As we entertain visitors and prepare for the holidays, it’s great to know a few of the business around town that are “uniquely Naples.” Local businesses appreciate our patronage, and it’s fun to explore what specialties bring local flavor….whether it’s an item that you’re tucking under the tree, a hostess gift, or a store or restaurant that you’ll be visiting during the season ahead.
Here are just a few!
Naples Olive Oil Company has two locations: one on Fifth Avenue South, and the other in North Naples on Immokalee Rd. Naples Olive Oil Company describes their store as a “tasting gallery” of organic virgin olive oils and infused vinegars. Team up an assortment of high quality oils with locally made pasta, chocolates, and kitchen accessories for a gift that carries the flavor of Naples.
Naples Soap Company in Tin City is a terrific stop on your shopping route. Founded by a registered nurse, Naples Soap Company opened for business in 2009. The store itself offers a clean and delightful ambience with a full range of “tester” products. Moisturizer sticks, body butter, bath bombs, hair products and more come in a delightful range of fragrances. All products are made of natural and organic ingredients suitable for sensitive skin.
While in Tin City, swing through the Naples Winery. Can you believe it? A store filled with premium specialty wines, all made from 100% pure Florida citrus? The wine selection is delicious whether you are sampling during daily wine tastings or buying for everyone on your list - so delicious in fact that the Naples Winery has won over 250 national and international recognitions and medals! From sparkling wines to richer ports, the Naples Winery can round out your gift giving. Add a few accessories for another “touch of Naples.”
A short drive north to 5th Avenue North takes you to Olde Naples Chocolates. Open the door to the sweet aroma of chocolate and an array of gourmet treats…all made on premises. You’ll be truly amazed at the variety and selection - try a truffle, a salted caramel, or a peanut butter cup as you browse. Each confection is created by hand, using natural ingredients. This “taste of Naples” has been family owned for 23 years.
Indulge your sweet tooth further at Norman Love Confectioners’ Chocolate Salon in the Park Shore neighborhood. Norman Love takes chocolate and artisan desserts to a level of artistry that you don’t find just anywhere. Here, you’ll find truffles, tarts, “black” chocolate, and specialty holiday items and flavors to tempt your palate. Your selection will be packed carefully in a signature Norman Love box - add a bow or card, and you have a gift that will turn heads! (Another great gift idea is a class at Norman Love - ranging from elegant home desserts to molded and dipped chocolates!)
Naples is also home to an artisanal brewery, the Naples Beach Brewery. Enjoy a tour and tasting at this “hands on” local brewery, and select your favorite beers to take home.
New on the Naples restaurant scene this year is The Local Naples, an eatery dedicated to fresh farm-to-table and sea-to-table cuisine. Located in a strip mall center at Pine Ridge Rd. and Airport-Pulling Rd. (just around the corner from Bed Bath and Beyond), The Local specializes in locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes daily, so it’s always fun and always an adventure to see what’s in season.
During your holiday season - and right into the new year - I hope you’ll take advantage of these and many more unique local business in Naples. Enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the little “something special” that Naples has to offer.
