Let's Talk Hot Off the Press...

Naples Historical Society Members and Friends

The Naples Historic District Initiative is this City's best option to address the challenging and ever-present issue of preserving historic structures AND maintaining broad visual integrity in the Naples Historic District.  

This Initiative has been crafted with the expertise and leadership of a 15-member Advisory Roundtable, is endorsed by the Society's Board of Directors, and has received prolific vocal support from many professionals in the trades and, of course, the District's residents themselves.  

In response to a recent letter in opposition, shown at the end of this message, we are asking now for a declaration of your support for this project through a Letter to the Editor.  Talking points may include, but are not limited to: 

1 There is NO requirement to follow the Society's proposal.  We will not infringe on private property rights -- A homeowner may still choose to build a house of his or her choice, however contemporary it would be.  

2 We will not expand the Naples Historic District.  Our focus is strictly with regard to the 97 parcels of property within the District's boundary, a boundary recognized by the Federal government since 1987, and one that is less than 1/10th of one square mile in all of Collier County. 

3 A majority of our proposal attempts to re-calibrate the well-known and sometimes unwieldy local processes for 'preserving' existing historic structures -- there is no reason not to support this. 

4 Demolition is real; it's been going on and will continue in the District.  We are proposing a plan to address the broad visual integrity in an area that is unique to Naples and no where else.  

5 We have had many wonderful conversations with District residents who are in favor of our work plan.

If you wish to know more about the Society's Initiative or this request, please call Elaine Reed at 239-403-8014.  You can also visit our website for a wealth of information, data, and documents detailing the Initiative's progress HERE.

Your personal word endorsing this vitally important project is appreciated (limit 275 words). 

Thank you.

Click HERE to submit your Letter to the Editor

____________________________________

THE FOLLOWING LETTER APPEARED IN THE NAPLES DAILY NEWS ON MARCH 30, 2016: 

Historic zoning

This is a head's-up notice to Naples property owners, especially those south of the downtown area. 

There is a concerted effort afoot to try to convince the Naples City Council or Collier County officials to adopt an Historic District zoning ordinance, which would create a governmental aesthetic zoning commission.

The zoning commission could have the regulatory enforcement authority over any new construction, demolition, addition, improvements, modifications, or changes to the exterior of your home or property.

Once the ordinance is enacted, any exterior change would require a "Certificate of Appropriateness" from the Historic District Commission before any building permit will be issued to you.

In essence, the government will have final control over your property. No "certificate" means no building permit. Don't be fooled by the sweet sounding words about "historic preservation" because in the end it's a power grab to gain control of your property.

This effort is being led by the Naples Historical Society under the term "Naples Historic District Initiative." This initiative is nothing more than a slick repackaged marketing plan, which in the past has been soundly rejected by Naples property owners.

Of course, at the moment, the pitch is that they only want control over a limited area. However, like any other tumor, once in place it will spread. It is nothing more than the subjective, heavy hand of government.

I urge you to take notice. Ask officials to reject and not consider any ordinance which would lead to establishment of Historic District zoning and the detrimental effect it will have on property owners unfortunate enough to fall under such regulation. 

Click HERE to submit your Letter to the Editor

Fun In Naples this Weekend!!!

28^th DOWNTOWN NAPLES FESTIVAL OF ARTS &

5TH AVENUE SIDEWALK SALES

March 19 • 10 am to 6 pm

March 20 • 10 am to 5 pm

5th Avenue South -

With over 230 Artist & Artisans for the two day art show. 

I look forward to running into you there!

Michelle J. DeNomme, REALTOR, GRI

Cellular Phone I  239.404.7787

E-Mail : Michelle@NaplesHomeSweetHome.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty

Office: 239.659.2400

E-Fax Number: 239.236.5550

Website:  www.NaplesHomeSweetHome.com        

Blog Page:   http://michelledenomme.blogspot.com  

Twitter Me: DeNommeRealtor

Let's Talk Hot Off The Press…

February Report Shows New Opportunities in Naples Housing Market!

According to Cindy Carroll, SRA, with the real estate appraisal and consultancy firm Carroll & Carroll, Inc., "Inventory levels help define the state of an area's housing market. Once determined, it is defined as either a Buyer's or a Seller's Market."

Carroll goes on to explain that the relationship between supply and demand are determined by dividing the number of active listings by the number of closed sales in the prior 12 months; the result is expressed in months or years of supply. Many economists conclude a balanced market is one offering 6 months of inventory. Yet due to the seasonality of the Naples market, it is Carroll's opinion that 12 months of supply signals a balanced market.

"After two years of rapid sales, it looks like the Naples Area real estate market is going through a natural correction process to a balanced market," said Rick Fioretti, NABOR® President and Broker Associate with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Realty. "The February Market Report showed 6.85 months of inventory in the Naples area. However, as identified by Cindy Carroll, the Naples area market is still relatively seasonal so we would prefer to see 12 months of inventory to feel completely balanced."

According to Jeff Jones, Managing Broker at the Naples-Park Shore office of Coldwell Banker®, the inventory spike is good news for buyers because it means there are more choices and buying opportunities available now. "We still don't have enough inventory to keep up with demand though. For example, there were a total of 5,577 single-family homes and condominiums in inventory in February 2016. Yet even though our inventory increased by 27 percent in February 2016 from 4,406 in February 2015, it's just not meeting buyer demand yet."

Overall pending sales (homes under contract) declined 22 percent month over month to 993 in February 2016 from 1,280 in February 2015. Overall closed sales didn't improve either in February with a 23 percent decrease month over month to 518 in February 2016 from 672 in February 2015. However, many consumers prefer to look at a more comprehensive, wide-ranging view of performance by looking at a market's activity over the course of 12 months. For example, in the cumulative 12-month period ending February 2016 there was only a 2 percent decrease in overall closed sales to 9,595 from 9,791 in the 12-months ending February 2015.

"The middle of the market did quite well in February," said Jones, who pointed out that overall closed sales activity for homes over $300,000 all had positive activity. "For instance, just look at closed sales for condominiums in the $300,000 to $500,000 price category. They went up 21 percent!"

"Buyers are educating themselves and taking time to look for deals," said Fioretti. This comment was confirmed by other broker analysts reviewing the February report; many of whom said they are seeing an increase in sellers decreasing their listing prices to stimulate sales. This results in buyers finding more appealing opportunities.

The NABOR® February 2016 Market Report provides comparisons of single-family home and condominium sales (via the Southwest Florida MLS), price ranges, and geographic segmentation and includes an overall market summary. The NABOR® February 2016 sales statistics are presented in chart format, including these overall (single-family and condominium) findings: 

• Overall pending sales decreased 22 percent to 993 in February 2016 from 1,280 in February 2015.

• Pending sales for single-family homes in the $500,000 to $1 million price category increased 42 percent to 126 single-family homes in February 2016 from 89 single-family homes in February 2015.

• Overall closed sales decreased 2 percent to 9,595 homes in the 12-months ending February 2016 from 9,791 homes in the 12-months ending February 2015. 

• Overall median closed price increased 13 percent to $310,000 in the 12-months ending February 2016 from $275,000 in the 12-months ending February 2015.

• Overall inventory increased 27 percent to 5,577 homes in February 2016 from 4,406 homes in February 2015. 

• Condominium inventory for the $300,000 to $500,000 price category increased 54 percent to 718 condominiums in February 2016 from 465 condominiums in February 2015.

• Average days on market decreased 15 percent to 79 days in February 2016 from 93 days in February 2015.

According to Wes Kunkle, President and Managing Broker at Kunkle International Realty, some activity in the report was not anticipated like the 37 and 47 percent increases in inventory for condominiums in the $1 to $2 million and $2 million and above price categories, respectively. "There was a flood of inventory for these in February, but closed sales were down 12 and 11 percent, [respectively] despite their almost insignificance price increases," said Kunkle.

"There may be an election cloud affecting consumer confidence right now," said Mike Hughes, Vice President and General Manager for Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. "This, among other influences like the fluctuating stock market, the Canadian exchange rate, and the shortage of low-end inventory, are all factors that are creating headwinds in this market."

Of note in the February Market Report were the inventory increases by geographic location. While all areas experienced double-digit increases, the most significant changes were:

• Overall inventory in North Naples (34109, 34110, 34119), the geographic area with the highest number of homes on the market saw a 39 percent increase to 1,611 homes in February 2016 from 1,156 homes in February 2015.

• Single-family home inventory in the Naples Beach area (34102, 34103, 34108) increased 28 percent to 651 single-family homes in February 2016 from 507 single-family homes in February 2015.

• Condominium inventory in North Naples increased 61 percent to 704 condominiums in February 2016 from 438 condominiums in February 2015.

"February had the lowest number of closed sales on record of any month since November 2013," said Bill Coffey, Broker Manager of Amerivest Realty Naples. "And the highest inventory level in two years. If we continue to see a dramatic increase in inventory each month like we did for February, then we may eventually see it affect median closed prices."

With guidance from me you will discover a wealth of choices to ensure your purchase is a success within both the New Home and Resale Markets. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have by e-mail or by calling 239.404.7787. I look forward to working with you throughout your home buying or selling process!

I hope you have a fantastic weekend.

Michelle

To view the full report please click below...

View February 2016 Market Statistics

Michelle J. DeNomme, REALTOR, GRI

Cellular Phone I  239.404.7787

E-Mail : Michelle@NaplesHomeSweetHome.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty

Office: 239.659.2400

E-Fax Number: 239.236.5550

Website:  www.NaplesHomeSweetHome.com        

Blog Page:   http://michelledenomme.blogspot.com  

Twitter Me: DeNommeRealtor

Let's Talk... Hot off the Press! Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Turnberry Associates has closed on a $260 million boost to its existing mortgage for the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach.

Miami-Dade County records show Turnberry affiliates took the loan out on Wednesday for the 1,594-room resort at 4441 Collins Avenue. The $260 million in financing boosts the mortgage to $795 million. Goldman Sachs Bank USA and the Bank of China each provided $397.5 million.

Mario Romine, senior vice president, general counsel for special projects, signed the loan document.

In December 2013, Turnberry, led by Jeffrey and Jackie Soffer, completed a $535 million refinancing led by JPMorgan Chase Bank. That year, the Soffers also regained full control of the hotel after they had previously sold a 50 percent interest to Dubai World.

Designed by prominent architect Morris Lapidus, the Fontainebleau first opened in 1954, according to the resort’s website. The owners spent $1 billion on a 2008 renovation of the 20-acre oceanfront resort. The Fontainebleau currently has 12 restaurants and bars, two nightclubs — including the popular LIV — and a 40,000-square-foot spa.

Turnberry’s chief financial officer Aly-khan Merali was not immediately available for comment.

Turnberry owns a majority interest of Aventura Mall, and recently broke ground on an expansion of the upscale shopping center with $213.5 million in construction financing. At the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Real Estate Summit on Thursday, Merali said Aventura Mall generates $1,700 per square foot in sales. In January, Seritage Growth Properties, a publicly traded real estate investment trust that owns Sears’ real estate assets, filed a lawsuit against the owners of the mall to stop the expansion.

Tags: fontainebleau miami beach, jeffrey soffer, turnberry associates

Let's Talk...

Caviar Russe opening first restaurant outside NYC on Brickell

1,000 sf space in lobby of the Four Seasons on Brickell Avenue has 35 seats, including the bar

March 11, 2016 01:30PM
By Ina Cordle

Caviar Russe is launching its first restaurant and bar outside New York City next week at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami, geared to cater to its Latin American clientele and others.

Located inside the Four Seasons’ lobby on Brickell Avenue, the 1,000 square-foot space has been in the works for a year. The site was formerly used as the leasing office for the Four Seasons, and had to be completely gutted and redesigned, Caviar Russe’s managing director Ilya Panchernikov told The Real Deal. He declined to disclose terms of his lease, brokered by RKF’s John Ellis, citing a confidentiality agreement.

Caviar Russe

After investing “hundreds of thousands of dollars” in the remodeling, the boutique space is now adorned in gold and Calacatta marble, with white Italian leather banquettes and chairs and a chandelier inspired by “caviar pearls,” Panchernikov said. Other aspects of the decor are meant to mimic Champagne bubbles. The restaurant has 35 seats, including the bar.

Panchernikov chose Miami for his first expansion site because a majority of his clientele at Caviar Russe in New York are from Latin America — particularly from Brazil, Venezuela and Mexico. Since they often have second homes in Miami, they have always asked him when he plans to open here, he said. His New York-based clients also come to Miami to vacation, as well, and often own condos in the South-of-Fifth neighborhood of Miami Beach and on Brickell, he added.

“The demographic in Miami is here, and I really feel this town is ready for it now,” said Panchernikov, who moved from New York to Miami a year-and-a-half ago to oversee the project.

The restaurant will open next week, serving lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, and dinner only on Saturday. A Sunday brunch is planned for the future, Panchernikov said. Chef David Valencia, who is originally from Colombia, will helm the kitchen.

The menu will include more than 15 varieties of caviar, a raw bar and crudo menu, and such dishes as a foie gras terrine and octopus carpaccio, all adorned with caviar. “Caviar is the star,” Panchernikov said.

Caviar Russe

A full bar — including 20 types of frozen vodka — and extensive list of Champagnes will also be offered. Prices for dishes will range from $45 to $125, with caviar from $145 to $3,000. Champagne by the glass, like Dom Pérignon and Billecart-Salmon, will range from $35 to $95, with bottles from $125 to $2000 or more.

Caviar Russe’s roots are in caviar importing. The New York-based, family-owned company became one of the nation’s largest caviar importers to the U.S. before opening its first restaurant, with 1,200 square feet, on Madison Avenue in New York City in 1997, Panchernikov said.

“We started as importers… and we realized that the public wants this delicacy that is very difficult to get,” he said, referring to the decision to expand into dining spots.

His father founded the business after the family arrived in New York from the Ukraine when Panchernikov was six years old. He said he grew up surrounded by the world of caviar. The family has farms in Germany that provide caviar specifically for them.

Panchernikov’s goal now is to open five to 10 new restaurants in the next five years, in the United States and internationally. “If this goes well,” he said, “we’re thinking of Las Vegas, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and South America.”

Tags: brickell avenue, Caviar Russe, Four Seasons Miami

Let's Talk…Hot News in March from NapleHomeSweetHome!

Check out my New Development Map for all New Construction in Collier County!!! 

Here’s what’s happening with our Real Estate Market in Naples to view the latest Naples market statistics Click here,

I have also placed below our happenings around town check out our Naples Tidbits...

Let's talk about your next move, feel free to e-mail me at Michelle@NaplesHomeSweetHome.comor contact me by calling 239.404.7787.

Talk to you soon,

Michelle

January Activity Shows Stability in the Market

Despite a slight decrease in overall pending and closed sales, other areas of the Naples real estate market continue to be moving into a stable, balanced market between buyers and sellers, according to the Naples Area Board of REALTORS® (NABOR).  The NABOR Market Report for the 12-months ending January 2016, showed that inventory during January 2016 rose 13 percent to 5,091 homes from 4,515 homes in January 2015. Average Days on Market in January 2016 decreased 14 percent to 75 days from 87 days in January 2015…

The January report showed double-digit increases in inventory for all price segments above $300,000. For example, the $500,000 to $1 million price segment experienced the highest increase with a 26 percent increase in inventory to 1,245 homes in January 2016 from 990 homes in January 2015. In the single-family home market this same price category had a 31 percent increase in inventory to 829 homes in January 2016 from 632 homes in January 2015. Yet surprisingly, while inventory in the condominium market also rose in every price category above $300,000, it was the $1 million to $2 million price category that saw the biggest jump with a 39 percent increase to 201 condominiums in January 2016 from 145 condominiums in January 2015…

read the entire article...

Daylight Savings Time Starts March 13th at 2:00 AM

Remember to set your clocks ahead.!

WCI Communities releases 21 Executive Home sites at Raffia Preserve 

WCI Communities has released 21 Executive Home sites at Raffia Preserve, the company's intimate 184-acre community planned for 363 single-family homes in North Naples.

Homebuyers can select from 19 lakeview and two cul-de-sac homesites for their choice of seven Executive Home designs ranging from 2,053 to 3,604 air-conditioned square feet.

One- and two-story Executive Homes offer great room-centered plans with up to four bedrooms, dens and plan-specific second floor lofts and living areas that provide flexibility for families with children, retirees and empty nesters.

Executive Homes start at $374,990. 

Read More...

New stores, restaurant coming to Waterside Shops

Q: Any word yet about what's going in the old Coach store and Caché store in Waterside?

A: Many new stores are coming this year to Waterside Shops, said Anne Fleming, general manager of the open-air retail center on Seagate Drive in Naples...

read more...

Dining by Boat in the Naples Area

IWhether it’s a shrimp basket at Coconut Jack’s, gator bites at Stan’s Idle Hour or cutting-edge Continental cuisine at M Waterfront Grille, somehow it all tastes better if you’ve traveled there by boat.

The region offers a bounty of boat-accessible options, ranging from ultra-casual to special-occasion chic. Following is a sampling of the spots available.

The primary thing to remember is that many of these establishments have only a few slips and popular spots fill up quickly — especially on weekends — so call ahead to ensure there’s room and to get precise nautical directions before making the trip. 

read more...

Naples New Construction

Click Here to View the List of New Construction

Dining in Naples

Top 10 Restaurant Reviews

Michelle DeNomme

REALTOR®, GRI, LUXURY COLLECTION SPECIALIST
Michelle@NaplesHomeSweetHome.com
239-404-7787
www.NaplesHomeSweetHome.com

Let's Talk...

Options for boat-accessible dining abound in SWFL

BY KAREN FELDMAN

kfeldman@floridaweekly.com

The Boathouse offers a grand view of Naples Bay. COURTESY PHOTO Whether it’s a shrimp basket at Coconut Jack’s, gator bites at Stan’s Idle Hour or cutting-edge Continental cuisine at M Waterfront Grille, somehow it all tastes better if you’ve traveled there by boat.
The region offers a bounty of boat-accessible options, ranging from ultra-casual to special-occasion chic. Following is a sampling of the spots available.
The primary thing to remember is that many of these establishments have only a few slips and popular spots fill up quickly — especially on weekends — so call ahead to ensure there’s room and to get precise nautical directions before making the trip.

Bonita Springs
¦ Big Hickory Seafood Grille and Marina, 26107 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs, 992-0991; Channel Marker 60 is the key to finding this reliable old restaurant, where there’s 4 feet of water even at low tide. Belly up to a plate of fish tacos, a grouper sandwich, burgers or full entrees with a Caribbean flair at this rustic but charming spot overlooking Estero Bay.


If you plan to dine at the historic Rod and Gun Club in Everglades City, leave your plastic at home. N 26.358598, W-81.857557
¦ Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille, 5370 Bonita Beach Road; 676-7777; Dine inside or out at this festive restaurant that offers casual fare such as ceviche, barbecue pork nachos, coconut shrimp, salads, sandwiches and seafood baskets as well as more substantive dishes such as baby back ribs and lobster tails.
N 26-19.836 W 081-50.495

¦ The Fish House, 4685 Bonita Beach Road; 495-5770; on Bonita’s Back Bay. Casual setting with casual fare that includes smoked fish dip, blackened tuna bites, quesadillas, seafood baskets and grouper tacos.
N 27.50967, W 80.32549

Everglades City
¦ Rod and Gun Club, 200 Riverside Drive (State Road 29), Everglades City; 695-2101; on the Barron River 42 miles from Capri Pass in Marco Island. This historic inn that has hosted the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Gypsy Rose Lee, Sean Connery and Mick Jagger offers dining on a spacious porch or indoors on Florida specialties such as gator (fried or sautéed), smoked fish dip, shrimp, frog legs, seafood as well as sandwiches and entrees for carnivores. Keep in mind that this one is historic, somewhat rustic and accepts cash only.
N 25.8562393, W 81.3883667

Goodland
¦ Stan’s Idle Hour, 221 Goodland Drive West; 394-3041. This popular watering hole is known as much for its entertainment — and its distinctive dance, the buzzard lope — as it is for its food and drink. Get there early on Sundays if you hope to find space to dock. Chow down on wings, gator bites, fried scallops, frog legs, peel and eat shrimp and, of course, a cold beverage.
N 25.9259338, W 81.6485519

Marco Island
¦ The Blue Heron, 387 Capri Blvd., Isles of Capri, 394-6248; Savor a sunset over the water while dining on dishes such as sushi-grade ahi tuna, surf and turf, crab cakes and cioppino.
N 25 59.145, W 081 43 528
¦ The Capri Fish House, 203 Capri Blvd., Isle of Capri; 389-5555; Marker 8 on Little Marco River. Just a few miles from Marco Island, this tropical getaway serves mondo cheeseburgers along with gator nuggets, shrimp, scallops, steaks, Florida lobster and jambalaya.
N 25.9844723, W 81.7271042
¦ Snook Inn, 1215 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island; 394-3313; from Naples on Intracoastal Waterway, head around Keewaydin Island to Capri Pass, make a sharp left into Marco River and restaurant is about ¼-mile on right. A popular dining spot for boaters, Snook Inn serves favorites such as crab cakes, grouper, oyster po’boys and will cook your catch as well.
N 26.205111, W 81.7761574


Naples
¦ Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar, Village at Venetian Bay, 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N.; 649-5552; with indoor and outdoor seating and lots of seafood, salads, and other American dishes; A few slips are available at Park Shore Marina.
N26 11.911, W 81 48.941
¦ The Boathouse on Naples Bay, 990 Broad Ave. South, Naples; 643-2235; Marker 4. Casual dining with a grand view of Naples Bay at the tip of downtown Naples and a menu with a boatload of seafood, including oysters, mussels and clams, shrimp, seafood gumbo, seafood platters, various surf and turf combos plus burgers, salads and more.
N 26.1341632, W 81.7938539
¦ The Dock at Crayton Cove, 845 12th Ave. S., Naples; 263-9940; at Marker 35 (The City Dock) pass the fueling station and take a hard left. It’s 100 yards ahead. Serves blue crab rolls, nachos, chowder, raw bar, fish tacos, burgers.
N 26.1327544, W 81.7946747
¦ Fish, Village at Venetian Bay, 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd. N.; 263-3474; A stylish restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and a profusion of fish dishes, including sushi, a raw bar, ceviche, calamari, trout, walleye, scallops, various pasta dishes, a few meat options and an organic veggie plate. There’s limited dock space at adjacent Park Shore Marina.
N 26 11.911, W81 48.941
¦ MiraMare, Village at Venetian Bay, 4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N.; 430-6273, featuring seafood with Northern Italian flair, including soups, salads, pasta, pizza and well-executed entrees. There are a limited number of slips available at the adjoining Park Shore Marina.
N 26 11.911, W 81 48.941
¦ M Waterfront Grille, Village on Venetian Bay, 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. North, 263-4421; dock at adjacent Park Shore Marina. The former Maxwell’s features a stylish atmosphere (and tables indoors and outside with bay views) and cutting-edge Continental cuisine, including organic and sustainable items, with a full range of salads, appetizers, beef and seafood.
N 26 11.911, W 81 48.941
¦ Jack’s River Bar and Grill, 475 North Road, Naples 213-1441; Whether you like your oysters and clams steamed or raw, Jack’s will serve them your way, along with homemade chili, crab cakes, black beans and rice and other hearty fare.
N 26.1510216, W 81.782999
¦ Mereday’s Fine Dining, Naples Bay Resort, 1500 5th Avenue S., 732-0784; Choose from a three-, four-or five-course tasting menu or sit at the bar and try just one or two — or go whole hog on a large plate. Whether it’s an heirloom beet salad, seared foie gras, veal sweetbreads, Creole shrimp or any other of the perfectly composed dishes the chef creates, you will dine well.
N 26.155926, W 81.786133
¦ Pinchers Tin City, Tin City 1200 Fifth Ave. South, Naples; 434-6616; enter Gordon Pass and head north past Marker 40 to just before Gordon River Bridge and turn in to Tin City. The menu features seafood, including shrimp, mussels, crabs, scallops, and fish and chips with a few items for carnivores.
N 26.1413536, W 81.7905197
¦ Riverwalk at Tin City, 1200 Fifth Ave. South, 263-2734; see directions above for Pinchers. This casual restaurant with a well-chosen wine list offers lots of seafood, including grouper, fish tacos, seafood gumbo, fish and chips and a raw bar bucket, as well as baby back ribs, jerk chicken and more.
N 26.1413536, W 81.7905197
¦ Tavern on the Bay, 489 Bayfront Place, Naples, 530-2225; This stylish waterfront sports bar has a well-rounded menu that includes pulled pork barbecue, chicken wings, flatbread pizzas, burgers, salads and sandwiches as well as refreshments from super cold beer to exotic mixed drinks.
N 26.1431754, W 81.7890997
¦ T-Michaels Steak and Lobster, Village at Venetian Bay, 4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 261-0622; The former Cloyde’s serves just what the name promises. Enjoy fine dining on steaks and seafood in the main dining room overlooking the water or more casual fare in the lounge. Limited slips available at Park Shore Marina.
N26 11.911, W 81 48.941
¦ The Turtle Club Restaurant, Vanderbilt Beach Resort 9225 Gulf Shore Drive, 592-6557; Tie up and sit down — indoors or right on the beach — for a great view of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico while dining on seafood chowder, wild mushroom flatbread, salads, locally sourced seafood and steaks.
N 26.2550507, W 81.8233643
¦ The Village Pub, Village at Venetian Bay, 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 262- 2707; A casual eatery serving soup, salad, sandwiches and entrees with a prime view of Venetian Bay. A limited number of slips are available at the adjacent Park Shore Marina.
N26 11.911, W 81 48.941 ¦

Hot Off the Press...

Aventura Mall, which has been amping up its array of luxury boutiques, is now adding Givenchy and Gucci to the mix. The shops will join the mall’s collection of upscale boutiques that includes Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Fendi, Burberry, Bally and Emilio Pucci. Givenchy is scheduled to open in summer 2016 and Gucci in fall 2016. Both boutiques will be located in Nordstrom Court. The brands will join two recent fashion additions, St. John and 120% Lino, which opened recently on the upper level near Nordstrom, according to a release. “The additions of Givenchy and Gucci will enhance the shopping experience for our local and international visitors,” said Jackie Soffer, co-chairman and CEO of Turnberry Associates, in a statement. Turnberry owns 66.7 percent of the mall; Simon Properties Group owns the remaining 33.3 percent. Turnberry also manages the mall at 19501 Biscayne Boulevard, which is anchored by Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s and features 300 stores.  In 2014, Turnberry announced it was expanding Aventura Mall. Plans include a new three-level, 315,000-square-foot retail wing and multi-level parking garage. The mall first opened in 1983, then doubled its size in 1997 and in 2007, added Nordstrom and a three-level wing of high-end stores. It has more than 2.7 million square feet of space, making it the third largest shopping mall in the United States, behind Mall of the America in Minnesota and King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania. On New Year’s Eve, the owners of Aventura Mall closed on a $213.5 million mortgage from JP Morgan Chase to fund the planned expansion. Construction has begun on the new wing, which is expected to open in late 2017, and will include destination restaurants, more than three dozen retail stores, a new food court with indoor/outdoor seating, and a VIP concierge area. But in late January, Seritage Growth Properties, a publicly traded real estate investment trust that owns Sears’ real estate assets, filed suit against the owners of Aventura Mall, seeking to stop the shopping center’s expansion plans. The suit, filed by Seritage SRC Finance against Aventura Mall Venture, cited an easement and operating agreement dating back to 1982, originally between Sears and the mall — now Seritage and the mall. The mall’s expansion violates terms of the agreement “because it proposes structures and development activities that materially deviate from the terms of the plot plan,” according to the suit. — Ina Cordle Tags: aventura mall, Givenchy, Gucci, turnery associates.