Fair Winds on Fifth Avenue South

Bistro 821 Holds Steady, As Keewaydin’s Sets Sail

There’s always something to celebrate on Fifth Avenue South, especially when it comes to our incredible lineup of restaurants, but this month is truly noteworthy. Bistro 821 turns 30 and Keewaydin’s, where Yabba Island Grill was previously located, recently opened its doors.

Bistro 821

A 30-year fixture, Bistro 821 is the longest running restaurant on Fifth Avenue South and a favorite since inception in 1994. It has stayed the course, guided in large part by Executive Chef Jess Housman, who was the opening chef under original owner Michael Hernandez. Jess and Billy Holcomb then took over as owners in 2001. They stayed at the helm until 2020, when Shane O’Dell and Sarah Lutey became part owners along with Jess. Much credit is given to Billy and Chef Jess as masterminds of an establishment that has proven time and again its reputation for some of the “finest cuisine and unique recipes in Naples with a throng of repeat guests.”

While Jonathan DeRue has been the Bistro’s new full-time Chef for the last few years, the blended menu of American, Asian, and European cuisine put in place by Executive Chef Jess, who trained with Chefs Jacques Pepin and Julia Child at Boston University, has virtually remained. The crowd-pleasing Chilean sea bass in a miso-sake marinade served with roasted garlic carrot mashed potatoes, asparagus, and lemon beurre blanc has been on the menu since 1997.

"We had been going to Bistro 821 for close to 10 years when we learned of the opportunity to become involved," says Sarah. "While we had no experience in the restaurant industry, we loved Bistro 821 and, more importantly, the team. We have a number of team members who have been there for some time, and we greatly appreciate the experiences they create for our guests."

The Bistro owners, also investors in several additional Fifth Avenue South restaurants, say they “love other restaurants coming to Fifth and believe the more the merrier. Fifth Avenue is in the heart of the city and is the essence of Naples.”

Bistro 821 loves to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. “We strive to make special occasions really special, with confetti, prosecco and chocolate truffles all a part of the experience,” says Sarah.

The Business Improvement District salutes Bistro 821 for its longevity, its commitment to the Naples community, and most importantly, its standard of excellence for food and service flawlessly maintained for the last 30 years.

Keewaydin’s

Named for the beautiful barrier island just South of Naples, Keewaydin’s restaurant is yet another brainchild of Grant Phelan of Phelan Family Brands, one of the largest restaurateurs in SWFL with a portfolio of 25 restaurants. Keewaydin’s is located on the same spot at Sugden Plaza previously occupied by Yabba Island Grill, but the restaurant has had a total makeover, a new staff and an exciting new menu.

“We wanted to preserve the island feel of Yabba while giving the restaurant a name that locals recognize and a spot off the Gulf that is certainly a favorite of mine,” says Grant, who grew up in Naples and his children were born here. “We aren’t a corporate group; we are locals. My dad, who started the business, has always said Naples is ‘God’s greatest dining room’ and with the addition of Chops City Grill, Pazzo! Cucina Italiana, and Keewaydin’s, we are now right in the heart of the city on Fifth Avenue. It’s like a dream come true for me. It’s up to me to carry on a tradition of legacy. There are so many great restaurants here, and I will do my best to uphold my part,” says Grant.

With its laid-back luxury, Keewaydin’s look is reminiscent of a 5-star all-inclusive resort, but it’s the food that tantalizes the taste buds and brings you back for more. One of the most popular dishes, and Grant’s favorite, is the macadamia crusted sea bass with tamarind glaze, served with caulilini and broccolini, Mexican street corn, and chili-lime butter.

Led by Executive Chef Carlos Rios Babilonia and Executive Sous Chef John Louie, Keewaydin’s culinary team has created a menu that combines Caribbean, Puerto Rican, and Asian flavors, resulting in a unique island fusion cuisine. “They are tremendously talented, and it’s great to have them on our team,” notes Grant.

While there is a brand-new 80-member staff at Keewaydin’s, former Yabba Island Grill employees have been folded into the Phelan family and are working at Chops City Grill or Pazzo! Cucina Italiana, acquired from Culinary Concepts the same time as Yabba Island Grill but those restaurants did not undergo a renovation. Grant says, “We always want to retain the crew. They are the fabric of the operation.”

We wish Bistro 821 another 30 years of success and Keewaydin’s smooth sailing in its first thirty. Without question, guests will be knocking down the doors of both restaurants just to sample the amazing sea bass offerings. I know I will!

Since 1952, there have been 17 presidential elections. The S&P 500 has averaged a 7% gain in presidential election years. It is considerably less than the 3rd year of an election cycle which returns an average of 17%. Also, since 1952, the S&P 500 has not declined during a president re-election year and has averaged 12.2% during this cycle. If you have questions, please reach out to Rich Weisberg, CRPS, Financial Advisor, RJFS and President at Weisberg Wealth Management at 239-367-7152 or rich@weisbergwealth.com. Located at 400 Fifth Avenue South Suite 302.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Weisberg Wealth Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investing in oil involves special risks, including the potential adverse effects of state and federal regulation and may not be suitable for all investors. Any opinions are those of Rich Weisberg and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Every investor's situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged Index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual results will vary.

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Join us here on Fifth Avenue South for these upcoming events.

The Fantasticks

January 18 thru February 11

Fall under the spell of The Fantasticks at The Naples Players! A romantic musical filled with plot twists and turns, The Fantasticks is an allegorical story that focuses on two young lovers, their meddling fathers, and the journey we all must take through life. Due to overwhelming demand, The Fantasticks was extended by two additional weeks. The Fantasticks will be performed offsite at Naples United Church of Christ in Beverly Hall while The Naples Players’ historic Fifth Avenue South building undergoes a $20 million renovation.

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The Refugees

January 11 thru February 4

Gulfshore Playhouse Equal parts hilarious and thought-provoking, The Refugees is a bold new comedy exploring patriotism, identity, and belonging.

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Naples Concert Band Concert

February 4 | 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Cambier Park "To Naples, With Love" Guest artist James Jones will perform R & B favorites from Al Jarreau, Stevie Wonder, and a very special arrangement of Van Morrison's "Moondance". Music from our January concert that was canceled due to inclement weather will also be performed. We hope to see you there!

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Evening on Fifth

February 8 | 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue South, plus dining, shopping, and more.

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Fine Art & Crafts Show

February 10 | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Naples Artcrafters is an association of artists and craft artisans that sponsor juried shows in Cambier Park.

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Special Evening on Fifth

February 14 | 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue South, plus dining, shopping, and more.

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45th Annual National Art Fair

February 23 thru February 25

Cambier Park View the work of nearly 300 artists from all across the country as they compete in a juried show around Cambier Park along 8th Street. Plus, musical performances, food vendors, and more. Friday from 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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Garden Side Chickee Chat

February 23 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Naples Historical Society Richard Diedrich, FAIA, local author, architect, and painter will highlight locally significant buildings, old and new. His watercolor illustrated book on the history of old Naples will be available for purchase and signing. Cash or check only. $8 per person, member discounts available.

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Into the Breeches!

February 15 thru March 10

Gulfshore Playhouse In 1942, a passionate, albeit inexperienced, band of actresses move from the sidelines to centerstage to mount an ambitious Shakespearean production. Will their performance be a victory on the home front or a disaster of epic proportions?

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Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat!

February 14 thru March 10

The Naples Players Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat!, is an uproarious comedy about womanhood, aging, and everything in between. Due to overwhelming demand, we’re thrilled to announce that the formerly sold-out comedy is being extended by 1 week of performances, now closing on March 10th – and we have added several Saturday and Sunday matinees throughout the run. Naples United Church of Christ in McSpadden Hall.

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You Are Cordially Invited To A Sunset Celebration

February 15 | 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Gulf Coast International Properties Neighbors and Friends please join us to enjoy the beautiful rooftop deck at the residences at 5th & 5th for music, cocktails & hors d'oeuvres. And an exclusive preview of 490 5th Street South, #203. Great guesthouse opportunity! RSVP to 239.434.2558.

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Fashion Show & Luncheon

February 8 | 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Petunia's of Naples Fashion show and luncheon at Royal Woods Country Club. For reservations call 239.777.1139.

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Augusto Esquivel: "Beyond the Mundane – Buttons in Art"

February 7 thru 28

Aldo Castillo Gallery Augusto Esquivel appropriates thousands of tiny buttons to create idiosyncratic, sculptural art forms that range from old master paintings to objects of popular culture. Esquivel decided to make buttons the objects of his affection and artwork, and take them beyond the mundane into new aesthetic realms and give them a new role and context. VIP Opening Reception: February 7 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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Cars on 5th

February 3 | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The 20th annual Cars on 5th Concours will be held on beautiful Fifth Avenue South in Naples and is organized by the Naples Chapter of the Ferrari Club of America. As the largest annual one-day event in Naples, Cars on 5th Concours will feature more than 400 luxury vehicles—Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Maseratis, Porsches, Corvettes—on display on Fifth Avenue South for your viewing pleasure.

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Evening with Emily

February 7 | 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Emily James Art Gallery Join us at 720 Fifth Avenue South, #111.

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Cars on 5th 2024 Breakfast at the Inn on Fifth

February 3 & 4

Inn on Fifth Open to the Public! And don't miss the Shelby Cobra parked at the Inn on Fifth's entrance on Saturday, February 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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Fifth Avenue South Business' Updates

Journeys 360 Travel

Get ready to explore the best of Europe by land, river, or sea when you book a Tauck Europe vacation.

A limited time special Tauck air package to Europe includes:
Upfront value with one flat price with no hidden cost and no surprises!
Economy Air: $ 990 per person
Premium Economy Air: $ 1,790 per person
Business Air: $ 3,890 per person
Limited time only, departing March 1 through August 31, 2024.
Book now through February 29, 2024; certain restrictions apply.

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Call of Africa's Native Visions Galleries

Peter Kuchler III – Contemporary Sculptural Glass Artist Peter Kuchler III forms an artistic medium of liquid glass and represents contemporary art in the sculptural field. He was born in Wiener Neustadt in Austria in 1991. As an emerging artist he grew up in a glass dynasty and represents the third generation of glass artists. Visit Call of Africa's Native Visions Galleries on Fifth Avenue South to see his latest works.

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East West Fine Art

After nearly three years of waiting, East West Fine Art is thrilled to present new hanging sculptures from Italian resin artist, Annalù. Visit their Fifth Avenue South gallery to view the Fantasy Trees and Dream Catchers exhibition.

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Oceanview Financials

We are a forward-thinking accounting firm specializing in the restaurant & hospitality industry helping owners to rapidly evolve through shifts in consumer behavior, delivery methods, and emerging brands by understanding margins, labor intensity, and consumer satisfaction. Visit us at 365 Fifth Avenue South, suite 202 or call 239-544-3014.

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Truluck’s

Set a Delicious Tone for the Year Ahead
Excitement. Anticipation. The feeling of endless possibility. It’s funny how the first days of the new year and every visit to Truluck’s inspire the very same emotions — especially during Florida stone crab season. Enjoy the unmistakable flavor of these legendary crab claws, fresh from the trap to your table in under 24 hours and get the first taste of all the goodness 2024 has in store.

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Campagna Hospitality Group

Dive into exquisite culinary experiences with us. Enjoy a crafted cocktail at Bar Tulia, reserve your table at Rouge, and don't forget to book your Valentine's Day reservations at The French and Osteria Tulia.

Osteria Tulia
Join us for Valentine's Day at Osteria Tulia, and celebrate love and exquisite Italian cuisine for a memorable celebration. Take a look at our special Valentine's Day Menu. For reservations call: 239.213.2073.

Osteria Tulia Valentine's Day Menu

The French
Tantalize your taste buds with our new 3-course lunch special, La Vie En Rose, at The French! Join us for an afternoon of French classics and a bustling ambiance, and be transported to a Parisian street-side brasserie in the heart of downtown Naples. For reservations call: 239.315.4019.

La Vie En Rose Lunch Menu

Don't forget to make your reservations for a romantic Valentine's Day evening with your loved one here at The French... where every moment is a celebration of l'amour and fine dining.

Text for reservations at our speakeasy, Rouge Clandestine Steak. 239.315.3368.

Bar Tulia
Discover the art of craft cocktails at Bar Tulia with our highlighted cocktail of the month, the Blackberry Lavender Love Potion. Immerse yourself in a symphony of flavors crafted to perfection. Cheers to unforgettable moments at Bar Tulia!

Bar Tulia Menu

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