Naples Illustrated May 2024

YACHTING IN PARADISE WITH THREE WOMEN OF THE WATER SEAS THE DAY

RIDING HIGH ARRIVE IN STYLE WITH THESE 10 HEAD-TURNING AUTOMOBILES

THE LUXURY LIFE

SUMMER FASHIONS FOR TRAVERSING THE GLOBE

BEGINS WITH AN EVEN BETTER STORY - YOURS

Every Great Design

Discover how our acclaimed design team creates bespoke luxury interior design solutions driven by chapters of your life that inspire you.

Caymas, Naples

Stock Luxury Homes

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Naples by Stock Residences

WE HAVE THE PEOPLE

Ultra-high net worth individuals, families, corporations, executives, and nonprofit organizations turn to Moran Wealth for innovative solutions and unsurpassed service.

Discover the 100% fee-only RIA firm with a passion for performing above and beyond.

TO GET THE JOB DONE.

Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. For additional information about Moran Wealth Management, LLC, including its services and fees, request the firm’s disclosure brochure using the contact information above or visit adviserinfo.sec.gov. Visit https://moranwm.com/disclosures/ to access the complete list of methodologies and disclosures for the referenced financial accolades. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a separate entity and not affiliated with any other entity or practice that uses the same name.

not if, but when and where.

Out on the water? The beach? The marina? Golf? A spa? Yes, we’ve got a club for that. And more. Fiddler’s Creek is everything you want, everywhere you want to be, including at home in luxurious, fabulously appointed residences set in a lavish, picture-postcard landscape.

3787 FORT CHARLES DRIVE PORT ROYAL | $21,900,000 – Reduced

25 2 ND AVENUE SOUTH OLDE NAPLES BEACHFRONT $16,900,000 – Reduced

129 CENTRAL AVENUE OLDE NAPLES | $10,995,000

4951 GULF SHORE BLVD. N. PENTHOUSE 101 LE PARC IN PARK SHORE | $8,900,000

340 PIRATES BIGHT PARK SHORE | $5,495,000 – Reduced

3200 GORDON DRIVE PORT ROYAL | $12,950,000 – Reduced

382 12 TH AVENUE SOUTH

382 BUILDING – OLDE NAPLES $3,950,000 – Reduced

451 OAK AVENUE CONNERS VANDERBILT BEACH $3,995,000 – Reduced

755 CENTRAL AVENUE OLDE NAPLES $6,495,000 – Reduced

BEYOND BELIEF. BEYOND WORDS.

If there is just one word that sums up the all-new Park Place on Gulf Shore, it’s “beyond.” Beyond belief. Beyond words. Beyond anything you could possibly imagine in an enclave of luxurious condominiums. Just 15 exclusive residences will comprise this extraordinary community complete with beach and bay views in a coveted Moorings location. Live a life that’s beyond compare at Park Place on Gulf Shore. Now accepting appointments and contracts. Pre-Construction pricing from mid $7Ms.

Kristen Desmond LeFevre

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sebastian Clarke, Michael Drapkin, Tammy Fender, Erika Klein, Liza Grant Smith, Katherine van Dell, Mary Thurman Yuhas

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Blaine Johnathan Photography, Nick Shirghio

SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mark Schoenfelt, Anthony Zollo

ADVERTISING

Account Managers

Kathleen Beuttel, 239-298-7506, kbeuttel@naplesillustrated.com; Jennifer Dardano, 561-472-1905, jdardano@palmbeachmedia.com; Dina Turner, 561-472-2201, dturner@palmbeachmedia.com

National Sales Director Deidre Wade, 561-472-1902, dwade@palmbeachmedia.com

Digital Account Manager Ryan Hollihan, 561-472-2208, rhollihan@palmbeachmedia.com

Advertising Services Coordinator Elizabeth Hackney

Marketing Manager Rebecca Desir

PRODUCTION

Production Director Selene M. Ceballo

Production Manager Lourdes Linares

Escape to a Forbes Five-Star oceanfront retreat with a private beach, an award-winning spa, a fresh selection of distinct dining venues, two pools and newly re-imagined kids’ and teen clubs.

Florida Residents save 15% off our best available rate.*

*Valid for travel through October 31 2024. Blackout dates apply. Based on availability.

For reservations, call 877 346 9492 or contact your Travel Professional.

Daily Eau Amenities:

· No Resort Fee

· Complimentary Kids’ & Teen Clubs*

· Kids 5 & Under Eat Free Throughout the Resort with the purchase of an adult entree (In-room dining and Angle excluded)

· Complimentary Dog Amenities (pet fee waived)

· Private beach access with complimentary use of beach chairs & umbrellas

· Complimentary bicycle rentals and use of non-motorized water sports

· Unlimited Access to 24-hour Fitness Center and complimentary Fitness classes (based on availability)

· Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort

*Complimentary kids club from May 1, 2024 - September 30, 2024. Teens always complimentary.

OUR ADVISORY BOARD

SHELLY STAYER

CHAIRWOMAN, Naples Illustrated Advisory Board Johnsonville Foods, president/co-owner

VICKI BAKER

UBS Private Wealth Management, executive team assistant

CHAD JENSEN

Method & Concept, creative director, managing partner

SHAWN MCCONNELL

NCH Healthcare, marketing and communications director

ASHLEY GERRY NCEF, trustee; CMON, board member

BRENDA MELTON

Celebrity Martini Glass Auction, founder

ASHLEY SMITH

Aurora Investment Managers LLC, partner and portfolio manager

CLAUDINE LEGER-WETZEL

Stock Development, vice president, sales and marketing

DONNA MCGINNIS

Naples Botanical Garden, president and CEO

MICHAEL WYNN

Sunshine Ace Hardware, president

FROM THE EDITOR

THE GOOD LIFE

At Naples Illustrated, luxury is the crux of our brand and what drives the lion’s share of our editorial content. With this issue, however, we dove even deeper to bring you the best of the good life.

At least one luxury of being a Neapolitan is proximity to water. While some prefer to take in the Gulf of Mexico from our sandy beaches, there’s no dearth of boaters—or should I say yachters—within our seaside community. Indeed, extravagant vessels of all lengths can be spotted throughout our waterways. Boating has been a space traditionally dominated by males, but this has taken a starboard turn. More and more women are sitting behind the helm, involving themselves in nautical operations aboard or playing more active roles in the governance and administration of boating clubs to which they belong. Starting on page 76, read about three such women at the Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, including one, Carol Joseph, who currently serves as the club’s commodore. For additional yachting-related coverage, refer to page 74, where you can read about the grand Nadan, a 151-foot superyacht available for private charter that evokes glamorous Roaring Twenties vibes.

If you prefer your luxury transportation by land, turn to page 84 for eight pages of magnificent vehicles from Automobile Editor Howard Walker. From Bentley to Bugatti to classic Mercedes-Benz, locate the perfect machine to ensure you pull up to your favorite Fifth Avenue South spot in smashing style. If these won’t suit, refer to page 72, where Walker surveys BMW’s refreshed M4 convertible, a ride not to be overlooked.

In my opinion, we should never underestimate the power of a refined wardrobe; it’s certainly one of the most expeditious ways to convey sophistication, not to mention other characteristics of one’s personality. In this issue, Fashion Editor Katherine Lande has curated several haute looks for traveling the globe, inclusive of head-turning accessories. For the perfect picks to begin—or top off—your ensembles for seasonal travel, refer to pages 92-97.

It would be shallow to think that one’s belongings play a factor in their worth as an individual or that luxury solely rests in the material. After all, most of us understand the significance of time; it’s one of life’s most precious luxuries. That said, people flock to Naples—both as residents and tourists—to experience a way of life that includes elements of elegance, opulence, and comfort that are enjoyed and appreciated. Why not celebrate this?

To the luxuries you love,

Jane E. Enos

jenos@naplesillustrated.com

JESSI NORVELL OF MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY

TREATING EVERY GAME L IKE HIS FIRST. GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO WEARS THE NAVITIMER.

BE THE LIGHT

WHO: Youth Haven WHAT: Cherish the Children

Luncheon WHERE: The RitzCarlton, Naples DETAILS: Keynote speaker Steve Pemberton, author of The Lighthouse Effect, addressed a receptive crowd who gathered to raise more than $800,000 for Youth Haven programs and services. MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples

HOPE AND INSPIRATION

WHO: NAMI Collier County WHAT: Hope Shines Luncheon WHERE: Arthrex One Conference Center, Naples

DETAILS: Oscar-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway detailed her family story at Collier County’s annual National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) luncheon where $185,670 was raised for the Naples-based nonprofit.

You arrived where you are today by seeking the best and not settling for less, and only one retirement community offers the level of excellence you’re accustomed to. From personal training and a massage in the morning to a magni cent Chardonnay in one of our 5-star restaurants to reading your favorite book on your expansive lanai, discover the lifestyle you've been waiting for. And, of course, concierge physicians and personalized healthcare are included. 7410 Little Lane, Naples, FL 34105 | 239-309-1309 |

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GORGEOUS HOMES VISITED

WHO: Naples Woman’s Club WHAT: Kitchen Tour & More 2024 WHERE: Naples Woman’s Club and select homes on tour, Naples DETAILS: This ninth annual tour featured an expansive visit through four fabulous homes, raising money for philanthropic programs supported by the Naples Woman’s Club.

MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated

1. Lisa Pierce, Kathy Brodsky

2. Mary Giannini, Diane Frisicaro

3. Celine and Chris Wells, Matthew Kragh 4. Barbara Gersten Lauer, Dorothy Doughty, Anita Holmgren, Pat Dicerbo 5. Lee Kraus, Marcia Sacks, Sarah Walker, Kimberly Dye, Lorrie Fugoso, Kim Babcock, Joni Kruse, Laurie McLaughlin, Carol Berning 6. Valerie White, Rosena Marley 7. Gail Carriero, Suzanne King 8. Ana Munro, Amy Labarge, Mina Merkel, Hina Sanghvi Cory, Lee Kraus 9. Isabel Goodier, Jane Lassolis

ANTHONY ZOLO

PEACE, LOVE & WINE

WHO: SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. WHAT: Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest WHERE: Suncoast Credit Union Arena, Fort Myers DETAILS: Wine lovers and charity supporters came together for the fifteenth annual grand tasting and live auction, raising more than $2 million in support of the nonprofit’s efforts to enhance pediatric health care in Southwest Florida.

1. Chris MacFarlane, Dan Lampe 2. Paula Pala, Sandy Kennedy, Brooke Denson 3. Debbie Toler, Bev Cherry

4. Kelly Stephens, Cheryl Andrews

5. Daniel and Cathy Lubner 6. Rene Ciccarello, Sandy Stilwell Youngquist 7. Jenn Pavich, Jessica Higdon 8. Rachel Bell, Kellie Burns 9. Joe Bryan, Adam Aulestia, Amy Frith, Lara Aulestia, Terri Bryan 10. Jayden Denson, Brooke Denson, Ed Bell

MARK SCHOENFELT

NICK UMARRINO

INSIDER THE INSIDE TRACK TO NEAPOLITAN LIVING

SPOTLIGHT

AN ENTREPRENEURIAL EQUESTRIAN

At only 13 years of age, Juliette Douros Hawk is making a name for herself as an award-winning junior equestrian and a young entrepreneur. The eighth-grade Naples Classical Academy student was introduced to riding at a summer camp. “I instantly fell in love with the sport and asked my parents if I could start taking weekly lessons,” she explains. Although her first horse was leased, she is now the proud owner of Abbey Road, a Canadian Warmblood, who is stabled at Shore Acres Farm, a full-service equestrian facility located in eastern Collier County where Douros Hawk trains with a team of internationally acclaimed instructors.

To date, Douros Hawk has competed at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, and Fox Lea Farm in Venice. She is a member of the United States Equestrian Federation and the United States Hunter Jumper Association and has been awarded various ribbons, as well as the titles of reserve champion and grand champion in the hunter and equitation divisions. And that’s not all. Douros Hawk recently founded Eq Pro, an apparel company that creates accessories—using only sustainable materials—designed to improve a rider’s performance. The collection features fashionable and functional riding socks, washable nylon hairnets, leather riding gloves, and a saddle pad.

Naples Illustrated spoke with Douros Hawk about the sport she loves and her newly founded business enterprise. Turn the page for a brief Q&A. (eqproshop. com) –Gaylene Salomons

RONNI ZARLINGA

INSIDER

AN ENTREPRENEURIAL EQUESTRIAN

NI: What is a typical day like for you?

Douros Hawk: I ride three to four times a week after school. Each training session is about an hour long. After my lesson I take care of Abbey by grooming and bathing her. I like to let her graze while I work on cleaning my tack. It usually takes me about three to four hours from start to finish. On the days that I’m not riding, I make sure to get all my schoolwork done. I enjoy riding on Saturday mornings, too.

What is your travel schedule like?

Our barn competes in shows approximately every four to six weeks. We are scheduled to compete in various events throughout the country this year; in April, we were invited to Tryon, North Carolina.

Where did you get your interest in business, and why did you create Eq Pro?

My mom has always had an entrepreneurial spirit,

Sir Inatome

Naples resident and Detroit native Rick Inatome—an entrepreneur, business leader, mentor, and computer industry pioneer, best known as the co-founder of Inacomp Computer Centers—was inducted into the Royal Order of Francis I at the Knighthood & Damehood Gala Dinner 2024, held at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples in February.

The Royal Order of Francis I is a historically distinguished organization established two centuries ago by the royal House of Bourbon.

so I think I get that from her. From riding competitively, I saw a need for comfortable socks and, more importantly, a really good hairnet. When competing in the hunter division, it is required that all your hair is kept securely under your helmet. The hairnets on the market were not working for me or for the other riders. They didn’t seem to hold anyone’s hair securely in place, and it was stressful watching everybody try to get their hair up in

the helmet and to the ring on time to compete. I thought there must be a better way, so I developed a nylon cap that is breathable, washable, and reusable yet tightly secures the hair—making it more comfortable under the helmet.

You have made it your mission to support a new generation of riders by teaming up with the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA)— an organization that has worked with student equestrians for more than 25 years. Why do this?

Listed among the 32 statutes, the first decree establishes an order of knighthood expressly intended to recognize civil merit. Each year prominent individuals from the United States and Europe are knighted for their works of charity and service in all areas of society. Inatome, who now serves as managing director of Collegio Partners and chairman of Léman Manhattan Preparatory School’s board, received the prestigious honor for his charitable efforts, entrepreneurial endeavors, and social impact. The Computer Hall of Fame inductee, who continues to serve as a mentor to business leaders, was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Inc. magazine in 1990; his charitable work extends to organizations in his home state of Michigan, including the Henry Ford Hospital and AAA Michigan.

“It has been my life’s mission to be able to give back and advise entities that are making an impact in our world, and to be recognized for that work leaves me beyond words,” says Inatome. “I have long believed that education combined with technology is the key to unlocking human potential and am proud to continue that calling.” (rickinatome.com) –G.S.

I wanted to find a way to give back to the equestrian community. I really like the mission of the IEA and what they are doing for young riders. We now have an Eq Pro scholarship fund with the IEA; we donate samples of our socks and caps for their shows of which Eq Pro is an official sponsor. –G.S.

Rick Inatome is knighted and inducted into the Royal Order of Francis I.

RONNI ZARLINGA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LANE

INSIDER

BUILDING STRONGER MINDS TOGETHER

Since its inception in 1968, David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health (DLC) has been providing life-changing and lifesaving programs and services to adults and children with mental health and substance abuse challenges in Collier County. Following an explosion in population, two devastating hurricanes, the COVID pandemic, an opioid epidemic, and a suicide crisis, the number of people requiring mental health care within the county has risen exponentially. The level of need, a shortage of affordable mental health services, and a limited number of trained and experienced staff led leadership at DLC to acknowledge that a significant investment in capital improvements and professional staff was required.

$70 million in funding has already been secured (including $44 million through a one-cent sales tax) to build the Collier County Behavioral Health Center, which DLC will operate.

A transformative gift of $10 million from the Bill and Julia Van Domelen Foundation—the single largest philanthropic gift in DLC’s history—was announced earlier this year. This leadership gift will support professional recruitment and retention of trained and experienced staff, as well as the new Van Domelen Children’s Center for Excellence, a customized healing space for children.

RECREATION

A Hassle-free BEACH DAY

If you are on vacation in Naples and you flew in from a northern climate, you most likely didn’t pack your own beach chairs and towels. If you live locally and decide to spend an afternoon at the beach, you know how much of a pain lugging the day’s necessities can be.

Frank Scerbo, a Naples resident of more than 20 years, was inspired by his travels to other beach destinations where luxury beach clubs offer day passes so visitors can enjoy lavish amenities without having to lift a finger. He decided to start a concierge beach cabana service catering to both locals and guests who aren’t staying at a beachfront resort.

Their solution was a $144 million collaboration between DLC, Collier County, entrepreneurs, and private philanthropists—an initiative that would include renovating old buildings and adding new ones, expanding vital clinical services, and employing trained practitioners. More than

After learning about the mental health crisis in Collier County and how DLC had plans to address it, “we were convinced that investing in the Hope for Collier initiative at this critical time was a significant priority for our foundation,” says Julia Van Domelen. (dlcenters.org) –G.S.

For a tailored cabana setup ready and waiting at a choice of local public beaches, Scerbo has made the process simple. Beachgoers visit the Naples Beach Cabanas website and choose their package (all include a private lounge space, chairs and towels, a cooler and ice, water, a Bluetooth speaker, a table, insulated tumblers, a lockbox, sunscreen, and a mini trash bin), as well as a day and time. The next step is easy: just show up and relax. Cleanup and breakdown are included in the service. Packages start at $299 for a fivehour rental with the option to extend for additional hours until sunset. (naplesbeach cabanas.com) –G.S.

COURTESY OF NAPLES BEACH CABANAS

FRESH FROM FLORIDA

THE SUNSHINE STATE’S REGIONAL ART REFLECTS ITS NATURAL SURROUNDS AND THE INTERESTING INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE LIVED HERE

BY KATHERINE VAN DELL AND SEBASTIAN CLARKE

The attention given to a region’s creative output often goes hand in hand with an influx of people and assets, and, occasionally, a fresh interpretation of the place in question. Florida has historically been among the fastest-growing states in the country. Whether you’ve been here for decades or you’re still unpacking, it’s tempting to think you could own a piece of art closely linked to where you live—but where to start?

Recent auction results for the work of the Florida Highwaymen may give the impression that beginning a collection now will require a significant financial investment. This group of African American landscape artists prodigiously painted and sold colorful scenes along Florida’s roadways, most actively in the 1950s and 1960s. Their historical importance is entangled in the segregation they faced and the perseverance they exhibited to pursue their art. In December 2023, a work by Alfonso “Poncho” Moran (one of the original 26 Florida Highwaymen) sold at auction for $40,000. But don’t let this discourage you: the state’s aesthetic signature exists across a breadth of fine and decorative arts, eras, mediums, and price points.

Born in 1926 and raised in Jupiter, Doris “Dodie” Thayer taught herself how to mold clay using lettuce and cabbage leaves, never with the intention of mass-producing her wares. Thayer was inspired by eighteenth- and

nineteenth-century majolica, specifically a kind of apple-green “lettuce ware” known as “Napoli ware,” as well as the leafy stoneware of Portuguese artist Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro. But Thayer’s work was all her own, with each piece reportedly taking her two weeks to handcraft.

Dubbed the “Pottery Queen of Palm Beach,” Thayer and her tableware caught the attention of such tastemakers as Jackie Kennedy and C.Z. Guest. Today, Thayer’s creations fetch a pretty penny at auction, as evidenced by a service of some 141 pieces that recently sold for $137,500. However, small Thayer cups and saucers can be affordable, around $200. In 2017, after years of working with Thayer and her family, fashion designer Tory Burch started

her Dodie Thayer for Tory Burch line, comprising tableware priced between $75 and $400.

Shell art has also found a substantive place in coastal homes along nearly every seaboard—including in Florida. Artist Christa Wilm, owner of Christa’s South Seashells in West Palm Beach, works with shells to make a variety of household objects. The Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande even commissioned her to complete a shell-studded fireplace surround.

Fine and decorative arts stand side by side, equally representing regional roots. Zeroing in on the cultural and artistic significance of what you are collecting and why it matters in the greater context of your area is the most important step toward starting a regional art collection. «

Above and below: Tory Burch’s Dodie Thayer line revives the designs of the Florida-based ceramist.

Left: Christa Wilm’s shell art at The Gasparilla Inn.

BRANTLEY PHOTO

2.

excludes 1.10% International Service fee for certain foreign transactions conducted outside the continental U.S.

3. Overdrafts. We may decline or return transactions when you do not have enough money in your account to cover the transaction.

4. Total Access Checking Bonus Qualifications. (i) Open new Total Access Checking account; (ii) mention offer during in-branch account opening, visit URL provided, or enter Echecking300 when applying online; (iii) have direct deposits totaling at least $500 per month made to the new account for 2 consecutive calendar months after the calendar month the new account was opened (‘Qualification Period’); & (iv) enroll in online banking & e-statements within the Qualification Period. Direct deposit is a payment made by a government agency, employer, or other third-party organization via electronic deposit, but does not include teller/ATM/mobile or remote deposits, wire transfers, digital banking/ telephone transfers between accounts at WTFC, external transfers from accounts at other financial institutions, peer-to-peer network payments like Zelle® or Venmo, or debit card transfers & deposits. New account must be open & have a balance greater than $0 to receive bonus payment. Balance determined as of end of each business day as funds currently in the account including deposits & withdrawals made in the business day. For eligible customers, bonus is deposited into the new account within 30 calendar days after the Qualification Period. A listing of WTFC locations can be found here: wintrust.com/locations.

STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS

BY KATHERINE LANDE

1. Sneak in a late-night snack without the guilt: truffle fries clutch ($5,995), Judith Leiber, judithleiber. com | 2. Scrapbook your life story in gems: custom Storybook pendant in 14-karat gold, white gold, or rose gold (starts at $5,500), Milliard Diamond Concierge, milliarddiamondconcierge.com | 3. Take the easy route: Premiere Edition blush pink electric bike ($3,295), Bluejay Electric Bikes, bluejaybikes.com | 4. Stand up and fight like a mother: Fight Like a Mother crewneck sweater ($380), Lingua Franca, linguafranca.nyc, 20 percent of proceeds from each purchase are donated to Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America.| 5. Tote your Champagne in sustainable style: Stella McCartney x Veuve Clicquot bucket bag ($1,895), Stella McCartney, stellamccartney.com | 6. Keep calm and play mahjong: luxe shagreen mahjong set ($2,750), Aerin Lauder, aerin.com | 7. Practice self-care the colorful way: La Bonne Brosse x Pucci hairbrush ($190), La Bonne Brosse, labonnebrosse.com

Mum’s the Word

WHAT TO GET THE MOMS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING

STYLE

PALETTE CLEANSER THE LOOK

HIT REFRESH ON YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE WITH MINIMAL FASHION CLASSICS

CREAM OF THE CROP

Atlantis GM handbag ($3,200), Louis Vuitton, Naples, us.louisvuitton.com

BASKET WEAVE

Woven raffia Mary Jane flats ($745), Gianvito Rossi, gianvitorossi.com

BEND AND SNAP

Multicolor transformable FF

leather Fendi Flip medium handbag ($2,490), Fendi, fendi.com

OFF THE CHAIN

DY Madison Toggle chain necklace with diamond links set in 18-karat gold ($23,400), David Yurman, david yurman.com

MISSING LINK

Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello link

earrings ($795), Saint Laurent, ysl.com

X

STYLE NOTES

IN THE FOLD:

Add instant interest with an origami-inspired handbag.

STRAP UP:

Mary Janes are the shoe of choice.

Opt for accents and texture.

MIXED METALS:

LADIES FIRST

Kick your look up a notch with

Pearl Mary Janes ($1,700), Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples, chanel.com

WHITE PICKET FENCE

DIOR SPRING/ SUMMER 2024

An updated take on the iconic white shirt is the ultimate go-to.

Ballerina flats ($945), Dolce & Gabbana, dolcegabbana.com

SIDE BY SIDE

Trapezoid laser-cut Ai handbag ($2,690), Akris, akris.com

HOPS AND DREAMS

Pehr, pehr.com

Bunny Hop classic mobile ($95), A whimsical crib-side addition, this handcrafted, one-of-a-kind mobile and its timeless motif will ensure that newborns and new parents alike will experience many shared hours of nursery delight.

Allison Wolfe Reckson, managing editor

THE EDIT

Rock-a-Bye Baby

HELP THE PARENTS-TO-BE IN YOUR LIFE

BEAUTY SLEEP

Rest Second Gen ($60), Hatch, hatch.co

As a toddler mom, I have strong opinions about what constitutes an infant essential. The Hatch Rest “dream machine” makes the cut. My 3-year-old has slept with this smart night-light/sound machine since we brought him home from the hospital, and I fully intend to get a second one for baby No. 2.

—Mary Murray, executive editor

SNUG AS A BUG

CozyChic cuddle receiving blanket ($68), Barefoot Dreams, barefootdreams.com

SWEET SET

EXPECT BETTER WITH OUR EDITORS’ PICKS FOR BABY-SHOWER GIFTING

Newborn gift set in ivory cotton voile and jersey ($750), Dior, dior.com

Start them out in chic sweetness with this pajama, bib, and beanie set that showcases Dior’s hallmark Cannage motif in subtle gold metallic thread. It’s a splurge, but this heirloomworthy gift is sure to elicit oohs and aahs at any baby shower. —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, contributing editor

BUNDLED UP

Waffle-weave resort robe ($129), Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com

Make sure new parents are just as cozy and cared for as their bundle of joy. These robes are easy to wash when things get messy and skin-to-skin accessible for all-day lounging. Plus, they can be personalized with a monogram. Abigail Duffy, web editor

Every baby needs their own blanket. This lightweight, neutral-hued one with scalloped edges is the perfect size to keep tiny humans comfortable.

—Gaylene Salomons, senior editor

MADE OF MONEY

Dot piggy bank ($250), Tiffany & Co., tiffany.com

It’s never too early to impart the importance of saving. Collecting coins becomes a fashionable affair with this precious, pink-dotted piglet. —Jane E. Enos, editor in chief

HEART TO HEART

Celine Hearts

mini pillow ($124), Matouk, pioneerlinens.com I love gifting keepsakes, and this adorable mini pillow with a heart motif is fully customizable with names, dates, and messages that will be cherished for generations. And its quality (it’s crafted from 500-thread-count Luca Egyptian cotton) will stand the test of time. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editorial director

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2

1 4

BIJOUX

5

TIE ONE ON

UP THE FEMININE FACTOR WITH JEWELRY INSPIRED BY BOWS AND RIBBONS

BY MARY MURRAY

8

7

3 elry, Naples (providentjewelry.com)

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1. UNDER WRAPS Mason and Books Ribbon Wrap bracelet with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $12,900. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com)

2. DARLING DUO Kwiat earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $2,950. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com)

3. LOOP THE LOOP Picchiotti Bow necklace with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $94,300. Bigham Jewelers, Naples (bigham jewelers.com)

4. DOUBLE CROSS Seaman Schepps Ribbon earrings with crystal set in 18-karat gold, $10,750. (seamanschepps.com)

5. BLACK TIE OPTIONAL Jemma Wynne Anniversary Bow ring with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $5,460. (jemmawynne.com)

6. FOLLOW THE LEADER Akaila Reid Bow Eternity necklace with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $56,000. (akailareid.com)

7. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE Graff Tilda’s Bow watch with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $195,000. (graff.com)

8. SOMETHING BLUE Vintage pin with aquamarine, pearls, and diamonds set in 14-karat white gold, price upon request. Provident Jewelry, Naples (providentjewelry.com)

9. PRESENT MOMENT gold, $34,000.

9. PRESENT MOMENT Assael Angel Skin ring with diamonds and coral set in 18-karat gold, $34,000. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com)

BEST TRESSED BEAUTY

Just like skin, hair deserves summertime TLC. Protect your tresses in intense sunshine, restore softness after a beach day, and create lasting styles that beat the heat with these mane attractions: R+Co Chainmail Thermal Protection Styling Spray, a multitasker that offers heat protection, flexible hold, lasting volume, and frizz-free smoothness ($36, Bluemercury, Naples); Kérastase Première Repairing High Shine Oil for Damaged Hair ($46) and Anti-Breakage Repairing Mask for Damaged Hair ($68, Sephora, Naples); IGK Beach Club Touchable Texture Spray, for an effortless windswept look in a snap ($34, Ulta Beauty, Naples); Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris 724 Scented Hair Mist, a refreshing and evocative blend of Calabrian bergamot, white flower accord, and musks ($80, franciskurkdjian.com); and Seen SkinCaring Curly Creme, for defined curls that are protected against UV rays, pollution, and heat ($27, Ulta Beauty, Naples). —Abigail Duffy

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DESIGN AND DECOR FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

CHRIS MILLER

AT HOME WITH... A SEASONAL NAPLES RESIDENT FURNISHES HIS ENTIRE CONDO WITH SUSTAINABLY CHIC SECONDHAND FINDS X

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK SHIRGHIO

It is a generally accepted belief that one person’s castoffs may be another’s treasure. After purchasing, remodeling, furnishing, and decorating a 1990s-era condo, Chris Miller concurs. “The only new retail item is the television in the great room,” he says, revealing that he sourced every piece of furniture—including all bedding, dishware, artworks, and even knickknacks—from local thrift and consignment stores or from RH (formerly Restoration Hardware) outlet stores at heavily discounted prices.

When he first found the single-story end unit with eastern views on a golf course—replete with white tile, pink carpet, wicker furniture, fluorescent lighting, and gold fixtures—Miller felt like he’d walked onto the set of The Golden Girls

Once his, he tore out the carpet and painted the walls a moody gray and the yellowing shutters a brilliant white; he also removed a valance and a wall of mirrors, floral wallpaper, and the dated lighting. Gold hardware was painted black or replaced with bronze or stainless fixtures

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purchased at Restore (a secondhand retail store operated by Habitat for Humanity). The pink countertop in the primary bath was refreshed with a stark white epoxy paint.

Miller visited a couple thrift stores when he first moved to Naples, not intending to fully furnish his home but to find pieces he could use in the interim. He quickly discovered that “thrift stores here are not like the ones in Long Island,” explaining that properties change

hands more frequently. As new owners remodel and update, they regularly donate or consign items they no longer want—often with little wear or tear.

Now, when Miller is in Naples (usually a few months every year), his secondhand store visits are a daily activity. In fact, he is known on a first-name basis at most. “It is so much fun,” he relates. “I love the finds. There is a definite thrill to it.” This means that the interior of his home is constantly evolving, with pieces regularly replaced—after a morning of shopping—with ones he deems more fitting.

Miller is emphatic about not hesitating when shopping. “If you see something you like, grab it,” he says. “You can’t deliberate over purchases or wait to come back because they will likely be gone.”

He points to the two armchairs poised next to a console table in his foyer. Upon first glance, he casually dismissed them because he didn’t like the fabric on the seats. He hovered nearby, however, and remembered he had a duvet cover at home in a blue pelagic print that he could use instead. He bought them—and lucky he did because he discov-

ered yet another benefit of his new hobby: the deal.

Exhilarating moments of secondhand shopping often occur for Miller when he learns the true value of an item he has purchased. To determine this, he often consults the Google Lens app on his phone, an image-recognition technology that identifies an object, delivers information about it, and provides the current valuation. Miller is no stranger to turning objects over and inside out, unearthing original price tags, QR codes, or certificates of authenticity for such information as well.

He has found works by artists Frederick Cooper and Ted McKnight and furniture designer Barbara Barry. He relishes in the realization that some of his finds can be found online for thousands of dollars. For instance, take the red lacquered armchairs in his dining room.

Clockwise from top left: Miller’s condo is filled with secondhand treasures; a fish sculpture by Frederick Cooper; a lamp by furniture designer Barbara Barry; matching armchairs in Miller’s foyer with freshly recovered seats.

Miller paid $100 for the pair and later found similar ones online selling for $2,400. He also cites a rug he purchased for $350 that—after some quick research—he discovered to be a Tamarian Irezumi rug that retails new for nearly $8,000. Miller frequently finds unique pieces with historical value, too. He calls attention to an octagon-shape wooden side table that opens from the top. “It’s a cellarette,” he notes, which is a small furniture cabinet (common in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries) used to store bottles of alcohol.

Of course, it helps that Miller is handy with tools, of which he owns many, including an industrial sewing machine. He admits that he has done some dumpster diving—once near an RH outlet store, where he rescued a large dining tabletop from the trash. He carved it into three rectangular pieces, sanded it down, and added legs, creating benches for the matching table he previously purchased at an RH outlet store.

Miller has a definite eye for design; he has perfectly positioned a plethora of blue, white, and brass pieces throughout the many shelves in his home. He willingly divulges his decorator hacks, sharing how he squared off a mirror with white electrical tape to create

the illusion of a window above his kitchen sink. And yes, he admits to occasionally making a bad purchase. Those items are simply donated to one of the shops he regularly visits—continuing the story of what goes around comes around. «

Above: One of two red lacquered armchairs that rest near a reconfigured side table in the dining room. Right: Miller in his kitchen next to the mirror that masquerades as a window.

A MANGROVE BAY HOME OFFERS THE BEST OF EVERYTHING IN THE HEART OF NAPLES

BY MARY THURMAN YUHAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLAINE JOHNATHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

After deciding condominium living was not for her, this Neapolitan opted for a threebedroom home in Mangrove Bay. Sited amid a profusion of flora and fauna and next to the 140-acre Gordon Park, the chosen residence is within walking distance of Naples’ fun and fabulous Fifth Avenue South.

Because the owner is a fan of Kira Krümm’s projects, there was no question whom she would commission to help design the interior—except with a twist. Having worked at an upscale furniture store, she wanted to select and buy all furnishings.

“Although she asked us to work in a way we

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were not accustomed, her persistence inspired us,” explains Krümm, founder and principal interior designer at Koastal Design Group (KDG). “This project was a rare and unique collaboration as we were hired to spearhead the interior design of the home but only consult on the furnishings and decor.”

In all other aspects, KDG acted as a traditional interior firm. The design team helped select the flooring, tile, countertops, and finishes, specifying the cabinetry and designing the kitchen and primary bath. They also drew up plans for the ceiling, millwork, and feature walls and made recommendations for lighting, flooring, and elevation. Additionally, the designers suggested area rugs and helped determine where to hang art.

“It was a great team effort,” states Krümm. “My client found comfort knowing she could utilize our expertise and bounce ideas off us whenever she needed. We assisted with space planning ... and helped select some of the investment items, such as the one-of-akind pieces from Cocoon Gallery and unique light fixtures.”

Before beginning any project, Krümm consults with her clients to understand how they live. “It’s important a room functions to the homeowner’s lifestyle,” she says. “We inquire to determine what furnishings are needed to support the activities that will be occurring in each space to assure the home is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional.”

To harmonize with the dwelling’s coastal cottage feel, the designer applied a neutral background throughout. Soft, soothing colors bring the interior’s lightly modern coastal transitional style into play. Swathed in natural light with nature’s colorful palette peeking through windows, the great room showcases earthy elements that echo the home’s sense of place, including a driftwood cocktail table, raw wood on the lamps, and a hand-painted fan designed by local artist Kevin O’Brien. A wall of stacked glass doors fuses the home into its surroundings.

In the kitchen, the handmade crystal pendants were worth the splurge and the long wait. The polished nickel strapping on the range hood is a showstopper. A low-

Assuring a home is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, Koastal Design Group consults with their clients to determine what furnishings are needed to support the activities that will occur in each space.

This page, clockwise from left: dual sinks in the primary bathroom; a tub and curbless shower in the primary bathroom; the serene primary bedroom; the home’s airy kitchen.

luster metallic plaster between the ceiling beams adds texture and shine. A live-edge oak dining table steals the limelight in the formal dining space. Overhead, a silver-leaf crystal chandelier hangs from a lowered ceiling, creating an intimate ambience. “The dining room needed to have impact without detracting from the adjacent great room feature wall,” notes Krümm. “We designed the dining room wall with recessed horizontal strips of mirror banded by a subtle decorative finish that is repeated in the adjacent kitchen ceiling; a faux stone finish on other walls adds warmth and connection to the kitchen.”

In the sophisticated primary bedroom suite, ornate chests add a touch of glamour to the simple background colors. In the equally luxurious primary bath, a curbless shower features a nonslip porcelain tile flooring. “The bedroom is always my favorite space to design because we want to make sure it represents the client,” shares Krümm. “It is a very private, personal sanctuary giving us more creative license to do what our clients love—to make them happy.”

Cheery and welcoming, the guest bedroom is wellappointed. “When you have guests in Florida, you want them to feel like they are in Florida,” notes the designer.

As comfortable outside as it is inside, the home features an outdoor living area that boasts beautiful furnishings and finishes that will bear Southwest Florida’s tropical climate.

“The entire project was a very enjoyable process for us because we all had one important thing in common: we love design,” summarizes Krümm. «

With 100-plus combined years of experience as a custom Naples luxury builder, Borelli has earned its solid reputation by completing clients’ new homes on time, within budget and to their exacting expectations.

3084 Tamiami Trl N. | Naples, FL 34103 239.263.7900 | borelliconstructionofnaples.com

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ELEMENTS

BLOCK PARTY

THROW DOWN

SPARK A SPIRITED DESIGN CONVERSATION WITH COLOR-BLOCKED DECOR

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

OVER THE MOON

The Half Moon Layered Blocks pillow cover (starting at $49) by West Elm will instantly crank up the volume on a muted furniture piece. West Elm, Estero (westelm.com)

Available in a variety of color and cream pairings, the Sydney Herringbone Stripe throw ($138) from Lands Down Under makes for a versatile room accent. Suite Luxury of Naples (suiteluxuryofnaples.com)

CREATIVE EXPRESSION

Artist Wendy Westlake’s works, including Twice Shy ($7,200), are influenced by her background in watercolor as well as the traditions of American abstract expressionism. Gardner Colby Gallery, Naples (gardnercolbygallery.com)

ART SHOW

Billy Ceglia of Billy Ceglia Designs let eyecatching art lend a buoyant vibe to this Naples bedroom. “To create a tranquil guest room that sparks joy for adult and younger visitors alike, we began with a timeless and serene color palette of soft white and tan to help promote relaxation,” he explains. “Colorful, color-blocked artwork that complements the room’s color scheme and offers a playful touch was layered in without overwhelming the calming atmosphere.” (billyceglia.com)

HIDDEN GEM

Designed by Kate Spade for Visual Comfort, the Cade table lamp ($379) is evocative of color-blocked jewelry. Wilson Lighting, Naples, Bonita Springs (wilsonlighting.com)

BOWLED OVER Jonathan Adler’s Scala pedestal bowl ($250) hearkens to the 1960s with its geometric mix of cool blue hues and lavender. Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples (saksfifthavenue.com)

DRINK AND BE MERRY

Hand-beaded in India, these vibrant coasters ($88 for set of four) from Joanna Buchanan will put the “happy” in your happy hours. Republic of Decor, Naples (republicofdecor.com)

BRIGHT SPOTS

The buttercup dots on this MackenzieChilds chair ($6,000) will add a dash of sass to any seating area. Zazou, Naples (zazou.me)

BLAKE BECKER President

DESIGNER DEFERENCE

BIOPHILIC DESIGN

CREATING INTERIOR ENVIRONMENTS THAT INSPIRE A CONNECTION TO NATURE AND PROMOTE WELL-BEING

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

Fadia Bechara has always been passionate about design. “I am especially intrigued with how something is made,” she says. “I find it inspiring what we can do with our hands.”

XBorn in Cartagena, Colombia, a port city on the country’s Caribbean coast, Bechara embraced the tropical warmth and the rich culture of the historic Spanish-influenced town she grew up in. A strong creative and artistic side led her to study and then practice interior design in Los Angeles.

Early in her career, Bechara moved to Italy, where she worked for 16 years as the art director for a stone company. When Europe shut down because of the COVID pandemic and she found herself increasingly isolated, Bechara reevaluated what was important to her—connection to others and the opportunity to be closer to family—and decided she would not renew her work contract. She moved back to the United States, choosing

Florida. After exploring various locales across the state, Bechara, who was familiar with Naples and had always loved it, decided the town would become her new home.

She opened a store—At Faro (a Latin word meaning lighthouse)—where she would sell furniture and art and create interiors that focus on reconnecting people with nature, culture, and meaningful products. Inside a serene and pleasant space in the Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt, At Faro visitors find furniture fashioned from teak and natural rope, woven lamps and throws in subdued and simple colors, and collections of textured wallpaper, stoneware, and rustic decorative pieces. One of the more spectacular items on display is a low occasional or coffee table that looks and feels like marble but is made from eroded prehistoric wood

and weighs in at 800 pounds.

Bechara has aligned her business with smaller family-owned factories and cottage industries (specifically those found in Colombia, Italy, and Indonesia) that craft durable and sustainable products for lasting value and significance. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, each piece is made to order and all are customizable when it comes to size.

Bechara’s business includes supplying furniture and art to interior designers, architects, resorts, eco resorts, and retailers that also value smaller local businesses and economies. She frequently collaborates on designs and shares that she is creating a chair with an interior designer who recently relocated to Naples from Newport Beach, California.

Striving to keep a minimal look in each space she realizes, Bechara chooses muted tonal hues and colors found in nature. She pays close attention to space and sensory details and practices the golden ratio, utilizing proportions pleasing to the eye. She also likes to incorporate “the perfect imperfections found in nature.” The resulting atmosphere is serene, contributing to a harmonious and healthy space that is welcoming and peaceful. This, she believes, has a positive impact on the physical health and productivity of those who live within the space. (atfaro.com) «

Tropical Sunshine. 36x48 inches. Acrylic on canvas.

COASTAL ELEGANCE, SERVICE Exce ence

The City of Naples is nestled along the stunning Paradise Coast, and the Naples Airport serves as a gateway to this idyllic community. We are dedicated to providing an exceptional airport experience by surpassing expectations.

Fly Safe, Fly Quiet

Our commitment to being a good neighbor is paramount, and we promote quiet hours between 10 pm and 7 am. Scan the QR code to learn more about our noise mitigation efforts.

Visit flynaples.com to schedule a tour of the airport. For inquiries about airport operations, please call us at 239-643-0733. Naples Airport flynaples.com NaplesAirportAPF Naples Airport Authority

JOURNEYS

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

Metro Movers

WITHIN AMERICA’S HIGHEST PROFILE METROPOLISES, SELECT HOTELS SHINE AS DESTINATIONS ALL THEIR OWN, AT ONCE DEFINING AND ENHANCING THEIR HOME CITIES. HERE, WE PRESENT TWO SUCH TRAILBLAZERS IN NEW YORK CITY, ONE IN WASHINGTON, D.C., AND ANOTHER IN BOSTON, EACH WITH A SINGULAR RHYTHM FELT IN THE PULSE OF A BIG CITY.

BY PAUL RUBIO

IRIS AND LIGHT

Baccarat Hotel

The Liberty Hotel

Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad

BACCARAT HOTEL

BACCARAT HOTEL, NEW YORK CITY

All that glitters is glass—Baccarat crystal to be precise— at the French luxury house and glassware manufacturer’s namesake New York property, nestled off Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. From an understated entrance across from the Museum of Modern Art, enter a larger-than-life exhibition of some 15,000 pieces of sparkling crystal beginning at ground level, where an LED light show projects over a tower of 2,000 Harcourt glasses. Check in near the second-floor Grand Salon, a museum-pedigree lounge draped in Baccarat chandeliers, dressed in ornate spheres of red roses, and dotted with translucent cabinetry that showcases the brand’s rarest creations. Even more handblown hanging ornaments can be found in the neighboring barrel-vaulted

WALDORF ASTORIA WASHINGTON, D.C.

bar, where artisan cocktails are served in none other than the finest Baccarat crystal. A brand presence endures across the rest of the 114-key, Gilles & Boissier–designed property, albeit with more subtle nods. Think: faceted sconces and bedside tumblers in sleek yet cozy rooms comprising four-poster beds, white furnishings, and marble bathrooms. The refined accommodations feel more Paris than New York City—a palpable theme throughout a Baccarat Hotel stay. Dress to impress for the fashion-forward scene of the Grand Salon and look forward to unapologetically indulgent experiences like the King Louis XV caviar and tea service. Sip Champagne at Le Jardin (an outdoor terrace landscaped in the vein of France’s royal gardens) and admire original works by printmaker François Houtin. In short, Baccarat is a sensorial fantasy, intricately hewn from crystal and reflecting our desire to embrace French opulence stateside. (baccarathotels.com)

Opened in June 2022, the Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C. is a splendid reimagination of the circa-1899 national post office building on Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s hard to miss this stunning landmark: the Romanesque Revival building recalls the majesty of an illustrious European castle—clock tower, turrets, and all— and has been meticulously restored to its original architectural grandeur. Inside, a lobby atrium bustles with D.C.’s power set sipping martinis in the posh Peacock Alley as foodies delight in the Spanish-tinged cuisine of The Bazaar by José Andrés. An arched skylight illuminates from 12 stories above, revealing floor after floor of guest rooms framing the atrium. Said rooms channel interior power statements befitting America’s capital

city; they’re kitted out in bold combinations of dark wood and gold-trimmed furnishings, enhanced by royal blue soft goods. No other D.C. property carries a sense of place like the Waldorf does, and a prime location near the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian buildings fosters a cohesive immersion in American history. (hilton.com)

Clockwise from left: Elaborate tea service, a chandelier-rich bar, and alfresco Le Jardin lounge await at Baccarat Hotel. Below: Discover stately rooms inside the grand 125-year-old Romanesque Revival building housing the Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C.

BACCARAT HOTEL

THE LIBERTY HOTEL, BOSTON

A reinvention of Boston’s notorious Charles Street Jail, the five-star Liberty Hotel keeps one foot in the past and another in the present, resulting in one of the most intriguing adaptive reuse projects in America. Tiers of wrought iron and original brick envelop a 360-degree lobby, spread over five stories and illuminated by chain-link chandeliers and natural light that enters through elaborate ocular windows and triple-story glass panes. Restaurant Clink occupies the vestiges of the prison cells, where diners can head behind the bars for North Atlantic seafood and seasonal New England fare. Meanwhile, cocktail bar Alibi is in the jail’s former “drunk tank” (read: DUI holding pen), replete with its original bluestone floors and brick cell walls, now adorned with black-and-whites of DUI-convicted celebs—the shade of it all! Within Liberty’s 298 rooms and suites, handsome design commingles stately elegance with soft goods that nod to the hotel’s infamous past. In many, floor-to-ceiling windows dole out prime views of the Charles River and postcard-perfect scenes of sailboats cruising into the horizon. (libertyhotel.com)

THE RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK, NOMAD

Rising 50 stories above one of Manhattan’s most trendsetting neighborhoods, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad is a new highlight of America’s largest and most vibrant metropolis. The modernist structure impresses inside and out as a design showcase created by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Martin Brudnizki, Rafael Viñoly Architects, Rockwell Group, and Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio.

The experience strikes at first sight in the lobby, which—cloaked in plant life, flowers, and floral art—sets a zen tone for a true city escape. Flanking this eco-chic space are two personality-driven bars and restaurants by José Andrés, where excellent food rivals colorful, Instagram-worthy interiors. More must-see outlets by the headlining chef can be found on higher levels, including Nubeluz, Manhattan’s

most au courant rooftop bar.

The hotel’s 250 residential-style guest rooms have been skillfully executed to maximize views and space. There are only 11 rooms per floor, all of which face south to command spectacular city vistas from just about everywhere, including the bed and the bathtub. Each room feels sleek and elegant thanks to a love match between metalwork, marble, and dark wood furnishings, enhanced by chandeliers fashioned after flower petals. With rooms so perfect and common spaces so exciting, we wouldn’t blame anyone who came to the Big Apple and never stepped foot off the property—it’s a true destination in itself. (ritzcarlton.com) «

Bottom left and above: Dine at Clink and enjoy Boston vistas from your room at The Liberty Hotel. Right and below: Design excellence abounds at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.

THE RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK, NOMAD

BJÖRN WALLANDER

BJÖRN WALLANDER

JOURNEYS

Cheers to CHARLESTON

IN THE HOLY CITY, THE FOOD AND DRINK EXPERIENCE IS WORSHIP-WORTHY QUICK TRIPS

BY DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

It’s a well-documented fact that Charleston is a mecca for foodies. The faithful make the pilgrimage often to try the new places and revisit old favorites, and not one of them cares that gluttony is a cardinal sin. Here are four of our top reasons to come to the Holy City to eat, drink, repeat—and atone later.

BOW TO THE BISCUIT

Come for the 360-degree views, stay for the creative cocktails: Citrus Club, The Dewberry hotel’s rooftop lounge, offers the best of both. From the eighth floor, a gorgeous panorama of Charleston’s famous steeples and historic houses unfolds. Against that backdrop, enjoy cocktails like the Smoke Screen (an unlikely combo of Dos Hombres Mezcal, banana liqueur, and Aperol lime that somehow works) and the Tropical Itch with Four Roses Bourbon, overproof rum, dry curaçao, and passion fruit (it comes with a back scratcher!). If you want to pick at something, the loaded fries are legendary, but we recommend heading to The Living Room on the ground floor and grabbing a table outdoors, where the people-watching is as good as the food. (thedewberrycharleston.com)

PAVLOV’S DOGS HAD THE BELL; WE HAVE FOUR WORDS: CALLIE’S HOT LITTLE BISCUIT. NOTHING IS MORE ICONIC THAN THESE FLUFFY, BUTTERY BITES OF PERFECTION. OWNER CARRIE MOREY HAS BUILT A NATIONWIDE BUSINESS (YOU CAN HAVE THESE SOUTHERN BEAUTIES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR ANYTIME), BUT THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY THEM IS AT THEIR SPIRITUAL HOME ON KING STREET. WHAT TO ORDER? THE SAUSAGE, EGG, AND JALAPEÑO PIMENTO CHEESE BISCUIT IS THE OBVIOUS CHOICE, BUT THE UNAPOLOGETICALLY HIGH-CALORIC CAROLINA GRITS IN A BISCUIT BOWL MIGHT JUST LEAD YOU TO A 12-STEP PROGRAM. (CALLIESBISCUITS.COM)

Among Charleston’s fine dining restaurants, and there are many, Chez Nous stands out for its creative menus and charming aesthetic. In this humble Charleston home reimagined as a restaurant, the dining room is cozy (creaky floors and all), the menu changes daily, and the food is out of this world. Think European comfort food, the type you might discover in a village in the South of France or in Spain’s Basque region. Chef Jill Mathias cooks with the seasons and handwrites the menus, which feature two appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts. This is one dining experience that will stay with you. (cheznouschs.com)

There’s an unspoken rule here, and it is this: you can’t come to Charleston and not try the barbecue. The king of the barbecue scene is undoubtedly John Lewis, whose Lewis Barbecue is an altar to Texas-inflected smoky excess. Pitmaster Lewis is serious about his craft (the dude even welded his own smokers), and it shows in specialties like his USDA Prime brisket and Texas Hot Guts sausage, both of which are institutions in this town. Just ask anyone standing in the out-the-door line, waiting to get their fix. (lewisbarbecue.com)

ROOFTOP VIBES

CUE THE ’CUE

ANDREW CEBULKA

Power output becomes system performance. Together with the 174 hp electric motor, the powerful 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine achieves a new dimension of performance, underpinned by the newly enhanced chassis.

JOURNEYS

FLORIDIANA

TAMPA REBORN

THE TAMPA EDITION HOTEL AND A SURFEIT OF MICHELIN-APPROVED RESTAURANTS SIGNAL A NEW ERA FOR THIS BOOMING HARBOR CITY

BY PAUL RUBIO

Tampa seems to be on the tip of every Floridian’s tongue these days. The often-overlooked Gulf Coast city is finally having a moment, thanks largely to the growth of its Water Street neighborhood, an in-progress pocket of big-city sophistication. At the heart of this redux is The Tampa Edition (editionhotels.com/tampa), the city’s first five-star hotel, rife with swish tropical trappings and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Opened in October 2022, the Ian Schrager–backed property wows at every turn. An open-flow lobby reveals a breathtaking expanse that at once enchants and soothes, teeming with potted greenery, partitioned by 20-foot slabs of walnut, and punctuated by floor-level lanterns and earth-toned furnishings. A theatrical white marble staircase serves as a functional artistic statement and the gateway to the Edition’s secondfloor nightlife enticements: retro-chic lounge Punch Room and discothèque Arts Club, which sparkles in the reflection of 350 disco balls.

Floors three through eight house 172 guest rooms and suites, each featuring a curved American black walnut entrance, marble bathrooms, and understated interiors inspired by French design legend Jean-Michel Frank. On level nine—the segue between the hotel and 16 floors of branded residences—discover a dreamy rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, cabanas cloaked in purple bougainvillea, and Azure at Edition, a coastal Greek concept by award-winning chef John Fraser.

Fraser’s talents are also on display at Michelin-starred Lilac (lilacrestauranttampa.com), a gloriously green and gilded space adjacent to the lobby. An ingredients-driven menu plays out over four decadent parts, starting with a quartet of family-style hors d’oeuvres (the highlight of which is a steaming loaf of Pain Lyonnais encrusted with sweet onions) plus an optional caviar service. Next,

choose an appetizer, an entrée, and a dessert from an array of droolworthy choices. Think: a tuna tartare Mont Blanc starter frosted in avocado mousse and topped with garlic meringue, and a main of local Gulf red snapper in a bubbling shellfish broth served over grits.

Beyond the Edition itself, Tampa’s cosmopolitan ascent and newfound foodie destination status is palpable across Water Street. For example, a stone’s throw away is The Pearl (thepearlrestaurant.com), chef and restaurateur Cameron Mitchell’s vibrant and inviting gastropub. Here, Southern and New England flavors commingle, as evidenced by the creamy clam chowder, N’awlinsstyle baked oysters, seafood towers, braised short rib, and fresh pies made daily. It happens to be one of six new Tampa additions to the 2024 Florida Michelin Guide and another—of many—reasons to consider the city for your next regional escape. «

NIKOLAS KOENIG

COURTESY OF THE PEARL

NIKOLAS KOENIG

NIKOLAS KOENIG

NIKOLAS KOENIG

NIKOLAS KOENIG

Clockwise from center left: A soothing room, a stunning lobby, caviar service at Lilac, the seductive Punch Room, and bougainvillea-capped cabanas all await at The Tampa Edition.

The Pearl is one of Tampa’s many new Michelin-approved restaurants.

HIGH ROAD

THE MAGIC OF M

BMW’S REFRESHED M4 CONVERTIBLE COMES WITH 523 HORSEPOWER AND EVEN MORE DRIVING THRILLS

BY HOWARD WALKER

Here’s a little Trivial Pursuit teaser for you: when did BMW debut that catchy advertising mantra “the Ultimate Driving Machine”? If you said 1974— as in half a century ago—then congrats, you go straight to the top of the class.

Few other advertising slogans have been as effective in defining a brand and creating demand. Toyota’s “oh what a feeling”? Not so much. And when, for some strange reason, BMW decided to ditch the line in 2006 in favor of the touchy-feely “the joy of BMW,” sales bombed.

Fifty years on, BMW is still using “the Ultimate Driving Machine” moniker to great effect. Didn’t you just love that wacky “Talkin’ Like Walken” Super Bowl commercial, with cranky thespian Christopher

Walken touting BMW’s latest all-electric 5 Series? The sign-off line: “There’s only one Christopher Walken. There’s only one Ultimate Driving Machine.”

“The Ultimate Driving Machine” perfectly describes BMW’s newest slingshot drop-top, the 2025 M4 Competition xDrive convertible. Here’s a blunt-instrument, four-seat roadster packing he-man horsepower, all-wheel drive, and the ability to carve curves like a Hot Wheels slot car.

While that oversize, swollen-kidney grille design has been around since 2021, the car has had a nip, tuck, and jab of Botox to keep things fresh. In addition to redesigned headlights, there are new laser-accented taillights and 20-inch M-sport forged alloy wheels at each corner.

The bigger news here is the addition of 20 extra horseys for the M4’s wonderful twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight 6, taking max power from 503 to 523 hp. While that’s a hefty bump, strangely the engine’s torque stays the same at 479 lb-ft, as does the car’s zero-to-60-mph sprinting time of 3.6 seconds.

While “the Ultimate Driving Machine” purists will likely opt for the

coupe version of the M4, for me, the wind-in-yourhair joy of a convertible will always have more appeal. And the M4 still makes an awesome drop-top.

Toggling a switch triggers a choreographed ballet of panels, hinges, and fabric that sees the roof descend in a mere 10 seconds—and at speeds of up to 30 mph. The beauty here is that, with the top raised, the cabin is as hushed as a library at midnight, with not a hint of wind noise.

POWER FILE

PRICE: $96,295 ENGINE: 3.0-LITER

TURBOCHARGED INLINE 6 POWER: 523

HP TORQUE: 479 LB-FT TRANSMISSION:

8-SPEED AUTOMATIC 0-60: 3.6

SECONDS TOP SPEED: 155 MPH LENGTH/ WIDTH: 189/74 INCHES WEIGHT: 4,300

POUNDS

Settle into the supportive driver’s seat, press the racy-red start button, and hear that big M TwinPower straight 6 exhale through its quartet of tailpipes. The Three Tenors hitting the high notes in “O Sole Mio” never sounded this stirring.

This is one of the world’s great engines: silky smooth, eager to rev, and with more muscle than Chris Hemsworth in Thor. Plus, it’s paired with ZF’s 8-speed automatic, which is almost as quick shifting as the best dual-clutch transmissions on the market.

Drivers will truly notice the BMW M-for-Motorsport DNA when they fire the M4 down a sinewy backroad. There’s a lot of racecar technology here, with adaptive M suspension, an M electronic rear differential, rear-biased xDrive all-wheel drive, and beautifully weighted steering that is as surgically precise as McDreamy’s scalpel.

It all comes together to make this M4 one of the most agile and thrilling sportsters on the market. No, you won’t be able to reach its handling limits on your local freeway on-ramp, but you’ll really enjoy trying.

The downside is a ride that’s pretty firm, even in the cushier Comfort mode. However, plenty of body strengthening has dialed out any shimmy and shake, even over the gnarliest of surfaces.

All this performance, technology, and BMW M Motorsport massaging doesn’t come cheap. A base Competition xDrive convertible will set you back $96,295, or around $115,000 nicely loaded. Its only real rival is Mercedes’ 503-hp AMG C 63 S Cabriolet, which starts at around $92,000. In the end, it’s a small price to pay for taming “the Ultimate Driving Machine.” «

A TOUCH OF CLASS

WE STEP ABOARD THE NADAN, ONE OF THE MOST STYLISH AND ELEGANT SUPERYACHTS AVAILABLE TO CHARTER

BY HOWARD WALKER

“I’m p-paralyzed with happiness,” Daisy Buchanan gushes in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 novel, The Great Gatsby. In this instance, Daisy is referring to the sight of her cousin, Nick Carraway, but her reaction would likely be the same were she to recline on the sundeck of the gorgeous superyacht known as Nadan

Stretching 151 feet from its spear-like, gold-leafed bowsprit to its sweeping fantail stern, Nadan exudes Roaring Twenties style, even though she was built in 2009 by the renowned Burger Boat Company.

If you’re looking to sample a little of The Great Gatsby lifestyle, Nadan is ready and waiting to whisk you off for a Caribbean cruise or a beat-the-heat adventure along the rocky coast of Maine. She’s currently available for charter through

yacht specialist Edmiston from $125,000 a week. What you get in return is a fivestar journey back in time for up to eight guests, who’ll be pampered by Nadan’s crew of seven. Lobsters on the fantail at 6?

Accompanied, no doubt, by crystal flutes of Dom Perignon.

Originally named Sycara IV, she was built for New York auto dealer extraordinaire Ray Catena, mainly to use on the Great Lakes and for genteel cruises along the East Coast. Famed American sailboat designer Bruce King culled inspiration for those sleek lines from the series of classic steamer yachts (all named Corsair) constructed at the turn of the century for billionaire banking tycoon J.P. Morgan. To match the boat’s Art Deco–era exterior, Catena commissioned a mirror-varnished, glossy-white interior brimming with

Lalique glass and Madrone burl wood paneling inlaid with Macassar ebony.

Sold in 2017, her second custodian was German-born Canadian automotive engineer and philanthropist Klaus Bytzek, who kept her at his Bahamian island. Part of a major refit involved adding a tall-windowed wooden wheelhouse on the top deck. But this was not the kind of wheelhouse you use for steering. Bytzek turned it into a man cave of sorts, complete with a velvet sofa, padded armchairs, and a big-screen TV.

POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $125,000 A WEEK LENGTH:

151 FEET BEAM: 26 FEET ENGINES:

2 X 600-HP CATERPILLAR DIESELS

TOP SPEED: 14 KNOTS RANGE: 2,400

NAUTICAL MILES WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE SHE OOZES GATSBY GLAMOUR.

Nadan sold again in early 2021 to a Bahamas-based entrepreneur and yachtsman who has been offering this blue-hulled beauty for select charters.

As you might surmise, this is not your typical party-hard, multilevel superyacht. Nadan’s

relatively slender hull (the beam is just 26 feet) does mean a few compromises when it comes to interior space. However, there are no sacrifices in way of style and elegance. The main salon features a bar and formal dining room, while a wood-paneled corridor leads to the full-beam owner’s suite, with its king-size bed and marble bathroom. There’s also a VIP stateroom plus a double and a twin-berth cabin. Exterior entertaining areas include a huge aft deck, a top deck with sun pads galore, and a seven-person Jacuzzi.

A pair of 600-horsepower Caterpillar diesels can push the aluminum-hulled yacht to a top speed of 14 knots, though she’s more serene at her 12-knot cruising speed. With 4,300 gallons of fuel in her tanks, she has a range of 2,400 nautical miles at 10 knots. That’s Palm Beach to St. Barths and back.

Of course, if you get to St. Barths and don’t want to return to reality, Nadan’s owner is looking to sell. She’s currently on the market with Burgess for $22.5 million. «

Sail Away With Me

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY NICK SHIRGHIO

Shot on location at Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, Naples

With its enviable tropical and coastal location, including multiple inlets connecting inland waterways with the Gulf of Mexico and beyond, Naples offers yearlong access to a big blue sea of opportunity. Boating and sailing are popular pastimes in Florida. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the state boasts the highest number—more than a million—of registered recreational boating vessels in the country.

Opportunities for global travel and exploration are numerous when you possess a boat. And the bigger and more self-contained, the farther and longer you can sail. Built purely for pleasure, a yacht represents the pinnacle of maritime luxury. Constructed at ever-greater lengths, privately owned luxury yachts increase in number every year. Membership in sailing and boat clubs is also growing. In addition to providing a place to dock vessels large and small, these clubs often offer a plethora of social activities and a heavy dose of fun.

The love of boating and water inspires aficionados to join sailing or yacht clubs. In 1964, because of his affinity for sailing, Jack Messmer founded the Naples Sailing Club. A handful of members raised enough money to purchase 400 feet of waterfront property on Beaumaris Island—where the Gordon River empties into Naples Bay. Eventually a clubhouse for social activities was built on-site, and in 1971, the growing club was admitted to the Florida Council of Yacht Clubs, when it officially changed its name to the Naples Sailing & Yacht Club (NSYC). In 2005, a grand new building was erected.

BUOYED BY BOAT OWNERSHIP AND FRIENDSHIPS UNCHED AT PRIVATE BOAT CLUBS, NEAPOLITANS ARE LIVING THEIR BEST LIVES ON THE WATER

From left: Mary Lottes, Carol Joseph, and Mary Claire Moser all hold leadership roles at the Naples Sailing & Yacht Club.

Women at the Wheel

In the context of a yacht club’s executive team, the bridge—a nautical term borrowed from the command structure of a ship—refers to a voluntary leadership team that guides a club’s activities and operations. Sixty years ago, a registered voting membership at NSYC was assigned to only the husband’s name when a couple joined; women served on the board in the roles of secretary or treasurer and were traditionally the ones who organized social activities and trips.

Nowadays, women are taking the helm, parlaying career-related skills or those acquired as passengers on many an excursion to roles as captains and commodores. In 2014, the first female was appointed to the highestranking position of commodore at NSYC. Ten years later, the club’s second female commodore, Carol Joseph, was chosen, representing a quiet undercurrent of change surfacing within the sailing world.

A commodore’s role is similar to that of a company’s CEO. Overseeing all club activities, the commodore presides over meetings and represents the club officially. Each commodore brings a specific set of skills and talents to their role. Joseph, who earned an MBA from the University of Illinois Chicago, spent years working in the corporate world. In 1998, she partnered with her husband, Tom, to operate a small manufacturing company, Magnum Products, growing it into a successful business. In 2011, they sold the company and retired to begin a life split between Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Naples.

Joseph is serving the first of a twoyear term as commodore at NSYC. “It is my role to ensure the board maintains its focus on proper governance

CAROL JOSEPH WAS NAMED COMMODORE AT NAPLES SAILING & YACHT CLUB; SHE IS THE SECOND WOMAN TO SERVE IN THIS ROLE.

and financial and risk management oversight, while ensuring an atmosphere for board members to feel they have made a difference as they give their time and talents,” she says.

Although Joseph states financial acumen and understanding of governance are important in her role as commodore, in her experience, “the most critical skill is being able to lead

in a collaborative and supportive manner and to respect everyone on the team.”

Where Friendship Meets the Water

Joseph relays that she has always had a boat in her life and even learned how to water ski at age 5.

Boat ownership for the Josephs has included a 47-foot Sea Ray, a 56-foot

Opposite page: Carol Joseph is dressed for her role as club commodore in a traditional navy blazer, white skirt, scarf, and one-lid hat.

Above: Living a life connected to the water has helped Joseph and her husband, Tom, adjust to retirement.

CHRISTENING A BOAT “IS A FUN AND FRIVOLOUS CEREMONY TO CELEBRATE WITH FRIENDS, DATING BACK THOUSANDS OF YEARS.”

Princess, a 59-foot Sea Ray, and a 60foot Hatteras. And, after stricken with what Joseph calls “foot envy”—not uncommon among boat owners— she reports they now own a 100-foot Hatteras with a full-time captain and crew, who take care of the boat as it moves between Nassau, Bahamas, in the winter months and Newport, Rhode Island, in the summer months.

The Josephs also own fishing and ski boats, as well as a pontoon boat. Because they were missing the camaraderie of club cruises, they will soon add a 56-foot Princess to their fleet, which they will dock at NSYC. “True friendships are made on the water,” believes Joseph, who never thought her life would be so connected to the seas. “We have found it to be our getaway and would be hard-pressed to give it up.”

The Josephs initially joined NSYC because they needed a place to park their boat. They had such a great experience as members and met so many new friends, it helped anchor their seasonal move south, with Joseph claiming, “Boating truly changed my life.” While at sea, Joseph admits life is simpler; days revolve around reading, sunbathing, fishing, watching the rising and setting sun, and just being in nature. “It’s a fun life—a dream I would never have thought possible,” Joseph relates.

When Mary Claire Moser first floated into Naples—sitting on the bow of her boat—she remembers saying to herself, “I think I could like it here.”

She and her husband, Gary, have been seasonal residents since 2001 and are members at NSYC. They own a “58-

foot President, a cockpit motor yacht,” details Moser.

The Mosers spend much of the year on the water. Last summer, it was seven weeks in the Bahamas. During season, they try to go on a cruise—typically one week in length—with club members (and their respective boats) every month. “At a certain stage in life, boating becomes a passion or a hobby

rather than a sport,” says Moser.

Through the years, boaters have held on to some strong beliefs and superstitions, mostly because of the unpredictability of the sea. With the advent of technology, many of those traditions have faded. However, the christening of a new boat, marking the launch and start of that vessel’s safe journey at sea, is one that continues.

In her role as chair of boat christening at Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, Mary Claire Moser recites a passage from the bible of boating, reads a prayer, and then breaks a bottle of Champagne against the boat’s hull.

JOINING A CLUB IS AN INVITATION TO A LIFESTYLE OF LUXURY AND EXPLORATION ON THE OPEN SEAS.

It was purely by chance that Moser fell into the role of chair of boat christening at NSYC. She happened to have a copy of a prayer—from years ago when she was on a cruise where a boat was christened—in her possession. New boat owners at the club wanted to honor this tradition for their boats, and Moser volunteered. Fellow members gather, and Moser reads a few lines from the bible of boating: Chapman Piloting & Seamanship She then recites the prayer and ends by breaking a bottle of Champagne against the hull. “It is a fun and frivolous ceremony to celebrate with friends,” says Moser, “dating back thousands of years.”

Mary Lottes serves as social chair at NSYC, where a diverse membership means people come together from various backgrounds. Lottes and her husband, Art, have been members since 2008. They dock their 42foot Tiara Coronet in the yacht basin at NSYC. Lottes describes her duties as coordinating parties, developing themes, and figuring out the decor for each. “It is fun to have members get involved and host the parties, which help them meet one another and bond,” she says.

For those who desire more boatingrelated activities, the club offers plenty, including regattas and weeklong cruises during season to places such as Boca Grande, Sarasota, Longboat Key, and Useppa Island. Every year the club boats parade through local waters for the annual fleet review, a ceremonial procession with the commodore presiding.

“Joining a club transcends mere yacht anchorage, evolving into a dy-

namic community hub where luxury sailing, cruising, exclusive dining, and global exploration blend to foster connections, friendships, and a lifestyle of unforgettable adventures on and off the water,” explains NSYC’s director of membership and marketing, Brittany Gregg.

In a Netflix documentary of his career titled Off the Record, well-known

music producer David Foster said, “In 10 years, I don’t want to be working anymore; I want to be on a boat somewhere, lying in the sun.” He shares a sentiment many people dream of— floating on a glassy sea, surrounded by blue sky and rays of sunshine. For those who partake of the yachting life, the blissful activity is a fulfilling way to satisfy a waterlust. «

Serving as social chair at Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, Mary Lottes organizes parties for a diverse membership.

STYLE ARRIVING IN

FROM A $28 MILLION ROLLS-ROYCE DROPTAIL TO A 260-MPH BUGATTI, THESE 10 HEAD-SPINNING AUTOMOBILES GUARANTEE A GRAND ENTRANCE

BY HOWARD WALKER

LA ROSE NOIRE DROPTAIL

Any car costing a reported $28 million is going to get you noticed. And this La Rose Noire Droptail, the latest Coachbuild creation from Rolls-Royce, will do just that.

It’s a one-of-one, two-seat, two-door convertible-coupe hand-built for a very prominent French madame. Inspired by the Great Gatsby hot rods of the Roaring Twenties, this V12-powered masterpiece features wine-red paintwork that mimics the color of the velvet-like Black Baccara rose from France.

Inside, the cabin is decorated with 1,603 individual triangular veneer pieces meant to resemble scattered rose petals. The cabin also features a unique Champagne cooler designed to carry a bottle of special-edition Champagne de Lossy along with crystal flutes.

The roof is unusual in that it has to be removed for sunny-day driving and there isn’t a folding soft-top in case of a sudden downpour. Pick your weather wisely.

This La Rose Noire is the first of four commissioned Droptail models, each one specially made for the owner. We’re sure Rolls-Royce is awaiting your call.

Cadiac

CELESTIQ

2

Here is arguably the most extravagant, most expensive, most avant-garde Cadillac ever built—a car guaranteed to turn heads quicker than Elvis behind the wheel of his pink ’55 Fleetwood Sixty Special.

The all-electric Celestiq, which went into production in late 2023, will cost more than $340,000. This four-door fastback is Cadillac’s poster child for its plans to go entirely electric by 2030.

Thrusted by a pair of electric motors generating more than 600 horsepower, this flagship Caddy will rush from standstill to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and glide for around 300 miles on a full charge.

Like any Rolls-Royce or Gulfstream jet, the Cadillac Celestiq has two adjustable rear seats. Up above, the glass roof features smart glass, with four sections that you can maneuver to let in

just the right amount of light. And as with Rolls-Royce, buyers will be able to design and customize their Celestiq at a special Artisan Center in Warren, Michigan, choosing from an endless array of paint colors, leathers, woods, and cloths to make their car unique.

CADILLAC SAYS IT PLANS TO HAND-ASSEMBLE NO MORE THAN 500 CELESTIQS A YEAR (AND ONLY SIX AT A TIME TO ENSURE ATTENTION TO DETAIL).

ELVIS WOULD HAVE APPROVED.

HERCULES 6X6 Rezvani

If anyone suggested you could arrive in style in a pickup truck, you might question their sanity. But if the aforementioned pickup was a Rezvani Hercules 6x6 with 6-wheel drive and a 1,300-hp supercharged V8 under the hood, you might agree.

Helena, Montana–based Rezvani took apart a humble Jeep Gladiator pickup, stretched the body and chassis to accommodate that third axle, and cladded it in apocalypse-style bodywork extensions. For the pièce de résistance, it took a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 from the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon and bumped it up to 7 liters and an insane 1,300 horseys. Sixwheel smoky burnouts? Not a problem.

But if you really want to impress friends and family, go for the Military Edition package. It features full Kevlar armor, bulletproof glass, underside explosion protection, ramming bumpers, and a James Bond–style rear smoke screen. Pricing for this end-of-the-world off-roader kicks off at around $465,000.

PHANTOM R-Royce BACALAR Btley

A new Bentley Continental GTC convertible would make for a stylish arrival. But for the ultimate in jaw-dropping, eyes-wide-open entrances, Bentley has built the exquisite $1.9 million Bacalar open-top convertible.

Bentley produced just 12 Bacalars and, alas, all 12 have been sold. Though we predict that, because the first cars were delivered in 2021, one or two might be entering the pre-owned market right around now.

While the car is based on the mechanical bits of the fastest Continental, the 650-horsepower GT Speed convertible, every body panel is unique to the Bacalar.

When it comes to making the grandest of grand entrances, stepping out from the back seat of the latest RollsRoyce Phantom flagship is hard to beat. No, make that impossible. The massive rear-hinged coach door that powers open at the touch of a button, the ethereal glow of 1,600 twinkling fiber optic

stars in the roof lining, and the sheer size of the car transform this from automobile to rolling wonder.

The Phantom might have been around since 2003, but in its latest guise—priced from $475,000—it’s as much a symbol of wealth as ever. And with the ability through Rolls’ Bespoke Division to

And what a body; the front-end styling is more aggressive, the rear is more distinctive, and those muscular shoulders over the wheels were surely inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s in his bodybuilding days.

Equally dramatic is the interior, which gets the full bespoke Mulliner treatment. Those diamond-quilted leather seats require no fewer than 148,199 stitches each, while the wood on the dash is made from trees that fell 5,000 years ago.

But check the weather before you drive off: the one thing missing with the Bacalar is a roof.

design a car exactly the way you want it, no two iterations will be the same.

The Phantom’s mighty 6.75-liter twinturbocharged V12 engine is not long for this world; it will soon get replaced by electric motors and batteries from the new Spectre two-door coupe. A Phantom EV? Now that will be electrifying.

Mercedes-Benz

280SE 3.5 CABRIOLET

Nothing defines Old Hollywood glamour more than a big four-seat Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet. All that chrome, that wraparound windshield, the acres of glove-soft leather. The best version is without a doubt the 1971 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet, which was the final year of production for these magnificent

hand-built drop-tops.

This is the version with that trademark lower and wider chrome grille and Teflon-smooth 4.5-liter V8 engine under that mile-long hood. A mere 1,232 examples of these 280SEs were built between 1969 and 1971, ensuring their collector status—and high price. This metallic blue

ECD Jaguar E-TYPE

Enzo Ferrari once described Jaguar’s EType as “the most beautiful car ever made.” Gazing at the 1974-vintage E-Type Series 3 that’s the latest handcrafted creation from Kissimmeebased ECD Auto Design, we’d agree with Il Commendatore.

Formerly East Coast Defenders, ECD Auto Design is best known for its impressive restomod conversions of Land Rover’s rugged workhorse 4x4. And as with the De fender models it’s been building for the past decade (more than 500 to date), ECD is now reimagining the iconic E.

In a process that takes roughly 2,200 hours, the company takes an original Series 3 E-Type donor car (either a drop-top convertible or 2+2 coupe made between 1971 and 1975) and painstakingly restores it from the ground up.

Buyers get to pick the engine, choosing from a 6.2-liter 450-hp Corvette LT1 V8, an uprated original 5.3-liter Jaguar V12, or even a 300-hp electric setup with a motor juiced by a trio of lithium-ion batteries.

Costing upward of $300,000, these are true works of art that can be driven every day.

7

6

example sold at a recent RM Sotheby’s auc tion in Phoenix for $313,000.

They drive as tremendously as they look. A magic-carpet ride, surprisingly brisk accelera tion, and whisper-quiet refinement put them on a par with convertible offerings from RollsRoyce and Bentley.

BATTISTA Pininfarina

8

If arriving in style means making a lot of noise, then the $2.5 million Battista hypercar from Automobil Pininfarina might disappoint. It’s electric and about as vocal as a Dyson hair dryer. The only sounds you’ll likely hear are the gasps from onlookers as this projectile rolls into view.

No, the Battista is all about rocket-style power. With a quartet of electric motors juiced by a 120-kWh battery pack, it produces an insane 1,877 hp. Off the line, it can sprint to 60 mph in under 1.8 seconds. That’s faster than a Formula 1 racecar. Top

speed? That would be 217 mph.

In case you’re wondering, Automobil Pininfarina is a spinoff of the legendary Italian design studio Pininfarina, which has shaped some of the most beautiful Ferraris ever built. This Battista shares its electric bits with the equally rapid Nevera hypercar from Croatia’s Rimac.

As you’d expect from Pininfarina, the Battista is a masterpiece of design, with its curvaceous carbon-fiber body, skyscraping scissor doors, and towering rear wing. Just 150 are being built.

A Bugatti—any Bugatti—will garner more attention than a Taylor Swift sighting at a Kansas City Chiefs game. But for making the ultimate grand entrance, there is nothing quite like turning up in the valet line behind the wheel of a $5 million Bugatti Mistral roadster.

Named after the powerful wind that roars down the Rhône Valley in Southern France, this Mistral roars with equal ferocity, courtesy of its 8.0-liter W16 nuclear reactor pumping out 1,578 hp. Top speed should be more than 260 mph.

And talking of the Mistral’s engine, there’s added appeal in that this hip-high roadster will be the last Bugatti ever to feature the legendary 16 cylinder. Next up will be hybrid-electric power.

9 MISTRAL Bugi

Bugatti is in the process of building just 99 of these open-top speed demons with most (if not all) already accounted for. An inquiry for a canceled order might be necessary.

When you’re driving arguably the most beautiful car in the world, arriving in style at any destination is guaranteed. That’s the effect of Aston Martin’s achingly gorgeous 2024 DB12 Volante.

Yes, there’s a coupe version of this grandest of GT grand tourers, but it’s this drop-top, wind-inthe-hair, sun-on-your-face convertible that’s the one to have.

Just look at the thing—it has more brooding sex appeal than Daniel “007” Craig and Gal Gadot com-

bined. It’s just stunning, from that enlarged trademark Aston grille to those muscly haunches to that raked-back windscreen. Plus, a new top design with eight sound-absorbing layers and the ability to open in a mere 14 seconds and at speeds up to 31 mph makes it the perfect convertible.

Speaking of speed, under the hood is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 packing 671 hp, enough to slingshot this DB from rest to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and on to an astonishing top speed of 202 mph. All for around $265,000. «

Dni D ssing

JET-SETTING FOR THE SUMMER? FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEAS, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED ON THE MOST COVETED ITEMS TO PACK.

BY KATHERINE LANDE

SANNI, GECE

CULT GAIA FENDI

Crystal-embellished acrylic shell clutch ($498), cultgaia.com

Multicolor striped leather Fendi First small handbag ($4,200), fendi.com

STYLE NOTE: MATCH THE STUNNING ARCHITECTURE WITH CLEAN LINES AND A NEUTRAL COLOR PALETTE.

DAVID YURMAN

Pearl Classics cable halo button earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold ($2,500), david yurman.com

JOHANNA ORTIZ

Tone Poem leather sandals ($495), johannaortiz.com

JACQUEMUS

Leather sandals ($715), jacquemus.com

JIMMY CHOO

Natural raffia and napa leather sandals with pearls ($775),

STYLE NOTE: STICK WITH THE CLASSICS AND UPDATE YOUR LOOK WITH ULTRA-CHIC UTILITARIAN ACCENTS.

BOTTEGA

DIOR

PRADA

Prada ReEdition 1978 small Re-Nylon backpack ($2,200), prada.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello Medium Niki bag ($3,550), ysl.com

Saddle belt with removable pouch ($1,650), dior.com

Roman Stud flat sandals ($1,150), valentino.com

Leather platform sandals ($945), christian louboutin.com

Twist triangle leathertrimmed earrings ($700), bottegaveneta.com

VENETA

TORY BURCH

Proza Sl

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

ROGER VIVIER

ANGUIL

STYLE NOTE: SHERBET SHADES PROVIDE THE PERFECT ISLAND VIBE FOR BOTH DAY AND NIGHT.

PRADA

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Belle Vivier sandals in patent leather with metal buckle ($995), rogervivier.com

Branch earrings ($640), oscardelarenta.com

Crochet tote bag ($2,050), prada.com

The Grip oval sunglasses ($525), alexander mcqueen.com

Jessa heel sandals ($328), toryburch.com

GUCCI Small Marmont shoulder bag ($2,550), gucci.com

ASPEN, CODO

MIX

STYLE NOTE: MIX DENIM AND SPORTSWEAR WITH METALLICS FOR A MODERN TAKE ON MOUNTAIN STYLE.

SAINT LAURENT

Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

M137 Amelia sunglasses ($560), ysl.com

JIMMY CHOO

Silver micro glitter fabric mules with crystal embroidery ($2,995), jimmychoo.com

Small Jackie bag in green python with red and white stripes (price upon request), gucci.com GUCCI

DIOR

CHANEL

Métiers d’Art 2024 gradient handbag (price upon request), chanel.com

Dior Chrono sneakers (price upon request), dior.com

GOLDEN GOOSE

Leather clogs with buckle detail ($490), goldengoose.com

Miu Miu

Ralph Laun

GABRIELA HEARST

Calla crochet

fisherman sandals ($1,050), gabriela hearst.com

BOTTEGA VENETA

CAROLINA BUCCI DIOR

Saddle bag with strap ($8,100), dior.com

Forte beads rainbow necklace ($1,250), Marissa Collections, marissacollections.com

Atomic lightweight bicolor mesh-knit pumps ($990), bottegaveneta. com

FENDI

Multicolor FF Fabric

Baguette mini handbag ($2,150), fendi.com

AIELLIGROUP.COM

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BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

REINVENTION

SOUTHERN COMFORT

Tanglewood at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs, has a new look, vibe, and menu. Those who created the change hope that even non-hotel guests will stop in and stick around for some Southern hospitality. Now called Tanglewood–A Southern Kitchen, the on-site eatery offers cushy upholstered chairs and banquettes, tall windows that let in plenty of sunshine by day and starlight by night, and an overall mellow aura. “We wanted to make it a destination in itself,” says Andreas Singer, director of food and beverage and culinary operations. “There are already enough steak houses and seafood restaurants around.”

Singer brainstormed with Tanglewood’s chef de cuisine, Richard McCaw, to develop the menu. Together, they set out to create “comfort food with a little twist,” Singer says. McCaw, who attended Estero High School, began as an intern at the Hyatt and worked his way up. He went to an

Arizona Hyatt for more experience, returning to the Coconut Point location late last year to take over Tanglewood.

COURTESY OF HYATT REGENCY COCONUT POINT

Over the course of a few months, the two created their version of elevated Southern cuisine, featuring dishes like a soft-shell crab po’boy, seared scallops with candied pork belly (known as Surf & Swine), bayou étouffée, and alligator jambalaya. Sides include Cajun crab macaroni, purple Florida rice grits, and collard greens. Fancy a cocktail? Consider a pecan pie old-fashioned, ranch water, or southside bramble with blackberry brandy.

(hyattregencycoconutpoint.com) –Karen Feldman

At the reimagined Tanglewood–A Southern Kitchen, expect the flavors of the South, including the savory-yet-sweet combo of chicken and waffles.

EAT+DRINK

COOL BEANS

Go for a Dip

CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL HUMMUS DAY WITH THESE LOCAL FAVORITES

BY KAREN FELDMAN

How is it that four simple ingredients— garbanzo beans, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic—combine to create something greater than its parts? We’re talking, of course, about hummus, which gets its own holiday May 13. International Hummus Day celebrates this luscious spread that people of diverse cultures have loved for centuries. According to National Today, a website devoted to compiling and explaining holidays, the earliest version of a hummus-type dish was recorded in Cairo in the thirteenth century. The Turks, Lebanese, Israelis, Iraqis, Greeks, Syrians, and others all view it as a staple dish. The website reports that International Hummus Day began in 2012, the brainchild of entrepreneur Ben Lang, who hoped to unite the world—especially the Middle East—through a food beloved by so many.

Fans of the storied bean dip will find several savory versions around Naples.

Michael Mir, chef/owner of Bha! Bha! Per-

sian Bistro (bhabhabistro.com) opened his original restaurant in the Pavilion Shopping Center some 27 years ago. He thinks he may have been the first in the area to serve hummus, even incorporating it into his promotions with ads proudly proclaiming, “Hummus, for what ails you.”

“What is better than garbanzo beans?” Mir asks. “Olive oil and garlic are so good for you. And some tahini for flavor. It’s simple. Just four ingredients.” It’s healthy, delicious—and portable. Mir recommends hummus as a handy staple to carry with some pita bread in case of emergencies because it remains edible for extended periods. Add some dried dates and drinking water for a survival kit fit for just about anywhere, he says. In his Fifth Avenue South restaurant, Mir serves the creamy traditional version topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, and cucumbers.

Ivo Milanoski from Macedonia and Yavuz “Oz” Ozturk from Turkey co-own Simit Fresh Mediterranean (simitfresh.com) and surely qualify as aficionados simply from a lifetime of eating hummus. They serve it three ways: traditional; with roasted beets pureed into the spread; and baked with aged Bulgarian kashkaval cheese served with fresh-baked Turkish bubble bread. “The color [of the beetroot hummus] is phenomenal, and the beet adds an extra layer of freshness, a bit of acidity with a

little sweetness,” Milanoski says. A pinch of sumac also lends a red hue and a bit more acidity. “The baked hummus is probably our best-selling appetizer,” Milanoski says. “Who doesn’t like fresh-baked bread with warm hummus? I don’t know anyone else in this area who does it that way.”

Mediterrano (mediterrano-naples.com) offers a well-executed traditional hummus with grilled pita wedges and an optional side of assorted vegetables. On a nice evening, a table on the lushly landscaped patio pairs splendidly with the spread. Nicely chilled white wine wouldn’t hurt either.

At Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen (kareemskitchen.com) , owner/executive chef Rachid Eido uses a family recipe his grandfather made daily in Beirut, which was then further refined by his father, who was a chef. Now Eido serves three versions: traditional; spicy, with homemade harissa and Aleppo peppers; and with fresh and roasted garlic.

PLANTS TO KNOW

Jack of All Fruits

Fruits and vegetables are good for us, right? Just don’t stand beneath a jackfruit when it gives way from the jack tree. An individual fruit can weigh 40 pounds, making it the largest tree-borne fruit in the world. If it doesn’t hurt you on the way down, it will offer myriad health benefits, such as boosting heart health, acting as an anti-inflammatory, providing vitamin C, promoting wound healing, and helping manage blood sugar. One caveat: people with kidney disease or acute kidney failure should avoid it because of its high potassium level.

Jackfruit can stand in for meat in savory dishes and be used as a dessert ingredient in others. Unripe fruit has a somewhat stringy texture, making it a good substitute for pulled pork or chicken. Ripe jackfruit has a sweet, tropical flavor and can be used like other

tropical fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and bananas.

The versatile fruit is in season summer through fall and may be found in some farmers markets. Bear in mind, however, cleaning a fresh specimen is not for beginners. The good news is, you can head to the supermarket where you can find jackfruit in the refrigerator section, in the freezer, and in cans in the international foods aisle. Try the unripe variety with your favorite pulled pork or chicken recipe; for dessert, perhaps use a ripe jackfruit in a sorbet or cheesecake. –K.F.

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.

AMERICAN

THE 239 NAPLES Family-owned and located in Mercato, this restaurant touting Southwest Florida serves up many locally sourced provisions and offers an array of gluten-free options. 9108 Strada Place, Naples (the239naples.com)

BISTRO 821 A longtime Old Naples favorite, thanks to a diverse menu that fuses Asian, European, and domestic flavors. 821 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bistro821.com)

EJ’S BAYFRONT CAFÉ An extensive breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu served daily in a pet-friendly environment on Naples Bay. 469 Bayfront Place, Naples (ejsbayfrontcafe.com)

GOLDIES RESTAURANT For reliable Americana cuisine and friendly service, look no further than this hidden gem. 5400 Taylor Road, Naples (goldies restaurant.com)

THE HANGOUT BY TWO GUYS Brothers Peter and Larry Falisi dish out a relaxing vibe with Italian dishes based on family recipes and “secret ingredients.” 2360 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (hangoutnaples.com)

HAROLD’S PLACE A fun, casual bar and grill that serves classic burgers, seafood, salads, and more in a tropical setting complete with a chickee bar and poolside dining. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naplesharoldsplace.com)

LAKE PARK DINER A healthy spin on classic diner fare, with an emphasis on organic meats and produce. 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)

RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL Chef Tony Ridgway continues wowing diners with classic American cuisine. 1300 Third St. S., Naples (ridgwaybarandgrill.com)

SEVENTH SOUTH CRAFT FOOD + DRINK Owner Barry Larkin and chef Jay Schrednitz offer a locally and globally sustainable seafood program, handcut steaks, house-made pastas, and reimagined cocktails, along with a Sunday brunch. 849 Seventh Ave. S., Naples (seventhsouth.com)

SOUTH STREET GRILL South Street pairs homestyle specialties with live music, craft beers, and cocktails. 1410 Pine Ridge Road Ste. 4, Naples (southstreetnaples.com)

TAVERN ON THE BAY This popular sports bar boasts huge televisions, great comfort food, and a lovely view of the Gordon River. 489 Bayfront Place, Naples (tavernonthebay.net)

THREE60 MARKET In addition to a stellar market, this local favorite boasts a café that serves classic, fresh fare for breakfast and lunch or an early dinner. 2891 Bayview Drive, Naples (three60market.com)

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT & BAR Born in Naples, the Tommy Bahama laid-back lifestyle is full throttle in its original festive eatery and bar at 1220 Third St. S., Naples; and Coconut Point, 23150 Fashion Drive #101, Estero (tommybahama.com)

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN The eclectic menu features anti-inflammatory dishes that will make you feel good from the inside out. 5375 Tamiami Trail N. Ste. 15, Naples (truefoodkitchen.com/naples)

TWISTED SHEEP PIZZA & BREW Artisanal specialty and custom pizzas and inventive hand-helds and small bites, local brews, and “stubborn soda.” 3802 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (twistedsheeppizza.com)

THE WAREHOUSE A menu dotted with fresh, local ingredients complements an award-winning cocktail program. 9010 Bellaire Bay Drive, Naples (thewarehousenaples.com)

YARD HOUSE Yard House offers an electric atmosphere and an array of hearty American entrées. 4251 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (yardhouse.com)

EAT+DRINK

Northern Exposure

The Ocean State may be well north of Naples, but devotees of all things clam—cakes, chowder, fried—head east on Tamiami Trail to Flo’s Clam Shack This is the first franchise of the famed pair of Rhode Island clam shacks that have been lauded on the Food Network and by dozens of magazines and newspapers.

Although it’s a franchise, chef/ owner Will Walker spent more than a decade working for Flo’s, rising from busser up to manager of both locations, with some chef experience in between. Now he pretty much does it all at his Naples location in what used to be Bamz Restaurant.

Walker wasn’t sure if the East Naples location would work. He need not have worried. He opened quietly in late January, hoping to let the staff get up to

speed before the crowds found them. Luckily, they were fast learners—the response has been enthusiastic.

“We’re just close enough to [Fifth Avenue South] but a bit off the beaten path with a freestanding building and a good amount of parking,” Walker says. With 36 seats inside and another 30 outside, most customers stay to dine on the famed whole belly clams and clam cakes, Walker conveys.

Be forewarned: Flo’s takes no phone orders and takeout orders must be placed at the restaurant. Like so much else you wait for, Walker says it’s for your own good. “We wish we could rely on everybody to be here when the order is ready, but that’s often not the case,” he says. “We need to preserve the food and make sure everyone gets a nice, warm plate.”

SEAFOOD

THE BAY HOUSE Overlooking the Cocohatchee River, this eatery features a beautiful dining room plus Southern-inspired seafood. 799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples (bayhousenaples.com)

BAYSIDE SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR This Venetian Bay favorite boasts grand water views, prime grilled meats, and seafood specialties. 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com)

HOGFISH HARRY’S Showcasing the Gulf Coast’s bounty, Hogfish Harry’s serves 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 (mrbigfish.com)

OCEAN PRIME Enjoy exceptional hospitality, a delectable seafood and steak menu, luxe cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. 699 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (ocean-prime.com)

All the restaurant’s famed specialties are made to order from clams procured from the same distributors that the northern restaurants use. “[The clammers] have to go out in the coves, dig them up, and shuck with their hands,” he says. “We’re really fortunate that we are still able to keep them at a good price.”

For the uninitiated, clam cakes

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK Pinchers serves fresh, local seafood in a casual, family-friendly 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 salads, sandwiches, pastas, and steaks, as well as seafood entrées. 1200 Fifth Ave. S. Ste. 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 organic local produce, wild-caught fish, naturally raised meat, and poultry with modern cooking techniques. 1186 Third St. S., Naples (seasaltnaples.com)

SWAN RIVER SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Seafood— Southern and Northern varieties—stars at this longtime favorite, while its fish market is popular with home chefs. 3741 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (swanriver seafood.com)

USS NEMO UNDERSEA CUISINE & ADVENTURES

Everything is a cut above, but the signature misobroiled sea bass is a must. 3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (ussnemorestaurant.com)

are deep-fried balls of clams, flour, milk, clam juice, eggs, and leavening. Whole belly clams are precisely what the name suggests—consisting of the meaty belly portion along with the flesh of the clam known as the strip. Those who love them say they have a fuller flavor than strips alone. Try them and find out why. (flosclamshacks.com) –K.F.

STEAK

THE CAPITAL GRILLE Dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. 9005 Mercato Drive, Naples (thecapitalgrille.com)

CHOPS CITY GRILL Prime aged steaks, local seafood, and more than 100 whiskey selections. 837 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 8200 Health Center Blvd. Ste. 100, Bonita Springs (chopscitygrill.com)

THE CONTINENTAL This D’Amico restaurant is a stylish steak house and gastropub. 1205 Third St. S., Naples (damicoscontinental.com)

DORONA Local culinary superstars Fabrizio and Ingrid Aielli have excelled again with this modern Italian steak house. 2110 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (doronanaples.com)

THE GRILL Luxurious dining in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples features rich decor, aged prime beef, chops, and fresh seafood. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (ritzcarlton.com/naples)

JIMMY P’S CHARRED Known for its Wagyu beef, the popular butcher shop’s steaks and other fine foods are served in the restaurant next door. 1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (jimmypscharred.com)

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Sophisticated decor, prime meats, and fine seafood make for a special night out. 23151 Village Shops Way, Bonita Springs (ruthschris.com)

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE In the winning tradition of late NFL coaching icon 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 and chateaubriand. 3560 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (bistrolabaguette.com)

BLEU PROVENCE Authentic dishes from the South of France are paired with wines from the vast, award-winning selection. 1234 Eighth St. S., Naples (bleuprovencenaples.com)

CHEZ BOËT FRENCH HOME COOKING Delicious French classics in a warm, homey atmosphere. 755 12th Ave. S., Naples (chezboetnaples.com)

CÔTE D’AZUR Intimate bistro in the style of Provence serves standouts like Maine lobster roasted in a clay pot. 11224 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (cotedazur restaurant.com)

THE FRENCH BRASSERIE RUSTIQUE Rustic French cuisine and lighter fare with desserts prepared by an in-house pastry chef. 365 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (thefrenchnaples.com)

TARTINE & TARTELETTE Authentic, homemade French cuisine with wine pairings. 11121 Health Park Blvd., Naples (tartinetartelette.com)

MEXICAN

FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA Casual, familyfriendly eatery serving fresh classics plus handcrafted cocktails. 4255 Tamiami Trail N.; 2220 Logan Blvd. N. Ste. 810, Naples (felipestaqueria.com)

ROCCO’S TACOS AND TEQUILA BAR The signature tacos are a hit, along with the savory guacamole, made fresh tableside. 9123 Strada Place Ste. 7135, Naples (roccostacos.com)

TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA The many varieties of tacos are made with fresh, local products and handmade tortillas. 4834 Davis Blvd.; 8971 Tamiami Trail N., Naples; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers (tacosandtequilanaples.com)

TAQUERIA SAN JULIAN This neighborhood destination serves up tacos with familiar fillings, though tripe and tongue are available for the adventurous.

3575 Bayshore Drive, Naples (taqueriasanjulian. restaurantwebexpert.com)

TURCO TACO Clean eating with a Mexican twist, complete with hormone- and antibiotic-free meats, handmade and gluten-free tortillas, and numerous organic salads. 410 Ninth St. N.; 1514 Immokalee Road #116, 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)

BAR TULIA This late-night brother of Osteria Tulia serves outstanding pizzas and a variety of irresistible small bites, among other delicacies. 462 Fifth Ave. S.; 9118 Strada Place Ste. 8150, Naples (bartulia.com)

BARBATELLA Pizzas and pastas are delish, but don’t overlook offerings like the grilled salmon. Save room for the signature Nutella pizza. 1290 Third St. S., Naples (barbatellanaples.com)

BRIO ITALIAN GRILLE The location in Waterside Shops makes this a popular place for pre- and postshopping meals. 5505 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (brioitalian.com)

Celebrating Tutor Corps Our

Guadalupe Center gave me the guidance to keep going and keep pushing. They showed me leadership and how to help other people out too.

– Alejandro Loredo-Turruviates, Tutor Corps Graduate ’24

Guadalupe Center’s Tutor Corps program who are heading to college this fall. During a private ceremony last month, the Tutor Corps Class of 2024 joined family members and mentors to celebrate their accomplishments and announce their college selections. A majority of the graduates will be first-generation college students, and nearly half are the first in their family to finish high school. We applaud these remarkable students on their success as they create a cycle of prosperity made possible through education.

EAT+DRINK

WINE DOWN

A TASTE OF PLACE

BY MICHAEL DRAPKIN

I’ll never forget touring the vineyards overlooking the town of Strekov, Slovakia, near sunset. The winemaker opened a fresh vintage of his white wine and served it alongside a crudité of vegetables from his garden with a homemade vinaigrette made with oil from pumpkin seeds he’d harvested. There’s something sublime about eating and drinking locally. Alice Waters advised in the forward to Richard Olney’s Lulu’s Provençal Table to “look first to the garden and vineyard for inspiration.” Today, we can re-create this philosophy by pairing regional wine and food. When it comes to composing these culinary companions, there’s a maxim worth noting: what grows together, goes together. Here are three such suggestions.

X

2022 Ameztoi Rubentis Rosé, Getaria, Spain. This spritely rosé from Spain’s Basque region is a pure hydration station. It is a field blend of the indigenous Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza varieties, grown on traditional trellises high on the slopes rising above Getaria. Given the abundant seafood nearby, these wines pair well with fish, including sashimi, squid ink pasta, and the essence of the sea: raw oysters. 3 1

2021 Montenidoli Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy.  Acclaimed winemaker Elisabetta Fagiuoli reinvigorated this estate (which dates to Roman times) in the 1960s. She embraces the delicate and crisp nature of Vernaccia, and this white wine marries well with panzanella, a salad of tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow peppers, red onion, basil, Italian bread, and capers tossed with a simple vinaigrette.

CAMPIELLO RISTORANTE & BAR This mainstay on Third Street South is a perennial gathering place for great food and people-watching. 1177 Third St. S., Naples (campiellonaples.com)

DEROMO’S GOURMET MARKET & RESTAURANT

Dine on home-style dishes, then shop for gourmet items to take home. The Promenade, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs (deromos.com)

GRAPPINO This latest venture from Ingrid and Fabrizio Aielli celebrates Fabrizio’s Venetian roots and houses one of the country’s most comprehensive grappa bars. 90 Ninth St. N., Naples (grappinonaples.com)

MOLTO TRATTORIA The homemade pasta, sauces, pizza Napoletana, and home-style cuisine are all topnotch. 368 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (moltonaples.com)

OSTERIA TULIA Chef Vincenzo Betulia’s authentically rustic venue and “peasant” cuisine are delizioso. 466 Fifth Ave. S., Naples(osteriatulia.com)

PARMESAN PETE’S Chef and owner Peter Della Rocca creates meals that taste like a “big bite of Brooklyn.” 7935 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (parmesanpetes.com)

2022 Arnaud Baillot, Burgundy, France. The Burgundy region is the holy grail of Pinot Noir. This airy, red-fruited Pinot is from the overlooked village of Santenay. The simplest and most indulgent pairing is a savory wheel of the Burgundian cheese, Époisses. Make it a complete meal with a fresh baguette and a green salad.

PAZZO! CUCINA ITALIANA The “friendly neighborhood” restaurant has been serving dishes using made-from-scratch sauces, pastas, and desserts for more than 20 years. 853 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (pazzoitaliancafe.com)

ASIAN

21 SPICES BY CHEF ASIF Chef Asif R. Syed offers contemporary Indian cuisine created with his special collection of spices. 4270 Tamiami Trail E. #21, Naples (21spicesdining.com)

AZN AZIAN CUIZINE Pan-Asian cuisine and an expansive sushi rolls menu. 9118 Strada Place, Naples (aznrestaurant.com)

FUJIYAMA STEAK AND SEAFOOD HOUSE Enjoy steaks and seafood prepared with Japanese flair at Fujiyama’s hibachi table. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naplesfujiyama.com)

LE INDYA Chef Suman Chaniyil creates authentic classics rich with flavor and finesse. 975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (leindya.com)

NAMBA Named for a district of Osaka, Namba specializes in aburi sushi, a style of nigiri where the fish is partially grilled on top. 8847 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (nambanaples.com)

PJK NEIGHBORHOOD CHINESE RESTAURANT Paul Fleming and Jody Goodenough-Fleming serve a coastal Chinese menu with locally sourced seafood, plus dim sum and craft cocktails. 835 Fourth Ave. S., Naples (pjkchinese.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.; 7211 Vanderbilt Beach Road Ste. 1; 898 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 25101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs (sushithaitoo.com and sushithaidowntown.com)

VEGAN KITCHEN The wide-ranging Asian menu includes influences from China, Thailand, and Vietnam, with many gluten-free options. 794 Neapolitan Way, Naples (vegan-kitchen.us)

GLOBAL

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 (bhabhabistro.com)

THE BOHEMIAN Global influences, a focus on technique and quality, and a vibrant decor underpin this chef-driven restaurant featuring many sharable selections. 27975 Old 41 Road Ste. 104, Bonita Springs (thebohemianbonita.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 (celebrationparknaples.com/food-trucks)

COAST 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 (edgewaternaples.com)

DEL MAR This Fifth Avenue South fave offers seafood, family-style shareables, Turkish flatbreads, and wood-fired entrées infused with the flavors of the Mediterranean coast. 494 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (delmarnaplesrestaurant.com)

FERNANDEZ THE BULL CUBAN CAFÉ Two locations serve traditional Cuban cuisine with a few twists. 1201 Piper Blvd.; 3375 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (fernandezthebull.com)

GIUSEPPE AND THE LION The spot long known as Noodles has changed hands and names, but it still serves up Italian food, some sushi, and live shows. 1585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (giuseppeandlion.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 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 breakfast and lunch choices. 1209 Third St. S., Naples (janesgardencafe.com)

KEEWAYDIN’S ON FIFTH It’s always island time at this vibrant downtown spot that boasts bold Caribbean flavors paired with sweet tropical ingredients. 711 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (keewaydins.com)

LAMORAGA Spanish cuisine with an international twist is served along with a wide selection of fine wines. 3936 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (lamoraga restaurant.com)

LE COLONIAL Discover the French-tinged flavors of Vietnam at this chic outpost that marries Parisian sultriness with tropical modernity. 445 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (naples.lecolonial.com)

NOSH ON NAPLES BAY Small plates, or noshes, are the specialty at this fine-dining establishment, the latest venture from its award-winning chef, Todd Johnson. The Grilled Octopus Nosh is a fan favorite. 1490 Fifth Ave. S. Ste. 101, Naples (noshon naplesbay.com)

PETAR’S RESTAURANT Chef Petar’s internationally inspired fare is superbly fresh. 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (petarsrestaurant.com)

SIMIT FRESH MEDITERRANEAN From the hummus to the simit, falafel, and baklava, Simit offers traditional Middle Eastern standards in a fast-casual setting. 1230 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (simitfresh.com)

A TABLE APART Chef Jarrod Davis carries on the sustainable practices and high standards for his Hawaiian fusion cuisine established by founder Jeff Acol. 4295 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (atableapart.com)

VERANDA E The signature restaurant at Escalante hotel offers an eclectic fusion of Asian and Frenchinfluenced flavors in a romantic tropical setting. 290 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (hotelescalante.com)

MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Art in BLOOM

EMBRACE YOUR INNER ARTIST WITH THIS CREATIVE COCKTAIL

BY JULES ARON

Characterized by sun and flowers, the month of May is dedicated to all our motherly figures and art alike. With notable observances such as Memorial Day, Mother’s Day, International Museum Day, and World Drawing Day, the month in bloom serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging us to delve into the realms of our imaginations.

Solento Organic Tequila recently celebrated its launch in the Sunshine State with an evening under the stars at The Colony Hotel on Palm Beach. Among the festivities was an on-site “sketch and sip” art experience, led by Solento artist Todd DiCiurcio, that allowed guests to showcase their skills by sketching a model dressed in fashions by Veronica Beard and accessorized with a Solento ridged-glass bottle.

Similarly, in celebration of your own selfexpression, I invite you to pick up a pencil and strike your own creativity. For a little extra liquid courage, mix up this moody sipper, which will spark your vision all month long.

Paint it Black Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. Solento Organic Reposado

3/4 oz. fresh lime juice

1/2 oz. fresh cucumber juice

1/2 oz. agave activated charcoal

Floral salt

1/2 oz. organic aloe vera juice

Edible flower to garnish

Rim a rocks glass with floral salt. Combine all other ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then strain into the salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with an edible flower.

ALWAYS going above & beyond.

We are transforming premier comprehensive care in Southwest Florida.

Expect more firsts, bests and onlys from one of the top 2% in the nation in clinical excellence.

BALANCE

NATURE

NOT JUST A WALK IN THE WOODS

Forest bathing involves immersing oneself in nature with a focus on mindfulness. Research published in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine indicates the practice offers health benefits like lower blood pressure and improved immune function.

Certified forest therapy guide Robin DeMattia of Go Forest Bathing in Naples says she helps people connect to nature more completely by leading them through meditation and inviting them to listen, touch, or otherwise engage with the surroundings. Her program can be tailored to specific groups, such as the elderly or families, and even avid outdoors-

men can benefit. DeMattia reports that a longtime trail volunteer who attended with his wife said he not only saw the trail in a new way, he also understood his wife better after the two-hour session.

While DeMattia encourages getting outdoors, forest bathing can be experienced in other ways if weather or circumstances make it difficult. “You can experience nature even indoors,” she explains, with the guide bringing items to smell and touch to an indoor meeting or holding a session remotely. The more you engage, the more you will hear and see everything in nature differently, says DeMattia. (goforestbathing.com) –Erika Klein

BALANCE

Express YOURSELF

HARNESSING THE POWERS OF ART THERAPY TO IMPROVE EMOTIONAL WELLNESS

BY ERIKA KLEIN

When talking about your feelings isn’t enough, art therapy can help process emotions. “A lot of times, we don’t have the words to express what it is that we need to get out,” says Holly Zazo, a licensed mental health counselor and registered art therapist in Naples. “A picture’s worth a thousand words, and that’s why I think art is so beneficial to our mental health. It’s just such a powerful form of expression.”

Art therapy can be drawing, painting, crafts, dance, music, and more. Research published in Frontiers in Psychology suggests that art therapy may improve selfesteem and self-awareness, as well as reduce anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Zazo adds it can also relieve stress, whether you’re painting for fun or working through your emotions. “It’s a really great tool for processing and understanding our emotions,” she says. Zazo offers a few related tips to try out below. (hollyzazotherapy.com)

1

KEEP AN ART JOURNAL. Zazo recommends drawing in a journal daily and using it when you’re stressed or trying to process an emotion. “When you draw it and you see it outside of yourself, you get a whole other perspective on it,” she explains. Journaling can also help, Zazo notes, if you’re struggling to decide between options. “I would say draw both of those things, and it will give you a really amazing picture. A lot of times, from that you can make a decision.”

2

CHOOSE THE RIGHT MEDIUM. Whichever type of art you do, Zazo advises keeping your supplies handy so you can grab them quickly. She suggests colored pencils or markers if you don’t have the space for paint. Pens and pencils are also best when you’re feeling overwhelmed. “If your emotions are big, you want to think small and controlled,” she says. On the other hand, when you feel stuck, Zazo recommends a big sheet of paper and paint to jump-start your self-expression. For those who feel intimidated by a blank canvas or art in general, she encourages starting with collage. “Collaging is such a fun and easy thing to do, and people feel successful,” Zazo says.

GET INSIGHTS FROM AN EXPERT. If you’re struggling with your mental health or dealing with trauma, Zazo encourages you to work with an art therapist. You’ll receive insights that you may have missed. “Even for me, it’s hard to look at my art and see everything that’s there,” she notes. “But when I show it to somebody else who’s trained in that way, they can say, ‘Well, did you notice this?’,” Zazo says. “That’s where it really helps to have a trained art therapist to just see things in your artwork.”

Eco-Friendly ROLLERS

Over the last few years, Zachary Quinn has used foam rollers to help with injury recovery and muscle tension. However, he didn’t love the options available on the market. When his doctor was looking to order more foam rollers for his clinic, Quinn—who recently relocated to Naples—decided to put his product design background to use to create something new. Last year, he developed a foam roller made from algae that’s both environmentally friendly and designed to be aesthetically pleasing. “I figured if you liked the look of it, you’d use it more,” he says. Quinn’s

doctor ordered several hundred, and Quinn’s company, Oceanfoam, was born.

Quinn says his environmental focus came from seeing the impact of trash on the environment when he was growing up and now wanting to help preserve the planet for his two kids. The algae in the rollers are harvested from areas of overgrowth, which helps clean up water sources. The company also uses recycled materials and packaging. Quinn plans to add sustainable yoga mats, pool toys, and more. For anyone who wants to get involved with Oceanfoam’s mission to help the earth, the company is planning beach and other cleanups to directly impact the local environment. (oceanfoam.com) –E.K.

1250

Restore your Feminine Confidence

Dr. Brzezinski performs diVa™, a groundbreaking laser procedure designed to address a woman’s most intimate challenges such as vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and bladder leakage.

Activate your Orgasm

The O-Shot® is a minimally invasive vaginal rejuvenating treatment for women who are experiencing low libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse or urinary incontinence.

Age Healthier, Live Happier

Hormone Pellet Therapy helps to treat age-related problems by increasing energy, muscle strength, mental clarity, and libido. Treats low testosterone in men and women.

Peptide Treatments enhance weight loss,boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, slow the effects of aging, alleviate digestive issues, and improve sexual health.

BALANCE

TRENDING

GOT MILK?

THESE FIVE NONDAIRY NEWCOMERS ARE SHAKING UP THE ALTERNATIVE MILK MARKET

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

PEA MILK

IN 2022, RESEARCHERS FROM THE INSTITUTE FOR FOOD SAFETY AND HEALTH

SAMPLED 85 PLANTBASED MILK BEVERAGES AND SINGLED OUT

PEA MILK AS HAVING THE MOST HEALTH BENEFITS. IN FACT, PEA AND SOY MILKS WERE THE ONLY ALTERNATIVES THAT HAD HIGHER LEVELS OF CERTAIN ESSENTIAL MINERALS (MAGNESIUM, PHOSPHORUS, ZINC, AND SELENIUM) THAN COW’S MILK. MADE FROM YELLOW PEAS SO THE COLOR IS MORE AKIN TO SOY MILK THAN CELERY JUICE, RIPPLE ’S PEA MILK HAS 8 GRAMS OF PROTEIN PER SERVING AND 50 PERCENT MORE CALCIUM THAN TRADITIONAL 2 PERCENT COW’S MILK. (RIPPLEFOODS.COM)

SESAME MILK

Another sustainable option, sesame crops require little water, are self-pollinating, and naturally resistant to pests. Hope and Sesame’s sesame milk is derived from the nutrient-dense pulp that remains after sesame seeds are pressed for oil. Each serving contains 8 grams of complete protein (meaning it has all nine essential amino acids) and 390 mg of calcium. (hopeandsesame.com)

BAMNUT MILK

Native to West Africa, Bambara groundnuts have adapted to drought conditions and can flourish in poor soil and arid climates. WhatIf Foods partners with farming communities to produce regenerative Bambara groundnut crops for its BamNut Milk Everyday (recommended for cereal and baked goods, among other uses) and the lighter BamNut Milk Airy (perfect for bubble tea, smoothies, and shakes). Both versions are high in fiber and protein and contain nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins D and B12. (whatif-foods.com)

PECAN MILK

Steeped in the nostalgia of Grandma’s pecan pie or a scoop of butter pecan ice cream, This Pkn’s pecan milk has a creamy and buttery taste that is often missing in other nut milks.

Plus, pecans have a higher ratio of antioxidants compared to other commercial tree nuts and are flush with vitamins, omega-3s, magnesium, phosphorous, and zinc. (thispkn.com)

BANANA MILK

Mooala well serving. to create pudding.

Mooala’s banana milk is both dairyand nut-free. Made from organic bananas without any added sugar, this milk promises a mild banana flavor (and comforting banana bread aroma) as well as 350 mg of potassium per serving. Pour it over cereal, blend it in a smoothie, or use it to create chia seed pudding. (mooala.com)

WANT TO BECOME A MILK MIXOLOGIST?

ALMOND COW’S POPULAR MILK MAKER ($249)

AUTOMATICALLY BLENDS AND SEPARATES THE PULP FROM ANY COMBINATION OF NUTS, GRAINS, OR SEEDS TO CREATE FRESH PLANT-BASED MILK IN ONLY 60 SECONDS. (ALMONDCOW.CO)

BALANCE

GOOD NATURE

SEASON’S EATINGS

EVEN IN THE SUMMER, TROPICAL FRUITS AND HOMEGROWN PRODUCE ABOUND IN THE SUNSHINE STATE

BY TAMMY FENDER

The ability to nourish the body, mind, and spirit with locally grown fruits and vegetables is yet another perk of living in paradise. As a holistic practitioner, I am always aware of just how nutrientrich and beneficial foods like avocado and citrus can be. Yet, they also offer an unquantifiable connection to the land that enriches us in mysterious ways every day.

While my lifestyle is very simple, if you judged me only by my garden, you might take me for a maximalist. We’ve planted star fruit, papaya, Jamaican strawberries, dragon fruit, bananas, and Barbados cherry trees, and we dote on our elderberry, neem, noni fruit, and moringa trees. The limes and lemons are plentiful, as are the coconuts and pineapples. These trees have become like friends over the years, and our family observes how the fruits bloom and swell with anticipation.

One can never have too many mangoes for smoothies, salsas, salads, and the like. During the peak summer season, everyone in my family probably eats an average of three mangoes a day just like that—neat. What we don’t freeze or consume immediately, we tote to the local post offi ce, where our wider community shares their overfl owing baskets. With good fortune like this, we have enough abundance to

welcome the cottontails and other neighborhood wildlife without ever begrudging them a share in our harvest.

It’s also such a blessing to connect with other nearby gardeners and farmers, who grow everything we don’t, from pick-your-own strawberries to fresh cacao pods. Mushrooms can be found in Florida year-round, with an increase generally beginning in late April and lasting into July. Other tropical fruits that thrive during this time are fresh lychees, soursop, sapodilla (through June), and mamey sapote.

When I eat from the bounty of the land, I feel alive. My senses are heightened: the colors, tastes, and aromas of sweet ripeness are amplifi ed. To take a bite is like falling into a deep meditation. But most of all, I feel full of gratitude and the kind of satisfaction that feeds the soul. «

7225PelicanBayBlvd#2001/2002–4+Den3½Baths:$5.950M

4021GulfShoreBlvd#506–3+Den3½Baths:$3.950M

3750FountainheadLn4+Den4½Baths:$6.495M

2130SnookDr–4+Den5Baths:$8.495M

15167BrolioLn–4+Den4½Baths:$5.900M

450BowLineBend:$6.750M

LEFTTORIGHT

ROYAL HARBOR

OLD NAPLES SOPHISTICATION

ADDRESS

501 14th Avenue South, Naples

COMMUNITY

Old Naples

YEAR BUILT 2018

BUILDER

VIV Builders PRICE

$9,395,000

SIZE

4,337 square feet

BEDROOMS/BATHS

Four bedrooms, four full baths, two half baths

SPECIAL FEATURES

Welcome to a stunning cottage-style home from MHK Architecture with an enviable Old Naples location—just two blocks from Third Street South amenities and a mere five blocks from the beach. This residence was constructed to the absolute highest standards by VIV Builders in 2018 before selling to the existing homeowner and affords the quintessential Old Naples lifestyle. Along with a three-car garage, it features an open floor plan of more than 4,300 square feet of living space, including four bedrooms, a den, four full baths, two half baths, and an expansive first-floor primary bedroom. Among the outdoor comforts are a heated saltwater pool and spa, a luxurious outdoor kitchen space with a grill, a pool bath and outdoor shower, and a fireplace. Leveraging its corner lot to full

advantage, the residence showcases a private side yard offering a wet shelf for lounging, additional seating, a fire pit, and ample green space. The home also boasts concrete construction (including a poured-concrete second floor), Legno Bastone wide-plank wood flooring, security cameras, a generator, Lutron lighting, a Sonos sound system, an upstairs VIP area with additional stair access, multiple balconies, two laundry areas, and more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Rex Miller

William Raveis Real Estate

Phone: 239-821-1433

Email: rex@raveis.com

Website: rexmiller.raveis.com

THIS COTTAGESTYLE HOME IS UNDERPINNED BY CASUAL ELEGANCE AND ABUNDANT CONVENIENCES.

SCENE

THE HOTTEST CULTURE AND COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

TOP BILLING

A DAY JUST FOR MOM

Observed in many countries throughout the world, Mother’s Day is celebrated in the United States on the second Sunday in May. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared it a national holiday; ever since, mothers receive special recognition in the season comprising birth, blooms, and beauty.

A stroll through the Naples Botanical Garden presents the opportunity to enjoy some quality time with a mother on this special day. Explore the 70acre, world-class garden para-

dise that features plants from around the world, ranging from succulents and water plant exhibits to themed gardens. Be sure to stop by the Fogg Café to view an exhibition from a Naples-based artist representing the beauty in the garden in “Endlessly Wild: New Work by Sara Abalan,” on display through June 30.

Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the garden offers free admission to mothers and grandmothers May 12. (naplesgarden.org)

–Gaylene Salomons

COURTESY OF NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN

Clockwise from top left: Paintings by Sara Abalan on display at the Naples Botanical Garden include Single Wart Fern, Sumac, and Rosary Pea and Bracken Fern.

ARTS & EVENTS

GOINGS ON & PERFORMANCES

1 Clue: On Stage, The Naples Players, McSpadden Hall, Naples United Church of Christ, to May 19, $49. (naplesplayers.org)

2 Carrie: The Musical, G&L Theatre at Community School of Naples, to May 5, tickets start at $50. (theatre.zone)

3 Brooks & Dunn and Garth Brooks, tribute bands concert series, Paradise Coast Sports Complex, Naples, $40. (paradise coast.com)

Guided Forest Meditation, join Candyce Strafford for a meditation session, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, $17 entrance fee; cash donation for leader requested. (corkscrew.audubon.org)

5 Naples Ballet, spring performance with Naples Philharmonic, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, tickets start at $22. (artisnaples.org)

7 Open Mic Night, performing artists take the outdoor stage, Visual Arts Center, Arts Bonita, $10, free for performers. (artcenter bonita.org)

Whimsical works by Joy Stanley include Del Mar (top left) and Puttin on the Ritz (bottom), on display at East West Fine Art to May 15; Naples Philharmonic welcomes pianist Zoltán Féjervári (top right) May 10-11 and salutes the troops in a patriotic concert (middle right) May 23-24.

9 Evening on Fifth, live musical performances along Fifth Avenue South, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com)

10 Naples Philharmonic Masterworks, Burleske and Symphony No. 5, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, also May 11, tickets start at $15. (artisnaples.org)

11 One Night Art Event, work with Ray Mathews at his studio to create a blown glass ornament, Art Glass by Matthews, Naples, $135. (artcenterbonita.org)

12 Celebrate Mom, cherish all mothers with a walk through the garden, Naples Botanical Garden, $25; ages 4 to 17, $10; children under 3, free; mothers and grandmothers, free. (naplesgarden.org)

15 All That Jazz, Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra plays the music of George Gershwin, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, $63. (artisnaples.org)

Pauly Shore, Off the Hook Comedy Club, Naples, to May 18, tickets start at $30. (offthehookcomedy.com)

A BUZZY DAY

Celebrate one of the hardest working creatures on the planet on May 20. World Bee Day acknowledges the role bees and other pollinators play within the ecosystem. It is also a day to reflect on how bees provide a source of income for many while contributing to the well-being of the planet.

Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers an afternoon of activities centered around the bee, starting at 3 p.m. Take part in a honey-tasting panel, learn how to draw bees, and even create a beehive from cardboard. All activities are included with regular sanctuary admission of $17; ages 6 to 14, $6; children under 5, free. (corkscrew.audubon. org) –G.S.

PICKS

WAS IT PROFESSOR PLUM IN THE BILLIARD ROOM WITH THE WRENCH? AUDIENCES WILL BE ON THE EDGE OF THEIR SEATS GUESSING UNTIL THE END IN CLUE: ON STAGE , THE BOARD GAME CLASSIC PRESENTED BY THE NAPLES

PLAYERS, MAY 1-19, AT THE NAPLES UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST’S MCSPADDEN HALL. TICKETS ARE $49. (NAPLESPLAYERS. ORG)

PHOTOGRAPHER

NIKI BUTCHER HAND COLORS HER BLACK-ANDWHITE IMAGES FOR A DREAMY AND NOSTALGIC FEEL OF AN OLDER FLORIDA. VISIT THE MARCO ISLAND HISTORICAL MUSEUM (OPEN TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY, 9 A.M. TO 4 P.M.) FOR THE “DAYDREAMING BY NIKI BUTCHER” EXHIBITION, ON VIEW THROUGH JUNE 8. ADMISSION IS FREE. (THEMIHS. ORG) –G.S.

18 Haitian Flag Day, spend a day in the garden celebrating the Haitian community, Naples Botanical Garden, free. (naplesgarden.org)

Spring Community Day, art, music, and fun from noon to 4 p.m., Kimberly K. Querrey and Louis A. Simpson Cultural Campus, Artis—Naples, free. (artisnaples.org)

20 World Bee Day, an afternoon celebrating these important pollinators, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, $17; ages 6 to 14, $6; children under 5, free. (corkscrew.audubon.org)

21 Early Birding Tour, experience the sights and sounds of the awakening swamp, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, also May 28, ages 16 and up, $30. (corkscrew. audubon.org)

One Night Art Event, learn how to make a fused glass frosted bowl, Visual Arts Center, Arts Bonita, $80. (artcenterbonita.org)

The Naples Art Institute presents “Childhood Classics: 100 Years of Picture Book Illustration” through June.

23 Patriotic Pops, annual star-spangled salute to the troops, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, also May 24, tickets start at $29. (artisnaples.org)

28 One Night Art Event, creative collage, Visual Arts Center, Arts Bonita, $70. (artcenterbonita.org)

29 Art After Hours, an evening of fun and entertainment for all ages, The Baker Museum, Artis—Naples, free. (artisnaples.org)

Jackie Fabulous, Off the Hook Comedy Club, Naples, tickets start at $25. (offthehookcomedy.com)

30 Ancient Forest Tour, explore the world’s largest remaining old-growth bald cypress forest, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, ages 16 and up, $30. (corkscrew.audubon.org)

VISUAL ARTS & GALLERIES

The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples. “Tradition Interrupted,” May 4 to July 28;“Deep Cuts from the Ahmet Ertegün Collection” and “George Gershwin and Modern Art: A Rhapsody in Blue,” both to June 16; “Florida Contemporary 2023-24,” to June 30; “Andy Warhol Portfolios: A Life in Pop/Works from the Bank of America Collection,” to Sept. 8. (artisnaples.org)

Collaborating with THE PAST

From May 4 to July 28, The Baker Museum will host “Tradition Interrupted,” an exhibition that explores how artists weave contemporary ideas with classic art and craft to create thought-provoking images and objects. The show’s 12 featured artists have lived their lives steeped in the traditions of their ancestors and share complex connections to cultural customs, imagery, and materials. Everything from rugs and mosaics to metalworks and ceramics are merged in their showcased art. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. Docents help visitors discover, enjoy, and learn about the exhibitions through interactive tours. Groups with 15 or fewer guests do not require a reservation. Adults $10; ages 17 and under, free. (artisnaples.org) –G.S.

East West Fine Art, Naples. “Paint the Town with Joy!,” whimsical works by Joy Stanley, to May 15. (east westfineart.com)

Marco Island Historical Museum. “Daydreaming by Niki Butcher,” to June 8; “Key Marco Cat Smithsonian Exhibition,” through April 2026. (themihs.org)

Museum of the Everglades, Everglades City. “We are Still Here: The Continuing Story of the Miccosukee Tribe,” to May 11. (colliermuseums.com)

Naples Art Institute. “Childhood Classics: 100 Years of Picture Book Illustration,” through June. (naplesart org)

Naples Botanical Garden. “Endlessly Wild: New Work by Sara Abalan,” to June 30. (naplesgarden.org)

COURTESY OF ARTIS—NAPLES

LAST WORD

What inspired you to launch your namesake brand?

My husband, Tommy, was the one who first encouraged me to launch my namesake brand in 2011. I started with handbags and later expanded into other accessories like shoes and scarves.

Tell us about the Spring/Summer 2024 collection.

My latest collection is heavily influenced by vintage fashion, particularly the 1960s and 1970s. It is a very colorful and happy collection [but] at the same time very feminine and classic.

What excited you about becoming the creative director for Judith Leiber?

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with a brand like Judith Leiber that is one of the few American heritage luxury brands. It was founded in 1963 and was adored by many fashionable women, including many First Ladies. I set out to modernize the brand while maintaining its integrity and uniqueness. I wanted to ensure the younger generation can appreciate and collect our bags just as passionately as the previous generations have.

How has living in South Florida changed how you design?

I love living in South Florida. I feel like the relaxed and carefree environment has enhanced my creativity and given me more freedom to explore and develop ideas. It is obviously less stressful than New York, and living year-round in mood-enhancing

REAL TALK WITH...

Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger

We chat with the iconic Mrs. Hilfiger about her brand, her role as creative director of Judith Leiber, and more

BY KATHERINE LANDE

sunshine and being outside every day has had so many benefits that elevate both my mental and spiritual well-being.

What charities are you most passionate about?

There are probably too many to list, but on top of the list are: Next for Autism, Autism Speaks, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, amfAR, Dress for Success, and Glam4Good. Tommy and I are involved [with] and support many other organizations as well. We feel it is very important to give back and help others who have not been as fortunate or had the same opportunities as we have had.

COURTESY OF DEE

OCLEPPO

The Dee Ocleppo collection includes handbags, shoes, scarves, and more.

Interior Design by Jill Kersey

Kurtis P. Hussey, DMD

PatricK J. carrigan, DMD

PatricK J. carrigan, DMD

eDwarD a. scHerDer, DMD, JD robert c. HeDgePatH, DMD