Executive Chefs:

CEOs of the Kitchen

In a town where few kitchens are used, it’s not surprising Fifth Avenue South boasts some of the top chefs in the country! Working their way up in the restaurant business, some are now owners of their own establishments, but they’re all CEOs in charge of the kitchen, creating mouth-watering dishes and menus, training and mentoring sous chefs and other kitchen staff, ensuring quality while controlling costs, and enforcing health and safety regulations. It’s a big job!

The following profiles provide a small window into what it takes to become an executive chef as well as the road taken to become CEO of the kitchen.

Alberto Varetto, owner and executive chef, Alberto’s on Fifth

Born in Torino, Italy, Chef Alberto Varetto was born to cook. Unlike most chefs, he was self-taught, a result of “being served awful food at school.” At the age of 12, he began his first culinary apprenticeship. At 15 he won a prize representing Italy in a French culinary competition reserved primarily for competitors 25 and older.

After receiving his Diploma Alberghiero di Cucina, Varetto spent six years refining his culinary skills throughout Europe before making his way to Washington, D.C. in 1997. There he joined the renowned celeb Chef Roberto Donna at Galileo Ristorante. Both graduates of the same Torino culinary school, they opened Laboratorio del Galileo, Cesco and il Radicchio restaurants in the DC area, as well as a culinary school in LA with Julia Childs.

In 2001, at the age of 26, he was recruited as executive chef at the Sale e Pepe restaurant at the Marco Beach Ocean Resort. During his nine-year tenure, the restaurant achieved numerous awards, including the AAA Four Diamond Award for five consecutive years, being named one of the top 500 Places to Dine by Florida Trend magazine, and the prestigious Zagat Rating of “Very Good to Excellent”.

Above: Alberto's on Fifth

Varetto was a visiting chef at the prestigious James Beard Institute in New York in 2006. In 2012, he opened Alberto’s on Fifth and has continued to impress and please the palates of Fifth Avenue South visitors.

Varetto jokingly says, “I consider my job, after 37 years, a life sentence, but I still love being with people and being creative. It’s a tough, one-of-a-kind business, but being recognized for what you do is truly gratifying.”

Alejandra Bringas, executive chef, Prime Social Reserve

Chef Bringas has moved up literally and career-wise with her recent appointment as executive chef of Prime Social Reserve, the first roof-top restaurant and lounge on Fifth Avenue South. Her career elevation to this new and exclusive destination, available through VIP access plans, is an indication of her exceptional skills, honed through years of experience in the Cameron Mitchell Restaurant portfolio to which Prime Social Reserve belongs.

Bringas earned a degree in hospitality management at the Columbus Culinary Institute and began her professional career with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants in 2015 at The Pearl in Columbus, Ohio. She transferred to Ocean Prime Dallas and later served as lead trainer and sous chef when Ocean Prime Naples opened in 2016.

Above: Prime Social Reserve

Bringas was made executive chef at Prime Social in Kansas City in 2021. She returned to Fifth Avenue South in 2023 as executive chef at Del Mar Naples and joined Prime Social Reserve when it opened in 2025.

“I still love to cook, and Prime Social allows me to explore new cuisines, which is exciting, but I also love being a part of the growth and development of people around me,” says Bringas.

Bringas has been featured by Gulfshore Life as a leading female chef redefining Southwest Florida’s culinary scene.

Jack Zhong, executive chef, Le Colonial

Opening in 2023, Le Colonial, known for its French-Vietnamese cuisine, has been a stunning and welcomed addition to Fifth Avenue South. Leading its 40-member culinary team is Executive Chef Jack Zhong.

Originally from Guangzhou, China, Chef Zhong learned at an early age the importance of hard work and dedication in his family’s roasted meat restaurant.

Zhong made his way to Houston in 2007 where he helped open and worked in his uncle’s restaurant. Later, he served as a line cook at an upscale Japanese restaurant in Sugar Land and a classic Italian concept in River Oaks. He also attended the University of Houston, where he received an MBA.

Above: Le Colonial

His career at Le Colonial began in 2017 as a line cook under Executive Chef Hassan Obaye. Promoted to sous chef at Le Colonial Houston, he honed his skills and organized wine dinners and tasting menus. In 2022, he opened Le Colonial Lake Forest, Illinois as executive chef. Now, at only 33, Zhong is making his mark as executive chef at Le Colonial Naples.

“It’s the smiles I live for in this business,” says Zhong. “Preparing the food is creative, but at the end of the day it’s the guest experience that matters. If the guests are happy, I’m happy.”

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

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

Fine Art & Crafts Show

March 7 | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Naples Artcrafters is a vibrant association of artists and craft artisans that hosts six major fine art and crafts shows from November through April.

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International Women's Day Fashion Show Brunch at Sails

March 8 | 1:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Join us at the iconic Sails Restaurant for an elevated afternoon blending fashion, fine dining, and inspiration. A live runway fashion show, produced by Naples Fashion Week™ CEO Roberta Beranek, will transform the brunch experience into a front-row seat to fashion, benefiting The Shelter for Abused Women & Children.

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Evening on Fifth: Powered by Porsche Naples

March 12 | 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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The Ultimate Cat with Artist Jaco van Schalkwyk

March 5 | 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Native Visions Galleries A collaboration between South African artist Jaco van Schalkwyk and renowned photographer Riandi Appelgryn. Working together at the famous Sabi Sands wildlife area, they will unveil their efforts through a collection of beautiful paintings of the magnificent cats and other African wildlife.

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St. Patrick's Day Parade

March 14 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The largest privately funded parade in the state, drawing more than 40,000 people to downtown Naples each year to celebrate Irish heritage and culture in America.

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Naples Concert Band

March 15 | 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Broadway Selections With Guest Vocalist: Jodi Keogan. For over 50 years, the Naples Concert Band has been a source of joy, inspiration, and connection in our community.

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St. Patrick's Day Evening on Fifth: Powered by Porsche Naples

March 17 | 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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The 38th Annual Naples Downtown Art Fair

March 21 & 22 | 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The Naples Art Institute The Downtown Art Fair is a highly anticipated annual event that brings together artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts from all over the world. Hosted in Cambier Park, this two-day festival showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

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9 to 5 The Musical

March 11 through April 12

The Naples Players With Tony-nominated toe-tapping songs and unforgetable moments, 9 to 5 The Musical is a celebration of friendship and resilience, and proves the power of standing up for what's right.

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Gulf Coast Big Band Concert

March 29 | 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Gulf Coast Big Band has been performing at the Cambier Park bandshell for more than 30 years. Money is raised for local youth jazz scholarships.

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Miró: Fire in the Soul

Through April 4, 2026

Naples Art Institute Discover Miró’s bold use of color, form, and symbolism in an exhibition that illuminates his lifelong pursuit of imagination and the origins of creation.

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Fifth Avenue South Becomes the Epicenter of Culture and Luxury

On View Through March 30

Aldo Castillo Gallery In the heart of Fifth Avenue South, an extraordinary celebration of contemporary art is captivating collectors and connoisseurs alike. Aldo Castillo Gallery proudly champions the local art community with an exclusive exhibition featuring contemporary artist Paul Joseph White. With roots in Long Island, New York, and a refined creative vision shaped in Southwest Florida, White presents a bold and sophisticated exploration of status, symbolism, and modern culture.

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Fifth Avenue South Business' Updates

Art on Fifth Ave Naples A Procaccini Gallery

Meet the Artist
March 6, 13, 21, 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
March 7, 14, 22, 28, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and evening reception from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
March 8, 15, 23, 29, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For details on the featured artists

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Truluck's

Truluck’s Naples Happy Hour, Expertly Crafted
Unwind in the bar at Truluck’s with an elevated happy hour experience, nightly from 4:00-6:00 PM. Enjoy 25% off handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits, noteworthy wines by the glass, and freshly shucked oysters. For something truly special, savor the Truluck’s Martini Experience—three exquisite martinis, including the petite Tiny Tini, each crafted with pristine ingredients and elegant technique. Or discover our featured March cocktail, the Macallan Paper Plane, featuring Macallan 12 Year, Aperol, amaro, and fresh lemon. Feeling adventurous? Ask about our Sommelier Secret Wine for $20. Guess the varietal correctly and your glass is on us.

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Aroma 360®

Aroma360® Spring Refresh
Visit our store at 300 Fifth Avenue South and enjoy a Spring Refresh bundle for just $89.00. February 18 to March 24.

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Project Glammers®

Begin your longevity journey at Project Glammers® and Project Glammers Express. Guided by comprehensive diagnostic testing, our functional medicine team designs a personalized Longevity Path to support both internal optimization and external rejuvenation. From targeted peptide therapies to IV biologics and regenerative treatments, Project Glammers® delivers the latest advancements in longevity care — thoughtfully tailored to you.

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Porsche Studio Naples

The Porsche Studio Naples Photobooth Experience is Now Live
Our team has transformed the vault room, that once held books and Porsche Naples awards, into a remarkable photo experience. Guests can visit the studio, make unforgettable memories, and take one home with you in the form of a printed photo strip. Grab your pit crew and head down to the studio to start the experience today.

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Wilson Sporting Goods

Elevate Your Game – Racket Maintenance 101
Level Up Your Gear – and Your Game. Ever wondered how often you should restring your racket? Or how to replace your grip like a pro? Join us in-store for a complimentary, hands-on session designed for beginner to intermediate players who want to get the most out of their gear. Join us at 769 Fifth Avenue South on Wednesday, March 11.

Elevate Your Game – Court Kit Essentials: What’s In Your Bag? Level Up Your Game – and Your Bag. Do you have the essentials in your tennis or pickleball bag – beyond your racket or paddle? Stop by to elevate your on-court readiness! Join us at 769 Fifth Avenue South on Wednesday, March 25.

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Cocoon Gallery

A Gathering Place
A coffee table is more than a surface; it is a gathering place. Our newest collection reimagines this centerpiece with sculptural artistry. From ancient, petrified wood to ethereal acacia forms with flowing epoxy “rivers,” each table is a blend of earth’s treasures and minimalist design.

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Journeys 360 Travel

Sail Into Iberian Capitals – Exclusive June Offer
Book the exceptional Iberian Capitals: Lisbon, Madrid and the Douro journey and immerse yourself in the elegance and culture of Portugal and Spain. Journey highlights include Lisbon city stays, Madrid cultural experiences, scenic Douro Valley cruise, premium hotels, guided sightseeing, and immersive local experiences. Receive a complimentary pre or post night stay (value of up to $675 per room) for booking through Journeys 360. Travel Dates: June 3 to June 14, 2027.

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IN THE NEWS

Opera Naples Announces Press Conference For 2026 Festival Under The Stars: Tuesday, March 10 At 10AM In Baker Park

Opera Naples will host a press conference in advance of the 2026 Festival Under the Stars on Tuesday, March 10 at 10am in Baker Park, located at 50 Riverside Circle, Naples, FL 34102. The press conference will feature key festival representatives, including Opera Naples Executive...

Naples Fashion Week™ Returns March 27 – April 4, 2026

A Bold, Elevated Celebration of Style, Culture, and Community Benefiting Local Nonprofits. Naples Fashion Week™ (NFW) returns for its highly anticipated second year, March 27 – April 4, 2026, transforming Southwest Florida's most luxurious destination into a week-long celebration of style, creativity, and innovation. Following...

An Unforgettable Night At The Naples Players Raises $1.7 Million And Secures $10 Million Endowment Commitment

It was an evening centered on service, shared responsibility, and the belief that community is strongest when people show up for one another. By the end of the night, it had also become one of the most significant fundraising moments in recent history for The...

Naples Woman’s Club Invites You To A Culinary Journey

On March 12, the Naples Woman’s Club invites you to "A Culinary Journey," an unforgettable evening of globally inspired cuisine, fine wines, craft cocktails and mocktails, live music, and meaningful connection—all in support of Path2Freedom, an organization dedicated to providing safety, hope, and healing for...

New General Manager Leading The Way At Distinguished Restaurant On Fifth Avenue South

The stylish Mediterranean-inspired Del Mar Naples, one of Fifth Avenue South's most iconic restaurants, welcomes David LaMarca as the new general manager. He joins Executive Chef Phil Liesenfeld as the newest member of Del Mar’s leadership team. LaMarca, a Biloxi, Mississippi native, had his first taste the...

Iconic Gordon Pointe In Naples Listed For Sale — Celebrating The Donohue Family’s Enduring Legacy

Gordon Pointe, one of Naples’ most storied and treasured properties, is officially listed for sale, marking a historic moment in Southwest Florida real estate. With sweeping views of Gordon Pass, private beach frontage, and an unmatched legacy of family stewardship, Gordon Pointe represents not just...

The Naples Players Announces Season 73: Celebrating Stories That Unite Us

The Naples Players has announced its 73rd season, a thoughtfully curated lineup built around the theme celebrating stories that unite us. Sponsored by Porsche Naples, Season 73 spans large-scale musicals, intimate plays, classic works, new productions, and student performances, reflecting the organization’s continued commitment to...