the uptowner

64
991 THE UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM ON THE JOYS OF MERCATO O N T H E J O Y S O F M E R C A T O Insider’s Guide to Luxe Shopping & Gourmet Dining Why Residents Love Their Digs Mercato MAGIC STEPPING UP TO A SMART, URBAN LIFESTYLE

Upload: premier-sothebys-international-realty

Post on 27-Mar-2016

216 views

Category:

Documents


4 download

DESCRIPTION

Your source for information about the exciting new things to do and experience at Mercato and in the Greater Naples area. Live at The Strada, dine, work and shop all within walking distance.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: The Uptowner

991 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

O N T H E J O Y S O F M E R C A T OO N T H E J O Y S O F M E R C A T O

Insider’s Guide to Luxe Shopping & Gourmet DiningWhy Residents Love Their Digs

MercatoMAGIC

STEPPING UP TO A SMART, URBAN LIFESTYLE

uptowner2013_cover.indd 991uptowner2013_cover.indd 991 1/8/13 3:03 PM1/8/13 3:03 PM

Page 2: The Uptowner

uptowner2013_cover.indd 993uptowner2013_cover.indd 993 1/8/13 3:05 PM1/8/13 3:05 PM

Page 3: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 1Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 1 1/8/13 3:08 PM1/8/13 3:08 PM

Page 4: The Uptowner

2 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

6 WELCOME LETTERThere’s no place better than Mercato—Naples’ world-class residential, entertainment and retail space.

8 SO ALLURING Three couples explain why moving into The

Strada has made their lives so much sweeter. By Dotti Keagy

16 GOING PLACES: THE BEST OF NAPLES A guide to all that Naples has to offer: the

beaches, the culture, the shops, the outdoors, attractions and much, much more. By Cayla Stanley

22 STRADA STYLE An abundance of features and beautiful

appointments make The Strada the perfect residential experience.

32 NIGHTLIFE? WOW!Mercato has many options for memorable nights out. By Michael Korb

34 SHOPPING CHIC-TO-CHIC An insider’s guide to Mercato’s shops—from

fabulous fashion and haute home décor to culinary tools-of-the-trade. By Dotti Keagy

42 THE IRRESISTIBLES Look no further than Mercato for the most

tempting and enticing fi nds.By Dotti Keagy

44 WHERE THE ACTION IS Anyone who says you can’t fi nd great free

(or nearly free) entertainment in Naples just hasn’t been to Mercato. By Dotti Keagy

48 TASTE. AMBIANCE. VARIETY. Mercato restaurants are a diner’s

dream come true.By Ivan Seligman

58 MAP OF MERCATO What’s where in our little slice of heaven.

8

22

34

48

Contents

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 2Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 2 1/8/13 3:08 PM1/8/13 3:08 PM

Page 5: The Uptowner

Experience Wine, Food and Friends in a Relaxing, Upscale Atmosphere.

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 3Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 3 1/8/13 3:09 PM1/8/13 3:09 PM

Page 6: The Uptowner

4 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

2013 ISSUE

The Strada at Mercato Sales Center:

9123 Strada Place

Suite 7125

Naples, FL 34108

www.mercatonaples.com

(239) 594-9400

Developers:

The Lutgert Companies

4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N.

Naples, FL 34103

(239) 261-6100

www.lutgert.com

Barron Collier Companies

2600 Golden Gate Parkway

Naples, FL 34105

(239) 262-2600

www.barroncollier.com

Partner and Leasing Representative:

Madison Marquette

9115 Strada Place

Suite 5150

Naples, FL 34108

(239) 254-1080

Publishing services provided by:

Gulfshore Life Magazine

3560 Kraft Road, Suite 301

Naples, FL 34105

(239) 449-4111

www.gulfshorelife.com

Copyright 2013 by Open Sky Media, Inc., Email : [email protected].

the Uptowner

Cover photograph by Craig Hildebrand for The Uptowner magazine

Models : Kelly, Next Management, and Lee, Runways: The Talent Group

Hair and makeup by Duality Artistry

burgers as unique

as youhow

will you build

yours?

mercato 9110 strada pl

naples 239.566.0644

thecounterburger.com

TheCounterNaplesFL

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 4Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 4 1/8/13 3:09 PM1/8/13 3:09 PM

Page 7: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 5Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 5 1/8/13 3:09 PM1/8/13 3:09 PM

Page 8: The Uptowner

EAR READER,

On behalf of The Lutgert Companies, Barron Collier Companies and Madison Marquette, it is a pleasure to present our fifth issue of The Uptowner magazine, your source for information about the exciting new things to do and experience at Mercato and in the Greater Naples area.

In this issue, we highlight Mercato with its upscale cuisine, uncommon shopping, epic nightlife and luxurious living. Located on 53 acres at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Vanderbilt Beach Road,

Mercato offers chic, urban, residential living together with access to recognized names in shopping and dining.

Mercato’s 500,000 square feet of retail and office space include an unparalleled collection of nationally recognized restaurants, among them The Capital Grille, BRAVO! and McCormick & Schmick’s. The high-energy Blue Martini, Burn by Rocky Patel and The Pub have already become popular Naples night spots, while AZN has earned a reputation of having the best sushi in Southwest Florida. Numerous retail shops and boutiques (most new to Naples, but well known around the country), plus banking facilities, law firms and other professional offices are an integral part of Mercato.

Whole Foods Market, the world’s largest natural and organic grocery store, anchors Strada Place, while first-run and fine-art films are offered at Silverspot Cinema, an 11-screen, premiere-style theater complete with plush, leather stadium seating, upscale food and cocktail service. These great amenities are all within a short stroll for residents of The Strada at Mercato. For the discerning homebuyer, the Strada Residences offer 92 chic homes located on the second through fifth floors of two architecturally distinct buildings overlooking the main boulevard.

Amongst a growing number of pedestrian-friendly lifestyle centers sprouting up around the world offering the opportunity to live, dine, work and shop within walking distance, Mercato fulfills buyers’ desires for a more active lifestyle within a vibrant community that delivers diverse amenities. To learn more, please turn to our article on p. 22 of this issue, and be sure to stop into our Strada sales center right on the main street and view our new furnished models.

Also in this issue, you will find useful information about the world-class beaches, local arts scene, dining, shopping and other amenities that make Naples such a great place to live.

We truly hope you enjoy this issue of The Uptowner magazine. U

6 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Welcome Letter

991 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

O N T H E J O Y S O F M E R C A T O

Insider’s Guide to Luxe Shopping & Gourmet Dining Why Residents Love Their Digs

MercatoMAGIC

STEPPING UP TO A SMART, URBAN LIFESTYLE

d

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 6Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 6 1/8/13 3:09 PM1/8/13 3:09 PM

Page 9: The Uptowner

®

®

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 7Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 7 1/8/13 3:09 PM1/8/13 3:09 PM

Page 10: The Uptowner

8 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM 8 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

OU CAN TAKE A PERSON OUT OF THE CITY, but you can’t take the city out of the person. For Joel Schechter, who grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y.’s Sheepshead Bay and could walk out his door to fi nd nearly anything he wanted, the move to Mercato with wife LeeAnn was like moving back to the city. “But ‘the city’ with a no-hassle factor,” he says, laughing. “No litter, no dirt, no crime—and with plenty of parking!”

A graduate of Cornell University and SUNY Buffalo Law School and a principal with Cummings & Lockwood LLC, Joel handles lending for New York banks and their branches, as well as “the sexier part of my job” for professional football, hockey and basket-ball franchises. In 1996, the fi rm asked Joel to move to their satellite offi ce in Naples. “Having previously visited Naples and found it to be absolutely beautiful, our decision was easy,” says LeeAnn. “We weren’t sure then that it would be a ‘permanent’ move, but 16 years and three homes later, it looks like it is,” she laughs.

BY DOTTI KEAGYPHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX STAFFORD

LeeAnn and Joel Schechter have found their perfect

paradise at The Strada.

y

Three couples tell what they love most about their urban lifestyle at The Strada.So

AlluringLeeAnn and Joel Schechter

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 8Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 8 1/8/13 3:10 PM1/8/13 3:10 PM

Page 11: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 9

Joel loves the upscale, “urban” setting of The Strada; while the couple’s dogs appreciate the

pet-friendly policy.

LeeAnn, who holds a B.S. in chemi-cal engineering from the University of Connecticut and had a 12-year career at American Cyanamid and Cytec Indus-tries in Connecticut, stayed home for 16 years in North Naples with their children, Alex and Jake. “But after spending our entire married life in the suburbs—and then becoming empty nesters—we de-cided it was time to downsize slightly and upscale to Mercato,” she says. They admit that their beautifully decorated three-bed-room, three-bath, 2,600-square-foot pent-house condo at The Strada is basically the same size as their fi rst home in Naples. But it’s light years away from suburbia.

LeeAnn and Joel started looking at Mercato, pre-construction, almost seven years ago and absolutely loved the concept. They had originally looked in Olde Naples, but found nothing in their price range and, most im-portantly, no accommodations for their dogs, Cooper and Marley. “We found that almost all the townhomes and condos in the area had ‘no pet’ or ‘one pet under 25 pounds’ limits,” LeeAnn says, “and Mar-ley, at 75 pounds, obviously didn’t make the limit.”

So the pet-friendly policy at The Strada was a huge draw for the Schechters. “One of the best features for dog owners is the grassy dog area/run on the amenity level,” notes LeeAnn. “It comes in handy late at night, rather than having to walk downstairs to fi nd a grassy patch that Marley will approve of! (Cooper, sadly, has passed on.)

“The amenity level is awesome and a huge draw, providing a gorgeous pool, spa, club-house and fi tness center. With the beautiful way it’s landscaped, you’d never know you were on the rooftop of the parking garage.” They also love the monthly potluck dinners held in the clubhouse.

The Schechters’ huge kitchen in their spectacular penthouse sees a lot of use as well. “We built a great entertainment wall with a gas fi replace with the help of Clive Daniel de-signers,” says LeeAnn. “We also have what we think is the best balcony in Mercato, with a 270-degree view out to the Gulf. On the Fourth of July this past summer, we could see about eight fi reworks displays from the balcony. And we’ve hosted parties for 30 people without feeling crowded at all.” The ample wall space also showcases magnifi cent pieces of art from a favorite Los Angeles artist and his wife.

But what’s the biggest attraction for the Schechters? “We love being able to walk down-stairs and go to any of the great restaurants and bars,” enthuses LeeAnn. “Now we can eat and drink and just walk home. No more cab rides. Mercato also offers some great entertainment—all without leaving the neighborhood.

“Our expectations at Mercato were simple (and met): maintenance-free living within walking distance to almost everything we need.”

“ One of the best features for dog owners is the grassy dog area/run on the amenity level.”

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 9Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 9 1/8/13 3:10 PM1/8/13 3:10 PM

Page 12: The Uptowner

10 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

HO KNEW A CALICO CAT NAMED CALLIE would be a catalyst in Mel and Ronnie Poplock’s decision to buy a condo at The Strada? But we’re getting way ahead of ourselves.

The Poplocks, both CPAs, lived in a house in Rochester, N.Y., for 40 years before coming to Naples 15 years ago. Mel

and his partners ultimately sold their practice; and since many of his clients had second homes in Naples, they decided to come down here and visit. The rest, as they say, is his-tory. Although retirement was the goal, Mel kept getting job offers since there were so few CPAs in Naples. “I was coerced into another fi rm,” he says, laughing. “But now I just work during tax time.”

The Poplocks settled into a house on Third Street downtown and loved being in an ur-ban environment where they could walk everywhere. “But it was a 65-year-old home, and we just got tired of maintaining the home, the lawn and the pool,” says Ronnie. “In 2010, we visited our children in Portland and fell in love with the urban coffee shops, cafes and galleries.” So they actually moved their things up there after they sold their house—until they discovered Mercato.

“It was so urban and so centrally located to everything, so we decided to rent here for a year. We liked it so much that we bought the same unit (a fl oor up) a year later! We hear the city noises here, but we love it,” Ronnie adds. “They’re not at all distracting, with the double-thick doors. In fact, we appreciate all of the top-of-the-line fi nishes we have here.”

Which leads us to Callie. “What really impressed us is that they allow pets, which 90 percent of condos in Naples don’t,” Ronnie notes. “The dog run on the amenities level is great, and we fi nd our neighbors are comfortable enough to even go there in their pajamas in the morning for a few minutes.” The Poplocks actually have a long history of animal protectionism. Mel is treasurer of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, and Ronnie proudly displays her collection of whimsical cat drawings by artist Louis Wain.

wRonnie and Mel Poplock Life at The Strada adds up for CPAs Mel and

Ronnie Poplock.

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 10Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 10 1/8/13 3:10 PM1/8/13 3:10 PM

Page 13: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 11

Having ample wall space to showcase their art is equally important to sports buff Mel, who works in crowd management for the Boston Red Sox here. He also started the Naples chapter of SABR (Society for American Baseball Research). All kinds of sports memora-bilia adorn the walls—including a “pre-Internet” tear-off tablet of scorecards—plus his sculpture of baseball greats from The Bradford Exchange.

What else do they love about living at Mercato? “We can reserve The Strada’s clubhouse and have meetings there (for the Conservancy and SABR),” says Ronnie. “We also use the gym a lot, and love the barbecue and fi repit. People are friendly and we enjoy the monthly potluck dinners. It’s like a real neighborhood. We’re also avid moviegoers, so we love Silverspot.

“As vegans, we have found Mercato to be very vegetarian-friendly,” Mel mentions. “Whole Foods has a great pizza with vegetarian cheese; AZN and Bravo have plenty of op-tions; and the vegan burgers are great at The Counter, which is like an old-fashioned diner.

“Although we thought we would still go downtown a lot, we fi nd we don’t,” Ronnie concludes. “But when you do leave Mercato, it’s just as easy to get downtown as it is to go to Coconut Point.”

Between displays of sports memorabilia and whimsical cat

drawings, the Poplocks have made a home. But the couple’s

first love is the neighborhood feel of The Strada.

“ It was so urban and so centrally located to everything, so we decided to rent here for a year. We liked it so much that we bought the same unit (a fl oor up) a year later.”

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 11Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 11 1/8/13 3:15 PM1/8/13 3:15 PM

Page 14: The Uptowner

12 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

OW DO YOU TRANSITION from a 10,000-square-foot home to a condo? It’s easier than you might think if the condo is in The Strada at Mercato! Just ask Erin and Dave Biggers.

Both Oklahoma natives, Dave majored in economics at Okla-homa University, and Erin graduated with a degree in marketing from the University of Central Oklahoma. They met when Erin joined the sales team of Dave’s real estate technology company (a la mode inc.), which he started in college in 1985. It grew to 200

people, and he ran it for 27 years.

hThe Strada is designed to take

advantage of everything Mercato has to offer, and

Dave and Erin Biggers love the lifestyle.

Erin and Dave Biggers

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 12Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 12 1/8/13 3:15 PM1/8/13 3:15 PM

Page 15: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 13 MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 13

Fast forward to 2012, when Dave retired from day-to-day management (while main-taining ownership), the kids left for college, and the couple sold their sizable homes in Oklahoma and Atlanta (a 10,000-square-foot estate with six bedrooms on a large lot). “We’re the opposite of most Neapolitans, since we enjoy it here in the summer but we spend most of the winter at our beach house in the Turks and Caicos,” says Erin. “There, we have a single-family home on an acre of unspoiled beachfront, so it’s quite the opposite of our condo lifestyle in Naples.”

Dave fi rst came to Naples on vacation in the mid ’90s, and bought his fi rst property here in 2005. ”Since then, we’ve moved the parents here, relocated our corporate head-quarters to Naples, and bought two hangars at the airport, so Naples isn’t the ‘second home’ any longer, he says. “That’s because we love the lifestyle here—laid back, quiet,

clean, less glitzy and safe. We travel much of the year and get our fi ll of hustle and bustle, so we like coming home to the more subdued nature of Naples as compared to the other affl uent areas of Florida. That being says, living in Mercato gives anyone all the nightlife they can handle without even getting in the car,” Dave quickly adds.

“We were impressed by the entertainment and shopping options right at your front door and the feeling of ‘life’ even in the summer as compared to other areas of Naples,”

“ As for the condo itself, the construction quality and the amenities were really appealing to us...”

to make a good fi rst impression.

Let our friendly and experienced valet associates handle the responsibility of providing a ‘fi ve star’ greeting to all of your customers/guests

509 Avellino Isles Circle #37101 Naples, FL 34119

239-331-7033 | 239-331-7337 faxwww.5starnaples.com

SERVING THE FINEST RESTAURANTS & COUNTRY CLUBS IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

You only get one chance

Valet Parking Private Transportation Car Detailing Concierge Services Consulting Services

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 13Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 13 1/8/13 3:16 PM1/8/13 3:16 PM

Page 16: The Uptowner

14 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Erin notes. “But we frankly expected the condo here to be less enjoyable than it actually has been, which was a pleasant surprise.”

Considering the size of their former home in Atlanta, Erin says, “We thought we’d be itching to fi nd a large single-family home here in Naples within months af-ter getting into the condo as a temporary space. But now, we’re not so sure. We re-ally, really enjoy the lifestyle here in Mer-cato. Even if we do wind up getting a sin-gle-family home in Naples, we plan to keep this condo as our in-town getaway.”

“The location is superb for us. Besides the things right in Mercato itself, it’s close to Waterside Shops, work, the beach and both airports,” says Dave.

“As for the condo itself, the construction quality and the amenities were really ap-pealing to us,” Dave adds. “We enjoy the pool area, the fi tness center, the outdoor

“ The location is superb for us. Besides the things right in Mercato itself, it’s close to Waterside, work, the beach and both airports.”

The Power of 500With more than 500 lawyers and government affairs professionals and a network of 19 offices, we are ranked among the top 100 law firms in the U.S. by The National Law Journal NLJ 250 (2012).

Jonathan [email protected]

John Clough [email protected]

George Powell [email protected]

Cynthia Carlson [email protected]

Naples, FL239.449.5600

©2012 Akerman Senterfitt, Akerman Senterfitt LLP. Attorneys at Law. All rights reserved. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

We invite you to see the full range of possibilities.

BOCA RATON DALLASDENVERFT. LAUDERDALEJACKSONVILLELAS VEGASLOS ANGELESMADISON MIAMI NAPLESNEW YORKORLANDOPALM BEACH SALT LAKE CITYTALLAHASSEE TAMPA TYSONS CORNER WASHINGTON, D.C. WEST PALM BEACH

akerman.com

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 14Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 14 1/8/13 3:16 PM1/8/13 3:16 PM

Page 17: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 15

kitchens and the clubhouse when we have large groups.”

But the features of Mercato itself were the most impressive. “The way the Mer-cato layout encourages you to get out and about to the restaurants and theaters, we don’t feel like we’re missing anything from our big homes of the past—except maybe the maintenance headaches, “Dave says with a laugh. “And that’s a great thing to miss!” Erin adds, “Who can beat hav-ing a Whole Foods in the complex, where you can push your cart right to your front door? In short, it’s the way of life here that we bought into, not just the four walls of the condo itself. For us, it’s perfect.” U

Whether it’s a drink at one of the many restaurants or a movie at Silverspot Cinemas,

the Biggers are enjoying every day at Mercato.

designer •models(get the look at Clive Daniel Home)

loca l . or ig ina l . except ional .

CLIVE DANIELHOME

CD

Interior Design and Furnishings company chosen to create eight model residences at The Strada at Mercato andWinner of 16 Sand Dollar Awardsfor excellence from CBIA including■ Best Interior Design

in multiple categories and■ Best Showroom in Naples!

www.clivedaniel.com 2777 Tamiami Trail North, Naples 34103 • 239.261.home (4663)

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 15Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 15 1/8/13 3:17 PM1/8/13 3:17 PM

Page 18: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 16Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 16 1/8/13 3:17 PM1/8/13 3:17 PM

Page 19: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 17

HERE’S A PARADISE OF SUN, sand and salt on the Gulfshore. But after a carefree day spent beneath perfect palm trees, there is still much more to do and see. We suggest you explore the region’s culture through outstanding visual and performing arts, immerse yourself in area history with insightful museums and tours, embark on a calming walk or challenging trek through one-of-a-kind environment, or shop till you drop at world-class stores and boutiques.

Life’s a BeachUnforgettable sunsets, top-notch recreation and pristine coastline make the beaches of

Naples a true world favorite. Come decide which stretch of shore is your favorite.

On Little Hickory Island in northern Collier County, the 342-acre Barefoot Beach Preserve is home to an educational one-mile trail and 8,200 feet of Certifi ed Healthy Beach, as named by “Dr. Beach,” coastal researcher Stephen P. Leatherman.

Next to the Waldorf Astoria Naples, enjoy 35 acres of mangrove forest, dunes and shoreline at Clam Pass County Park. Take in the views on foot, or ride a tram down the three-quarter-mile boardwalk to and from the outdoor snack bar and equipment rentals found at the beach’s entrance. Just south, discover the rock jetties and prime sunset real estate on Gulf Shore Boulevard North at Horizon Way, Seagate, Vedado Way and Via Miramar beaches.

For those interested in delving deeper into what makes Southwest Florida so special, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offers nature programs and ranger-led tours on a picture-perfect 166-acre barrier island. The park is one of the area’s most popular places for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, shelling and more.

Families fi nd fun at the Naples Pier and Lowdermilk Park, both with volleyball courts, concession stands, outdoor showers and clean restrooms. Visitors to the pier are fairly likely to spot a dolphin at dusk, and Lowdermilk’s playground and picnic area make it an ideal spot for group get-togethers.

tA guide to

the beaches, shops, outdoor attractions and

more that make this city

so special.

Going Places:BY CAYLA STANLEYPHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBI PITTMAN WILKEY

The Best of Naples

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 17Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 17 1/8/13 3:17 PM1/8/13 3:17 PM

Page 20: The Uptowner

18 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Gulf adventures await at North Naples’ Vanderbilt Beach through parasailing, kayaking and Jet Ski rentals, as does a great nap back on shore after a day spent savoring the nearby hotels, restaurants and shopping. Area natives, avid boaters and dog lovers especially appreciate the largely undeveloped Keewaydin Island, found between Naples and Marco Island and accessible only by boat.

It’s easy to spend a day in the sun at the Marco Island favorite Tigertail Beach, which boasts fi ve boardwalks, volleyball courts, a butterfl y garden, kayak and paddleboat rentals, concessions and cabanas. The 31-acre park is also known for top birding and a tidal lagoon.

The Great OutdoorsWhether you hike through its hardwoods, canoe its cypress swamp or stroll its board-

walks on a ranger-led tour, the 729,000-acre Big Cypress National Preserve has many opportunities to revel in the beauty and wildlife of Southwest Florida. You can also enjoy airboat rides, kayaking and camping in this scenic and diverse preserve.

Through a $20 million renovation, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has expanded its efforts to protect the area’s unparalleled environment. Enjoy a fi lter marsh, nature trails, boat cruises and kayak rentals; feed sea turtles at an interactive discovery center; shop a nature store; visit an animal hospital, labs and classrooms; and much more.

At the 14,000-acre Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, you’ll fi nd some of the country’s top bird-watching spots and meander boardwalks through the largest old growth bald cypress forest in North America. Continue your search for deer, alligators, otters, federally endangered wood storks and the rare ghost orchid in marsh, prairie and pine fl atwood ecosystems.

Don’t miss hiking, biking, fi shing, camping and more in the 2,500-square-mile “River of Grass.” The nine distinct habitats of Everglades National Park provide refuge for threatened and endangered species—and create some of Florida’s most unique and striking scenery.

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, known as the “Amazon of North America,” contains the largest grove of royal palms in Florida and is the only place in the world where the tree shares the forest canopy with the bald cypress. The park blooms with 58 native species of orchid and bromeliad and is home to deer, black bears, the Florida panther, alligators, bald eagles, woodpeckers and many other interesting species.

Just south of Old Naples, the Naples Botanical Garden features world-class tropi-cal and subtropical gardens, lakes and facilities, including an interactive Children’s Gar-den plus Caribbean, Brazilian, Asian and water gardens. Stop and smell the roses with dog walks, guided tours, special events and weekly yoga.

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the only nationally accredited zoo in Southwest Florida, features an historic tropical garden and more than 200 animals. The newest additions include giraffes, which you can hand-feed; the fearless honey badger, found in only three other U.S. zoos; four rescued coyotes; and two mature cheetahs. The zoo offers daily shows and animal exhibits, including a guided primate cruise through backwater islands, as well as casual dining options and a charming gift shop.

Residing in the uplands, waters and mangrove estuaries of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve are the likes of bears, bobcats, dolphin and 150 bird species. Located between Naples and Marco Island at the northern end of the Ten Thousand Islands, the organization offers recreation and education, focusing on the restoration and protection of coastal land.

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 18Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 18 1/8/13 3:17 PM1/8/13 3:17 PM

Page 21: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 19

Fairest of FairwaysIf golf is your game, you’ve picked the

right vacation destination. Ranked highly time and time again by the National Golf Foundation, the Naples area fl aunts count-less choices of public, private and semi-private courses designed by the world’s top professionals.

With so many places to perfect your putt, begin with the area’s very fi rst 18-hole course, the landmark Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Also note-worthy are the Scottish links-style courses designed by Greg Norman at Tiburón at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples; the naturally stunning Naples Grande Golf Club; and the three-time award-winning private courses at Grey Oaks and The Estuary at Grey Oaks Country Club.

You can also watch the pros tee off in several tournaments and amateur events during season, including Tiburón’s annual Franklin Templeton Shark Shoot-out in December.

Retail TherapyAmid beautiful condominiums and a

dozen diverse eateries lie the 20 upscale retailers of Mercato. In addition to high-end shopping, Mercato delivers with a luxury cinema, a Whole Foods Market, monthly music and other events.

Locally owned and operated boutiques, studios, and fi ne dining are in store along the waterfront at The Village on Venetian Bay. Make Southwest Florida style your own just a block from the beach and steps from Intracoastal waterfront.

NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS

THE NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS had quite the year in 2012,

with record attendance, animal additions and a heated community

debate over whether to pave its iconic lily pond to allow for more parking.

But perhaps most notably, the institution steeped in family history saw its

executive director step down, leaving the zoo in entirely new hands for the

first time in more than 40 years.

A town treasure, the nationally accredited nonprofit began in 1919 as

the tropical gardens of botanist Dr. Henry Nehrling. In 1969, zoo operators

Col. Lawrence “Jungle Larry” Tetzlaff and Nancy “Safari Jane” Tetzlaff first

brought animals to the property, and their sons David and Tim have since

continued in their footsteps. Before he resigned as director last year, David

(known for his work training big cats) put into motion an unrivaled design

plan for the zoo’s entrance—one that will keep the pond of fish and turtles

that visitors have come to love.

Beyond the beloved koi, the zoo has continued to grow its score of exotic

animals. As a part of the Kiwa Ranch project, imaginatively expanding the

African habitats to resemble an abandoned ranch, it recently introduced

a herd of seven giraffes—which visitors can hand-feed. The zoo next added

the famed honey badger to its list of rare collections, making it one of only

four in the country to house the animal. (The zoo is the only in Florida to

have Malagasy fosas, a mongoose relative native only to Madagascar,

and it has two of only 15 striped hyenas in the United States.)

But the newest members of the zoo and of Kiwa Ranch are two mature

cheetahs, a male from South Africa and female from the Netherlands,

that came to their soon-to-be modified home in Naples this past July. The

vision of Kiwa Ranch and the future of the Naples Zoo are well underway.

The zoo is open 363 days a year, and admission helps support

conservation efforts worldwide.

www.napleszoo.com

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 19Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 19 1/8/13 3:20 PM1/8/13 3:20 PM

Page 22: The Uptowner

20 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

From 1920s beginnings as a clam-shelling and oyster-processing plant to today’s charming collection of boutiques, souvenir shops and casual restaurants, Tin City Waterfront Marketplace is a longtime feature of Old Naples. After wandering around indoors, climb aboard a fi shing or sightseeing charter on the beautiful Naples Bay.

Waterside Shops at Pelican Bay spoils shoppers with delicious dining and more than 60 global designer retailer and specialty stores. Indulge in the Gulf Coast’s premier shopping experience among fl owing waterfalls and 30,000 tropical and fl owering plants.

From apparel and art to beauty and business, fi nd all you desire in the downtown hubs of Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. Uncover more than 100 glamorous shops, plus fi ne bistros, courtyard cafes, quality live entertainment and much more.

A Splash of Color Repeatedly named one of the Top 25 Small Cities for Art, Naples has no limits on

visual and performing arts opportunities. Check out a comprehensive listing of venues, galleries and more in Gulfshore Media’s annual publication, Southwest Florida’s Guide to the Arts.

Take your pick from more than 400 Broadway, comedy, dance, orchestra or popular music events each year at the exceptional Philharmonic Center for the Arts. The Phil delights with a 1,450-seat main performance hall, education center, nationally renowned resident orchestra, black-box theater, sculpture gardens and individually impressive three-story Patty & Jay Baker Naples Museum of Art.

Spend one night at Fifth Avenue South’s Sugden Community Theatre and learn why The Naples Players has been named the area’s best live theatre for a decade and is recognized as one of the top 10 community theaters in the country. Experience even more quality musicals, comedies, dramas, children’s theatre and theatre education through The Marco Island Players, and with regional professional theaters Gulfshore Playhouse and TheatreZone.

If it’s the sophisticated sound of opera you seek, Opera Naples brings professionals to the Performing Arts Hall of Gulf Coast High School, the Naples Opera Society offers live performances at the Norris Center in downtown Naples’—which hosts a number of other entertainment acts, like Naples City Improv—and the Phil partners with the Sarasota Opera. Furthering your music options, the seasoned Classic Chamber Concerts of Naples features prominent musicians at Sugden Community Theatre, The Naples Concert Band provides fun free concerts at the Cambier Park Band-shell, and The Naples Orchestra and Chorus holds free shows in the auditorium of Golden Gate High School.

Take an inspiring studio class or workshop at The Naples Art Association at The von Liebig Art Center, which promotes the contemporary visual arts through changing exhibitions by local, national and international artists; nationally ranked art festivals; lectures; children’s summer programs; a gift shop; and other efforts. You can also take pleasure in a multitude of offbeat to opulent galleries across the area, with notable nooks including Fifth Avenue South, “Gallery Row” on Third Street South, Shirley Street, the Artist Colony at the Esplanade on Marco Island and Bayfront.

Memory LaneDig up the past through exhibits, galleries, gardens and more at the Collier County

Museum, established inside the Collier County Government Center. The fi ve-acre complex also has an archaeology lab, orchid house, logging locomotive, gift shop, early Naples cottages and more.

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 20Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 20 1/8/13 3:20 PM1/8/13 3:20 PM

Page 23: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 21

Now a fully restored, 3,500-square-foot museum named on the National Register of Historic Places, Palm Cottage on 12th Avenue South gives a genuine glimpse into the community’s colorful past through guided tours of the city’s oldest home, its gardens and the district. The 1895 treasure also houses an excellent collection of books and gifts.

Help promote respect and understanding by touring the Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida, which started 10 years ago as an ex-hibit created by middle-school children and teachers. The museum uses more than 1,000 photographs and artifacts to teach the history of the Holocaust to people of all races and religious beliefs.

Travel back to a 1900s pioneer homestead at the Immokalee Pioneer Museum, a 15-acre living history museum at Roberts Ranch just north of Big Cypress Swamp. Ex-perience working life on the longest running cattle ranch in Southwest Florida through exhibits, programs and 20 well-preserved buildings.

The Museum of the Everglades exposes 2,000 years of human habitation in the area of Everglades City, once a frontier trading town accessible only by boat. Learn about the lives of early Native Americans, white pioneers and present residents in this wetland landscape, and view the work of local and regional artists.

Cover more than 100 points of interest around town with the two-hour narrated Na-ples Trolley Tour. Hop on and off as you like, or try the company’s Segway tour for an equally exciting look into the charming past of Southwest Florida. The Naples Historical Society also offers year-round walking tours and cycling trips, and you can pedal the wild Everglades with Naples Bicycle Tours. U

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 21Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 21 1/8/13 3:20 PM1/8/13 3:20 PM

Page 24: The Uptowner

Photograph by Nanette Dorbeck of Luminaire Foto

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 22Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 22 1/8/13 3:20 PM1/8/13 3:20 PM

Page 25: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 23

IVING AT THE STRADA puts you in the heart of all the excitement and convenience—and right in the lap of luxury. This private enclave provides a wealth of features and amenities. Your one-, two- or three-bedroom residence at The Strada includes the very latest designs, state-of-the-art technology and the conveniences of resort living. From the lobbies and the Clubhouse to your own individual residence, The Strada surrounds

you in elegance.

Designer Appliances/Gas Cooktops | Classic Crown

Mouldings | Granite Countertops Throughout | Wood,

Tile and Carpeted Flooring | Secure Keypad Technology

Marble Master Bath | Luxurious, Spacious Design

Top-of-the-line Finishes

The elegant Clubhouse provides all the amenities you’ll need, including:Full Kitchen | Two Flat-screen TVs | Gas-burning Fireplace

52-foot Lap Pool and Spa | Exercise and Fitness Center

Sunning Decks | Social Deck with Bar and Grill

Two-story Private Parking Deck | Social and Billiards

Rooms | Outdoor Pet Walk

StyleStrada

lThe Rewards of Livingat The Strada

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 23Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 23 1/8/13 3:20 PM1/8/13 3:20 PM

Page 26: The Uptowner

24 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

A SAMPLING OF THE STRADA’SUNIQUE FLOOR PLANS

All come with outstanding, professionally designed interior finishes.

SQ. FT.Living Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,475 Balcony Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127Total Residence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,602

2 Bedroom, 2 Bath

FLOOR PLAN “2B”

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 24Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 24 1/8/13 3:21 PM1/8/13 3:21 PM

Page 27: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 25

SQ. FT.Living Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,131 Balcony Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276Total Residence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,407

3 Bedroom, 3 Bath

FLOOR PLAN “3A”

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 25Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 25 1/8/13 3:22 PM1/8/13 3:22 PM

Page 28: The Uptowner

26 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

ITUATED ON TOP of the secured, two-level private parking garage is an oasis of activities designed exclusively for residents and guests. The Grand-Room Clubhouse facility includes a billiard room with a granite bar, a spacious entertaining area with a fi replace, two fl at-screen televisions and a separate full-size kitchen, all framed by a 14-foot-by-26-foot wall of glass

designed to provide a grand view of the main streets of Mercato.

Step next door to the private exercise facility equipped with the latest trends in cardiovascular and weight-training machines. Continue outside and relax on the multi-tier deck surrounded by private, tropical landscaping with outdoor grills, spa and a 52-foot pool. The Amenity Level at The Strada is the perfect complement to the more than 500,000 square feet of shops, restaurants and offi ce space that surround you.

s

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 26Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 26 1/8/13 3:22 PM1/8/13 3:22 PM

Page 29: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 27

Hardwood fl ooring or porcelain ceramic tile throughout main living areas,

bathrooms and terraces | Berber and sculpted carpeting in bedrooms

9-foot, 8-inch ceilings in main living areas and bedrooms | 7-foot solid core

interior paneled doors | Bosch security system with entry keypad | HomeRun

multimedia structured wiring | Custom wood slat closet systems in master bed-

rooms | Classic crown moulding and 8-inch baseboards | Full-size front

loading Whirlpool Duet washer and dryer | Noise abatement features

including: sound control underlayment for all hard surface fl ooring,

additional ceiling and wall insulation, commercial-grade impact-resistant

glass on all windows and sliding doors

LAVISHINTERIORS

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 27Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 27 1/8/13 3:22 PM1/8/13 3:22 PM

Page 30: The Uptowner

28 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Granite countertops with full backsplash and under-cabinet

Halogen lighting | Pendant lighting above breakfast bar | Natural

gas ranges and cooktops | Stainless steel or wood paneled Architect

Series appliances | Stainless steel under-mount sinks

INVITINGKITCHENS

Movies begin at sunset every third Tuesday

of the month.

This FREE concert series features local and regional talents

on the first Thursday of every month.

The sidewalks stir with local artists, musicians and street performers the 2nd Saturday of every month.

Located just nor th of Vanderbilt Beach Road on U.S. 41 | 239.254.1080 | MercatoShops.com

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 28Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 28 1/8/13 3:23 PM1/8/13 3:23 PM

Page 31: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 29Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 29 1/8/13 3:23 PM1/8/13 3:23 PM

Page 32: The Uptowner

30 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

LUXURIOUSMASTER BATHS

Porter Wright is among

Contact:

Attorney At Law

9132 Strada Place Naples, FL 34108-2683

(239)593-2950

Innovative legal project management concepts and alternative fee arrangements were critical to being honored as a 2012 ACC Value Champion.

Granite, marble or limestone countertops | His-and-her under-mount

Kohler sinks | Floor-to-ceiling 12-inch marble on shower walls | 7-foot,

6-inch frameless glass shower doors | 3 shower heads (rainhead, stan-

dard and French handheld) | Private water closets U

Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 30Uptowner2013_1-30.indd 30 1/8/13 3:24 PM1/8/13 3:24 PM

Page 33: The Uptowner

at Bonita Bay

®

®

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 31Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 31 1/8/13 3:31 PM1/8/13 3:31 PM

Page 34: The Uptowner

Photograph by Craig HildebrandModels: Lauren, Runways: The Talent Group and Rocco, 5 Star ValetHair and makeup: Duality ArtistryCar courtesy of Tom O'Riordan, Ferrari Club of America – Naples Chapter

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 32Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 32 1/8/13 3:31 PM1/8/13 3:31 PM

Page 35: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 33

S THE SAYING GOES, “If you lived here, you’d be home by now.” And on those nights when you are out at a great club or restaurant and enjoying yourself, don’t you wish you didn’t have a 20-minute drive home? Yeah, those are the

moments when being able to just walk a few steps to the beautiful residences of The Strada would be worth their weight in gold.

But the main reason it would be so amazing is because Mercato is the perfect gathering place for a night out thanks to a great selection of nightlife options. Anything that you could be looking for to make a night memorable is within a short walk. It’s the obvious choice for people who like to keep their options open, whether you live here or not.

Want a chic bar with hip-shaking live entertainment? Try the always-trendy Blue Martini, known for its cool demeanor and gorgeous wait staff. How about a cigar bar that’ll have you thinking nights in Tunisia? Head to BURN by Rocky Patel. It’s a smokey seductress that will leave you wanting more. Prefer someplace more casual where you can get in some darts and drafts? Then you need to stop by The Pub Naples. It’s the place in Naples to get your English on. Or what about trivia and karaoke with friends? Then Naples Flatbread & Wine Bar is your spot.

If an elegant and upscale lounge where you can enjoy some of the world’s finest vino is more your style, The Wine Loft is calling your name. Whether you prefer it by the glass or by the bottle, its

selection of wines will suit any mood. Looking for a fashionable atmosphere that spills out onto the gorgeous Strada Place? AZN Azian Cuizine has a seat for you and your friends. And if, at the end of it all you just want to sit back and relax with a selection of 350 beers, then TAPS Restaurant, Bar & Lounge should do the trick nicely.

Whatever you’re in the mood for is always right around the corner. Dancing, relaxing, chilling with friends or making new ones, this is the place to be. Ask anyone who’s ever been here and they’ll tell you this is your one-stop, night-out center, and it caters to people of all ages.

Even better, if you are stumped by which place to mingle at, munch at, or mojito at, you can check “none of the above” and head straight for the cinematic choices at one of America’s best movie theaters—Silverspot Cinema. In fact, in an effort to blend your options even further, Silverspot has its own bar and restaurant in the lobby. You can even take food and drinks into the theaters (which, by the way, feature stadium seating and leather chairs that confirm you’re flying first class without any awkwardness from the TSA).

If you want to take the thought out of where to go for a great night, there is no other spot in Southwest Florida that has such a wide variety of top-notch nightlife options as Mercato. The only thing that could make it better is if we never had to leave. Hey, wait a minute… U

BY MICHAEL KORB

Mercato has many options for memorable nights out.

Nightlife? Wow!

a

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 33Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 33 1/8/13 3:31 PM1/8/13 3:31 PM

Page 36: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 34Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 34 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 37: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 35

Y FRIENDS CALL ME A FASHIONISTA. My husband says I’m a shopaholic. Well, guilty as charged. Chalk it up to my sense of style, my years at Women’s Wear Daily and Vogue, and my personal shopping and merchandising posts at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. And, yes, I’ve hit all the

haute haunts from Paris to NYC.

So who knew that one of Naples’ chicest shopping destinations is ensconced in my own backyard? The shops at Mercato offer up carefully culled collections of apparel and accessories, eclectic home décor, culinary utensils and wares, one-of-a-kind jewelry designs and so much more. You just have to know where to go and what to look for. So I’ve taken on that task for you. Here’s the scoop.

m

ShoppingChic-to-Chic

An insider’s guide to Mercato’s shops—from fabulous fashion and haute home décor to culinary tools-of-the-trade.BY DOTTI KEAGY PHOTOGRAPHY BY NANETTE DORBECK OF LUMINAIRE FOTO

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 35Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 35 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 38: The Uptowner

36 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Fashion and AccessoriesSimply Natural is, well, simply divine. The store vignettes

feature dhurrie rugs, pillows, pottery and antique furniture that showcase the chic wares. You’ll find all the hot fashion trends well represented, from lacey tops and dresses to sequins, stripes and snake prints. And if you just want a beautifully textured sweater or flowing print top with skinny jeans, they’ve got that, too.

Grandparent alert! Step into GiGi’s Children’s Boutique —a trendy, upscale kids’ shop extraordinaire—and discover one of the largest selections of preteen girls’ (7-16) clothing in Naples. I was all over the trendy dresses from Un Deux Trois, Zoe Ltd. and Laun-dry; embellished tops and skinny jeans by Miss Me; sportswear from Splendid (for babies, boys and toddlers, too); and a totally chic selection of headbands. So, are you ready to spoil those grandkids?

Bio’s Mercato boutique offers a special mix of sports-wear and dresses that uniquely suits our warmer climate and more colorful lifestyle dressing. I found chic styles by Closet London, Enti and Milla—including trend-right cocktail dresses—as well as enticing belts, bags, jewelry and a small, well-edited selection of shoes.

Sportalm, the well-known Austrian skiwear manufacturer, has a few fashion surprises up its lovely, waterproof sleeve. Even the ski jackets sport unusual fabrics, colors and detailing. Hale Bob’s colorful, predominantly silk print clothing has a celebrity following; L’Argentina features preppy, crested and embroidered polos; and Sportalm’s uniquely designed and detailed dresses and sportswear are perfect for our sunny climes.

At Swim ‘n Sport you can suit yourself perfectly with styles from La Blanca, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Miraclesuit, Skye, Trina Turk and more. One-piece suits are arranged by color; bikini and tankini tops and bottoms are hung separately by color and priced a la carte; and many of the cover-ups look cool even off the beach. For the fun of it, check out the “cleavage kits” with push-up pads, and the retro swim caps!

Chances are you (and the man in your life) know Jos. A. Bank, the national men’s retailer. Whether you’re looking for great value in a classically styled suit, dress shirt, sportcoat, tie, belt, pants, polo, khakis, shorts, socks, shoes or tuxedo, they stock it—and always at affordable (and often sale) prices.

If Tommy Bahama, Trina Turk and Brighton are labels you love, Protocol is your boutique. Browse the dresses and sportswear (in-cluding Bahama’s Relax brand)—then coordinate them with Brigh-ton’s cult-status charms, jewelry, belts, bags and shoes. Before you leave, grab a couple of Tommy Bahama’s signature shirts for your husband or significant other, too.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 36Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 36 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 39: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 37

Clumsy in the kitchen or culinary-challenged? Whether you mean to master the basics or seriously excel at soufflés, Sur La Table’s cooking classes in Mercato are the answer, according to Sur La Table’s resident chef.

THE EXPERIENCE For some, a cooking class at Sur La Table is visceral as the new aromas

and tastes intoxicate and enliven the senses, for others, learning new techniques and cooking with others provides both intellectual and interpersonal experiences. Sur La Table cooking classes are exciting, educational and fun: for date night or girls night out, as a night spent trying something new with the family, or as a place for people with similar interests to meet each other.

Each participant really gets to dive right in and try out new culinary techniques, learn about different kitchen tools and encounter an array of ingredients. If you are over 21, you may bring a bottle of wine to drink while cooking or to have at dinner. Participants always leave with some new recipes and the confidence to try out their new skills at home with loved ones and friends. They also receive a 10-percent-off coupon that they can use for purchases in the retail store for a week after their class.

PROFESSIONAL CHEF INSTRUCTORS Sur La Table’s chefs are classically educated and many have additional

specialty training. The company’s corporate chef creates seasonally inspired recipes for the culinary programs; then the local chefs supplement their in-store cooking class programs with courses designed for their region. Some of the classes are taught by local celebrity chefs and restaurateurs.

CUSTOMIZED CLASSES AND ‘DELICIOUS DATE NIGHTS’“We teach all types of cuisines, from bread making and soufflés to

sweet and savory crepes,” notes Sur La Table’s resident chef. “We choose recipes from around the world: Spanish, French, Italian, Greek, etc. One of the most popular classes is ‘Date Night,’ where you and your partner can have fun in the kitchen together. We have had couples join us that have been together for decades, as well as people on their very first date.” Each couple creates four to five dishes before sitting down for a hard-earned feast. “It’s a really fun night for everyone, including the staff.”

SUR LA TABLE: UNCOMMON COOKING CLASSES

Stepping into Signatures is like entering a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns and textures. You can mix and match tops from Andria Lieu, Lola & Sophie and others with Raffinalla’s slimming pants (you really do look a size smaller!) or Piece of Cloth’s trendy jeggings. The staff is at the ready to help you navigate the vast selections, whether it’s ultracasual separates or a hip animal-print jacket and skirt.

Every woman wants her special day to be just that: special. And the selection of gorgeous and glamorous bridal gowns at Kelly Chase Couture virtually guar-antees a bride will be remembered for dazzling her guests. A magna cum laude graduate of New York’s famed Fashion Institute of Technology, Chase’s design skills have brides flying into Southwest Florida from all over the world. From slinky and sexy to romantic and elegant, these dresses are handcrafted to make dreams come true. Marriage never looked so good.

National retailer Coldwater Creek is all about coordinating comfort, color, texture and style in misses, women’s and petites outerwear, shirts, sweaters, sportswear, denim and dresses. Add the perfect, color-coordinated scarf, hat, belt and jewelry—as well as shop for pillows, throws, candles and decorative accessories for your home, too.

Looking around in Spectacles, you might think it’s just about designer frames and sunglasses. But there’s so much more than meets the eye. In addition to an experienced staff of licensed opticians, Spectacles has teamed up with an indepen-dent doctor of optometry to offer complete ocular evaluations, cutting-edge diagnostics and the latest technology in a full range of client-focused services. That, plus Prada, Chanel, Oliver Peoples, Alain Mikli, Maui Jim, Oakley and more.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 37Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 37 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 40: The Uptowner

38 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

On a Good Footing Natural Comfort should be your first stop before you hoof

it around Mercato. The extremely knowledgeable staff will steer you to your perfect men’s or women’s shoes, boots, sandals or sneakers, whether they’re from Merrell, NAOT, OluKai or UGG. And who knew they carried upscale Mezlan men’s shoes from Spain in exotic crocodile and ostrich quill, complete with comfortably cushioned insoles?

Spain is also home to the Pikolinos brand of comfort shoes, which has a namesake store in Mercato. Known for its superior leathers and tanning processes, Pikolinos produces boots, sandals and shoes for men and women, as well as women’s bags. Profits from the sales of its Maasai Collection of women’s shoes, some hand-beaded by African Maasai tribe women, goes to development projects in the Maasai Mara.

Once inside Sperry Top-Sider, you know these aren’t your parents’ deck shoes! Trendy leopard and snake prints, metallics, studs and sequins abound in women’s boat shoes, ballet flats, moccasins and wedges; while men’s styles also include sneakers, saddle shoes, loafers and boots. And you don’t need to step foot on a boat to wear any of them.

Lutgert Insurance

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 38Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 38 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 41: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 39

Baubles, Bangles and BeadsI was more than a little charmed at Charming Charlie,

where accessories reign supreme. All of the trendy yet affordable jewelry, hats, scarves, handbags, belts, shoes, tops and dresses are displayed by color—so you can go straight to one of this season’s must-have statement necklaces and coordinate it with a sleek, chic clutch. The only problem is, you can’t stop with just one piece. But at these prices, you don’t have to.

National award-winning jewelry designer Mark Loren of Mark Loren Designs handcrafts precious metals and jewels into wearable works of art. From bracelets and rings to necklaces, earrings and cufflinks, there is something for anyone who appreciates style. In addition to the gorgeous selection of jewelry, the store sells rare diamonds and gemstones, offers design services, expert jewelry and watch repair, and has a certified GIA appraiser on premises.

Going to Pandora is a golden (silver or two-tone) opportunity to make every woman’s dream come true. All of the precious-metal charms—often accented with colored glass, enamel, diamonds, pearls or semi-precious stones—are designed to denote one of life’s memorable occasions. How you put them together is up to you. And don’t forget that all those charms, bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces and pendants make great gifts, too. (Hint, hint.)

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 39Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 39 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 42: The Uptowner

40 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Haute Home Décor The only thing I love as much as accessorizing an outfit is

decorating my home, and Z Gallerie is a treasure trove of eclectic enticements. It starts with striking furniture selections and extends to occasional pieces and accessories, fabulous lighting and mirrors, sparkling stemware and modern dinnerware—all artfully arranged by color. So it’s a snap to coordinate a room from the chandelier down to the shag rug. Then choose from the wide selection of framed art and, voila, you’re an interior decorator. And at a fraction of the cost.

If you’re in search of superior interior design services and fur-nishings, however, look no further than Kreiss. A partnership between award-winning Interiors by Design West and world-renowned Kreiss luxury furniture, the design team creates sophisticated yet value-oriented interiors that perfectly suit each client. Factory-direct purchasing from Kreiss and Wood-Mode custom cabinetry also means on-budget, on-time delivery—which, their customers say, exceeds their expectations.

WILLOW STREET ADVISORS, LLCPrivate Wealth Management

9132 Strada Place, 2nd FloorNaples, Florida 34108

(239) 596-9080

198 W. Portage Trail, Suite 105Akron, Ohio 44223

(303) 923-3038

www.willowstreetadvisors.com

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 40Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 40 1/8/13 3:32 PM1/8/13 3:32 PM

Page 43: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 41

Chef’s DelightsFor the epicureans among you, Sur La Table has everything

you need to prepare, serve and enjoy every kind of cuisine—from the simplest to the most complex. I loved the rainbow of colors available in every kind of utensil. From egg beaters to espresso makers, cookbooks to cutlery, you’ll find a wide selection of hostess/gift options for your foodie friends—plus utensils, cookware and bakeware from prestigious brands such as All-Clad, Le Creuset, John Boos & Co., Cuisinart, Wüsthof, DeLonghi and many more. Be sure to sign up for one or more of their wildly popular cooking classes, too (see sidebar).

Beautiful to BeholdThe beauty of ULTA is that it carries both department store and

drugstore brands as well as a great selection of private label products. So you never have to put a price on beauty. From makeup, skin-care and nail care to fragrance, bath and body and hair-care labels (that might be new to you), they’ve got you covered beautifully. And remember to explore the extensive selection of tools-of-the-trade, from hairpieces and accessories to styling appliances, brushes, hot rollers and manicure and pedicure implements.

If you’re looking to treat your hair with the love and respect it deserves, you need find your way to Zen Aveda Salon. There’s a sense of relaxed energy that comes from knowing the stylists are highly trained and that the products used are 98.9 percent organic. Environmental leadership and responsibility are cornerstones of the Aveda brand and this location features all the retail products you’ve come to know and love. Trust us, you’re hair (and the environment) will thank you.

What better way to pamper yourself than to head to the chic Stilista salon? The intimate, upscale shop is a cut above—offering complete hair care services, manicures and pedicures by top hairstylists and nail technicians, as well as facial waxing. The salon also carries the exclusive Keratase and Unite luxury hair products. It’s the perfect way to start or end your day of shopping at Mercato. U

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 41Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 41 1/8/13 3:33 PM1/8/13 3:33 PM

Page 44: The Uptowner

42 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

IrresistiblesThe

1 Laced with romance Exquisite Venice lace, a luscious silk charmeuse lining and a keyhole back make this gown perfect for her special day—courtesy of Kelly Chase Couture.

2 Charmed, I’m sure Personalize the face, bezel and band on this gor-geous watch from Pandora’s ICON Collection. Then intertwine a double-leather bracelet with choice of stunning two-tone charms.

3 Old Hollywood glamorThis stunning four-poster Hollywood king canopy bed from Kreiss features a copper-bronze fi nish iron frame, and is upholstered with an exquisite channel stitched headboard and footboard.

1

Look no further than Mercato for the most tempting and enticing finds.

BY DOTTI KEAGY

2

3

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 42Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 42 1/8/13 3:33 PM1/8/13 3:33 PM

Page 45: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 43

6 The bottom lineTransform your bottom half into your “better half ” with Rafi nalla pants from Signatures. In lots of lengths and colors, they make everyone look one size smaller.

4 Ponies, puppies and poodles, oh my Come see these cuddly, colorful Jellycat stuffed animal and book sets, imported from London, as well as other wonderful baby gifts at Gigi’s Children’s Boutique.

7 In the bag The Padlock Crossbody Bag with gold-tone chain and padlock is just one of so many chic, affordable bag, belt, scarf, hat and jewelry options from Charming Charlie.

8 All decked outThis trendy, limited-edition deck shoe from Sperry Top-Sider features fl irty colors and patterns that can take you onshore and about anywhere you want to go. U

5 Shimmer and shine Protocol’s fabulous jewelry collections from Brigh-ton include this Shell Shimmer short necklace in silver-brown (reversible from silver to antique gold) and gorgeous adjustable long necklace.

68

4

7

5

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 43Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 43 1/8/13 3:33 PM1/8/13 3:33 PM

Page 46: The Uptowner

44 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

OVE ART, MOVIES, MUSIC AND A LIVELY SATURDAY NIGHT SCENE? Well, you have come to the right all-inclusive venue. On any given first Thursday, second Saturday and third Tuesday of the month, your cultural wishes are Mercato’s commands. And Naples’ most magnetic mixed-use complex has supplemented these monthly series with food fests, fine arts shows and internationally themed happenings—many with charitable beneficiaries—all to please and delight its increasingly eclectic audiences.

EVERY MONTHMERCATO NIGHTS MUSIC First Thursdays, 6-9 p.m.Sponsored by Germain

Bring your entire family and lawn chairs to this free live concert series, featuring a vast variety of local and regional musical talent—many of whom make their Southwest Florida debut on Mercato’s outdoor stage. (In February, it’s soulful blues singer Kaleigh Baker; and March features Chicago blues band Little Eddie & the Fat Fingers.) From rock to reggae, bluegrass to blues, rockabilly to country, and alternative to classic rock, it’s all al fresco on the lawn across from Naples Flatbread and MASA.

Action IsWhere the

lBY DOTTI KEAGY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFAN BATISTA Anyone who says you can’t find great free (or nearly free) entertainment in Naples just hasn’t been to Mercato.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 44Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 44 1/8/13 3:33 PM1/8/13 3:33 PM

Page 47: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 45

SATURDAY NIGHTS ALIVE Second Saturdays, 7-9 p.m.Sponsored by Whole Foods Market

Get your groove on, connect with your community and interact with local artists, musicians and street performers on the sidewalks of Mercato (Veron Ennis, Greg Biolchini, Hollis Jeffcoat, Todd Andrew Babb and Arturo Samaniego are here in February). Be sure to show up early at 6 p.m. and meet a different local artist each month in the one-night-only “pop-up gallery.” Of course, plan to have drinks and dinner at any of Mercato’s great eateries, bistros, pubs or bars, too.

MOVIES ON THE LAWN Third Tuesdays, DuskSponsored by Whole Foods Market

Old Hollywood classics and new film lovers alike can kick back and enjoy the cinematic action (like The Wizard of Oz, Tootsie and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory in 2012) on Mercato’s giant inf latable screen. (On February 19, get ready to laugh with School of Rock at 7 p.m.; and on March 19th, bring the family to Cats & Dogs at 7:30 p.m.) Located on the lawn across from AZN, The Pub and Silverspot Cinema.

FEBRUARY9th ANNUAL ASIA FESTSaturday, February 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Admission: $5 (Kids under 12 are free!)

It’s the Year of the Dragon. And in celebration of the Lunar New Year, the Naples Asian Professionals will be featuring Asian cuisine, vendors and live cultural performances including Japanese taiko drummers and Chinese lion dancers—all for your eating, shopping and listening pleasure.

SW FLORIDA CHAPTER “WALK FOR LUPUS NOW”Sunday, February 24, 8:30 a.m. Sponsored by the Lupus Foundation of America

Get walking! Build awareness and help raise critically needed funds to improve the lives of those affected by this unpredictable and life-threatening disease. Funds raised also help advance medical research to ultimately find a cure. For more information, go to www.lupus.org/newsite/pages/walk-for-lupus-now.htm

IF YOU’VE EVER DREAMED about working for yourself, but thought it meant

working by yourself, Venture X is the perfect solution to your office needs. The

innovative office space is designed for small businesses, startups, freelancers

and independent professionals who need a professional working environment,

but don’t want the expense and overhead related with a private location.

The best part is that you get instant networking with other Venture X members.

Surveys show that 75 percent of people who join a co-working office increase

their productivity: Less isolation, more productivity and an increased social

network are all ingredients that create a better business. VEN

TURE

X

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 45Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 45 1/8/13 3:34 PM1/8/13 3:34 PM

Page 48: The Uptowner

46 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

MARCH4th ANNUAL MERCATO FINE ARTS FESTIVALSaturday, March 2 & Sunday, March 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Suggested Donation: $5 (free parking)

Stroll this juried fine arts festival—hosted by the Naples Art Association—which showcases works (in all media) by 125 local, regional and national artists. Then grab a bite at any of your favorite dining spots in Mercato.

WOOFSTOCKSunday, March 24, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.Admission: $10 Benefiting the Humane Society Naples

Put your furry friend on a leash and bring him/her to this groovy day of peace, love, live music, doggie and food vendors for you and other pet-friendly activities.

APRIL2nd ANNUAL MERCATO INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTSunday, April 28, noon-4 p.m. Admission: free

No passport needed for this delectable event. For a small fee, sample international fare from participating Mercato restaurants while enjoying live music from local bands. There will also be lots of fun activities for the little ones at the Kid Zone.

AUGUST3rd ANNUAL BACK-TO-SCHOOL FASHION SHOWFriday, August 9, 6-8 p.m.

Calling all present and future fashionistas. Southwest Florida’s coolest students and teachers hit the runway to showcase the newest fashions from Mercato merchants. There will also be plenty of family fun in the Kid Zone.

OCTOBER2nd ANNUAL BREW-HA-HA CRAFT BEER FESTIVALDate and time TBD

Fall for more than 30 craft beers as you usher in autumn. While you’re tasting and toasting, listen to great music and sample great fare from Mercato restaurants.

TRICK-OR-TREAT FOR KIDSOctober 26, 4-6 p.m.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 46Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 46 1/8/13 3:34 PM1/8/13 3:34 PM

Page 49: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 47

DECEMBERHoliday performances throughout the month, PLUS:

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONYDecember 6, 6 p.m.

Who needs Rockefeller Center? This special, festive event will feature the largest live tree in Southwest Florida, including live performances all night long.

HOLIDAY COLLECTOR CAR SHOWDecember 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

So all you want for Christmas is a new Ferrari? Check out more than 100 exotic and collector cars on the streets of Mercato (including the Ferrari Club cars), all while listening to live music. Now, have you been really good this year?

CHANUKAH CELEBRATIONDate and time TBD

You’re invited to join the Jewish Federation of Collier County and community synagogues and organizations for a candle lighting ceremony, live music and greetings from Jewish community leaders. Happy Chanukah.

Be sure to periodically check www.mercatoshops.com for up-to-date information on all current and upcoming events throughout the year!

See you at Mercato! U

DOWNTOWN

CAPTURE IT ALL...In Gulfshore Life’s family of award-winning magazines—No. 1 in Southwest Florida for more than 40 years.

(239) 449-41113560 Kraft Road, Suite 301Naples, Florida 34105

Subscribe today at www.GulfshoreLife.com or call (800) 220-4853

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 47Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 47 1/8/13 3:34 PM1/8/13 3:34 PM

Page 50: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 48Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 48 1/8/13 3:34 PM1/8/13 3:34 PM

Page 51: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 49

ZN AZIAN CUIZINE BRINGS YOU the rich f lavors and spirit of the Orient. Inhale the aroma of delicate Vietnamese spring rolls, Szechuan peppercorn Florida grouper, Thai red curry jumbo shrimp and Korean beef short ribs in the beautiful, warmly exotic dining room. Bold Asian f lavors excite the taste buds as the Firecracker Roll’s hot tuna ignites your

appetite. Quaff Asian-inspired colorful cocktails in the granite bar, or have a private party in the Zen Room. The miso-sake marinated Chilean sea bass with misoyaki glace is a must-have, as is the Hawaiian ahi poke’s diced pineapple and avocado, the Cantonese roasted duck and the crisply colorful Dragon Roll. Snapper Oscar’s tender crabmeat topping and asparagus is also a classic. And at the end, don’t miss a bite of the chocolate caramel Fuji apple or fried tempura cheesecake.

The Blue Martini is my “to go” spot for an evening of entertainment with the hottest bands and dancing, all in the colorful high-energy “stage” room. It’s also perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the outdoor patio bar or a private party in the VIP room. Bartenders craft delicious and generously sized martinis to elevate your spirits. Martinis like the Mango Madness, Sex in the City, skinny raspberry mojito, cucumber lemonade, three chocolates, pomegranate and grapefruit, and my favorite, the Key lime pie, excite the taste buds. Some pair wine with popularly priced lite fare such as the succulent sliced beef tenderloin, shrimp martini, baked brie en croûte, lobster salad and Margherita f latbread. The Vesuvius cake and white chocolate mousse cakes are not to be missed.

BY IVAN SELIGMAN

aMercato restaurants are a diner’s dream come true.

Taste. Ambiance. Variety.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 49Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 49 1/8/13 3:34 PM1/8/13 3:34 PM

Page 52: The Uptowner

50 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Feast on Italian classics with a modern twist at Bravo! Cucina Italiana. Dine in an Italian trattoria, sharing house-made pastas and savory pizzas in a dramatic setting among faux Roman ruins with Corinthian columns and fallen beams. Watch as the 600-degree open-faced oven produces delicious f latbreads. In fact, thanks to the open long kitchen, you can almost get eye-to-eye with chefs preparing lobster ravioli alla vodka, lemon shrimp Florentine pasta and grilled pork chops with herb butter sauce.

My favorites include salmon capellini, Mama’s lasagna Bolognese, and grilled filet mignon Toscano topped with Gorgonzola. Don’t leave without a torta di cioccolata, tre dolce’s combo of three separate desserts, or classic tiramisu.

BURN by Rocky Patel is an exotic getaway whose chandeliered setting evokes the bygone romantic eras of Casablanca, Cuba, and Asia. This upscale cigar lounge offers Rocky Patel’s Premium Cigars as well as those from other famed cigar makers. Enjoy pre-embargo Cuban classics to an expansive assortment of hand-rolled cigars.

Selections include tobacco leaf fillers from Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic and Costa Rica and nestle in aged wrappers that may hail from Cameroon to Ecuador. Of course, it’s best to savor a cigar with featured cocktails like the strawberry lemonade with Stoli and triple sec; the banana nut bread martini’s Frangelico and Farretti Biscotti liquors, and the blueberry-pomegranate martini’s alluring mix of Van Gogh Acai Vodka, Stoli Razberi and cranberry juice. In addition, the bar features a wide range of scotch, bourbons and cordials.

The Capital Grille is Naples’ magnet for great steaks, seafood and more than 400 wines in a warm and welcoming setting. It’s like a fine turn of the century club featuring weathered wooden walls decorated with vibrant ship and outdoor paintings. Choose a private dining room, or view the brass kitchen’s glowing grills from the main dining room. Lunch casually with The Grille’s luscious chopped sirloin, smoked bacon and sweet onion cheeseburger, lobster and crab burger, or rib-eye steak sandwich’s caramelized onions and Havarti cheese. Dine later with pan fried calamari’s hot and sweet cherry peppers or feast on the Grand Plateau’s chilled seafood bounty. Particular favorites are the porcini-rubbed Delmonico with 12-year aged balsamic, Kona-crusted dry-aged sirloin and the cedar-planked salmon.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 50Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 50 1/8/13 3:34 PM1/8/13 3:34 PM

Page 53: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 51Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 51 1/8/13 3:35 PM1/8/13 3:35 PM

Page 54: The Uptowner

52 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

CIGAR AFICIONADOS drawn by the aromas of fine cigars and leather love BURN by Rocky Patel’s sultry Casablanca-like setting. Adding to the senses, BURN turns up the heat with mixologist Tara Reich firing up the Smoke Stack drink, quite literally. A twist on the classic Old-Fashioned, Tara tempts your palate by mixing bourbon with dark maple syrup instead of traditional plain sugar and bitters. She then ignites your choice of apple, cherry or hickory wood chips in a steel sieve set atop the mixture. Red and yellow flames leap up before Tara inverts a glass over the chips, which then smolder. The glass gathers a dense cloud of aromatic wood smoke. The chips and sieve are then removed and the bourbon is briskly shaken. The rich smoke infuses the bourbon with layers of warmth and flavor.

Originally from Holly, Mich., Tara set out to travel and make new friends across the United States. A brief visit to Las Vegas turned into a five-year mixology career. She moved to Naples to be near her family. Her grandfather's love of scotch and cigars played a pivotal role in her desire to continue her craft at BURN by Rocky Patel.

BURN: HOT BARTENDER

Gourmet Mexican burritos, tacos, salads, chips and guacamole? Chipotle Mexican Grill’s the place to go. The simple menu is long on options. Customize your burrito’s f lour tortilla with choice of pinto or vegetarian black beans or cilantro-lime rice. Select from adobo-marinated and grilled chicken or chipotle-marinated adobo steak, braised carnitas or spicy shredded barbacoa. Then add guacamole, salsa and cheese or sour cream. I prefer my barbacoa burrito over cilantro-lime rice in a take-home friendly bowl—it’s two healthy meals. If tacos are more your thing, they come crispy or soft style, filled with meat, salsa, cheese and romaine lettuce. Your choice is promptly prepared from sustainably raised fresh ingredients. With family-friendly pricing, large portions and many organic ingredients, this is a dine-in and take-out favorite.

Juicy hamburgers are the stars at The Counter Custom Built Burgers. Build your own hamburger in numerous ways, starting with succulent Angus beef. If beef is not your thing, choose from chicken breast, turkey, and vegan veggie burgers, too, in 1/3-pound, 2/3-pound and even one-pound options. Cheeses such as Danish Blue, Greek Feta, Gruyère, Brie and American are just a few of the 12 choices. Add up to four toppings such as dried cranberries, roasted green chiles, sautéed onions, spicy pepperoncinis, sprouts and marinated artichokes. Then top it off with a sauce: apricot, chipotle aioli, Dijon balsamic dressing, lemon vinaigrette, sweet bbq, tzatziki, habanero salsa, and peanut are popular. I add the premium fried onion rings and applewood smoked bacon. Select a bun, order a soft drink, beer or wine (or some other spirit from the full bar) and you’re ready to go.

Grace and Shelly’s Cupcakes may be small but they bring big smiles. From popular Red Velvet and brown sugar caramel to exciting vanilla maple bacon, traditional f lavors meet modern with a tasteful twist. From tartly fresh raspberry lemonade to holiday creations, there’s so much to choose from. The cupcakes are fresh-baked every morning with love, using fine ingredients such as Madagascar vanilla and seasonal fruit and spices. In addition to dozens of unique cupcakes, there are also delightfully decorated cake pops, delicious Royal Scoop ice cream and gift merchandise for any celebration. Grace and Shelly’s even has event catering services that spice up weddings, baby showers, birthday parties and company gatherings.

Erik Kellar

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 52Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 52 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 55: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 53Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 53 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 56: The Uptowner

54 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Bonjour! Le Macaron’s fuschia, grey and white setting is the perfect destination for cozy French charm and taste. The macaron is the gem of French pastries. Colorful macarons are crunchy on the outside and chewy inside, filled with a cream, homemade jam or ganache. And they are to die for. These macarons may well be the lightest and most f lavorful concoctions this side of Paris. Fresh-baked raisin, pain au chocolate and plain croissants are light, airy and f lakey. Just step inside and inhale the aromas. The Cannelles, madeleines, chocolate nut breads and uniquely f lavored gelato will bring an end to any thought of dieting. Savor one with a coffee, espresso, cappuccino, organic tea or Orangina. It also features artisanal William Dean’s Chocolates that are jewel-like works of art.

Enjoy MASA’s rich colors, f lavors and textures of Mexico. Sourced from Oaxaca to Baja, sophisticated Mexico City to Puebla’s famed mole poblano, this is contemporary cuisine culled from across Mexico. There’s an homage to rich Mexican traditions, not Tex-Mex. And the setting is upscale casual. Start your journey with delicious chorizo, apple and Chihuahua cheese stuffed roasted peppers or tortilla soup. Traditional corn tortillas arrive filled with ground veal, king crab, braised beef, or grilled chicken. Tacos al carbon, pescado, al pastor and carnitas are lite fare. Favorites include chipotle salsa marinated grilled beef, grilled sea bass with huichol butter, Oaxaca-style sautéed Gulf shrimp and pan-roasted bone-in pork chop. Satisfy your thirst with fresh limeade, hibiscus tea, natural juices, mojitos, margaritas, tequilas, and an international sampling of beers and wines.

The tall windows of McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood and Steaks frame Florida’s tropical beauty, mirrored by live palms, beautiful rich woods, and autumnal stained glass. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch while dining alfresco, or join friends at the beautifully mirrored bar. Executive Chef Trey Yager’s masterful Floribbean-style cuisine graces your selections. Feast on the day’s locally caught pompano, cobia and grouper, paired with South Florida’s Caribbean fruits and vegetables. Savor pan-seared Gulf red snapper, delicate and f laky, topped with a tropical fruit salsa and tequila lime vinaigrette, or char-grilled Palm Beach Mahi Mahi served atop the signature crab-potato hash, ringed by sweet corn bisque. Try the signature “Chocolate Bag” dessert. Its lush bounty is pure eye candy, with white chocolate mousse, ripe berries and fresh whipped cream.

MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Executive Chef Trey Yager’s Floribbean passions draw on South Florida’s natural outdoor offerings. In fact, he’s always lived on or very near the water, so whether he’s heading a bustling kitchen or spending the day salt water fishing, diving or boating, he’s a man in his element.

Raised in St. Petersburg, Fla., he grew up cherishing the Gulf’s salt water bounty and beaches. After completing culinary school in St. Petersburg, his career took him from Tommy Bahama’s to various other Florida restaurants and steakhouses before gaining renown as a celebrity chef. His niche and focus have been on fine steakhouses and French Caribbean cuisines. His sauces may incorporate familiar to exotic flavors from drinks sourced from a well-stocked bar. Reductions feature hints of natural fruits, spices and a myriad of Caribbean spices.

His sautéed favorites include: macadamia-crusted Gulf red snapper accented by a tropical coconut mango salsa and a yellowtail snapper Francaise, which brings out its texture and unique flavor. All the fish he serves are locally caught in Florida’s salt waters, lakes and rivers.

LOCAL EASE AND EXOTIC SAUCES

Erik Kellar

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 54Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 54 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 57: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 55

“Comfort food, kicked up a notch,” best describes Naples Flatbread & Wine Bar, a neighborhood favorite. This refreshing oasis pairs uniquely pleasing foods with wallet-friendly pricing (try the $5.99 lunch specials and daily 4-7 p.m. happy hour). This warm upbeat environment is perfect for a light yet filling lunch or dinner that’s calorie-friendly. Start with an “appeteaser” such as fire-baked goat cheese, gourmet spicy ahi salad or wild Alaskan salmon salad. There’s something for all, with allergy-friendly and gluten-free delights. Savor a crisp Neapolitan pizza, hearth-baked pasta, grilled turkey and Brie panini, or a famous veggie, pulled pork, Mediterranean, duck confit or exotic chicken tikka f latbread. Then select from more than 30 craft beers, draft beers and more than 40 wines by the glass. Don’t miss the locally made gelato.

Brits and Yanks alike cherish The Pub Naples’ authentic British pub’s warmth and family-friendly comfort. People-watch from the sunlit broad patio, mingle at the grand bar or watch sports and cheer on your team. The charm of the plaid kilt-clad servers and the burnished oak décor heighten the gastropub experience. They even have an enticing assortment of English, Irish and Scottish beers and ales on tap that could make a lass homesick. The “Beverage Bible” brims with liquid appetizers including stouts, ales, whiskeys and other fine spirits. Guinness, Dogfish Head, Boddington’s, Harp, Fuller’s and Hobgoblin are all on draft. And be sure to sample a hand-pumped cask beer. Cosmopolitan cuisine features shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, pot roast, Jamaican jerk shrimp and a feta-topped lamb burger. For dessert? Whiskey-laced Tipsy Laird’s berries, custard and fried cake is the best.

“Dinner and a movie” Silverspot Cinema-style, combines a wonderful cinema and dining experience all in one spot. Valet park the car and leisurely enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner, served inside the lobby. Tall windows bathe the room in sunset’s pastels and give glimpses to shoppers below. Dine on Euro-style lush leather chairs and couches while admiring the stunning movie-themed décor. Preview seared Kobe beef or the chevre and beet salad. Command the Don’s Godfather pizza and Mann’s Chinese lettuce wraps. Pecan encrusted Florida grouper, mascarpone blackened shrimp pasta, and pepper-dusted seared ahi tuna are Oscar winners. Bring light fare such as bbq-roasted pork, grilled Angus beef or lump crabcake sliders into the theater with a wallet-friendly acai mojito, muddled peach Twilightini or sunset margarita.

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 55Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 55 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 58: The Uptowner

56 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

Stage 62 Deli is hands down the best deli around. This Detroit-style deli is a magnet for fressers, mavens and delicatessen lovers. Start the day with lox or poached eggs Benedict, corned beef hash and eggs, or challah French toast. The bountiful breakfasts are served all day long. The Matzo balls are huge, and the country chicken soup, knishes, blintzes and latkes are better than grandma’s. Top salads are the Malibu’s grilled chicken, green onion and feta, the Santa Fe’s grilled skirt steak and the Norwegian salmon. “Deli heaven” continues with the classic Reuben or Russian Reuben sandwich, the made on-site lean corned beef and pastrami, or the boneless braised short ribs, each paired with a nice wine or Stella Artois.

Taps Restaurant, Bar and Lounge welcomes you with great light food and drink in its four very distinct settings. First, there’s an All-American feel with walnut wood, chandeliers and classic paintings in the main room. Then watch the world go by while seated with friends on the patio. Stroll into the Beer Room’s upscale, fun, active ambiance where you can choose from 350 select beers and 30 draft beers. Cocktails offer a shot of perfection stirred with plenty of style. Some incorporate Glenfiddich 12-year Scotch, Chambord, Jack Daniels whiskey and Stoli Orange. It’s more intimate in the Wine Room. Self serve from one- to five-ounce pours of more than 50 Enomatic wine dispenser selections, which change quarterly. Don’t miss the weekend’s live music and special events.

The Wine Loft at Naples is a dining magnet, live entertainment center and meeting spot all rolled into one and features a full spirits bar, craft beers, 75 wines by the glass and more than 100 unique bottles of wine. The luxurious lounge’s sleek Art Deco décor’s chocolate, espresso and dark wood tones are harmoniously balanced by gold accents, sheer curtains and granite. Unique cocktails like the Champagne-tini’s Moet Nectar Imperial, the F.U.Z.’s elderf lower vodka and pink grapefruit juice, and the Citrus Sunset’s juices are oh-so-good. Beautifully presented artisanal creations like brandy-shrimp cream-bathed lobster striped ravioli, tuxedo crusted tuna, Creole-style blackened scallops and scampi, and pecan pear and crab and asparagus f latbreads beckon. Wrap things up by enjoying the nightly live piano music, light jazz and weekend musical duos and trios.

AT AGE 24, AZN AZIAN CUIZINE’S Daniel Leafdale became one of the youngest executive chefs in the area, progressing to the top sport in a mere two years. This creative craftsman of Asian-style cuisines is a soft-spoken Michigan native who left autumn’s changing fall foliage and winter’s icy chill for Naples’ warmth and hasn’t looked back. His largely self-taught culinary journey took him from Fort Myers to Birmingham, Ala., gaining inspiration and perfecting skills before returning to Southwest Florida. His favorite AZN dishes are the dragon sushi roll and the seven-flavor basil beef.

From a personal point of view, he thrives on bold Latino and Caribbean dishes rich with jalapeño, red onion and fresh lime. In fact, he’s first in line for Jamaican jerk chicken from a roadside stand. His comfort foods include oxtail, red pea soup and vibrant salsas. Not surprisingly, cumin, exotic spices, roasted peppers, rosemary and thyme are always close by. You’ll find him on the Gulf, catching snapper, red fish and snook, listening to Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, merengue and the Afro-Cuban All Stars. Chef Leafdale’s also an avid golfer.

YOUNG MASTER OF AZIAN

Erik Kellar

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 56Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 56 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 59: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 57

Whole Foods Market is Naples’ is the only place to go for an amazing variety of healthful grocery items for both the home and catering events. What a cornucopia within its 50,000-plus square feet of foods and accessories. Who else has more than 2,000 wines, 300 beers and 340 cheeses from around the world, with on-site samplings? The huge fresh produce area showcases organic and natural delights. Shoppers can select from fresh-sourced seafoods and truly natural beef and chicken, all competitively priced. Sample wine and cheese at the wine bar, or dine in at the stylish Café, selecting from dozens of hot and cold items. Milk, eggs and fruits are locally sourced. Take home prepared foods like the Mediterranean platters, hot soups, daily specials, baked goods, holiday treats and luscious desserts.

Yogurbella is your destination for freshly made, low-calorie, non-fat, soft-serve frozen yogurts. It’s amazing that a premium frozen yogurt can be this creamy soft. Seasonal f lavors include chocolate, apricot, peach, lemon, coconut, green tea, salted caramel, strawberry and mango. The natural ingredients, nutritious protein and calcium can be quite beneficial for those who are lactose-intolerant or on special diets. I love the kaleidoscopic variety of toppings such as Captain Crunch, Butterfinger, Andes mint, Oreos, chocolate chip, M&M’s and sprinkles. Seasonal fresh fruits include kiwi, blueberry, mango, and blackberry. Yogurt smoothies blended with acai berry, strawberry, banana, apple, orange and pineapple juices are understandably popular. Complement an Arctic Twist with a contrasting cuppa espresso, cappuccino, café latte or café mocha. Eating right never tasted so refreshing. U

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 57Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 57 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 60: The Uptowner

58 T H E UPTOWNER MERCATONAPLES.COM

3

2

12

14

5

LEVEL2

WHOLE FOODSMARKET

SECONDCUP

U.S. BANK

SUR LA TABLE

THECAPITALGRILLE

MCCORMICK& SCHMICK’S

BLUE MARTINI

BURN

ULTA

CHIPOTLE

SIGNATURES

Z GALLERIE

COLD

WAT

ERCR

EEK

LE MA

CARO

N

AVED

A

GRA

CE &

SH

ELLY

’S

CUPC

AKE

S

BIO

SWIM

‘NSP

ORT

TAPS

THE

COU

NTE

R

JOS. A. BANK

STA

GE

DEL

I

PIKO

LIN

OS

CHA

RMIN

GCH

ARL

IE

SPO

RTA

LM

PIAZZA

US 41

PARKING

PARKING

PARKING

RESTROOMS

ESCALATOR

ELEVATOR

STAIRS

VALET STANDS

Map ofMercato

APPAREL

Bio (14) 239.514.3777Coldwater Creek (2) 239.566.7873GiGi’s Children’s Boutique (8) 239.254.0800Jos. A. Bank (3) 239.513.9372Protocol (8) 239.260.1670Signatures (2) 239.254.5800Simply Natural (5) 239.596.1700Sportalm (5) 239.732.0501Swim ‘n Sport (14) 239.514.3174

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT AZN (8) 239.593.8818 Blue Martini (12) 239.591.2583BRAVO! (6) 239.514.0042Burn (6) 239.653.9013The Capital Grille 239.254.0640Chipotle (2) 239.254.1292The Counter (6) 239.566.0644 Grace & Shelly’s Cupcakes (2) 239.596.5300Le Macaron (2)MASA (7) 239.598.0887McCormick & Schmick’s (12) 239.591.2299Naples Flatbread & Wine Bar (8) 239.431.8259The Pub (8) 239.594.2748Second CupSilverspot Cinema (8) 239.592.0300Stage 62 Deli (3) 239.597.2800Taps (14) Whole Foods Market 239.552.5100The Wine Loft (8) 239.598.5601 Yogurbella (8) 239.431.6787

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 58Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 58 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 61: The Uptowner

MERCATONAPLES.COM T H E UPTOWNER 59

11

106

7

8

LEVEL2

LEVEL2

KELLY CHASECOUTURE

VENTURE XBRAVO

OFFICES

SPO

RTA

LM

SIM

PLY

NAT

URA

L

SPER

RY

MARK LORENDESIGNSGIGI’S CHILDREN’SBOUTIQUE SP

ECTA

CLES

KREI

SS

AZN

THE

PUB

NA

PLES

FLAT

BREA

D

STIL

ISTA

SA

LON

AM

ERIC

AN

EAG

LEM

ORT

GA

GE

YOG

UR-

BELL

A

NAT

URA

LCO

MFO

RTPR

OTO

COL

THE

WIN

E LO

FT

PAN

DO

RA

MA

SA

PREM

IER

SOTH

EBY’

S

SILVERSPOT CINEMA

SILVERSPOTCINEMA

FOUR-LEVEL PARKING DECK

PARKING DECK

PARKINGDECK

PARKING

PARKING

HOME FURNISHINGSKreiss Furniture Showroom (8) 239.249.6800Sur La Table (3) 239.598.3586Z Gallerie (2) 239.254.7899

SHOES

Natural Comfort (8) 239.514.0002Pikolinos (3) 239.431.8184Sperry Top-Sider (7) 239.254.0005

JEWELRY Charming Charlie (3) 239.254.1702 Mark Loren Designs (8) 239.596.5820Pandora (7) 239.431.5520

SERVICES Spectacles (8) 239.566.9300Stilista Salon (10) 239.431.5171ULTA Beauty (2) 239.514.0151Zen Aveda Salon (2)

SPECIALTY SHOPS Kelly Chase Couture Bridal Boutique (8) 239.690.7379

REAL ESTATE SERVICESPremier Sotheby’s International Realty (7) 239.594.9400

OFFICES Akerman Senterfi tt (10, Floor 2) 239.449.5600American Eagle Mortgage (10, Floor 1) 239.434.0300Cohen & Grigsby, P.C. (6) 239.390.1900Merrill Lynch (10, Floor 3) 239.649.2936Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP (11, Floor 3) 239.593.2900Sabadell Bank & Trust (11, Floor 1) 239.552.4820Salvatori, Wood & Buckel (11, Floor 4) 239.552.4100U.S. Bank (3, Floor 2)Venture X (10, Floor 1) VentureX.co239.300.9601Wells Fargo Private Bank (6, Floor 3) 239.552.2580Wicker, Smith, O’Hara, McCoy & Ford, P.A. (10, Floor 2) 239.552.5300Willow Street Advisors, LLC (11, Floor 2) 239.596.9080

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 59Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 59 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 62: The Uptowner

Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 60Uptowner2013_31-60.indd 60 1/8/13 3:37 PM1/8/13 3:37 PM

Page 63: The Uptowner

Tam

iam

i Tra

il ( U

S 41

)

Vanderbilt Beach Rd Goo

dlet

te-F

rank

Rd

uptowner2013_cover.indd 994uptowner2013_cover.indd 994 1/8/13 3:05 PM1/8/13 3:05 PM

Page 64: The Uptowner

uptowner2013_cover.indd 995uptowner2013_cover.indd 995 1/8/13 3:05 PM1/8/13 3:05 PM