Naples, Florida is the place for beach and sunshine lovers, but most important foodies! It's my family's tradition to spend every winter break in this beautiful city of uncountable fine-dining restaurants to fresh seafood dives. We tend to cook at home for breakfast and lunch, but we love to hit up the town for dinner in the evening. When staying here in Naples, it can be overwhelming to choose where to dine, but these spots are undoubtedly the best!
1. Campiello
This hot spot on Third Street was voted "Best Italian" and "Best Pasta" in Naples, so you will not be leaving Campiello without savoring every last bite of your ravioli. This restaurant is known for its over abundance of tourists and locals. For visitors, make your reservations far in advance and let the locals stake out at the bar.
2. Osteria Tulia
Only in Naples will you find an overwhelming amount of amazing Italian restaurants, but Osteria Tulia takes the cake. Can't decide between a fresh pizza pie or spaghetti with meatballs? Why not try their famous pizza "Little Italy," with fresh provolone, sweet peppers, and meatballs!
3. Ocean Prime
This restaurant is relatively new to Naples and has already made its mark in the popular area of Fifth Avenue. Start out with some bubbly while you munch on a wide variety of appetizers and sushi rolls. Can't decide if you want seafood or steak? That's a simple fix: order a filet with some shrimp to accessorize. That's why it's called "Ocean Prime".
4. Bleu Provence
I will admit there is not a wide selection of authentic French restaurants in Naples, but Bleu Provence provides a classic French bistro fare in a cottage-style space with homey decor. Your dinner might be your opportunity to taste test "Burgundy Escargot" and finish off with classic Crème Brûlée for dessert.
5. The Turtle Club
You don't have to belong to the "club" to have a meal at The Turtle Club on Vanderbilt Beach. Sipping on tropical cocktails and enjoying freshly caught seafood, this restaurant provides an experience where guests can relax, unplug, unwind, and rejuvenate themselves. Don't leave without having their speciality martinis, which of course are "shaken, not stirred."
6. Tommy Bahama
Tommy Bahama's Restaurant & Bar is actually a festive spot to dine while in Naples. I will admit it might be a bit touristy-oriented, but if you want a killer Piña Colada (or Piña Colada cake for dessert) this is the spot to be! The food and atmosphere enhance an evening out on the town with live bands almost every night of the week.
#SpoonTip: Order the World Famous Coconut Shrimp to start, and be sure to take a walk down to the Naples Pier after din!
7. Caffé Millano
Craving a marg or mojito that's bigger than your face? Well, Caffé Millano is the place to go! A little less of a traditional Italian restaurant, but still offers to-die-for homemade bread and pastas. If you're craving pizza and looking for a healthier option, try their signature "skizza:" an innovated light pizza, topped with your choices of mozzarella, goat cheese, meat, seafood, and more.
8. The Continental
The Continental is located on the popular area of Naples on Third Street, offering the perfect blend of a steak house and craft bar. The Continental is a charming spot to dine with a meticulously designed indoor and outdoor setting of New York Steakhouse meets 1920’s Parisian Bistro. Enjoy the finest hand-cut steaks by a fifth generation butcher, while sipping on refreshing cocktails and listening to the nightly live entertainment.
9. Sea Salt
Who knew a salad could be so aesthetically pleasing! At Sea Salt, they aim for contemporary specialities, along with showcasing fresh seafood. Wondering why this restaurant has the name Sea Salt? The chef uses 130 different types and flavors of salts from around the world to season his innovative dishes and put his unique touch on Florida's finest ingredients.
10. Veranda E
Veranda E is definitely a hidden gem. It's tucked away within the gardens of Hotel Escalante. Your dining experience will take place in an exotic tropical setting, under a canopy or under the stars and palms, which makes for quite the romantic and special evening. The food is Asian-inspired and French-influenced, that will leave you feeling healthy and truly satirized with your total experience.
Whether you are feeling a light salad with wine at Campiello, or a killer steak with a cocktail at Ocean Prime, these restaurants will leave everyone happy during your tropical beach getaway. So sit back, relax, and enjoy amazing food while you're in Naples (and don't forget to always save room for dessert!).