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Friends and Neighbors,

What Naples needs right now – heck, what America needs right now – is tacos. It’s something an overwhelming majority of Americans agree on. I was kicking around ideas for this week’s issue when I stumbled on a quick note about the brand-new Paulitas Taqueria, which had opened less than 24 hours before. Paulitas featured an item I’d never experienced – the breakfast taco. I took a quick trip over and decided that a review of Paulitas would be perfect for this issue. 

You don’t have to stray far from Naples to feel like you’re in a totally different part of Florida – or even feel like you are in a completely different decade in Florida. I’ve always felt the latter about Bonita Springs. Bonita Springs is like the Naples of the 90s. Hear me out: the Everglades Wonder Gardens has the same kind of vibe as Jungle Larry’s did before transforming into the Naples Zoo. It is less built up, more of the old-Florida style homes and a little less uniform in its culinary and entertainment options. 

In this week’s issue we’re including a post about some essential spots to visit if you want to get away from Naples for the day and visit Bonita Springs. Some of the restaurants there are really fantastic, so it’s worth taking a look. Interested in other day trips? Check out a good collection here.

Also in this issue, Aviation-themed 7J7 Sky Lounge is getting ready to take flight this fall in Naples.  Check out this cool new concept with the link inside this issue.

The results from last week’s poll are in and most respondents either live in Naples or live most of the year in Naples – no surprise there! In this week’s poll we want to find out what your favorite cuisine is here in Naples.

I want to thank everyone for the great comments and feedback on the first three issues! Keep it coming! Email me at [email protected].

Best,

📰 Upcoming in this issue

• A Breakfast Taco to Unite Naples 🌮

• The Charm of Bonita Springs 🌴

• Taking Flight: The 7J7 Sky Lounge is Coming to Naples this Fall ✈️🍷

A Breakfast Taco to Unite Naples: 

In this time of intense political divide, do you know what could really bring us together? Tacos. 95% of Americans love tacos. I learned that fact today from the colorful brochure at the newly-opened Paulitas Taqueria on 3^rd Avenue North. I tugged on my husband Manny’s sleeve and whispered, “what about the other 5%?” He looked at me sideways and shrugged, “Insane?” 

Paulitas quietly opened last week on 3^rd Avenue North in the building formerly occupied by Bill’s Café. The space was small and cramped then, and things haven’t changed in that regard. There are a few tables inside (we were lucky enough to snag one of those) and several tables outside in the shade. The kitchen is large and open, and the space feels very clean and inviting. 

The menu is brightly painted on the wall and divided into tacos, quesadillas, breakfast tacos and sides. We are here because of the breakfast tacos. Last night – scrolling through my phone later than I should have – I stumbled on a Facebook post about a new taco place that had opened near downtown. The reviewer took good photos and it was the breakfast taco that caught my attention. Eggs in a taco? Who puts eggs in a taco? Do I need a taco with an egg? After a very brief internal debate I decided to drag my taco-loving husband downtown today to see what it was all about. 

“Right down the street from Turco Taco? That’s ballsy.” Manny grinned as we stepped inside the restaurant and began perusing the menu. One thing you have to understand about Manny, is that he has a true passion for tacos that borders on annoying. He’s very particular, and some of his opinions about local taco spots are controversial. I already knew what he was going to order before he opened his mouth: al pastor and carne asada. He added a chicken and birria taco “for the kids.” Gesturing at the board he explained – unnecessarily (I’ve heard this story once or twice) – that “when there are two pork options on the menu, and you have to pick one? Go for al pastor.”

I took the resident taco lecturer’s advice and got a breakfast taco al pastor and a birria breakfast taco. All of the tacos – breakfast or otherwise – are $10 for two. You are free to mix and match. The quesadillas aren’t what you’re thinking – they’re better. Instead of a big flour-y half moon that’s inevitably stuffed with more cheese than whatever else you added to it, these are made inside regular size taco shells. It is essentially just a perfectly-crisped  taco with melted cheese binding it together into a delicious looking gooey mess. I began to wish I was hungrier. 

Looking around, this place seemed like the real deal. Over in the corner near the flat-top, they carved al pastor layered with pineapple from a spit. I wasn’t offered a hundred different toppings when I ordered (which I appreciated), but finely chopped onion and cilantro that looked really fresh. And the green salsa! They have a hot green salsa that is the closest I’ve had to my all-time favorite from Sophie’s Cuban in New York City. As we sat down and I heard my eggs hit the griddle, I began to worry for this little taco spot that sits in the shadow of the well-known Turco Taco. (I have since learned that it is part of the Flemming’s Family of Restaurants – so they do have some pretty serious support.)

I shouldn’t have worried. The tacos are truly great. They even crisp the taco on both sides to make the tortilla crunchy – a note of brilliance. You can also add their outstanding green salsa or perfectly ok red salsa and munch away. The tacos are a manageable size and filled appropriately – a fact that I loved, because I hate trying to eat a taco that has fillings spilling out from all sides. 

So here’s how the experts at Paulita’s make a breakfast taco. First they fry an egg sunny side up and somehow make it almost perfectly tortilla-sized. They break the yolk and cook it perfectly, before layering it on top of a corn tortilla and filling it with your choice of protein.

My birria breakfast taco was amazing. There was something about the crunch on the tortilla, and the freshness inside from the chopped onions, that provided just the right balance texture needed for the egg and birria within. The combination was warm, flavorful and so satisfying that it has me saying words like “freshness.” I polished off the first one and looked towards Manny. It was the moment of truth. 

“Wow,” he said, finishing the al pastor taco, “that was really good.” I pause here to say that “really good” is a five-star review from Manny. The al pastor was, in fact, the star of the show and delicious in my second breakfast taco. I also had a chance to try Manny’s carne asada taco and was impressed. I’ve shied away from ordering carne asada tacos lately because I feel like the meat is always tough and makes it hard to bite the taco in half (you end up dragging half a piece of meat out of the other side and it is a general mess). Not so at Paulitas. The carne asada tacos have some of the most tender meat I’ve ever tasted in a taco and the seasoning is on point. The chips need work (maybe we just caught an off batch), but they nailed everything else. 

When we first arrived at Paulitas, we were the only ones there. That’s going to change and this place will fill up soon, so I’ll fill you in on some details. Paulitas does not have a traditional website, but they do have a site where you can view the menu and order online. (Click here.) They are open for breakfast and lunch only from 7 AM to 2 PM Monday through Saturday (a time frame I hope they’ll reconsider someday because a breakfast taco at 9 PM sounds pretty good to me).  Their address is 947 3^rd Ave N. Naples, FL 34102. 

Let’s face it – there are a lot of good taco places in Naples. How many of them have an al pastor taco with a perfectly cooked egg, though? I think this will become a favorite breakfast and lunch spot, so get over there while it’s still off-season and relatively unknown. 

The Charm of Bonita Springs 🌴 read the full 1,039-word article here

Article published: January 19, 2024

In "Naples Day Trips Part 1: Explore Bonita Springs," Naples Florida Rentals takes us on a delightful journey just north of Naples, where Bonita Springs offers more than just pristine beaches and luxury shopping.

Bonita Springs shines with unique activities and dining experiences that will leave you craving more.

One standout is The Bohemian, a vibrant, funky restaurant known for its innovative fusion dishes and unforgettable vibe.

Nature lovers will adore Barefoot Beach Preserve, with its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.

And if you're looking for something quirky and old-school, the Everglades Wonder Gardens won't disappoint with its zoo/garden combo.

So, buckle up and explore the hidden gems of Bonita Springs!

Key Takeaways:

• 🌿 Barefoot Beach Preserve: Enjoy white sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life at this pristine beach destination.

• 🐊 Everglades Wonder Gardens: Quirky zoo/garden combo showcasing Old Florida charm; get there early for animal feedings.

• 🍷 The Bohemian: Funky restaurant with fusion dishes, bright blue lacquered walls, and cool lighting – a favorite for locals and visitors.

• 🌽 Bonita Springs Farmers Market: Vibrant Saturday market with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies from 8 AM to noon.

Taking Flight: The 7J7 Sky Lounge is Coming to Naples this Fall ✈️🍷 read the full 1,150-word article here

Article published: July 10, 2024

I just read the fascinating article “Aviation-themed 7J7 Sky Lounge landing this fall in Naples” published by Gulfshore Business, and it’s safe to say I’m excited about this unique addition to Naples.

This isn't just any wine lounge—it's an aviation-themed experience brought to life by Jason and Leigh James, both seasoned American Airlines employees.

Located in a stunning modern two-story building on First Avenue North, 7J7 Sky Lounge promises an experience like no other, blending aviation nostalgia with top-tier Oregon wines.

From an experimental aircraft hanging from the ceiling to a 747 jet engine cowling serving as a bar centerpiece, the details are both intricate and awe-inspiring.

You'll even find members of the lounge's "flight crew" in vintage uniforms, ensuring a full-on aviation experience.

James' personal story adds another layer of intrigue, as he transitions his lifelong passion for flying into a new venture that brings the skies a bit closer to the ground.

Key Takeaways:

• 🚀 Vintage Aircraft Display: An experimental aircraft from 1977 will be suspended from the vaulted ceiling, adding an authentic aviation touch.

• 🍷 Oregon Wine Focus: 7J7 Sky Lounge highlights wines from Oregon, especially from the renowned Willamette Valley.

• ✈️ Flight Crew in Vintage Uniforms: The lounge's "flight crew" will enhance the aviation experience, dressed in classic uniforms.

• 🍇 Wine Tasting Events: Regular wine tastings and classes will be held, offering a deep dive into Northwest wines and pairings.

Take this edition’s poll:

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Why It Matters

At Naples Florida Review, we value every bite, place, and story. Exploring new spots like Paulitas Taqueria enriches our lives and supports local businesses. Day trips to Bonita Springs highlight the beauty nearby, while ventures like 7J7 Sky Lounge introduce unique experiences to our city.

By staying informed and connected, we all contribute to Naples' vibrancy and growth.

Happy reading and happy exploring!

Carolyn Cervoni
Editor-in-Chief
Naples, Florida
The Naples Florida Review

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