best customers in the world:

you.

Contact us for a private consultation.

PremierSothebysRealty.com | 877.539.9865

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ABODE DESIGN

Serene Gulfside Gem An open concept and Eastern aesthetic transform this Cape Marco condo

By Mary Thurman Yuhas | Photography by Diana Todorova Photography

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ABODE

W

hen Veracruz at Cape Marco on Marco Island was built in 2005, Dawn Harmon’s clients were one of the first couples to buy one of the Mediterranean-style condominiums. Due to its location, Cape Marco was a missile-tracking station in the early 1960s, but it is now a highly desirable piece of real estate. “Everyone knows Cape Marco has the best views on Marco,” Harmon says.

Fast-forward to 2020, when the condo owners tasked Harmon, principal of Naples-based Little Palm Design Group, with making their place feel more like they were at the beach than in the Tuscan countryside. “At first, they wanted to update the kitchen to see through to the water and brighten it,” Harmon explains. “But after they saw a neighboring condo that was completely open concept, they wanted to do the same to take full advantage of the direct Gulf views and the Ten Thousand Islands in the Everglades.”

Once the four-bedroom, 4,687-square-foot residence was gutted, most of the ceilings were raised and the woodwork and the walls were covered with a soft, neutral paint. “We selected a modern/or-

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ganic/Asian design,” says Harmon. “Because it is a light color palette, interest had to be made through texture and natural materials. It was a little challenging because it is a big, open space. Before we added anything, we asked, ‘Is it contemporary, organic, or Asian?’ to keep consistency.”

Guests and residents step from the private elevator into the home’s elegant foyer. The marble flooring that runs throughout is original.

Glass panel doors flood the space with natural light and dramatic Gulf views, a huge transformation from the previously dark area. The natural-finished, hand-carved, teakwood console is a standout and provides a preview of the home’s Asian-influenced aesthetic. Nearby, the seat on the tall, iron-framed chair is finished in brown leather through an artisanal French technique called gainage (leather applied to a hard surface). Organic and handwoven, the Brazilian wall hanging is composed of coconut shells and seashells.

Moving the wall between the living room and master bedroom allowed the designer to center the living room TV and linear gas fireplace

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Clockwise from above: The dining room features an eyecatching chandelier; the foyer sets the tone for the rest of the home; the kitchen marries wood cabinets with quartzite countertops and a marble and brass backsplash.

built-in. Custom walnut cabinetry with hand-selected accessories flank the striking focal point. Bespoke pillows on the platform sofa are fabricated in linen and feature an exotic marketplace setting. The swivel armchairs farthest from the window are clad in patterned cut velvet on the outside and krypton chenille inside. Ceiling beams were added for architectural interest and to hold and conceal lighting.

The formal dining space had odd angles, making it difficult to design, so Harmon squared the area. Next, the ceiling was dropped, allowing the shimmering crystal and brass chandelier to be moved to the center of the room. “Because the dining room had always been so difficult to furnish, the homeowner wanted it to be very special this time around,� Harmon says. Custom niches framed in a mini mosaic gold tile accentuate a hand-embroidered kimono and gongs. Walls surrounding the artwork are the same rich walnut paneling found in the living room.

In the kitchen, a stunning marble backsplash with brass inlay makes a huge statement and partners handsomely with the cream

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ABODE quartzite countertop. Eight smoked, irregularly formed, handblown glass shades enhance the asymmetrical, adjustable arms on the contemporary chandelier.

“The kitchen is the hub of the home,” notes Harmon. “We had to push the homeowners not to have white cabinets and to use something a little warmer. Deeper wood tones warm the clean, inviting space. And the large island accommodates their family gatherings.”

Assorted shells, hand-sewn together on canvas and finished with an acrylic front panel and antique gold metal hardware, compose the unusual artwork over the tan, diamond-patterned family room sofa. Both armchairs—finished in warm chocolate tones—feature a natural split rattan on the back and sides. The organic sculpture beside the sofa was created from an antique teakwood branch.

Focused on the magnificent Gulf vistas, the opulent master bedroom exudes comfort and serenity. Varying delicate textures on the custom silk bedding gently add intrigue to the space’s graceful, understated style. In addition to lighting the room, the spherical quartz chandelier and alabaster and brass credenza lamps are works of art.

“This open space plan is so right for my clients,” says Harmon.

Now the homeowners can kick back, relax, and enjoy the Cape Marco views. «

Fine Furnishings & Antiques Lighting | Art | Accessories Garden | Gifts | Jewelry Full Service Interior Design

The master bedroom is a sophisticated blend of creamy fabrics, set against an ocean backdrop.

393 Broad Avenue South, Naples, Florida 34102 239. 263.5460 www.JettThompson.com

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HERE’S TO A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2021 May This Year Be Full of Grand Adventures And Great Decorating!

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 Voted “Best Furniture Store” By Readers of Naples Daily News 9 Years In A Row! W W W. A L I S O N C R A I G H O M E . C O 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 1 9 T H Y E A R !

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ABODE INSPIRED LIVING

Storied Charm, MODERN GLAM Tips for introducing chinoiserie into your HOME DECOR

By Liza Grant Smith

C

hinoiserie design has been popular across the Western hemisphere for centuries, but its origins can be traced to seventeenth-century Europe. The term “chinoiserie” is derived from the French word for Chinese; it denotes a form of decorative art inspired by Chinese techniques, themes, designs, and motifs. European aristocrats were particularity taken with the chinoiserie aesthetic, with it making a notable appearance in the Trianon de Porcelaine at Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.

As trade between Europe and China began to flourish, so too did chinoiserie, which reached its peak in the mid-eighteenth century. It saw a resurgence in the 1920s in conjunction with the rise of Art Deco and has also gained a foothold in today’s design lexicon.

While it has evolved over time, chinoiserie remains a light and airy interpretation that relies on hallmarks such as Chinese figures, dragons, pagodas, foo dogs, and natural landscapes.

Lacquered wood and faux bamboo furniture as well as gilded accents play into the mix too. Porcelain, china, and ceramic jars, often with patterns in that historic blue and white combination, are other mainstays.

If you’re swooning at the style’s allure, there’s no need to keep your love affair longdistance. Start romancing chinoiserie in your own abode with these ideas and products from local retailers.

Above and right: A blue and white palette and dragon motifs are classic themes in chinoiserie. Below: A chinoiserieinspired table by Adam Mahr and Catherine Austin.

CATHERINE AUSTIN AND A MANO

TABLE THE CONVERSATION

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Get dinner guests talking with a fabulous chinoiserie tablescape at your next dinner party. Naples entertaining doyen Adam Mahr of A Mano shares inspiration with a stunning spread, which features an original concept from designer Catherine Austin. “To me, the vibe of the table is Paris chic,” says Mahr. “So much of Europe’s, and especially France’s, intrinsic design elements today were influenced in the eighteenth century by Asian culture. They interpreted the mysteries of the East with vibrant colors and exotic or erotic themes.”

Mahr notes that the concept for this tablescape was “spring has sprung,” and the designer

began with the plates, including Marie Daage’s Bamboo plates and Verdure chargers and dessert plates. The flowers play off of the colors in the dishware. “At this point, the table started to take on its own life,” he says. “The vibrant colors seemed exotic and hence the chinoiserie interpretation.” The gold bamboo flatware comes from Paris’ Puces de Clignancourt flea market and is complemented by pagoda salt and pepper shakers as well as brass candlesticks and animals.

A Mano is the exclusive retailer of Marie Daage in Naples. Her Verdure chargers ($295 each), Verdure salad plates ($200 each), and Bamboo dinner plates ($115 each) are all available for purchase at the store. (amano.biz)

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GO TREASURE HUNTING Find what speaks to you by exploring local destinations that carry authentic chinoiserie pieces. Browse shops such as Chesterdales Home and Garden in Naples for a trove of selections including accent tables, lamps, and foo dogs that beautifully fit the chinoiserie bill. Inventory varies (with some items selling quickly), so it’s worthwhile to make this a periodic stop on your home decor shopping expeditions. (chesterdales.com)

G DANA

CHESTERDALES

IBSON

CELEBRATE THE ACCESSORIES Never underestimate how a pillow can make a listless space pop with character.

For a dash of chinoiserie, artist Dana Gibson (danagibson.com) is a good go-to source. Gibson breathes new life into traditional chinoiserie themes, as seen in her wallpaper and fabric collaboration with Stroheim. Her pillow designs are available locally at The Striped Cabana (thestripedcabana.com) in Naples.

Furniture Home Accessories Artwork Jewelry & Gifts

407 Fifth Avenue South 239.643.4202 PeachTreeDesigns.com

“... a treasure trove of a home store.”

Wall Street Journal

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ABODE ELEMENTS

PATIO Play

As temperatures go down, enliven your outdoor living areas with chic pieces LORI HAMILTON

By Liza Grant Smith SHE SELLS SEASHELLS With a cultivated circle of layered oyster shells, this Pigeon & Poodle centerpiece ($340 for set of two) can bring the essence of the ocean to your alfresco feasts. Gattle’s, Naples (gattles.com)

SHINING EXAMPLE With its weathered mango-wood beads, the artistic yet outdoorsy Cascade chandelier ($1,339) from Arhaus will add visual intrigue to your coastal space.

Arhaus, Naples (arhaus.com)

UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT Invite guests to a taste of the tropics with the melamine Monstera plates ($14 each) from Merritt USA. Wilford & Lee Home Accents, Naples (wilfordandlee.com)

CHAIRISH THE MOMENT Lounging reaches a new level of luxury with this gorgeous armchair (starting at $2,836) in a Kubu Mushroom finish from Skyline Design’s Topaz collection. KB Patio, Naples (kbpatiofurniture.com)

ANIMAL INSTINCT Embark on a sophisticated style safari with Elaine Smith’s gray zebra pillow ($139) in a fade-, water-, and stainresistant fabric perfect for whatever elements it might encounter. Zing Patio, Naples (shop atzing.com)

ALL IN THE FAMILY Sherri DuPont of Collins DuPont Design Group addressed both form and function for this project. “The outdoor dining area of this residence needed ample seating for large family gatherings,” she explains. “The live-edge, solid-plank, teak dining table, illuminated by beaded chandeliers, comfortably seats eight, while sports lovers can enjoy games from hand-woven wicker barstools at the curved bar. The expansive, 13-foot, custom window seat adorned with colorful toss pillows doubles as a fliptop storage bench and allows plenty of overflow space for casual conversation. Stacking stone that clads the bar front and a built-in pizza oven wall perfectly complement the natural, organic feel of the wood-look tile, shell-stone floor, and stained-wood ceiling.” Bonita Springs (collins-dupont.com)

LOVE LETTERS Get a triple-word score for the addition of this diversion to your outdoor hangout. Pottery Barn’s Giant Wall Scrabble ($1,199) is made from solid pine and comes with everything you’ll need for a competitive game night. Pottery Barn, Naples (potterybarn.com)

BAR STAR The Serena & Lily Riviera Bar ($948), with its weather-friendly frame and woven finish, includes two watertight bins below the teak lid to help keep things chill at your next happy hour. (serenaandlily.com)

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11/23/20 1:17 PM

For the past 35 years, the Community Foundation of Collier County (CFCC) has been connecting people who care to causes that matter, growing their charitable legacies, and funding nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Collier County.

In 2017, the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, CFCC, and 30 other community partners undertook an initiative to listen and respond to needs voiced by our community. As a result, the Community Foundation of Collier County has launched a $15.5 million dollar campaign, Your passion. Your Collier.

We will be addressing the spectrum of community needs including:

We are here for you Collier, for good and forever.

Follow your passion and become part of the solution in our community. Contact Eileen Connolly Keesler, president and CEO, or Julie Van Tongeren, VP of Development, for more information.

1110 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 200 Naples, FL 34108 239.649.5000

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Shouldn’t your bank:

GO ABOVE AND BEYOND? We’re new to the area, but we’re not new to banking. And, we think you’ll find we bring a little extra to the table. We’re the type of bank that believes in offering the best financial tools and specials, but also in providing those added-value services, like safe deposit boxes, that you can only find at a true community bank. It’s just one way we’re committed to Naples and here to serve you.

WE’RE PROUD TO SUPPORT NAPLES WITH: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Safe deposit boxes1 Junior Savers Club® Free coin counting2 Educational seminars Personal service

B ANKING C ENTER 3401 Tamiami Trail North | Naples, FL 34103 239-687-5200 | www.wintrustflorida.com

Wintrust Banking Center is a branch of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A. The Junior Savers Club is designed for children and young adults under the age of 22. 1. Safe Deposit Boxes. Safe deposit boxes are non FDIC insured. 2. Coin Counting. Free coin counting available for consumer households, business customers and nonprofits. Fees may apply for non-customer businesses.

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ESCAPE WANDERLUST

Bahamian Rhapsody

With extraordinary beauty and a pedigree to match, The Ocean Club on Paradise Island returns to its aristocratic roots under the auspices of the Four Seasons

By Daphne Nikolopoulos

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ESCAPE

O

Clockwise from top right: Yoga on the waterfront; the Cloisters; an oceanfront suite comes with a private terrace or balcony; the Hartford Courtyard; sip the preferred libations of famous previous guests at the Martini Bar.

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n a baby grand piano in The Ocean Club’s swank Martini Bar sits a black and white photo of The Beatles frolicking in the surf. Let your gaze wander past a lush lawn to an alfresco terrace and down a gentle slope to the beach, and you can see the precise swathe of turquoise in which they were standing.

The year was 1964, and the Fab Four were visiting the property’s owner, industrialist and society bastion Huntington Hartford. Hartford, the heir of grocery chain A&P, had famously bought the island in 1960 and changed its name from Hog to Paradise. It wasn’t just that Paradise was easier on the ears. Hartford had big ambitions for the island and its centerpiece, a 35-acre estate with magnificent tiered gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles.

With the help of famed Florida architect John Volk, he transformed the estate into The Ocean Club, a 52-room resort with amenities to capture the fancy of the international elite. Perhaps the most audacious feature, which today makes everyone who passes do a double take, was the installation of the Cloisters, a series of arcades from a twelfth-century Augustinian monastery, originally purchased, but never used, by William Randolph Hearst for his eponymous California castle.

The glitterati took notice. Aside from The Beatles, Hartford welcomed—with ample Champagne, no doubt—

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luminaries like Benny Goodman, Elvis Presley, Burl Ives, and Sean Connery, who famously filmed Thunderball on the island.

(Long after the Hartford years, the 2006 Bond film Casino Royale was also filmed on property.)

It’s impossible to visit The Ocean Club— now a Four Seasons Resort—today and not hear the echoes of those heady years. The original rooms, designed by Volk, are still known as the Hartford Wing and retain much of their 1960s character. The Martini Bar is filled with photos of famous guests and serves their martinis of choice. And the four-bedroom Beachfront Villa Residence, immortalized in film, is synonymous with James Bond’s amorous escapades.

The resort’s glamorous legacy is felt most intensely in the Versailles Gardens. From the Hartford Wing, a path leads to the terraced gardens that epitomize the word “palatial.” The quarter-mile walk meanders through hedges, foliage, and a slew of imported fountains and sculptures, including Cupid and Psyche, circa 1897, by Italian sculptor Aristide Petrilli. Stone steps ascend to the edge of the property and its crown, the aforementioned Cloisters overlooking Nassau Harbor.

There is no better spot than this for a picnic. As part of its private-dining program, the resort offers a classic alfresco spread, with a customized menu and free-flowing Champagne, on the Versailles lawn. Blankets, pillows, and umbrellas make for a casual, cozy gathering ideal for couples or families, while the grandeur of the location elevates it to unforgettable status. For those who prefer a view of blue to green, private dining is also available on the shoreline.

For an epicurean experience curated by Jean-Georges

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Clockwise from above: Balcony in the Hartford Wing; the terrace at Dune; indulge in a private dinner on the beach; Versailles Gardens is a quartermile walk through foliage and sculpture.

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ESCAPE The resort’s infinity-edge pool overlooks the ocean. Dune by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten sits in the distance and offers creative takes on Caribbean standards.

Vongerichten, Dune reigns on a bluff above the ocean’s edge. Vongerichten’s signature French-Asian cuisine is localized with Caribbean flavors like coconut, tamarind, and passion fruit, and articulated in such dishes as Bahamian conch salad, local lobster with ginger-steamed bok choy, and roasted grouper with Malaysian chili sauce and basil oil. For a real local treat, opt for a breakfast of Bahamian boiled fish with johnny cakes and grits. In the hands of executive chef Curtis Smithen, the humble staple becomes a culinary wonder.

After dinner, the place to be is the colonial-style Martini Bar and Lounge. Order a Vesper martini and channel Daniel Craig, whose famous Casino Royale poker scene was filmed within the bar’s confines. With Champagne and martinis flowing into the night, the atmosphere is as effervescent as it was in the resort’s heyday. History repeats itself, and that’s a very good thing. (fourseasons. com/oceanclub) «

Vineyards Country Club, Gorgeous Venue Perfect for Celebrations & Momentous Occasions!

Celebrate an unforgettable event at our beautiful, newly renovated venue in Naples, FL. Experience a high level of personal service in an exclusive country club setting. Our sophisticated style and exceptional cuisine will take your event to the next level. During these unprecedented times of COVID-19, we adhere to and follow all CDC guidelines. Vineyards Country Club, where exclusivity equals excellence.

To schedule a tour of our venue call: Ashley Fritz, Catering Director | 239-353-1500 email afritz@vineyardscountryclubnaples.com www.vineyardscountryclubnaples.com RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR ROOM FEES WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD - RESTRICTIONS APPLY. 70 NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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IN SPI RE YOUR IMAGINATION

When you choose to build your custom home from the ground up with London Bay, you are choosing a well-coordinated team of experts that will help you select the highest quality materials, in the most efficient manner.

In Naples, we build in the most exclusive neighborhoods: from Pelican Bay to Port Royal, including Park Shore, the Moorings, Coquina Sands, Old Naples and Aqualane Shores.

Our “Private Label Living� process begins with learning about your needs and desires, so as to collaborate towards the realization of a beautiful design concept that brilliantly reflects your individual tastes and preferences.

PRIVATE LABEL LIVING

Luxury Custom Homes from $1 Million to One of a Kind

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Set your appointment with our expert team today.

Contact Toby Cloutier: 239.280.7367

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ESCAPE

Clockwise from left: Galley patio; pool deck; interior of Galley; standard king room with a city view.

QUICK TRIPS

Center of Attention

Combining an ideal location with great amenities, the Hilton unleashes the best of West Palm Beach

By Mary Murray If West Palm Beach is the gateway to the Palm Beaches, then the Hilton West Palm Beach is your key to it all. Since opening in 2016, the Hilton has gained a reputation as a hot spot for visitors and locals alike. Although connected to the Palm Beach County Convention Center via a convenient covered walkway, it breaks the “convention center hotel” mold through a commitment to welcoming public spaces, interiors and art inspired by the city’s coastal vibe, and a food and beverage program anchored by a stellar grill house.

Nestled in downtown West Palm Beach, the Hilton is within walking distance to many restaurants and activities, such as the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, the Rosemary Square retail and entertainment complex, and the city’s vibrant waterfront, which comes alive on Saturday mornings with a world-class green market.

Nearby dining highlights include RH Rooftop, a chandelier-bedecked atrium with grand skyline views, and The Regional, chef Lindsay Autry’s love letter to Mediterranean cuisine infused with her Southern heritage. To explore it all and venture even farther, rent a complimentary bicycle at the Hilton’s front desk.

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Back on property, one of the best ways to enjoy a lazy afternoon is at the hotel’s expansive pool deck. For the ultimate in chic social distancing, reserve a private cabana and indulge in a bottle of Champagne—or two— while you kick back in shaded comfort. Each cabana includes a television and access to a full menu of cocktails and bites. The pool itself is massive, making it easy to carve out your own splash section should you need a refresh.

The ultimate end to the perfect day at the Hilton is with dinner at Galley. Executive chef Guillermo Eleicegui channels his Argentinian upbringing into a menu that showcases inter-

national delicacies, the majority of which are prepared on a wood-burning grill or in a pizza oven. Start with some luscious roasted zucchini over harissa yogurt and pistachio dukkah or the shrimp pintxo, a grilled kabob of shrimp tossed in a sweet soy sauce. The mains range from mushroom and truffle pizza, to numerous steak and seafood options, to a braised Wagyu short rib served with truffle potato and salsa criolla. And, since you’re on vacation, you simply can’t skimp on dessert. An absolute must is the oven-baked cookie topped with sea salt, vanilla ice cream, and a divine caramel sauce.

Amid these uncertain times, the Hilton has done its part to uphold strict safety precautions. All guests are required to wear face masks in public spaces, and the Hilton brand has partnered with Lysol and the Mayo Clinic to establish new “CleanStay” procedures for cleanliness and disinfecting. These steps, combined with the hotel’s inherent cool factor, make for a carefree vacation you can feel good about. (hiltonwestpalmbeach.com) «

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11/24/20 12:23 PM

19 WORLD-CLASS THOUGHT LEADERS SIX 90-MINUTE VIRTUAL SESSIONS OVER SIX DAYS

THE NEW NORMAL IMAGINE SOLUTIONS CONFERENCE

THE MILITARY: Cyberwarfare – 4-Star Admiral, CNO, U.S. Navy (Ret.) addresses strategies for the future.

IDEAS FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS: John Allen, CEO, The Brookings Institute – retired 4-Star General, addresses “Reopening & Recovery,” metafactors that will guide planning and execution following the upheavals of 2020.

FINANCE: President of The World Bank looks at our postCOVID-19 future.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY: The Biomedical Genius Cluster (as seen on cover) THE ARTS: Lewellyn SanchezWarner, the youngest person ever admitted to the Juilliard Bachelors Program.

BIG IDEAS: Now, more important than ever.

This year, the Imagine Solutions Conference will be virtual.

Our 19 extraordinary thought leaders will speak to the Imagine Solutions audience online—as you watch and listen in the comfort of your home.

MON | TUES | WED » FEBRUARY 22, 23 & 24 MON | TUES | WED » MARCH 1, 2 & 3 Watch at 4:00pm or 7:00pm 6 Sessions featuring 19 Outstanding Speakers $200 - 75% tax deductible

Shelbie Rassler, Berklee College of Music graduate, viral video of the “What the World Needs Now” when COVID-19 closed her school.

EDUCATION: Bridget Terry Long – Dean, Harvard Graduate School of Education discusses disruptive changes in education.

GENDER & RACE: Cecilia Conrad, Equality Can’t Wait Challenge – awarding $30 million to help expand women’s power and influence in the U.S. by 2030.

CHANGE MAKERS: Organized Crime & Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) – Drew Sullivan and Paul Radu discuss their preeminent investigative reporting.

ALWAYS A NEXT CHAPTER: Meet Molly Bloom – The woman behind the underground poker game where $100 million dollars was bet by one player one night!

THE WORLD: MAJOR TRENDS: Daniel Franklin, Executive Editor of The Economist’s HISTORY: • Inventions: the Secret Sauce in America • The History of Rock & Roll

To Learn More & Register:

MEDICINE | HEALTH: Converging Frontiers in Veterinary & Human Medicine – Eleanor Green, Dean, Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

imaginesolutionsconference.com

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ESCAPE TRAVEL JOURNAL

Man in a SUITCASE

A graduate of Howard University and the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, restaurateur Michael Mir relocated to Naples in 1997 and subsequently opened Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro. The well-traveled Mir was attracted to the quality of life that Naples is known for, especially the natural amenities that are so readily available to enjoy. In 2020, Mir and his life partner of 17 years, Miguel Martinez, put a planned reunion with friends in Crete on hold due to COVID-19. They also skipped their annual summer vacation to Europe. To satisfy their wanderlust, the pair took day trips throughout Southwest and Central Florida. “The ability to experience the world through a different lens is why I love to travel,” says Mir. “That and learning and appreciating the treasures other countries have to offer.” When it’s safe and convenient to travel abroad again, Mir and Martinez are planning voyages to Puerto Rico, the Greek islands, Portugal, and Southern France. —Christina Cush

NI: Where have you been that you hope to visit again?

Mir: Morocco, Turkey, and Iran.

Istanbul is truly an East-meets-West experience. The energy of the city is mesmerizing and unlike any other big city I have visited.

What are your bucket-list trips?

I was able to check zip lining and treetop roping in Costa Rica off the list. But I’d still like a complete cultural and culinary tour of the grand cities of Isfahan, Yazd, and Kerman in Iran.

Clockwise from top: Istanbul; Persian tea; the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul; Dalí museum in Figueres; the St. Regis Florence.

Does any domestic travel look interesting to you right now?

Going to our little place out in Palm Springs is always something I look forward to. There we go hiking and enjoy great dining, which are two of my favorite things.

What’s the best meal you’ve had on a trip?

Abbacchio allo scottadito con patate.

It’s a delicious roasted lamb with olives and laurus nobilis leaves. I had it in a restaurant in Rome named L’Osteria L’Antico Moro.

Do you have a favorite hotel?

Yes! The St. Regis in Florence on Piazza Ognissanti. Somehow we

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Miguel Martinez and Michael Mir in Seville, Spain; Mir in route to Vieques, Puerto Rico.

got lucky and were upgraded to the same exact suite that Princess Diana used to stay in, complete with our own personal butler.

Any particular markets or shops you recommend?

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, but practice your haggling skills before you go. I also like the Galeries Lafayette in Paris, and I recommend a small perfume shop in Cassis, France, called L’eau de Cassis.

What is your favorite museum?

The original Salvador Dalí TheatreMuseum in Figueres, Catalonia, Spain. Immersive experience museums are my absolute favorite.

Is there a spa that stands out to you?

The Excellente Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic What are your go-to travel resources?

We refer to Rick Steves’ travel guides and website.

When you travel, what do you need to bring with you?

I can’t travel without my Persian tea, Sadaf’s Special Blend black loose tea with cardamom. I always take a batch with me anywhere I go. It’s the start of a perfect day.

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11/29/20 7:07 PM

Shawn David, Director of Provident Fine Art “Twilight on The Hudson” Francis Augustus Silva Size 12” x 20”

SELL YOUR FINE ART Provident Fine Art purchases the following: • • • • • • • • • •

French Impressionism Post Impressionism Old Master Barbizon American Impressionism Hudson River School Modernism Post-War Abstract Expressionism Contemporary

“Untitled, Modern Drawing” Roy Fox Lichtenstein Size 23” x 31”

Palm Beach, FL 561.249.7929 125 Worth Ave, Palm Beach, FL

Naples, FL 239.259.7777

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Shawn is a 4th generation art dealer that brings decades of experience to our Worth Avenue gallery. He takes pride in helping clients whether they are building their collection or divesting of pieces they no longer desire.

The gallery always has exquisite works for those with diverse and discerning tastes. Pieces include 19th & 20th century French and American Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism and Contemporary works, always vetted for quality and condition.

Shawn embodies Provident Fine Arts’ passion for exemplary customer service and placing beautiful art into our customers lives.

Call or visit the gallery and allow Shawn to help you with all your fine art needs.

ProvidentFineArt.com

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ESCAPE

HIGH ROAD

ROCKY ROADER

Land Rover’s long-awaited DEFENDER 110 can take the rough with the smooth

By Howard Walker Ever wanted to go giraffe spotting? Or gaze upward at some snowy mountain peak? Or watch a rocket lift off from Cape Canaveral? You can.

Just climb into the back seat of Land Rover’s Defender SUV and look up.

Yes, you’ll get a pretty unlimited skyward view through the panoramic glass roof. But the icing on the celestial-vista cake is the Rover’s socalled safari windows. These long, slender strips of glass—one on each side—are set in the curvy roof just above the rear doors.

No big deal, right? They’re just windows. But with today’s exhaustive safety requirements and strict roll-over protection rules, they’re a nightmare to create. So why did the engineers at Land Rover design, develop, and include them in this new Defender? One word: authenticity.

They’re there because the original Defender came with them. From Virginia McKenna’s rugged ride in the film Born Free, to the Queen of England’s pristine example she uses to bounce around her royal estates, pretty much every Defender since 1962 has had them.

Despite the old Defender developing an almost cult-like following around the globe, Land Rover decided—thankfully—not to do 76

a cut-and-paste version when it came to a replacement. If you’ve ever driven in such a car, you’ll know that it’s one of the most uncomfortable, jiggly-riding, drafty, gutless machines ever to roll on four wheels.

Instead, Land Rover gave it the authenticity of the old model by building in the kind of technology that will let it crawl up the side of Everest, cross the Sahara, and wade through Amazonian rainforest goop. It truly is the new off-roading benchmark, the ultimate go-anywhere-and-everywhere vehicle. Which is something you’ll no doubt take comfort in as you drive off that muddy Little League parking lot.

The four-door, long-wheelbase Defender 110 is best seen in profile, with its sliced-off rear-end, square-edged side windows, high waistline, and brawny shoulders. In addition to those iconic safari windows you’ll notice other authentic design cues, such as diamond-tread plates on the hood, semi-circular LED lights up front, and a spare wheel hanging on the back door.

At first glance of the interior, however, you might not be as impressed. It all feels very basic, spartan even, with acres of dark plastic. But look carefully to discover more of that classic

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POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $50,500, $73,085 AS TESTED ENGINE: 3.0-LITER TURBO IN-LINE SIX POWER: 395 HP TORQUE: 406 LB-FT TRANSMISSION: 8-SPEED AUTOMATIC 0-60: 5.8 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 119 MPH LENGTH/WIDTH: 198/79 INCHES WEIGHT: 4,815 POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT ELEVATES THE CLASSIC DEFENDER WITH MODERN STYLE AND FINESSE.

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Defender style—door panels with hexagon screw heads, chunky grab handles, and neoprene-like rubber. Plus, there’s a ton of space, especially in the back where kneeroom is positively limo-like. There’s a third row available, but don’t bother; no human should ever be asked to sit there.

Here in the U.S., we get to choose from two engines: a 2.0-liter 296-hp turbo-four that you won’t want and a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six packing close to 400 hp that you will. With the big six, the Defender leaps off the line with power and strength. Unlike the original Defender’s engine, this

is whisper-quiet, refined, and silky-smooth at speed. On the road, steering is precise and nicely weighted, and handling is surprisingly nimble.

Pricewise, a base four-cylinder Defender 110 will set you back $50,500, though start piling on the options and you can climb to more than $90,000.

Look out too for the upcoming, short-wheelbase, two-door Defender 90, which is like a Jeep Wrangler on steroids. Prices are from $46,100.

Yes, this new Defender has been a long time coming. But the wait has definitely been worth it. Think of it as the coolest four-by-four by far— with the coolest windows. «

Your golfing friends at Eagle Creek wish you a

and invite you to tour our golfing lifestyle at one of our 2021 Community-Wide Open Houses.

Visit JoinEagleCreek.com for dates and times. Non-Resident Memberships also available.

LIVE HERE. ___________ PLAY HERE.

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REDISCOVER THE

AVENUE.

e heart of

NAPLES.

     FIFTHAVENUESOUTH.COM

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DINING AWARDS

DINE AND SHINE Few sectors of our community were more deeply affected by the stresses of 2020 than the restaurant industry.

Yet, in the midst of the economic challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, many restaurants managed to reinvent themselves. Against this backdrop, the eighth annual NI Dining Awards feel more significant than ever: They represent many stories of triumph over obstacles that seemed nearly insurmountable at times. This year’s vote totals also emphasized the importance of reader participation. The runner-up slot in the Best Restaurant category was a statistical tie, and a single vote separated the top three finishers for Best Pizza. Just as in the wider world, every vote truly counts. Here, we highlight our Editor’s Picks followed by our Readers’ Choice winners.

BY MARK SPIVAK

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DINING AWARDS

VANESSA ROGERS

EDITOR’S PICKS

Wood-grilled branzino and prawn tartine (below) at Sails

BEST SEAFOOD

Sails

VICKI BAKER

At this “pescatarian’s haven,” which is operated by the husband-and-wife team of Veljko Pavicevic and Corinne Ryan, freshness is an understatement. Fish and shellfish are flown in daily from Europe, with options ranging from Mediterranean dorade to tiger prawns and turbot. Chef de cuisine Darren Veilleux and his team will cook your selection to perfection on the wood-fired grill. And no dish is complete without a wine pairing from the restaurant’s prodigious list. (sails restaurants.com) Runner-Up: Ocean Prime If you feel like treating yourself, beat a path to Ocean Prime and order a Smoking Shell-

fish Tower, customized according to your favorites (the smoke is a bit of theater provided by dry ice). If you’re not a fan of shellfish, indulge with locally sourced grouper or snapper, Alaskan crab legs, sea scallops, or twin lobster tails. (ocean-prime.com)

BEST COMFORT FOOD

Skillets

Across their nine locations, owners Ross and Noreen Edlund have one simple goal: to serve the best breakfast and lunch in Southwest Florida. They’re proponents of the popular Blue Zones diet and offer nearly a dozen approved dishes, including the Power Salad and Mediterranean Wrap (along with traditional favorites like eggs Benedict and

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BEST DESSERT

RUNNER-UP: KILWINS Kilwins opened in Petoskey, Michigan, in 1947 and began serving high-quality ice cream and chocolates in Naples in 2003. Nearly four dozen flavors of ice cream are made on the premises, as well as single-origin chocolates and caramels cooked in a copper kettle. Don’t miss the hand-crafted brittles or the signature Nutcracker Sweets (freshly popped corn, pecans, almonds, and caramel). (kilwins.com)

AMBER HEATH PHOTOGRAPHY

ANGELIC DESSERTS Not only do the offerings from Angelic Desserts look and taste great, but they’re good for you too: organic, non-GMO, made without preservatives and with locally sourced ingredients. There’s a comprehensive selection of baked goods (breads, bagels, and croissants) and desserts (cookies, pies, cakes, cupcakes, and irresistible fruit tarts), as well as gluten-free and dairy-free options. They’re accompanied by organic coffee and served by a knowledgeable and friendly staff. (angelicdesserts.com)

corned beef hash). They’re also deeply involved in local charities such as Change for Children. (skilletsrestaurants.com) Runner-Up: Goldies Ciro Amato started working in his parents’ restaurant at age 12, washing dishes and making pizza. In 1999 he purchased Goldies Restaurant and plunged into the world of all-day breakfast and specialty lunch dishes. Consistency is the watchword here. Try the Ultimate Breakfast for two: four eggs, pancakes or French toast, bacon, sausage, potatoes, biscuits, and gravy. (goldiesrestaurant.com)

BEST RESTAURANT MAKEOVER

Pazzo!

The owner of the Culinary Concepts group, Skip Quillen, presides over two venerable restaurants on Fifth Avenue, Pazzo! and Chops City Grill. In the span of one year, Quillen spent in excess of $1 million to completely renovate both. “Pazzo! came first,” he recalls. “The name

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Vegan croissant, gluten-free and vegan doughnuts, and the “Almost Croissant” at Angelic Desserts

means ‘crazy’ in Italian. I wanted the concept to match the spirit of the place. We now have an atmopshere that is playful, exciting, and fun.” (gr8food.net) Runner-Up: Bistro 821 Chef/owner Jesse Housman bought out his partners last year and embarked on a restaurant overhaul with Catherine Baker of Clive Daniel Home interior design. “I wanted a lighter and brighter color scheme throughout,” says Housman. The new decor fits neatly into Housman’s cooking philosophy of “Natural Fusion,” in which basic French techniques are applied to other cuisines. (bistro821.com)

Pazzo! dining room and tagliatelle pisane (above)

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Dilly’s Seafood Some seafood is fresh, while other fish and shellfish is literally right off the boat. Dilly is Tim Dillingham, a fisherman’s fisherman who is totally committed to a “true, authentic, locally caught product.” To maintain quality, he goes out for 14 to 30 hours at a time, in contrast to the five- to six-day runs of most commercial fleets. His catch is featured on the rotating menu at 360 Market and NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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AUDREY SNOW

is given a savory twist by Jamaican chef Oran Townsend at this food truck in Celebration Park. (celebrationparknaples.com)

Chef Hyde’s lamb croquettes with chickpea hummus, eggplant caviar, garlic oil, and pea tendrils

Runner-Up: Organically Twisted Founded in 2013 by John Hart, this food truck has now been augmented by a brick-andmortar restaurant serving the same healthy yet delicious dishes. Don’t miss Curry in a Hurry or Tacos Gone Nuts, and make sure you grab a brownie for the ride home. (organically twisted.com)

BEST HIDDEN GEM

BEST NEW CHEF

ANDY HYDE of Hyde N Chic

Founded in 2007, Cesibon is dedicated to the creation of homemade artisan gelato in the Italian tradition, using fresh fruit and fresh whole milk. Nearly all of the two dozen flavors are gluten-free, and five are sugar-free as well. A low level of both air and fat results in a rich, dense, and creamy taste. The Cesibon motto: “Each flavor has a story, each story has a secret.” (cesibongelato.com) Runner-Up: Harold’s Place Tucked away behind the Gulfcoast Inn, the poolside chickee bar at Harold’s offers happy hour Monday through Friday, as well as karaoke every Sunday from 3 to 7 p.m. The cocktails are a throwback to an earlier age (think rum runners, piña coladas, and mudslides), and the large, unfussy menu offers something for everyone. (naplesharoldsplace.com) Cesibon gelato

AUDREY SNOW

Although born in Ghana, Andy Hyde spent his childhood shuttling back and forth between Germany and Chicago. His culinary apprenticeship included stints with luminaries such as Gordon Ramsay, Thomas Keller, and Grant Achatz. He came to Naples in 2014 to serve as executive chef at LaPlaya, launched his catering company two years later, and opened his first restaurant, Hyde N Chic, in late 2019.

“I fell in love with Naples right away,” he says.

“The climate is very similar to Ghana, and we have the same variety of fruits and vegetables here.”

His 30-seat restaurant serves as the backdrop for what he calls “new immigrant cuisine,” a culinary melting pot based on the cooking of diverse cultures. “Fifty years ago, immigrants were mostly European, so the restaurants tended to be French and Italian,” says Hyde. “Now you’re seeing people like me. I had the chance to grow up in many different worlds, and I’ve always had to migrate to different cultures and adapt to them.”

As a result, his menu is all over the map—in a good way. Diners may order à la carte or choose a multicourse tasting menu from a frequently changSpanish ing list of dishes. Offerings may be as diverse as octopus with an air-fried globe artichoke salad, a combination bell peppers, squid ink of African-spiced pork belly and pork cheeks, bisque, confit and—in a nod to tradition—Dover sole with caviar. potato, and blistered Whatever you choose, it will be prepared with pascherry sion and attention to detail. tomato Hyde has taken an active role in mentoring young culinarians. He sponsors an on-the-job training program in collaboration with Naples High School and is working toward his goal of “having 50 kids who have learned their skill set from me and who understand the true nature of hospitality and teamwork.” (hydenchicrestaurant.com)

Cesibon

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Above and Beyond LOUISVENNE

EATERIES SERVED UP MEALS AND GOODWILL TO THE COMMUNITY

BEST DELI

Tropic Chill Deli When Donna Hindes bought Tropic Chill, she had a 20-year legacy of quality and courtesy to live up to; fortunately for all of us, she succeeded.

The fare combines Midwestern and New York deli traditions, serving the best possible ingredients in a gracious and friendly atmosphere. Before leaving, you’ll be served a small portion of ice cream, sorbet, or sherbet—“a sweet taste to remember us by,” according to Hindes, although you’re not likely to forget. (tropicchill.com) Runner-Up: Pastrami Dan’s Daniel and Rose Costaregni founded the original Pastrami Dan’s in Greenwich, Connecticut, in 1970. After they moved to Naples, their son, Dan Jr., opened the local shop in 1980, with Rose working alongside him. He has now been joined by Nicholas Daniel, the third generation.

Chili, roast beef, hot dogs, and tacos are available, but pastrami remains the star attraction. (facebook.com/pastramidans)

BEST VEGAN/VEGETARIAN

Beginning in mid-March, the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in Collier County. The culinary industry was hard hit, but the virus had an effect From inset: Sails on almost every segment of the population. Despite being walloped, restauemployees put together rants stepped forward to help, and in many cases their efforts supported meals; #UnitedonFifth feeding the frontline. the health-care workers and first responders who were on the front lines of the crisis. While this may not be a complete accounting of everyone who contributed, it illustrates how interconnected we are in good times and bad.

Sails Restaurant spearheaded the effort in early April, when it partnered with William Raveis Real Estate to deliver meals to healthcare workers. It started with 150 per day and quickly escalated to 300, with the goal of providing 3,500 meals to NCH Baker.

Bill’s Café received a donation of $40,000 from an anonymous patron and cycled that gift by donating 100 breakfast sandwiches per day to NCH Monday through Friday, for a total of 2,000. The money allowed owner Bill Salley to stay in business and keep his staff employed while feeding essential workers.

Brooks Burgers donated more than 5,000 burgers during the pandemic to health-care workers and first responders. Primo Hoagies, Sicilia Restaurant, 21 Spices, Vineyards Country Club, and The Moorings Golf & Country Club also provided food to those fighting the virus.

The 220 members of the Fifth Avenue South Business Improvement District stepped up to the plate with #UnitedonFifth. The Feeding the Frontline initiative gave food from Fifth Avenue South restaurants to health-care workers, EMS personnel, and police officers. The Port Royal Association donated $60,000 to purchase 150 gift cards from 10 restaurants, and Bice Restaurant gave an additional $10 for every $40 gift card purchased.

Chef Vincent Betulia’s Campagna Hospitality Group honored the efforts of Collier County teachers with a $100,000 challenge to give educators 4,000 gift cards worth $25 each. The cards were exchanged for takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup at participating restaurants.

Vegan Kitchen

Even non-vegans are raving about the food here. The comprehensive menu includes everything from soups, salads, and wraps to noodle dishes and specialty entrées, while influences from China, Thailand, and Vietnam add spice and variety. For dessert, don’t miss the moist Pandan cake, sweetened with soy whipped cream. (vegan-kitchen.us) Runner-Up: The Bowl If you’re looking for a nutritious smoothie on the go, visit one of The Bowl’s two locations or stop into the Third Street South market on Saturdays.

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There’s a selection of açai and pitaya bowls in addition to cold brew coffee, kombucha, and matcha. The staff goes through an intensive training program, and their enthusiasm is matched by their product knowledge. (the-bowl.com)

BEST BARBECUE

Fuse BBQ

Fuse Global Cuisine gave birth to Fuse BBQ in 2017, when chef Greg Scarlatos wanted to “pay homage to the regional style of barbecue found throughout the South.” His tastes are

eclectic and far-ranging: “Our brisket is Texas,” he says, “our pork is Carolina, and our ribs are Memphis.” Popular sandwiches include Mac & Pork (pulled pork and pepperoni mac and cheese) and Pimento & Belly (smoked pork belly, pimento cheese, and pickled jalapeño).

Insiders know to turn up on Wednesdays for burnt ends. (fusebbq.com) Runner-Up: Michelbob’s Championship Ribs & Steaks Michelbob’s has been a Naples institution since 1979, when it was founded by Bob NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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MICHAEL CARONCHI

BEST WATERFRONT DINING

Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar

For three decades, Bayside has been serving impeccable seafood, beef, and poultry with a view of Venetian Bay. Executive chef Abel Gonzalez works with the legendary Tony Ridgway to keep the menu fresh and exciting.

There’s an option for every taste and mood, from the casual downstairs café to the elegant second-floor grill, topped by the upper deck offering cocktails, live music, and quick bites. (baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com) Runner-Up: The Dock at Crayton Cove Restaurants come and go, but The Dock has thrived since 1976. The menu is an encyclopedia of seafood: everything from fish tacos, Alaskan crab legs, and elaborate seafood towers to the freshest grilled fish and shellfish.

You can arrive by boat, but just don’t get in the way of the Great Dock Canoe Race, held every year at the end of the season. (dockcrayton cove.com)

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro When Michael Mir brought his “innovative Persian” cuisine to Naples in 1997, the local dining scene was very different. Mir can be credited with broadening our horizons, and he has maintained his creativity ever since.

The menu is an endless series of delights, starting with mango garlic shrimp or flashfried eggplant in a zesty tomato sauce, and culminating in turmeric-dusted red snapper, exotic treatments of quail and duck, and a series of classic dishes grilled over an open fire. (bhabhabistro.com) Runner-Up: 21 Spices Chef Asif Syed has introduced the cooking of the Indian subcontinent to our area. A meal at 21 Spices might begin with lobster mulligatawny or crisp samosas, and progress to one of the standout dishes cooked on the tandoori grill. There’s a complete selection of vegan and vegetarian items, and no dinner is complete without one of the five varieties of fluffy naan bread. (21spicesdining.com)

BEST FOR BLUE ZONES CHOICES

The Local

Chef Jeff Mitchell has been a Naples trailblazer in the quest to use local and sustainable ingredients. Over the years, he has built close relationships with purveyors such as Inyoni Organic Farm, Palmetto Creek, Circle C Farms,

BEST COCKTAIL PROGRAM SIDEBAR 505 SIDEBAR PAYS HOMAGE TO PROHIBITION-ERA SPEAKEASIES. NO FOOD IS SERVED, AND THE EMPHASIS IS ON UPSCALE SPIRITS AND HARD-TOFIND WINES (AVAILABLE BY THE GLASS, COURTESY OF THE CORAVIN SYSTEM). SETTLE IN AT THE BAR BEFORE OR AFTER DINNER AND ENJOY A CRAFT COCKTAIL FROM THE SEASONALLY CHANGING MENU, OR LET THE BARTENDERS CUSTOMIZE ONE FOR YOU BASED ON YOUR FAVORITE FLAVORS. THE DECOR IS SLEEK AND COMFORTABLE, AND—TRUE TO ITS SPEAKEASY ROOTS—SIDEBAR IS HARD TO FIND. (THERE’S NO WEBSITE, BUT LOOK FOR IT AT 475 FIFTH STREET SOUTH.)

Sidepiece cocktail at Sidebar 505

SAMANTHA BLOOM

MICHAEL CARONCHI

Mattson and Marsha Gibbs; Bob’s daughter and son-in-law manage the restaurant today.

The menu features smoked sausage, pork, beef, and barbecue chicken, any of which can be combined with a half-rack of ribs to make a platter. In the off-season, winter residents can have ribs shipped to them by next-day air. (michelbobs.com)

Bayside Seafood Bar & Grill openair dining area (left) and grilled sea scallops (above)

RUNNER-UP: SAILS IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT SAILS PUTS AS MUCH EFFORT AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL INTO ITS BAR PROGRAM AS IT DOES WITH EVERYTHING ELSE. CO-OWNER VELJKO PAVICEVIC IS AN AVID COLLECTOR OF DISTINCTIVE WINES AND SPIRITS, AND THE COCKTAIL LIST CONTAINS 14 ORIGINAL CREATIONS THAT WILL FIRE THE IMAGINATION EVEN BEFORE THEY INTRIGUE YOUR PALATE. (SAILSRESTAURANTS.COM)

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BEST CHEF

MICHAEL CARONCHI

Like most of us, chefs tend to be defined by— and frequently limited to—their roots. Not so with Vincenzo Betulia. As the proprietor of Osteria Tulia, Bar Tulia, and The French, he is just as comfortable with the butter-based classics of Gallic cuisine as he is with the tomato-inspired dishes of Italy to the south.

Betulia was born in Sicily and immigrated to Wisconsin with his parents at age 2, growing up in a suburb of Milwaukee. He spent his childhood watching his grandmother whip up traditional Sicilian recipes and began working in restaurants at 13. His introduction to fine dining came at Milwaukee’s celebrated Ristorante Bartolotta, where he worked his way up from prep cook to chef. He also did a stint at Spiaggia in Chicago and spent nine years as head chef at Campiello when he came to Naples.

He has told the story enough times to enshrine it as one of the legends of his career: After work one day at Campiello, he found himself across the street from 365 Fifth Avenue South. Betulia took a picture of the building, dreaming of what a perfect location it would be for a restaurant, and indeed it was. Many years later The French opened on the same spot, after Osteria Tulia and Bar Tulia had already established him as one of

and Blue Star Seafood, transforming those materials into dishes that are as healthy as they are delicious. His commitment to sustainability extends from the kitchen to the bar program and wine list, and he has inspired a new generation of local chefs. (thelocalnaples.com) Runner-Up: Cosmos Ristorante and Pizzeria Owner Gianluca Corso hails from Sardinia, a certified Blue Zones community, so healthy eating is just part of his quest to bring the Sardinian lifestyle to Naples. He offers a separate Blue Zones menu for both adults and children, which includes several pasta dishes, traditional Italian wedding soup, and a fresh vegetable platter with organic ranch dressing for dipping—although getting your kids to eat their veggies is up to you. (cosmospizzanaples.com)

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Clockwise from above: Chef Vincenzo Betulia packs to-go orders during the pandemic; Betulia’s pasta con le sarde and arancine Siciliani.

MICHAEL CARONCHI

Vincenzo Betulia

the area’s most authentic craftsmen.

What Betulia has accomplished at The French is remarkable. He has recreated a Parisian brasserie down to the smallest detail; it not only looks the same, but the food also tastes the same—if not better, in many cases. There is a lightness of touch in his dishes that is frequently lacking in France, and he applies the classic Italian sensibility of choosing the best ingredients and allowing them to shine through in the execution. While you can find duck leg confit and rotating specials such as cassoulet, there are also feather-light fried squash blossoms, scallop crudo, and one of the most flavorful roast chickens you’ll ever encounter.

Chef Betulia was also been committed to the welfare of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic (see “Above and Beyond”). For his creativity, culinary wingspan, and devotion to Naples, Vincenzo Betulia is this year’s Best Chef.

BEST BREWPUB

Riptide Brewing Company Stainless-steel tanks flank the communal tables at Riptide, leading to a long wooden bar.

Indulge in one of a dozen handcrafted brews such as Polly Wants a Pilsner, Anklebuster Amber Ale, and Kraken DIPA (a double IPA), or sample four beers in a flight. There’s no kitchen, but Riptide hosts a rotating schedule of food trucks, and Bill’s Café will be happy to deliver your order from their guest menu. (riptidebrewingcompany.com) Runner-Up: Bone Hook Brewing Company Bone Hook went through a dramatic expan-

Above: Riptide Brewing Company NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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Latte (left) and on-tap nitro cold brew (below) at Kunjani Craft Coffee & Gallery

sion in 2018, becoming a full-service restaurant as well as a brewpub. The menu encompasses pub fare such as tacos, flatbreads, burgers, and entrées like chipotle-rubbed mahi and St. Louis–style ribs. Several dozen taps offer a complete range of craft beer styles, and brewery tours are available. (bonehookbrewing.com)

BEST POWER LUNCH

Dorona

At this modern Italian steakhouse operated by the Aielli group, diners are presented with two menus: the regular lunch fare plus a list of carefully sourced and aged beef from around the world. It’s not all about meat, however. You can also dine on charred octopus, Faroe Island salmon, or a mahi-mahi reuben. The atmosphere is comfortable and understated, perfect for sealing the deal. (doronanaples.com) Runner-Up: Jimmy P’s Charred At Jimmy P’s, the Pepper family supervises every detail. This local favorite and its selection of Wagyu craft burgers and dogs have been famous since 1985. But it’s the attentive service paired with an aura of nostalgia and high-energy sophistication that keep customers coming back for more. You can even eat in the butcher shop next door, in a setting infused with the aroma of the in-house smoker. (jimmypscharred.com)

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Kunjani Craft Coffee & Gallery Another repeat winner, Kunjani provides a dose of social action along with its excellent coffee. Run by a mother-and-daughter team from Zimbabwe, the business is committed to humanitarian principles and fair trade. The extensive coffee menu offers nitro cold brew, Chemex, French press, and V60, accompanied by local baked goods. Proceeds from sales in the adjacent shop are donated to charitable causes. (kunjaninaples.com) Runner-Up: The Bad Ass Coffee Company Bad Ass originated on Hawaii’s Big Island in 1989 and has been spreading the joys of Kona coffee and gourmet teas ever since in an atmosphere of “Aloha Spirit.” The name derives from

GLADYS CHRISTINA OLSON

Arancini, calamari, carbonara deviled eggs, and pizettes at Dorona

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the stubborn, persistent, and reliable donkeys that carry the heavy loads of Kona beans down mountain slopes. (badasscoffeenaples.com)

BEST WINE LIST

Bleu Provence Only 100 restaurants in the world have received the Wine Spectator Grand Award for their list, and Bleu Provence remains the sole honoree in Southwest Florida. Co-owner Jacques Cariot presides over 4,000 selections and 40,000 bottles, many of which were chosen to complement the sun-drenched cuisine of Provence crafted by his wife, chef Lysielle Cariot. Whether you seek something as familiar as California Cabernet or as exotic as Vin Jaune from the Jura Mountains, sommeliers are on hand to make sure your choice is perfect. (bleuprovencenaples.com) Runner-up: The Continental Sommelier Higor Valle has assembled a remarkable list that reads like a roll call of the world’s best small-batch vintners. His choices are equally balanced between Europe and the United States and include many producers that are hard to find anywhere else—in all, a wine selection as distinctive as the steak and seafood served here. (damicoscontinental.com)

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TINA SARGEANT

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

GRAPPINO

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Clockwise from top left: Spaghetti al pomodoro; Calabrese pizza; Grappino interior; tagliatelle with clams.

TINA SARGEANT

TINA SARGEANT

TINA SARGEANT

Many countries make brandy from fermented grape pomace, but Italy has elevated the distillation of grappa to a high art. Over the past few decades, boutique producers have refined the formerly harsh digestif into a drink that pairs well before, during, and after a meal.

Grappino, the fourth restaurant from the Aielli Group, is a celebration of grappa in all its forms. It features one of the country’s largest grappa bars with a selection of more than 100 bottlings, some of which are mixed into a series of innovative craft cocktails.

But Grappino also honors the rustic cuisine of Italy. The menu focuses on variations of comfort foods from many regions of the country, presenting diners with an almost dizzying array of choices. Interested in pasta? “There are 13 different sauces and 13 different pastas,” says Jason Goddard, Aielli’s corporate chef. “There are 169 possible combinations you can do. You can switch and mix and match.” Goddard worked closely with Fabrizio Aielli, the group’s culinary mastermind, during the long process of menu development.

If you have a yen for pizza, choose from among 10 varieties each of rosso and bianco (red or white).

Regardless which you select, you’ll receive a Roman-style pan pizza, with 80-percent hydration and 24hour cold-aged dough, which Goddard contends is “lighter, crispier, and easier for digestion.” For diners more interested in protein than carbs, the specialty is a 48-hour, salt-cured, free-range chicken, simply roasted and seasoned with salt and olive oil.

Grappino’s atmosphere is modern and relaxed. The Aiellis kept the original Naples Cottage design and commissioned award-winning designer Suzanne Costa to complete the interior. Highlights include the live-edge tables and bar, organically sourced in Fort Myers from indigenous trees, and the colorful Murano glass balloons that recall Fabrizio’s native Venice.

Like sister restaurants Sea Salt, Barbatella, and Dorona before it, Grappino’s opening made a unique contribution to the local gastronomic landscape.

“Our aim is for Grappino to become another pillar in the Naples community,” says Ingrid Aielli, “where everyone is welcomed with delicious meals and good local causes are supported.” (grappinonaples.com)

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DINING AWARDS

MICHAEL CARONCHI

READERS’ CHOICE

BEST STEAK

Jimmy P’s Charred The Pepper family has been serving the best in beef since 1985, with Jim Sr. carving up nearly 3 million cuts of meat. Specialties include the baseball sirloin, tomahawk ribeye, and Japanese Wagyu New York strip, all broiled at 1200 degrees. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and you can select your steak at the butcher shop next door. (jimmypscharred.com) Runner-Up: The Capital Grille The Naples outpost of this acclaimed chain dry-ages their steaks for at least 18 days for optimum flavor and texture. The meat is then hand-carved by in-house butchers before broiling. Popular choices include the porcini-rubbed bone-in ribeye and the bonein, Kona-crusted New York strip, paired with a selection from the extensive wine list. (thecapitalgrille.com)

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Bar Tulia

Jimmy P’s Charred dishes from inset: New York strip steak; baseball sirloin.

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MICHAEL CARONCHI

Unable to get to Milan for an aperitivo? Then pop into Bar Tulia and enjoy a stylish craft cocktail without the jet lag. Chef Vincenzo Betulia has created a battery of appetizing tapas to go with the range of innovative craft cocktails, local beers, and carefully chosen wines. Located next door to Osteria Tulia, the restaurant offers outdoor seating in Nonna’s Garden, with socially distanced tables under a canopy of trees. (bartulia.com) Runner-Up: Ocean Prime Knowledgeable locals flock to Ocean Prime at 4 p.m. for small plates and sushi rolls designed by executive chef Vladimir Trivunovic, along with a selection of specialty cocktails. Known

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for a its lovely interiors and top-notch service, this Cameron Mitchell restaurant is one of the most elegant places to spend your twilight hours. (ocean-prime.com)

beer, and cocktails rounds out the offerings. (latrattorianaples.com) Runner-Up: Barbatella This classic restaurant from the Aielli Group specializes in rustic cooking from the many regions of Italy. Pizzas are made in the woodfired oven; you can have yours elegant and simple, or festooned with ricotta, Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and friarielle (broccoli rabe). Don’t miss the signature dessert pizza with Nutella, whipped cream, and caramelized banana. (barbatellanaples.com)

BEST BRUNCH

Jane’s Garden Café Ever since opening her café in 2005, Jane Wood has been all about brunch. “Because I think of Sunday brunch as a special treat, I wanted to have a place that served brunch every day of the week,” she says. Anytime from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can enjoy old favorites such as eggs Benedict (available in seven variations including bacon, lobster, smoked salmon, and portobello mushrooms) or healthy alternatives such as vegan ranchero veggies. The staff remembers customers’ names and what they eat and drink, as well as details about their families. (janesgardencafe.com) Runner-Up: The Bay House For 35 years—first under the ownership of the Jennings family and now operated by Charleston native Pete Tierney—The Bay House has been serving the finest in elevated Southern cuisine. Begin your brunch with an assortment of shellfish from the raw bar, paired with a Bloody Mary or mimosa. Then move on to the Pine Island lump crab benedict or the “N’Awlins style” barbecue shrimp with grits and a poached egg. Finish up with

Eggs Benedict at Jane’s Garden Café

BEST SUSHI

Namba

Chef Pitak Hermkhunthod—better known as Koko—hails from Thailand but fell in love with Japanese cuisine during his five-year apprenticeship on the island. At his 36-seat restaurant on North Tamiami Trail, he controls every aspect of the menu, from authentic ramen to a variety of sushi styles. Koko introduced aburi sushi to Naples: a style wherein the fish is seared on top, enabling the customer to taste a wider range of textures and flavors. (nambanaples.com)

beignets tossed in cinnamon and sugar, served with chocolate and caramel bourbon sauce. (bayhousenaples.com)

BEST PIZZA

La Trattoria The sister restaurant of Caffe Milano, La Trattoria is known for authentic Napoletana pizza with a crust that is light, airy, and crispy at the same time.

There are nine classic renditions of red pizza including Margherita, Bufala, and Vegetariana, as well as a dozen white pies such as Norcia (mozzarella, truffle cream sauce, mushrooms, smoked scamorza, and basil). A full selection of wine,

Runner-Up: Sushi Thai (Fifth Avenue South) Sushi restaurants come and go, but Sushi Thai downtown is a Naples stalwart. Its secret lies in pristine, supremely fresh raw fish served in classic ways. Your best bet is to put yourself in the hands of the sushi chef and let him choose an array of the day’s finest delicacies for you. (sushithaidowntown.com)

BEST TACOS TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA

RUNNER-UP: ROCCO’S TACOS WHEN ENTREPRENEUR ROCCO MANGEL OPENED THE NAPLES EDITION OF HIS POPULAR FLORIDA-BASED RESTAURANT CHAIN IN 2019, HE BROUGHT DISTINCTION AND ELECTRICITY TO THE MEXICAN CULINARY SCENE, WITH TABLESIDE GUACAMOLE, 300 TEQUILAS, AND TACOS FILLED WITH EVERYTHING FROM PLANT-BASED PROTEINS TO SLOW-ROASTED PORK. IT’S NEVER DULL WHEN ROCCO’S IN TOWN; HE’S BEEN KNOWN TO JUMP ON THE BAR AND DISPENSE FREE SHOTS OF TEQUILA TO GET THE PARTY STARTED. (ROCCOSTACOS.COM/NAPLES)

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BEST ICE CREAM

VANESSA ROGERS

AT TWO LOCATIONS IN NAPLES AND ONE IN FORT MYERS. TACOS & TEQUILA SERVES “FUNKY, UNCONVENTIONAL TEX-MEX AT ITS BEST.” ALONG WITH TRADITIONAL VERSIONS SUCH AS CARNITAS AND AL PASTOR, YOU CAN INDULGE IN THE PO’BOY SHRIMP TACO OR THE T & T SIGNATURE TACO (CRISPY FRIED CHICKEN WITH SHREDDED LETTUCE, TOMATO, CILANTRO, PICKLED JALAPEÑO, AND QUESO BLANCO). WASH IT DOWN WITH A CHOICE OF NEARLY 100 SPECIALTY TEQUILAS. (TACOSAND TEQUILANAPLES.COM)

Norman Love Confections Norman Love may be the King of Chocolate, but he moonlights as the Emperor of Ice Cream.

His gelato is made from fresh, pure ingredients: pistachios from Sicily’s Bronte Valley and hazelnuts from Piemonte, crafted to make Italian flavors such as stracciatella and tiramisu, along with American classics such as vanilla, chocolate, and coffee. Indulge at his four locations and at Whole Foods in Naples and Fort Myers. (normanloveconfections.com) NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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BEST SPORTS BAR

Tavern on the Bay It’s little wonder the Tavern is a perennial winner in this category: It boasts a prime location on the Gordon River, carefully prepared food, a casual atmosphere, and friendly service. Order some wings, a rack of ribs, or ahi BLT sliders and settle in to watch your favorite sporting event on TV. Life doesn’t get much better than that. (tavernonthebay.net) Runner-Up: Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill Former Miami Dolphins linebacker Kim Bokamper played in one Pro Bowl, two Super Bowls, and three AFC championships before migrating to the world of hospitality. His mission statement is to provide “an unparalleled atmosphere for friends, families, and sports fans of all ages,” and his menu alternates standard pub food with dishes such as quinoa salad and sriracha-spiced tuna wontons. (bokampers.com)

MOST KID-FRIENDLY

Brooks Burgers According to Todd Brooks, when he tucks his kids into bed at night, he asks the same question: “What’s the most important thing in the world?”

He says the answer is always the same: “Be nice.”

That’s the prevailing philosophy at Brooks Burgers, where the friendly staff makes sure that children are welcomed and all burgers are available in junior sizes. (brooksburgers.com) Runner-Up: The Dock at Crayton Cove Of the many reasons why The Dock has been a Naples institution since 1976, the friendly and casual atmosphere ranks high. The kid’s menu includes familiar dishes such as popcorn shrimp, chicken fingers, and mac and cheese, and carrots are the only vegetable in sight. (dockcraytoncove.com)

The doughnut burger from Brooks Burgers

MILA BRIDGER

Runner-Up: Royal Scoop Royal Scoop has been serving old-fashioned ice cream (in the best sense of the term) since 1979.

Whether you choose their original, premium, or deluxe flavors, you’ll be delighted by variations such as Kahlua Fudge, Dulce de Leche, and Chocolate Caramel Fudge Brownie. The four local locations are augmented by a wholesale business supplying stores, restaurants, and country clubs. (royalscoop.com)

BEST BURGER

Brooks Burgers Todd and Sandy Brooks opened their first burger joint in 2010 and now have four locations in Naples. They serve more than 20 specialty burgers and 10 varieties of all-beef hot dogs, as well as soups, sandwiches, salads, and sides. You can customize your choice

MICHAEL CARONCHI

MICHAEL CARONCHI

Tavern on the Bay patio

MOST DOG-FRIENDLY RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL How much do they love your dog at Ridgway’s? Enough that the staff will greet regular canines by name, and so much that the bartenders are ready with a water bowl and a treat. Pets are allowed in any of the outdoor areas (front porch and garden), and the courtyard will typically be packed with companion animals on the weekends. (ridgwaybarand grill.com) RUNNER-UP: EJ’S BAYFRONT CAFÉ At EJ’s, dogs are simply part of the customer base on the patio, as the stack of puppy bowls will attest. The staff regularly provides water, shade, and a special degree of attention to four-legged friends, and they are knowledgeable enough to recommend local pet-friendly destinations to visitors. (ejsbayfrontcafe.com)

with an assortment of toppings, but don’t miss the innovation that made them famous: a burger with melted cheese and bacon, sandwiched between two glazed doughnuts in place of a bun. (brooks burgers.com) Runner-Up: Jimmy P’s Charred Jimmy P’s earns its stripes for its selection of Wagyu craft burgers and hotdogs. In addition to a craft burger of the day, patrons can choose from a classic cheeseburger, a jalapeño burger, a swiss burger served on marble rye, and a barbecue burger topped with cheddar, bacon, an onion ring, and Berkie Sauce. (jimmypscharred.com)

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BEST RESTAURANT

Bleu Provence

MICHAEL OWENS

Sunlight, wild herbs, sea salt, olive oil, pristine fish, intensely flavored produce, and sumptuous wines— there are so many reasons to love Provence that we can barely remember half of them. When Lysielle and Jacques Cariot arrived in Naples in 1997, they brought their heritage with them, and Bleu Provence was born two years later.

The restaurant has expanded significantly over the years, but the atmosphere and cuisine have remained basically unchanged. Lysielle is the chef, Jacques runs the wine program, and these days their sons oversee the dining room. While many of the dishes are traditional (think snails, frog’s legs, bouillabaisse, and coq au vin), they are executed with a lightness of touch that seemingly makes them float on air.

Over the years, the Cariot family has become deeply rooted in the community. They have supported the Naples Children & Education Foundation through its fundraising arm, the Naples Winter Wine Festival, every year since its inception in 2001, as well as donating time and resources to many other local causes.

In an era when innovation and experimentation are highly prized, the Cariots demonstrate basic virtues: Create a welcoming environment, treat customers like guests in your own home, and pamper them with exceptional food, friendly service, and great wine. It’s a simple formula, but it still works, and it inspired readers to once again select Bleu Provence as Naples’ finest restaurant. (bleuprovencenaples.com) Runners-Up: Campiello and Sea Salt In a city filled with distinctive dining experiences, few are as sophisticated as Campiello. Whether you snag a table on the elegant terrace, indoors

facing the open kitchen, or in the newly designed Club Room, you’ll have an experience to remember and one that will cause you to come back—if the food doesn’t inspire you to go to Italy first. (campiellonaples.com) The first Naples restaurant from star chef Fabrizio Aielli, Sea Salt reflects the chef’s Venetian roots. It offers a selection of wild-caught seafood, hormone-free meats, and produce from local farmers; ingredients are fresh and seasonal, so the menu changes frequently. Service is both caring and precise. (seasaltnaples.com) «

AUDREY SNOW

LUMINAIRE FOTO

AUDREY SNOW

Clockwise from above: Bleu Provence interior; Bleu Manhattan, Cucumber Mint Martini, and Campari Spritz; bouillabaise; quiche Lorraine.

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AGENTof

CHANGE Guest curator Amanda Hearst, co-founder of Maison de Mode, demonstrates the versatility and timeless beauty of sustainable fashion

JOACHIM RØNNING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GABOR JURINA

Above, on Amanda Hearst: Envelope1976 dress, Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com Opposite page: Amur Lucinda print bustier ($328), Annalise print skirt ($498); Aera Sally heels in silver mirror ($375); Marlo Laz Porte Bonheur enamel earrings ($6,400); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

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Amanda Hearst believes that one does not need to sacrifice style for sustainability. “It is my personal and professional mission to prove that luxury, fashion, and sustainability can be seamlessly blended,” says Hearst. She cofounded Maison de Mode (maison-de-mode.com) in 2015 to give customers a convenient marketplace that brings together more than 70 ethical and eco-friendly fashion brands, with the goal of encouraging a shift toward a more sustainable future.

The garments sold on the Maison de Mode site adhere to certain standards of sustainability and are clearly labeled with icons that denote distinctions such as recycled, eco-packaging, cruelty-free, and organic. Maison de Mode also supports and features brands created by Black/Indigenous People of Color, as well as women-owned businesses.

In the spirit of sustainability, NI invited Hearst to guest curate our January fashion story featuring designs available through Maison de Mode. “This curation was inspired by the iconic bold and loud element historically associated with high fashion married with the modern ethos of sustainable fashion, which emphasizes versatility, timelessness, and comfort over seasonal and temporary trends,” Hearst explains. She adds that this edit “is made up of pieces that can easily be worn for a casual day around town just as they can be dressed up for a night out.” —Mary Murray

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Amur Constance print romper ($398); Marlo Laz large Porte Bonheur enamel necklace ($4.880), Porte Bonheur enamel earrings ($6,400); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Opposite page: Amur Allegra floral print gown ($698); Marlo Laz five-coin necklace ($20,880); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

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Campo Collection Lydia nightgown in milk ($575); Aera Audrey flats in black patent effect ($345); KBH earrings with Tahitian black pearls and diamond sweethearts ($2,400); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

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niLuu Monroe kimono ($920); Nayla Josefina slides in black fish scale ($275); KBH leaf ear climbers ($1,280), Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Opposite page: Amur Miray top in white ($248); Marlo Laz heart pinky yellow gold ring ($1,495); Shashi Dakota necklace ($60), ring set ($65); KBH square bling ring in white gold ($6,995); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

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Michelle Waugh Joann double-breasted blazer ($995); Amur Apollo white shorts ($268); Aera Audrey flats in black patent effect ($345); Shashi Dakota necklace ($60), ring set ($65); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Opposite page: Amur Jerre print blouse ($348), Ally print skirt ($348); Aera Sally heels in gold mirror ($375); KBH square bling ring in white gold ($6,995); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Model: Anastasia Bondarenko, Elite Model Management, Miami Hair and makeup: Heather Blaine, Creative Management, Miami Digital tech: Javier Sanchez Fashion assistant: Roxy Rooney, Honey Communications NI extends a special thanks to Kevin Condon for providing the location.

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TABLE

Talk When a sommelier, a pastry chef, and an executive chef commune for a tasting dinner, the food and wine pairings are riveting—and so is the conversation

By Christina Cush Photography by Vanessa Rogers Shot on location at 16659 Lucarno Way in Mediterra, thanks to the Bua Bell Group at John R. Wood Properties, Naples.

Flowers by the Garden District, Naples.

Liset Zelaya, Sea Salt’s sommelier, pours wine for the tasting party, which features entrées by chef Asif Syed of 21 Spices and, later, desserts from chef Paw Mikkelsen of Mikkelsen’s Pastry Shop.

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A

fter slogging through almost a year of COVID-19 and its ill effects on their businesses and community, three Naples hospitality superstars seize a lighter moment to gather in a gorgeous home for a savory and sweet tasting dinner, accompanied by delicious wines. The first to arrive, with the sun bouncing off her shiny dark hair, is Liset Zelaya, a 10-year sommelier at Sea Salt. “Who doesn’t get excited when the guest with the booze shows up?” she jokes.

Zelaya was introduced to Naples during childhood winter vacations, escaping the chillier climes in Toledo, Ohio. “After college, I vowed I’d never suffer another winter again and moved down here in January 1998.” She still has a fondness for Ohio, mostly revolving around family memories that inspired her career path. “My mother wouldn’t let my friends leave without eating a full three-course meal.” And her father is responsible for her interest in other cultures and cuisines. “My dad traveled all over the world, often taking us with him,” says the mom of a kindergartener daughter. “He instilled in us to try the foods of wherever we were.”

The doorbell rings and a rosy-cheeked guest arrives—chef Paw Mikkelsen of Mikkelsen’s Pastry Shop, which he’s co-owned and operated for 20 years with his wife, Elizabeth. He carries in three big white Clockwise from right: Samosa appetizers; bakery boxes, and Zelaya can’t wait to peek inside. He interacts with the gently places them on the countertop and says, “I have Zelaya chocolate fondue cake; Mikkelsen raises a glass things in here that I don’t sell in the bakery.” Growing to resilience. up in Denmark he worked in his parents’ pastry shop Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Syed slices at age 11, did an apprenticeship at 15, and came to a lime; Syed’s kebabs; seathe United States at 19. “I worked as a pastry chef for soning the salmon entrée; the ultimate spice tray. the Four Seasons in Houston and The Ritz-Carlton in

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Boston,” says the father of three children, now all in their 20s.

Chef Asif Syed, a father of two young kids, is the next to arrive, bringing with him a little rock-and-roll attitude. Though everyone in this trio knows each other from living and working in Naples, it’s the first opportunity they’ve had to spend quality time together. Syed came to Naples more than 20 years ago, through an internship at the JW Marriott on Marco Island.

“Later, I got a job at the Hilton hotel on Marco Island and worked to become the executive chef,” he says. “Fifteen years later, I opened 21 Spices in Naples.” Both Mikkelsen and Zelaya have eaten there and comment that they appreciate the vibrant decor and delicious flavors. Grateful for his colleagues’ kind words, Syed replies, “It was my dream to open an Indian restaurant, to showcase food from my home country. I am a culinary ambassador.”

Syed gets busy chopping and heating up vegetable oil on the induction stove. As she watches Syed do his thing, Zelaya says, “I love

From above: Zelaya tells Syed and Mikkelsen about how she likes to entertain at home, which, of course, includes a tempting selection of red and white wines; Syed’s spiced grilled lamb chops finish sizzling on a plate.

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Syed’s savory menu includes chicken kabobs, chicken tikka masala, and tandoori Pacific salmon.

Gorgeous blooms by the Garden District created an elegant atmosphere at the collegial gathering.

sharing a meal, wine, and conversation.” Then she adds, “Okay guys, which bottle do you want to open first?”

The men smartly defer to her, and she uncorks Chappellet Grower Collection Chardonnay, Calesa Vineyard, from Petaluma Gap in Sonoma County. “The boldness of the fruit and the bright acidity will go beautifully with the flavors of the samosa and chutney dish,” Zelaya explains. She grabs the bottle, and they all head out to the patio off the kitchen to nibble on appetizers.

The three collectively take a breath and exchange stories about COVID-19, concurring that Naples is a generous community. “We were closed for two weeks,” says Mikkelsen.

“Then, we tried attracting more retail business, as our wholesale business—our backbone— disappeared. That was a big adjustment.” He notes that he has been fortunate to pick up hotel clients recently. “We fared better than many, keeping our staff working enough to survive.

We hope Naples supports local restaurants and bars at this critical time, or they will be gone.”

Sympathetic to the bakery’s situation, Zelaya shares how her career plans derailed. “Prior to

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“

WE HAVE A GREAT COMMUNITY AND WILL GET BACK ON OUR FEET. ... IT’S IN OUR NATURE TO ENJOY EACH OTHER’S COMPANY AND DINE TOGETHER.” —Chef Asif Syed

the pandemic, I was supposed to travel to Australia’s and New Zealand’s wine regions,” she says. “We are all in unchartered waters, but our industries will pull through and emerge even better.”

Syed commiserates, saying, “We were planning on increasing our retail space, but instead we will chip away a little bit at a time.” Yet, he’s optimistic. “We have a great community and will get back on our feet. We need to focus on our strengths. It’s in our nature to enjoy each other’s company and dine together.”

On that upbeat note, Syed checks on the entrées in the oven. When they are ready, he calls his peers to the table, and Zelaya opens bottle No.2: Problem Child, Linne Calodo, from Paso Robles. “This is one of my favorite California

Clockwise from top left: Mikkelsen’s old-fashioned chocolate fondue cake with dipping berries; a rosé Champagne balances the sweet treats; white chocolate pistachio napoleons; Zelaya expertly sabers the Champagne.

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Three of Naples’ hospitality stars toast to a supportive community and a bright future; mini-Bundt cakes flavored with Florida rum.

producers,” she says. “This wine, a Zinfandel, Syrah, and Mouvedre blend, is ethereal and pairs well with bold flavors.”

Digging into Syed’s spiced lamb chops, the conversation turns to home entertaining. “The parrillada is my goto,” Zelaya says. “It’s an array of grilled steaks, chicken, sausages, and vegetables, with an arugula salad and a selection of whites and reds.” The men joke that they are ready for their invitation.

Syed chimes in, “It is part of my culture to showcase hospitality. I truly enjoy hosting friends and family for dinner.”

Mikkelsen nods, as he feels similarly about honoring his background. “We try to include Danish meal selections, to keep our heritage alive. Desserts are pastries from the shop.” Syed says he serves his grandma’s rice pudding.

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Speaking of dessert, Mikkelsen unveils them: a white chocolate pistachio napoleon, a Florida rum raisin Bundt cake, and a fondue cake with strawberries to dip into the chocolate center. Zelaya digs out a special box from her bags to reveal a sabre, meant to open the dessert Champagne. The ceremony adds revelry to the gathering.

“It’s delicious,” says Mikkelsen after his first sip of the Ruinart Rosé. Zelaya nods, adding, “This is Champagne’s first rosé wine. One of my go-tos. The bubbles refresh the palate after each decadent bite.” Following more sipping and sampling sweets, the three professionals agree it’s invaluable to take time to commune with colleagues. “Moments like this will make us always be on top of our game,” Syed concludes. « NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021 109

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Hogfish over bamboo rice with baby carrots in a ginger and pineapple reduction

+

EAT DRINK

By Mark Spivak

DINING

MICHAEL CARONCHI

HOGGING the Spotlight “Many people confuse hogfish with hog snapper,” says Everett Fromm, executive chef at the new Hogfish Harry’s at Parkshore Resort. “It’s actually part of the wrasse family. It’s sweeter than mahi and as flaky as cod.” To create the menu’s namesake dish, Fromm first seasons the fish with paprika, salt, and white pepper. After grilling, the filet is placed on a bed of bam-

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boo rice (green in color from the chlorophyll in young bamboo plants), and served with caramelized baby carrots in a reduction of fresh ginger and pineapple. “We want the ingredients to be the stars of each dish,” says Fromm. “Our mission is to tease customers’ palates and introduce them to things they may not have tried or even heard of.” (hogfishharrys.com)

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EAT + DRINK CHARITY UPDATE

GOING VIRTUAL

DESSERT

FUNKY Bakeries

Two Naples businesses are demonstrating that there’s more to BAKERIES THAN BREAD Tin City’s Monkey Bread Factory was born during the financial crisis of 2008.

“People weren’t buying big-ticket items,” recalls owner Karen Haupt, “but they were still eating and drinking. Cinnamon rolls are one of my favorite things, so my husband and I wondered how we could do them better and create something unique.”

The result can be described as a Cinnabon on steroids. The Haupts took monkey bread (traditionally eaten as a breakfast treat or sold at street fairs and festivals), baked it in a special mold resembling a Bundt pan, and filled it with homemade icing flavors such as banana, orange, coconut, and key lime. Mon

Peace, Love, and Little Donuts offers an array of innovative varieties, including oreo cheesecake, strawberry French toast, and peanut butter and jelly.

“Key” Buntz were born. They’ve added other products over the years—notably Island Gold, which is puffed corn and pecans glazed with homemade butter toffee—but monkey bread remains the core of their business. And Haupt has wisely resisted a nutritional analysis of the product.“When people ask me how many calories it contains, I tell them too many,” she says, with a laugh. “Just enjoy it!” (monkey breadfactory.com) The ’60s may be over, but don’t tell that to the folks at Peace, Love, and Little Donuts.

Their miniature donuts come in three price tiers, depending on the preparation: Groovy (plain, sugar, or glazed), Far Out (topped with different frostings), and Funkadelic (more elaborate toppings such as S’mores or Salted Caramel Macchiato, with or without nuts).

Donuts are made fresh throughout the day; there are daily specials, and customers can design their own from any of the available ingredients. These artistic treats are also a popular item for weddings, gifts, and corporate promotions.

“I’m not sure if our younger customers understand all the period references,” says Kara Barefoot, who gave up a career in software to purchase the franchise in 2014. “But these days, anyone can relate to spreading a little peace and love.” (peaceloveandlittledonuts.com)

The Naples Winter Wine Festival has raised $212 million for underserved children in Collier County over the past 20 years—money that the Naples Children & Education Foundation passes directly to grant recipients. Traditionally, the funds were raised during a gala weekend that included a live auction at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort and vintner dinners at the homes of festival trustees.

This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival is centered around an hour-long fundraising documentary that will air on Saturday, January 30.

The program will spotlight the safety net that NCEF has built for local children by featuring inspirational success stories and personal insights from parents and beneficiaries. Members of the community will be able to make a pledge of support throughout the broadcast to help continue the mission of NCEF. At the conclusion, bidding will take place on the 2021 auction lots and there will be a generous paddle raise for the kids.

“Since its inception in 2000, the Naples Children & Education Foundation has become the single largest source of funding for essential services for at-risk and underprivileged children in Collier County,” said Maria Jimenez-Lara, CEO of the Naples Children & Education Foundation. “Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the need in our community is greater than ever and there is an ever-growing demand for resources needed to support this underserved population.” (napleswinefestival.com)

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BEVERAGES

HAVE A KAVA? One of the fastest-growing wellness beverage trends reached Naples in September with the opening of Kava Culture, the sixth kava bar in Southwest Florida under the same ownership.

Grown throughout the South Pacific, the root of the kava plant is used to produce a drink that has sedative properties and also creates a feeling of well-being. The same attributes seem to account for its popularity in sunny, outdoorsy Florida. Kava Culture serves a wide variety of teas, elixirs, and coolers; they are dedicated to using the product to “combat the stressors of our modern lifestyle,” and hope to bring their customers back to “a simpler time.”

“Kava is very soothing,” says manager Margaret Buch, “but we’re more than a café. We’re creating an open and welcoming community that draws people in and makes them feel comfortable.” She observes that since Kava Culture is a sober environment, it attracts many recovering addicts who feel safe in their community. The central rite is the bula (Fijian for “good luck” or “good health”), a group toast that draws everyone together.

Kava Culture boasts kava flavors such as Mango Bango (left), which can also be purchased in 32-ounce growlers (above).

Internet research reveals a conflicting range of opinion about the health benefits of kava.

Some sources contend that it can be harmful or dangerous, depending on the species of plant and method of preparation, but few of those claims can be scientifically verified. Kava Culture is fastidious about preparing the plant for consumption, and advocates such as Buch prefer to emphasize the healing benefits and psychological advantages of the drink. “The favorite part of my day is seeing the effects kava has on new customers—easing their worries and having them experience something they’ve never had before.” (kavaculture.com)

NI ’s curated dining guide for Greater NAPLES THE LISTINGS The Naples area is packed with an abundance of great eateries, serving up food and drinks to satisfy every palate. Naples Illustrated has rounded up details on can’tmiss places for dining delights. = NI’s Dining Hall of Fame* *Dining establishments that have won three or more Dining Awards in the same category are inducted into NI’s Dining Hall of Fame.

AMERICAN ALICE SWEETWATER’S BAR & GRILLE An institution of more than 25 years, this local’s favorite serves a large array of lunch and dinner fare. 1996 Airport Road S., Naples (alicesweetwatersbarandgrille.com) BALEEN AT LAPLAYA BEACH & GOLF RESORT Dine amid elegant tropical surroundings indoors or on the patio to soak up the view. 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples (laplayaresort.com) THE BEVY Everything old is new again at The Bevy (short for beverage). 360 Twelfth Ave. S., Naples (naplesbevy.com)

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BILL’S CAFÉ Chef Bill Salley slings comfort food with a side of rock and roll. 947 Third Ave. N., Naples (239263-2600) BISTRO 821 A long-time favorite, thanks to executive chef Jesse Housman’s Natural Fusion menu. 821 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bistro821.com)  BOKAMPER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL Former football superstar Kim Bokamper is still scoring here.

8990 Fontana Del Sol Way, Naples; 8001 Plaza Del Lago Drive, Estero (bokampers.com) FUSE BBQ Stop by for Texas-style brisket, Memphisstyle ribs, and Carolina-style pork. 2500 Tamiami Trail N., #114, Naples (fusebbq.com) THE LAKE PARK DINER Putting a healthy spin on classic diner fare. 944 Seventh Ave. N., Naples (thelakeparkdiner.com) THE LOCAL Fresh, healthy meals dominate the menu, and its brunch is one of the best in town. 5323 Airport Pulling Road, Naples (thelocalnaples.com) M WATERFRONT GRILLE Contemporary decor, a view of the bay, and fine cuisine. 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (mwaterfrontgrille.com) MICHELBOB’S CHAMPIONSHIP RIBS & STEAKS This family-run restaurant offers a full bar and a comprehensive menu of barbecue favorites. 371 Airport Pulling Road N., Naples (michelbobs.com) OLD NAPLES PUB AND THE VILLAGE PUB Both of these local-favorite locales feature foods perfect for

the casual setting. 255 Thirteenth Ave. S.; 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples (naplespubs.com) RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL Chef Tony Ridgway continues wowing diners with classic American cuisine. 1300 Third St. S., Naples (ridgwaybarandgrill.com) SEASONS 52 A rotating menu of healthy, seasonal dishes and international wines. 8930 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (seasons52.com)  TAVERN ON THE BAY This popular sports bar offers great comfort food and views of the Gordon River. 489 Bayfront Place, Naples (tavernonthebay.net) THREE60 MARKET This local market boasts a café that serves classic, fresh fare for breakfast and lunch.

2891 Bayview Drive, Naples (three60market.com)  TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT & BAR The Tommy Bahama laid-back lifestyle is full throttle. 1220 Third St. S., Naples (tommybahama.com) YABBA ISLAND GRILL A fun spot for steaks, seafood, and more. 711 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (yabbaislandgrill.com) THE WAREHOUSE Local ingredients complement an award-winning cocktail program. 9010 Bellaire Bay Drive, Naples (thewarehousenaples.com)

SEAFOOD AQUA The restaurant’s look is fresh and airy, just right for the seafood-centric menu. 862 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (aquafifth.com) NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2021

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EAT + DRINK BAYSIDE SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR This Venetian Bay favorite boasts grand water views, prime grilled meats, and seafood specialties. 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (baysideseafoodgril​land​bar.com) THE BOATHOUSE ON NAPLES BAY Arrive by car or boat at this restaurant overlooking Naples Bay. 990 Broad Ave. S., Naples (boathouseonnaplesbay.com) CAPTAIN & KREWE Enjoy oysters and other seafood, beer, and wine in a relaxed atmosphere. 629 Eighth St. S., Naples (cknaples.com) THE CLAW BAR Featuring a sophisticated blend of Southern traditions and high-quality ingredients. 221 Ninth St. S., Naples (theclawbar.com) THE DOCK AT CRAYTON COVE Serving fresh catches prepared with Caribbean and Latin influences.

845 Twelfth Ave. S., Naples (dockcrayton​cove.com) GROUPER & CHIPS The grouper is spectacular, as are the crab cakes, fish tacos, and bouillabaisse. 338 Ninth St. N., Naples (grouperandchipsnaples.com) HOGFISH HARRY’S Serving up signatures such as monkfish bucco and, of course, grilled hogfish. 600 Neapolitan Way, Naples (hogfishharrys.com) LA PESCHERIA A creative, stellar eatery that honors the culture of Italian fish markets. 474 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (lapescherianaples.com) MR. BIG FISH This family-friendly eatery specializes in delicious chowders and locally caught seafood dishes. 754 Neapolitan Way, Naples (gomrbigfish.com) OCEAN PRIME Enjoy a delectable seafood and steak menu, luxe cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. 699 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (ocean-prime.com) PINCHERS CRAB SHACK Pinchers serves fresh, local seafood in a casual setting. 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 591 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island; 28580 Bonita Crossing Blvd., Bonita Springs (pinchersusa.com) RIVERWALK AT TIN CITY The menu brims with innovative interpretations of seafood entrées. 1200 Fifth Ave. S. Suite 45, Naples (riverwalktincity.com) SAILS This bona fide “pescatarian’s haven” features exquisitely fresh seafood prepared to perfection. 301 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (sailsrestaurants.com) SEA SALT Chef Fabrizio Aielli is a master at marrying wild-caught fish with modern cooking techniques. 1186 Third St. S., Naples (seasaltnaples.com) TRULUCK’S Truluck’s owns local fisheries, so the catch is always fresh in this fine-dining restaurant. 698 Fourth Ave. S., Naples (trulucks.com)  THE TURTLE CLUB Fresh seafood, fine steaks, and chops are nearly overshadowed by the spectacular beachfront setting. 9225 Gulf Shore Drive N., Naples (turtleclubnaples.com)  USS NEMO UNDERSEA CUISINE & ADVENTURES Everything is a cut above, but the signature miso-broiled sea bass is a must. 3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (ussnemorestaurant.com)

STEAK THE CAPITAL GRILLE Fine dining with an array of dryaged steaks and an extensive wine list. 9005 Mercato Drive, Naples (thecapitalgrille.com)

HOTEL EATERY

Before FAREWELL For the final season of HB’s on the Gulf at the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club, chef Jonathan Hornyak has composed a menu designed to provide an exceptional guest experience.

Hornyak started his restaurant caFrom above: reer at Mary’s Bistro on Mackinac IsChef Jonathan Hornyak’s land in Michigan. Rather than attend interpretation culinary school, he began as a dishof cioppino; the Chef’s Salad washer and climbed up the ladder with shrimp. until he became a chef. He arrived in Naples 10 years ago and worked at the Naples Yacht Club and the nowdefunct Citrus Restaurant before starting at the hotel in 2013.

HB’s on the Gulf will be serving breakfast for the first time, featuring items such as brioche French toast and jalapeño cheddar biscuits with chorizo gravy. Lunch begins with small plates and salads and continues to entrées such as blackened grouper tacos and bison burgers. Dinner main courses range from a Kurobuta pork chop with mojo marinade to Hornyak’s version of cioppino.

“It’s important for chefs to understand the composition of traditional dishes before they make changes and add their personal touch,” Hornyak says. “For the cioppino, we start with a clam stock and add fresh basil, Spanish onion, lots of garlic, and some red cherry flake for spice.”

Owned by the Watkins family since 1946, the hotel has been sold to The Athens Group, which will begin redevelopment after the season. Plans call for replacing the 319-room hotel with a 220-room luxury property and 195 condo units. The golf course will remain, but HB’s will be sorely missed. (naplesbeachhotel.com)

THE CONTINENTAL This D’Amico restaurant is a stylish steak house and gastropub. 1205 Third St. S., Naples (damicoscontinental.com) DORONA Culinary superstars Fabrizio and Ingrid Aielli have excelled again with this modern Italian steak house. 2110 Ninth St. N., Naples (doronanaples.com)  JIMMY P’S CHARRED The popular butcher shop’s steaks and more are served in the restaurant next door.

1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (jimmypscharred.com) SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE In the winning tradition of Don Shula, the “Shula Cut” is one of the best steaks in town.

5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (shulasnaples.com)

FRENCH BISTRO LA BAGUETTE This traditional French bistro serves classic combinations like coq au vin. 3560 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (bistrolabaguette.com)  BLEU PROVENCE Authentic dishes from the South of France are paired with wines from the award-

winning selection. 1234 Eighth St. S., Naples (bleu ​provencenaples.com) CHEZ BOËT FRENCH HOME COOKING Lisa and Philippe Boët serve up delicious classics in a warm, homey atmosphere. 755 Twelfth Ave. S., Naples (chezboetnaples.com) THE FRENCH BRASSERIE RUSTIQUE Rustic French cuisine with desserts prepared by an in-house pastry chef. 365 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (thefrenchnaples.com)

MEXICAN FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA Family-friendly eatery serving fresh classics plus hand-crafted cocktails.

4255 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (felipestaqueria.com) ROCCO’S TACOS AND TEQUILA BAR Every day is Cinco de Mayo at this high-energy eatery. The signature tacos are a hit, along with the savory guacamole, made fresh tableside. 9123 Strada Place Suite 7135, Naples (roccostacos.com)

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MANGIA MOLTO BENE We proudly serve Homemade Pasta, Sauces, Pizza Napoletana, Fresh Seafood, Local Produce.

Alfresco & Inside Dining

bar trattoria 368 5th Avenue South | 239.261.5853 www.moltonaples.com

Corvina al guazzetto, tomato sauce and black olives

Come and enjoy fresh-served seafood made deliciously by our Italian chefs.

474 5th Avenue South | 239.316.7322 www.lapescherianaples.com

BOTH RESTAURANTS ARE LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN NAPLES

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EAT + DRINK  TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA The many varieties of

CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR! Celebrate the new year and plan your traditional good luck meals with Wynn’s Market. We pride ourselves on bringing you the finest shopping experience you’ll find anywhere. We are honored to be your neighborhood supermarket and always give you the extra personal service and attention we’re famous for!

Food Purveyors in Naples since 1938.

141 Tamiami Trail North • Naples, Florida 34102 239.261.7157 • Fax: 239.261.3986 • wynns@wynnsonline.com

tacos are made with fresh, local products. 4834 Davis Blvd.; 8971 Tamiami Trail N., Naples; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers (tacosandtequilanaples.com) TURCO TACO Clean eating with a Mexican twist. 410 Ninth St. N., Naples (theturcotaco.com)

ITALIAN ALBERTO’S ON FIFTH Chef Alberto Varetto cooks fine dishes in his elegant restaurant. 868 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (albertosonfifth.com) ANGELINA’S RISTORANTE A place for a special night out. 24041 Tamiami Trail S., Bonita Springs (angelinas ofboni​tasprings.com)  BAR TULIA This late-night brother of Osteria Tulia serves outstanding pizzas and a variety of irrestible small bites. 462 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bartulia.com) BARBATELLA Pizzas and pastas are delish, but don’t overlook offerings like the grilled salmon. 1290 Third St. S., Naples (barbatellanaples.com) BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE The location in Waterside Shops makes this a popular place for pre- and post-shopping meals. 5505 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (brioitalian.com)  CAMPIELLO RISTORANTE & BAR This mainstay on Third Street South is a perennial gathering place. 1177 Third St. S., Naples (campiellonaples.com) GRAPPINO This latest venture from Ingrid and Fabrizio Aielli celebrates Fabrizio’s Venetian roots. 90 Ninth St. N., Naples (grappinonaples.com) LA TRATTORIA Old-world charm abounds at this Neapolitan-style pizzeria. 878 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (latrattorianaples.com) MINO This casual eatery specializes in pizza and trattoria dishes. 1100 Sixth Ave. S., Naples (minofl.com)  OSTERIA TULIA Chef Vincenzo Betulia’s authentically rustic “peasant” cuisine is delizioso. 466 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (osteriatulia.com) PAZZO! CUCINA ITALIANA This neighborhood restaurant has been serving made-from-scratch dishes for more than 20 years. 853 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (pazzoitaliancafe.com) ROMA ITALIAN BISTRO Pizza and Italian specialities made with ingredients imported from Italy and organic produce.

655 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (romaitalianpizzeria.com) TERRAZZA This Italian eatery at The Ritz-Carlton Naples pairs cool Gulf breezes with classic entrées. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (ritzcarlton.com)

ASIAN

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

AZN AZIAN CUIZINE PanAsian cuisine and an expansive sushi rolls menu, including specialties like Surf & Turf with blue crab, tuna, beef filet carpaccio, and cucumber. 9118 Strada Place, Naples (aznrestaurant.com/naples) DARUMA Visit this Southwest Florida institution for traditional service or teppanyaki-style cooking. 241 Center St. N., Naples (darumarestaurant.com) FUJIYAMA STEAK AND SEAFOOD HOUSE Enjoy steaks and seafood prepared with Japanese flair at Fujiyama’s hibachi table. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naples ​fujiyama.com)

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NAMBA Named for a district of Osaka, Namba specializes in aburi sushi, a style of nigiri where the fish is partially grilled on top. 8447 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (nambanaples.com) SUSHI ONE Freshness is paramount at Sushi One and each order is painstakingly prepared by hand. 1410 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (sushionenaples.com)  SUSHI-THAI Presenting traditional dishes from Japan, as well as sushi and Thai classics. 869 103rd Ave. N.; 7935 Airport Pulling Road N.; 898 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 25101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs (sush​ithaitoo.com) VEGAN KITCHEN The wide-ranging Asian menu includes influences from China, Thailand, and Vietnam. 794 Neapolitan Way, Naples (vegan-kitchen.us) ZEN ASIAN BBQ A rustic Japenese pub serving fantastic sushi, Korean barbecue, ramen, and more. 10823 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (eatat​zen.com)

GLOBAL 21 SPICES BY CHEF ASIF Chef Asif R. Syed offers classical Indian cuisine created with his special collection of spices. 4270 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (21spicesdining.com) 1500 SOUTH This sophisticated eatery inside the Naples Bay Resort & Marina pairs locally sourced ingredients with influences from across the globe. 1500 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (naplesbayresort.com) ARIO Designed for the “global nomad,” the menu focuses on dry-aged meats, local seafood, and salts and spices from around the world. 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island (marriott.com)  BHA! BHA! PERSIAN BISTRO Michael Mir’s popular restaurant serves up savory lamb dishes and a wide choice of colorful and delicious Persian specialties. 865 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bhabhabis​tro.com) C LEVEL BISTRO & WINE BAR A trendy venue that offers a menu of international dishes with American and French influences. 4450 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (c-levelbar.com) CELEBRATION PARK NAPLES This waterfront bar and food truck park has something for everyone, from Maine lobster and Greek gyros, to Asian fusion and Southern barbecue. 2880 Becca Ave., Naples (facebook.com/celebrationparknaples) COAST RESTAURANT Enjoy a candlelit dinner indoors or watch the sun set over the Gulf on the terrace as you savor the globally influenced cuisine. 1901 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (edge​wa​ternaples.com) FERNANDEZ THE BULL CUBAN CAFÉ Serving traditional Cuban cuisine with a few twists. 1201 Piper Blvd.; 3375 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (fernan​dezthe bull.com) FUSE GLOBAL CUISINE Chef-owner Greg Scarlatos uses flavors and ingredients from around the world. 2500 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (fuse​globalcuisine.com) HYDE N CHIC At this fine-dining establishment, chef Andy Hyde merges his Ghana roots with Southwest Florida’s agricultural and seafood bounty. 923 Creech Road, Naples (hydenchicrestaurant.com)  JANE’S GARDEN CAFÉ ON THIRD Having worked in places such as London, Hong Kong, and Frankfurt, the owners of this popular downtown spot offer a world of choices. 1209 Third St. S., Naples (janesgardencafe.com) LAMORAGA Spanish cuisine with an international twist is served along with a wide selection of fine wines. 3936 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (lamoragar​estaurant.com) LIMA RESTAURANT & PISCO BAR This East Naples restaurant captures the essence of Lima’s modern cuisine. 11681 Collier Blvd., Naples (lima-​​restaurant.com) MEDITERRANO Stop by for authentic dishes like Mediterranean sea bass with figs, apricots, and raisins. 336 Thirteenth Ave. S., Naples (mediterrano-naples.com) PETAR’S RESTAURANT Chef Petar’s internationally inspired fare is superbly fresh.

3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (petarsrestaurant.com) A TABLE APART Owner-chef Jeff Acol creates delicious dishes that incorporate a world of influences stemming from his Hawaiian roots. 4295 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (at​ableapart.com) VERANDA E As Hotel Escalante’s signature restaurant, Veranda E offers an eclectic fusion of Asian and French-influenced flavors in a romantic, tropical setting.

290 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (hotelescalante.com)

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ocean to Table Hidden in a tucked away island oasis in the heart of Naples, Hogfish Harry’s captures the essence of tropical dining through eclectic coastal delights and refined seafood creations.

With a vibrant, yet relaxed and casual ambiance and an island-inspired bar, we welcome you to relax, enjoy and indulge in tropical-inspired cocktails and the day’s freshest catch.

LUNCH | HAPPY HOUR | DINNER Park Shore Resort | 600 Neapolitan Way | Naples, FL 239-776-7623 | HogfishHarrys.com CHARMING OUTDOOR PATIO AVAILABLE FOR DINING

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EAT + DRINK OFF THE VINE

GRIP of the GRAPE

With ample talent on the North Fork, Long Island winemaking is coming into its own

Macari Vineyards on Long Island’s North Fork

Bedell Cellars’ Musée and Taste Red

The Long Island wine industry has come a remarkably long way in a very short time. Louisa and Alex Hargrave planted the first vines on the South Fork in 1973; their winery is still there, although it was sold in 1999 and is now known as Castello di Borghese. The North Fork is where the action is, with 40 wineries and 3,000 acres of vineyards.

In the beginning, it’s safe to say that few people took Long Island wine seriously; the bottles were mostly placed on local restaurant wine lists and consumed by summer residents of the Hamptons. Over time, experts began to realize that the maritime climate was perfect for Bordeaux grape varieties, and today the region is the third largest producer of wine grapes in the U.S. (after California and Washington State). In the era of internet sales, the wines are readily available to almost everyone. Here, we offer a quick guide to some Long Island wineries worthy of attention.

COURTESY OF MACARI VINEYARDS

By Mark Spivak

Macari Vineyards: The Macari family has been farming on the North Fork since the 1960s, establishing their winery in 1995. While they are renowned for Cabernet Franc and Merlot, they also produce Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and a rosé made from Merlot and Malbec. They have 180 acres of grapevines planted on their 500-acre estate. (macariwines.com) Bedell Cellars: Susan and Kip (aka “Mr. Merlot”) Bedell established Bedell Cellars in 1980 and sold the winery in 2000 to the Lynne family. The brand’s winemaker, Richard Olsen-Harbich, wrote the successful application for the North Fork of Long Island AVA in 1986. Bedell’s benchmark wine, a Bordeauxstyle blend labeled Bedell Musée, has been called “a grand vin of New York” by Wine Spectator magazine. (bedellcellars.com) Paumanok Vineyards: In 1983, Charles Massoud bought a potato farm near the Hargraves and

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Channing Daughters wines

began planting grapevines on the weekend. His hobby spiraled out of control, and in 1992 he left his job at IBM to become a full-time vintner.

While Paumanok bottles Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and red wine blends, it is best known for whites, particularly an awardwinning Chenin Blanc. The Massouds also own Palmer Vineyards in Riverhead. (paumanok.com) Lenz Winery: The Lenz family founded their namesake winery in 1978 and sold it to Peter and Deborah Carroll in 1994. Lenz specializes in Merlot. Some of his wines have beaten many Bordeaux Right Bank thoroughbreds in blind tastings. Lenz also makes a full range of white, rosé, sparkling, and dessert wines. (lenzwine.com) Pindar Vineyards: Operated by the Damianos family since the 1980s, Pindar is the largest Long Island winery, with a production of 70,000 cases. It hosts groups, weddings, kids, pets, and self-catered picnics. Take a tour and sample one of the 20 varieties made on the premises. (pindar.net) Shinn Estate: At the other end of the production scale (6,000 cases), Shinn is the domain of winemaker Barbara Shinn and her husband, chef David Page, who operated a Greenwich Village restaurant for more than a decade. Shinn Estate, which Randy Frankel purchased in 2017, offers a sparkling Chardonnay called Ultra Brut, several white blends, and an outstanding Reserve Merlot. (shinnestatevineyards.com)

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Channing Daughters: One of three wineries on the South Fork, Channing Daughters began with an acre of vines that Walter Channing planted in 1982. Another small-production gem, it is best known for the Heart Artists Series and bottlings of exotic varieties such as Ribolla Gialla and Blaufränkisch. (channingdaughters.com) Roanoke Vineyards: Richard Pisacano, the former vineyard manager at Wölffer Estate, created Roanoke Vineyards, which is a membership-based winery centered around a wine club. It focuses on small-production, site-specific renditions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. (roanokevineyards.net) «

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BALANCE

By Yelena Alpert

GET MOVING

Best Foot Forward

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Walking can lift your mood, especially if you walk with wonder, according to new research in the scientific journal Emotion. People who show lower activity levels tend to be less open, agreeable, and conscientious, but just 15 minutes of walking a day can foster positive emotions.

“Walking enhances every aspect of our social, psychological, and neural functioning,” writes Shane O’Mara, author of In Praise

of Walking: A New Scientific Exploration. “We need to make walking a natural, habitual part of our everyday lives.”

Taking 6,000 or more steps per day can also prevent knee osteoarthritis, according to a study published in Arthritis Care & Research. An extra 1,000 steps daily can reduce knee problems by almost 20 percent two years later. Turn the page to discover walking paths around town.

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BALANCE

PAUL G. OSBORN

Best Foot FORWARD CONT.

1 BAREFOOT BEACH PRESERVE Whether you opt for the 1-mile loop or a stroll through the butterfly garden, you certainly won’t find a place as peaceful as this 300-acre haven. Bring a blanket for a post-walk meditation on the beach. 505 Barefoot Beach Boulevard, Naples

NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN Get transported to a remote, tropical destination right here in Naples as you saunter past amazing plants from around the globe.

At the garden, Burle Marx’s kaleidoscopic landscape architecture spans 170 acres. Your eyes will feast upon banyan trees and bamboo from Asia as well as Brazil’s palms and bromeliads. 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples

2

3

CREW MARSH TRAILS Instead of watching the National Geographic channel, walk here and explore Paradise Coast wildlife. The Crew Trust, a nonprofit conservation organization focused on preserving water resources and natural communities, offers guided hikes through marsh trails, where you might see everything from a rose-feathered spoonbill to a benign corn snake. 4600 Corkscrew Road (CR 850), Immokalee

4

FREEDOM PARK The 3,500-foot-long boardwalk will take you through native flora canopied by cypress trees that provide much appreciated shade. As you walk, keep an eye out for woodpeckers, herons, and even river otters who occasionally pose long enough for you to snap a picture. The park is also 100 percent wheelchair accessible. 1515 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples

APP FOR THAT

BUT FIRST, YOGA

Perhaps this is the year to get into yoga.

For those who feel intimidated about getting started, consider the Yoga Wake Up app, a Zen alternative to a blaring alarm clock that can rouse you out of bed, one stretch at a time.

“Easing into yoga with shorter practices or incorporating a few morning stretches is a great way to start,” says Jennifer Khosla, a holistic lifestyle specialist and founder of Lean and Green Body in Naples. “Our bodies are often stiff when we first wake up, and starting

the day with a few yoga stretches helps awaken the body. It is also a great way to set the tone for your day, without reading news headlines or diving into emails.”

Yoga Wake Up is guided by certified yoga instructors and soothing tunes. Each 6- to 20-minute session fits your morning vibes—whether it’s a relaxing practice that opens up tight shoulders for side sleepers or an energetic routine with positive mantras. Keep it handy for an afternoon practice like Chair-Asana or a nighttime routine like Less Thinking, More Sleeping to help fall asleep quicker. (yogawakeup.com)

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BALANCE GROOMING

FACE FRAMES

With face masks the accessory du jour, brow maintenance should be impeccable. “We have less than 10 seconds to make a first impression,” says makeup artist Dani Taverna of Duality Artistry in Naples. “Brows frame your face and highlight your best features. Well-groomed brows can also make you appear more youthful.” Read on for Taverna’s brow commandments. (dualityartistry.com)

MD, FAAD

1

GO WIDE. While brow width should complement face shape, the brow arch should be the opposite shape to your face shape. For example, create a low, straight arch to give width to a long face.

3

CHOOSE THE CORRECT TOOLS. Don’t rely on the brow pencil alone. While its strokes are good for mimicking hair, you’ll want a short, stiff-bristled brush and powder to keep color in place. Purchase a brow gel and use the wand in an up-and-out motion to finesse the brows.

2

COLOR WISELY. When choosing brow color, follow this cheat sheet: Blondes and redheads should go one shade darker than their hair color, while brunettes should go one shade lighter.

For rub-proof application, try Wonderskin blading brow mask ($35.50, wonderskin.com). For silver hair, tint brows with colored gel like Glossier Boy Brow ($16, glossier.com).

Dr. John DeNigris MD

4

THINK CLEARLY. By using a clear gel, you’re able to tame unruly hair and create fullness, adds Taverna, who suggests Tarte Tarteist brow gel ($19, sephora.com) to keep brows looking prim with minimal work.

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HOLISTIC WELLNESS

COFFEE CONTENDERS Coffee has plenty of benefits, such as helping to prevent type 2 diabetes and supporting a longer lifespan, but it often comes with cream and sugar. This year, try something different. These coffee swaps will keep your energy up and promote good health.

Mushroom adaptogens: Mushrooms in your cup may not sound appetizing, but immuneboosting mushroom adaptogens have long been used in

ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic practices. Teecino’s Turkey Tail Astragalus roasted chicory ‘coffee’ brew boasts a toasted maple flavor as good as your favorite K-cup. (teeccino.com, also available at Whole Foods) Kombucha: This fermented tea is touted for its antioxidant and anti-aging polyphenols, said to slow neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Try Mother Kombucha in the blood orange ginger flavor as an afternoon pick-meup with a bite. (motherkombucha. com, also available at Oakes Farms Market)

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1250 Pine Ridge Rd, Suite 101A Naples, Florida 34108 239-261-9990 | www.drbnaples.com

Diane Brzezinski, D.O., FACOI HOMEGROWN

GETTING FRESH WITH HERBS

One of the easiest ways to enhance flavor in lieu of salt and butter is with fresh herbs. Companies like Rise Gardens (risegardens.com) are growing in popularity thanks to lush offerings designed to blend seamlessly with your living space. To start a DIY herb garden, follow these tips from Joel Toledo, owner of Green Door Nursery in Naples. (greendoornursery.com)

Skip the seeds. Why spend time babying seeds when someone else can do the hard work for you? Small plants are easier to work with because they have hardened off and the roots are already established. Opt for the holy trinity of herbs: basil, rosemary, and thyme. “Those do well no matter where you put them,” says Toledo.

Source locally. Tempting as it may be to run into a big-box store, search instead for herbs from local sources, which are more likely to be acclimated to the regional climate because they didn’t start their life in a greenhouse.

Keep herbs within reach. Plant herbs on a windowsill or place a pot on the lanai for easy access. Out of sight, out of mind, tends to lead to wilting herbs. Most herbs are annual, meaning they naturally go to seeds in about eight months. Rosemary, on the other hand, can live for up to 10 years.

Plant strategically. Whether or not you plant them in individual pots, herbs will showcase their own personalities and demands. Thyme and basil do well together and have similar watering needs. Rosemary prefers dryer soil. Either way, you’ll likely water these every three to four days. You’ll want to invest in terracotta pots with drainage instead of wood containers, as they may leech chemicals into the soil, says Toledo.

Choose this, not that. Cilantro is a tricky plant to grow at home because it needs to be harvested weekly, then it goes to seed, changes to coriander, and dies faster than you can say guacamole.

Spearmint, on the other hand, is practically immortal and adds an unexpected twist in cooking. Variegated oregano is another good choice, since it looks as good as it tastes and can last for years.

Enrich your soil. Don’t think that DIY herb gardens are a set it and forget it endeavor. You’ll constantly need to enrich the soil with fertilizer such as monthly earthworm castings. Adding a teaspoon of coffee grounds every two months will acidify the soil and help with drainage.

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BALANCE BEAUTY

ASHLEY MEYER

HEMP HYPE

For skin in need of some serious post-holiday soothing, cannabidiol-infused formulas are cropping up all over. Hemp-derived CBD acts as an antioxidant and is a nourishing fix for inflammation and dryness. Try these products for help taming discoloration and more: Freeman CBD Destress Jelly Mask + Cleanser ($10, Ulta); Truly Unicorn Soothe & Glow Whipped Body Butter ($35, Ulta); Garnier Green Labs Pore Perfecting Serum Cream with niacinamide and cannabis sativa seed oil ($17, Target); Wldkat Saffron + Oat Milk Glow Serum with broad spectrum CBD ($39, wldkat.com); Flower Beauty Chill Out Calming Skin Serum ($16; flower beauty.com); and Common Ground Hydrating Serum with hyaluronic acid and hemp extract ($65, commonground-health.com). —Abigail Duffy

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BALANCE

WEALTH

GOLDEN Years

With the proper planning, seniors can take full advantage of a plethora of housing options

By Judy Martel For many, the final decades of life offer opportunities that weren’t possible during the years devoted primarily to earning an income and raising a family. Volunteering, traveling, spending time with loved ones, and rediscovering old hobbies or finding new ones are all obtainable under the right circumstances. But seniors and their families often discover that locating appropriate housing to meet the demands of aging can turn out to be an unwelcome and emotionally wrenching decision.

For that reason, Barbara McVicker, an eldercare expert, author of Stuck in the Middle: Caring for Mom and Dad, and host of the PBS television special of the same name, notes that it’s never too early to look ahead to when seniors will slow down and potentially require more health care.

“If you run out of time, you run out of options,” she says. “When adult children are 40 and Mom and Dad are 70, if they haven’t already had the conversation, it’s getting too late. You want to be able to take advantage, physically and mentally, of all a new facility has to offer.”

With the plethora of choices in senior housing, McVicker points

out that research is crucial. “This is not something you’ll do in a weekend.” As a starting point, the U.S. Administration on Aging offers an eldercare locator by ZIP code or city. McVicker also shares a few tips to help seniors and their families get started in making a plan.

TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT FINANCES. Affordability is one of the most important factors in the decision to move, so the first step is to sit down with a financial adviser to review everything, including insurance, says McVicker. And don’t count on Medicare alone. “Medicare has no long-term part to cover senior living, so if you’re banking on Medicare, you’re behind the eight ball,” she explains. Also look carefully at the payment options. Some facilities charge an upfront fee that is returned, in part, either to the resident’s estate after he or she dies or to the resident in the event that he or she moves out. Some offer fixed monthly fees for life, while others fluctuate depending on level of care or cost-of-living increases.

GET A FEEL FOR THE PLACE BEFORE COMMITTING. The emotional aspect of moving is difficult in the best of times, which is why it’s optimal to make the decision when seniors are still

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healthy, notes McVicker. In some cases, the need for medical care will dictate the type of facility needed, with nursing homes providing the most care, followed by assisted living, and, finally, independent living. The most costly continuing-care communities (which accept residents into independent living housing with the option of moving on to higher levels of medical care as needed) are ideally suited for active seniors who want to live independently, yet offer a full array of medical care options to meet their future needs. Once the type of care is determined, an on-site visit is a must, McVicker says. Check out the amount of green space, menu options, proximity to family and medical care, amenities, and activities.

MOVING IN WITH FAMILY? SIGN A CONTRACT. For some, staying with family is the best and least expensive option, but McVicker cautions that everything should be in writing. “Both senior and child need to have an actual contract that spells out expectations, tasks, and the tipping point for moving into a facility. Maybe it’s incontinence or dementia, but everyone needs to be onboard.” She also advises people to factor in all the costs involved in care and upkeep or improvement on the house. “Technology is truly making some decisions to stay at home easier, from grocery delivery to sensors in a rug to detect changes in a person’s gait, which could indicate balance trouble.”

Finding the appropriate situation for a healthy and fulfilling old age may take time and patience, but in the end, it can bring relief for seniors and their families. A Department of Health and Human Services statistic states that 70 percent of people age 65 or older can expect to use some type of long-term care, but with the range of housing options developed in recent decades, the reputation of eldercare housing as dim, depressing “warehouses” has changed drastically for the better, adds McVicker. “Let’s just say it’s not your grandmother’s retirement home.” «

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LUXURY PREVIEW

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2 8 Y E A R S O F E X P E R I E N C E F R O M P O R T R OYA L T O B O N I TA B E A C H

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Naples

T O P %

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LUXURY PREVIEW

CALIFORNIA DREAMING ADDRESS 16469 Celebrita Court, Naples DEVELOPMENT Celebrita at Mediterra YEAR BUILT 2005 OFFERED AT $1.75 million SIZE 4,591 square feet of living area BEDROOMS/BATHS Four bedrooms plus a den, four baths, one half bath SPECIAL FEATURES Enjoy breathtaking grounds and landscaping at this custom-built, London Bay Abriana modeled home.

This comfortable, sophisticated, California farmhouse has been freshly painted inside and out. The charming foyer opens to a dramatic two-story vestibule with a circular staircase, a gated wine room, and a soaring ceiling that measures more than 20 feet tall. It’s the kind of home where elegance and comfort combine perfectly, so you enjoy just being there. Measuring more than 6,500 total square feet, this home features a private ground-floor master suite with hardwood floors, a sitting area, and French doors that open to the courtyard and pool area. The gourmet kitchen has top-of-the-line appliances including SubZero, Wolf, and ASKO, as well as a large island and a walk-in pantry. The grand scaled great room with fireside dining is perfect for a casual or

formal lifestyle. The three spacious guest suites each have their own en suite baths. The floor plan lets you savor the tropical lifestyle either by relaxing in the custom pool or spa, or enjoying the lakefront views in the outdoor screened living room with fireplace. A fabulous summer kitchen and alfresco covered dining area make entertaining a true delight. The home also includes a three-car, side-loaded garage.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Emily K. Bua and Tade Bua-Bell John R. Wood Properties Phone: 239-595-0097 Email: buabellgroup@johnrwood.com Website: buabellsellsnaples.com

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This custombuilt, London Bay, farmhousestyle estate home sits on a superior lakefront lot.

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LUXURY PREVIEW

WORK OF ART ADDRESS 370 Eleventh Avenue South, Naples DEVELOPMENT Olde Naples YEAR BUILT 2005 OFFERED AT $4,495,000 SIZE 4,577 square feet BEDROOMS/BATHS Three bedrooms plus a den, three baths, one half bath SPECIAL FEATURES Anything but typical, this stunning Olde Naples

property has been completely renovated and the layout masterfully reimagined by Stofft Cooney Architects and Carrie Brigham Design. Described as “a design that liberates the soul,� the residence can be likened to a work of art, which in fact was the inspiration. Finishes include Legno Bastone wideplank flooring in the Vienna finish, a large kitchen island with an Opala quartzite top offsetting the white gloss custom cabinetry, hand-cut glass backsplash, custom flooring in the study, and an opulent master bath with Azul calcite countertops and marble-like porcelain tile floors. The well-equipped kitchen features an integrated SubZero refrigerator, refrigerator drawers, wine storage, and Wolf induction cooktop. At just over 4,500 square feet,

the residence spans the entire second floor, offering generous living space that includes three bedrooms plus a den, three and a half baths, an expansive family room, a lanai overlooking the pool, a private elevator, and a two-car garage. The home is spectacularly located within walking distance of the beach and pier as well as fine shopping and dining at Third Street South and Fifth Avenue.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Robyn Pfister Griffin Robert Forbis William Raveis Luxury Real Estate Phone: 239-777-7866 Website: griffinforbis.com

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Sophistication and style commingle in this chic property.

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N A P L E S H A S T H E B E AC H E S W E H AV E T H E B U Y E R S $2.2 BILLION WEALTH MOVED FROM THE GREATER CHICAGO AREA TO SOUTHWEST FLORIDA*

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239.316.3883 W W W . D A W N M C K E N N A G R O U P. C O M @ T H E D AW N M C K E N N A G R O U P If your property is listed with a real estate professional currently, it is not our intention to solicit your home for sale. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. *Source: Within Coldwell Banker Realty ranked by Wall Street Journal RealTrends The Thousand 2020 & howmoneywalks.com.

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11/24/20 10:29 AM

THE MOORINGS 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.

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PENDING

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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. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate and neither suggests nor infers that Sotheby’s International Realty participated as either the listing or cooperating agent or broker in the sale or purchase of the properties depicted.

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12/2/20 10:12 AM

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AGENDA

By Cathy Chestnut

TOP BILLING

Dining for a CAUSE The Naples Woman’s Club is launching a new event to raise funds for local food pantries. Its ever-popular Kitchen Tour has been reimagined for COVID times as a series of intimate chef table luncheons to be held January 27, February 24, and March 24.

“A Culinary Adventure” entails small, exclusive parties adhering to safety guidelines. Each will feature a three-course meal and interaction with the chef. Here is the adventure part: Buy a ticket ($125) and you could end up at any of the participating restaurants, including Bayside, Barbatella, Bar Tulia, Butcher, Dorona, The French, Grappino, Lemonia at The Ritz-Carlton, Osteria Tulia, Ridgway Bar & Grill, Sea Salt, Sails, Sava, Truluck’s, 21 Spices, or Veranda E.

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As attendees register, luncheons for no more than 16 guests will be confirmed at one of the restaurants. When each event fills up, the next group of registrants will be confirmed for the next selected restaurant. Reservations for the luncheons close 10 days prior to the date. “This is an adventure,” says event chair Stacy Vermylen. “You don’t know where you’re going, so you have to be game, but you’ll get to know the chef and might meet their whole crew.”

Pick-up options will also be available for those who don’t wish to dine out but still want to support the cause. The lunches will benefit Meals of Hope, Meals on Wheels, St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry, and the Judy Sullivan Resource Center. (culinaryadventurenaples.org)

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AGENDA

STRIKE A POSE Looking ahead to next month, fans of Naples Art’s annual fashion showcase, Scene to be Seen: A Runway Art Show, can claim their seats for the event, which was postponed from the fall and is now scheduled for February 5. The show will spotlight 33 looks created by 15 artists, nine of whom are new to the runway this year. Scene to be Seen is the nonprofit’s major annual fundraiser that supports its educational programs. Like all cultural organizations, Naples Art has been undergoing extreme pandemic-related financial duress.

There are 40 in-person tickets ($231) for the Red, White, and Bubble Reception, which includes pre- and post-cocktail parties where attendees can meet the designers and view their looks up-close. There will be unlimited tickets ($31) for the fashion show livestream so local supporters can participate from the comfort of home, while event organizers hope to reach a national, or even international, viewership. (naplesart.org/scenetobeseen)

View fashionable works of art at Scene to be Seen: A Runway Art Show February 5.

REACHING READERS Now in its eighteenth year, the Friends of the Library of Collier County Nick Linn Lecture Series kicks off January 18 with Ann Patchett, author of eight novels, including The Dutch House, as well as a new children’s book entitled Lambslide. The series was scheduled to be held at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, but it will now be conducted virtually. In addition to Patchett, the lineup includes a lecture featuring Beatriz Williams, Karen White, and Lauren Willig, three well-known authors who have collaborated on three novels (February 2); famed historical nonfiction writer Erik Larson (March 1); and J.A. Jance, author of the J.P. Beaumont Series (March 22). Tickets are $300. (collier-friends.org)

FLYING HIGH The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is hosting a monthlong Festival of Birds with online webinars by national and local expert speakers and virtual birding experiences live from the field. The keynote speaker is Scott Weidensaul, a Pennsylvaniabased naturalist and author. He was a 2000 Pulitzer Prize finalist in general nonfiction for Living on the Wind: Across the Hemisphere with Migratory Birds. He leads several major bird migration research projects and has written more than 30 natural history books. (rookerybay.org)

Rookery Bay will host virtual birding events throughout the month.

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From left: Mixed-media piece by Lou Michaels, Bonita Springs National Art Festival; The Same As You, Anna Kincaide, Gardner Colby Gallery.

ARTS & CULTURE JANUARY 2021

GOINGS ON & PERFORMANCES

14 The Latin Divos, lawn stage across from Sil-

21 Wild Culture at the Naples Zoo, an afternoon

1 Legends Concert: Elton John and Billy Joel,

verspot Cinema, The Mercato, Naples, $45, includes padded lawn chair. (gulfshoreopera.org)

of cultural encounters plus a VIP animal encounter dinner, contact for ticket prices. (naplesplayers.org)

16 Human Trafficking Awareness event with Tim Tebow, benefiting Path2Freedom, Hyatt Regency Coco-

24 La Bohème, Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers, $27-$77. (gulfshoreopera.org)

Sugden Park, Naples, $20.21. (legendsconcertseries.com)

2 Naples New Year’s Art Show, Fifth Avenue South, Naples, also Jan. 3, free. (naplesart.org)

nut Point Resort, Naples, $500. (path2freedom.org)

3 Cambier Park Concerts, Naples Dixieland Jazz Band (Jan. 3 and 24), Gulf Coast Big Band (Jan. 10), Naples Concert Band (Jan. 17), and Naples Big Band (Jan. 31), free. (naplesgov.com)

6 Art Alive, Naples Art District, studio and gallery

24 Off the Walls!, benefiting Centers for the Arts 20 All That Jazz with saxophonist Billy Harper, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, $49. (artisnaples.org) 21 Naples Boat Show, Naples Airport and Naples City

26 TNP Drive-In Movie Night: Ghostbusters,

Dock, to Jan. 24, contact for ticket prices. (miacc.org)

300 Eighth Street South, Naples, also Jan. 27, $20. (naplesplayers.org)

tours, also Jan. 16, free. (naplesartdistrict.com)

7 Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida’s Tenth Anniversary Celebration, featuring cocktails, dinner, and the premiere of the documentary Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers, Hilton Naples, $225. (jhsswf.org)

Bonita Springs, Hinman Auditorium, Center for the Performing Arts, Bonita Springs, $150. (artcenterbonita.org)

Meadow Angels, Hunt Slonem, Harmon-Meek Gallery

29 Garden Side Chickee Chat, Norris Garden at Historic Palm Cottage, Naples, $8. (napleshistoricalsociety.org) 29 World of Webber Concert, Church of Marco Island, $35-$50. (gulfshoreopera.org)

9 Bonita Springs National Art Festival, Riverside Park, Bonita Springs, also Jan. 10, free, donations accepted. (artcenterbonita.org)

30 Hope Shines Walk, benefiting NAMI Collier County, Baker Park, Naples, contact for prices. (namicollier.org)

9 Naples Artcrafters Show, Cambier Park, Naples,

VISUAL ARTS & GALLERIES

free. (naplesartcrafters.com)

The Baker Museum, Artis—Naples. “Dreaming Forms:

12 TNP Drive-In Movie Night: Singin’ in the Rain, 300 Eighth Street South, Naples, also Jan. 13,

Chihuly Then and Now,” to Feb. 28; “Rodin: Truth Form Life,” through April; “Magritte: Reflections of Another World” and “Subject Matters: Selections from the Permanent Collection,” both through July. (artisnaples.org)

$20. (naplesplayers.org)

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AGENDA Center for Visual Arts, Bonita Springs. “Material Pulses: Sev-

Harmon-Meek Gallery, Naples. A solo Hunt Slonem show

en Viewpoints,” traveling exhibition focused on the art of quiltmaking, to Jan. 7. (artcenterbonita.org)

featuring new works, Jan. 5-28. (harmonmeek.com)

Method & Concept, “Beyond Nature,” by married sculptors East West Fine Art, Naples. “Cloud Tree,” paintings by Stanislav Plutenko and Hernan Munoz, to Jan. 20; “Frozen Moments,” sculptures by Annalu, Jan. 26 to Feb. 9. (eastwestfineart.com)

Gardner Colby Gallery, Naples. “Anna Kincaide: New Works,” Jan. 27 to Feb. 14. (gardnercolbygallery.com)

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. “Argentina’s Niños,” interactive exhibit featuring five immersive environments exploring life in Argentina, to Jan. 31. (cmon.org)

Arik Levy and Zoé Ouvrier, to Feb. 5. (methodandconcept.com)

Naples Botanical Garden. “Carmelo Blandino: Convergence,” abstract florals inspired by the flora throughout the garden, to Jan. 10; “Steve Tobin: Nature Underground,” organic, rootlike, steel and bronze sculptures, to Sept. 6. (naplesgarden.org) Phil Fisher Gallery, Naples. “Back To Nature,” new oil and watercolor paintings by Naples artists including Phil Fisher, Janet Kirby, and Jan Ellen Atkielski, Jan. 1-31. (philfishergallery.com)

East West Fine Art will display sculptures by Annalu beginning January 26.

BETTER TOGETHER THE THIRD ANNUAL PARADISE COAST WELLNESS EXPERIENCE WILL UNFOLD JANUARY 15-17 AT VARIOUS BUSINESSES, ATTRACTIONS, AND RESTAURANTS THROUGHOUT COLLIER COUNTY. ORGANIZED BY THE PARADISE COAST WELLNESS ALLIANCE, THE WEEKEND EVENT WILL FEATURE INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES INCLUDING MEDITATION, HIKING, BIKING, YOGA, ART AND FITNESS PROGRAMS, AND WORKSHOPS ON HEALTHY EATING, SPIRITUAL INSPIRATION, AND STRESS MANAGEMENT. IT ALL KICKS OFF WITH A “WALK TO WELLNESS” ON FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH JANUARY 15. (BEWELLINPARADISE.COM)

Promotion and Events

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12/3/20 9:19 AM

“Kourion Seaspray,” The Mauriel Collection

Naples’ Only Stocking Dealer for Designers and Retail A hand knotted or hand woven rug represents the remarkable achievement of many highly skilled artisans. There are few other items you can purchase for your home on which more care and handwork has been lavished. Every stage of this ancient craft, from spinning the wool to trimming the pile of the finished rug, is carried out by hand.

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(1 Block South of Bentley Dealership)

Read our Reviews at www.DesignersRugCenter.com

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11/23/2020 2:24:22 PM 11/23/20 2:41 PM

BE SEEN 1

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FORE A GOOD CAUSE WHAT: Seventh Annual Chip in for DLC Golf Tournament SUPPORTS: Mental health and substance abuse services at David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health WHERE: Quail Creek Golf and Country Club, Naples

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1. Noah Coffers, Jake Sherwin, Tomas Delson, Mike Keymont 2. Mike Riley, Larry Ray, Jim Warnken, Robert Riebesell 3. Ed Perea, Carol Baker, George Zundell 4. Bobby Sullivan, Peter Michaels, Mike Harris, Glen Griffin 5. Jim and Mary O’Donnell, Karen and Richard Whitney 6. Michael Nachef, Phil Damico, Danville Leadbetter, Matthew Holliday 7. Wes Campbell, Andrew Potter, DJ Gorte

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11/20/20 11:08 AM

RETAIL THERAPY WHAT: Sip & Shop SUPPORTS: Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon) WHERE: Marilyn’s Boutique, Naples DETAILS: Refreshments, European clothing designs, and a virtual presentation by the French fashion house Loup-Maison, with a percentage of proceeds benefiting C’mon 1. Marilyn Hellman shows off some fashions 2. Mari Hernandez Rubenstein, Marilyn Hellman, Dena Rae Hancock 3. Amy and John Quinn 4. Saribel Malugin, Mari Hernandez Rubenstein

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A DAY ON THE GREEN WHAT: 2020 Annual Chamber Classic Golf Tournament SUPPORTS: Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce WHERE: The Club at the Strand, Naples 1. Bethany Sawyer, Laura Cari, Michael Dalby, Alicia Farman, Nenaly Patino 2. Nicole Ryan, Danny Bisek 3. Stan Geer, Steven Dombkowski, Pam Fultz, Joe Chambers 4. Wayne J. Smith, Rick Wyles, Lou Traina, Bryan Murphy 5. Participants perfect their swings

ALEJANDRO CASTANÕ

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1 ©2021 Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. All rights reserved. Naples Illustrated [ISSN 10996303] [USPS # 16626] is published monthly, except June and August, by Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. Known office of the publication: 3066 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103. Periodical postage paid at West Palm Beach, FL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Naples Illustrated c/o Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC., P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480.

Subscription price: $39.60 per year. Outside U.S. add $35 per year for postage and handling. Send subscription orders to: Subscription Department, Naples Illustrated, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL, 33480 or e-mail: circulation@ naplesillustrated.com, fax (561) 659-1736. Volume 24, No. 1, January 2021.

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Visit our website at naplesillustrated.com Naples Illustrated and Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. retain exclusive rights to all editorial and photographic materials used, which cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent.

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FAVORITE THINGS

MEG DAY PHOTOGRAPHY

Lexie Verbruggen

KERI JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY

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has been the owner and operator of Sweetified for 12 years. The native Michigander earned her degree in baking and pastry arts from the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education and moved to Marco Island in 2012 to escape the cold. She met her husband, David, who is a managing partner at Ridgway and Tony’s off Third, that same year. “We started dating in 2015 and married in 2017 and moved to Naples,” Verbruggen says. To her, Naples is beautiful year-round. “Even our medians are green,” she notes. Wedding cakes are a large slice of her baking business, so COVID-19 reception cancellations in the spring and summer of 2020 hit her hard. To pivot, she says, “we were able to overnight ship quite a few wedding cakes so our couples could still celebrate their wedding date at home. Another thing we did was offer cookie decorating boxes for delivery and nationwide shipping.

Oh, and who could forget our toilet paper roll cakes? Those were a huge hit!”

Understanding the need to diversify her business, she landed her Chocolate Grand Marnier cake on the menu at The Bevy. What’s next for Sweetified?

“More retail offerings and dessert items that are available every day, rather than only pre-order,” she says. Grateful for the oppor1 tunities this verdant area has given her, Verbruggen is passionate about supporting Our Daily Bread Food Pantry Ministry. Below, her favorite places to…

PAUL G. OSBORN

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1. Take visitors: Naples Botanical Garden or on a sunset cruise 2. Enjoy some pampering: Woodhouse Spa 3. Splurge: Waterside Shops 4. Grab a quick lunch: LowBrow 5. Watch the sunset: Naples Beach Hotel 6. Cheers to the weekend: The Courtyard at Ridgway 7. Buy groceries or produce: Third Street Farmers Market 8. Be sporty: Gulf Coast Clays Shooting 9. Have a date night: Bayside. It has the best views.

10. Meet for a business coffee: Narrative Coffee Roasters 11. Pick up takeout: Thai Udon Café —Christina Cush

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Purchase gifts: Best of Everything

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Get a culture boost: The theater at Artis—Naples

MICHAEL CARONCHI

JOEY WAVES

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11/24/20 9:41 AM

—VISIT OUR NEW NORTH NAPLE S STORE —

design by James Kunstel, ASID

Now, there’s even more to love.

Two stores! Each with a different collection of home furnishings especially selected to suit the elegant and relaxed Naples lifestyle.

Visit both of our stores for the styles you love and the quality you expect.

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239.649.0906 www.baydesignstore.com

NEW LOCATION!

North Naples – New Location!

5510 Shirley Street 11/23/20 1:06 PM 11/24/20 10:30 AM

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