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Friends and neighbors,

I’m finding comfort in the rhythm of the afternoon storms: how they roll in like clockwork, linger just long enough, then disappear as quickly as they came. The rain feels like a gentle reminder, or maybe a firm imperative, to pause and reset… or even better, take a nap.

While I love discovering hidden gems, this week I returned to two Naples institutions. I finally made it to Campiello for their summer lunch special and revisited Jane’s on Third for a group brunch. We’ll be sending out the newsletter on both Tuesdays and Thursdays now—Tuesdays for restaurants and guides, Thursdays for events.

Enjoy the read. And if someone comes to mind who might need a place to stay, I’d be grateful if you referred them to our sponsor, Naples Florida Rentals. I checked out a couple of their homes last week and can attest they’re pristine, beautifully decorated, and managed by one of the warmest Naples locals, Dana. 

I hope you’re savoring the slower pace around town these days. But just in case you’re looking, there’s always something special to try.

Cheers,

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Table of Contents

A Classy, Lazy $20 Lunch: Campiello

I found myself languishing one Saturday, baking in the heat and searching for a respite. A friend suggested Campiello, and one look at the pick-two, $20 lunch menu, and I was sold.

Campiello is a gem for us solo gals, thanks to the large, shaded bar area that’s perfect for lunch. The fountain flows nearby, and the dappled sunlight provides just the right ambiance for a leisurely escape. You can choose to sit indoors, on the expansive patio, or right at the bar.

This time of year, no matter where you sit, you’re peacefully surrounded by a handful of other locals, and lyric‑less, lo‑fi music sets the lazy mood where you can fully hear yourself think. 

Campiello has been serving wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas on Third Street for over 25 years, a feat that doesn’t come easily in an industry where 80% of restaurants close within five years. 

The lunch deal includes a first and second course (which they'll serve together). The starters are a variety of salads, a soup of the day, or fries. I opted for the orzo salad, chilled and lightly dressed, the feta lending a nice saltiness while fresh basil and green onion brought fresh, herbal notes. For my second, I ordered the mussels all’ Amatriciana—a lunch-sized heap swimming in a garlicky, tomato broth with guanciale and onion, crowned by a slab of charred focaccia begging to be dipped. I was refreshed by the salad and indulged by the forkfuls of mussels.  

Other second courses include a margherita, fennel sausage, or pepperoni pizzetta, a handful of pasta dishes, and a grilled chicken panini. A regular at the bar insisted—no less than six times—that I should have ordered the pizza, which I could see being made in the corner. I did miss the homemade potato chips that come with their sandwiches, which are a special type of luxury to me. I know how labor-intensive they are, having spent hot afternoons of my youth frying potato chips with my mother (and her with her mother before), laying them all around the house to dry on brown paper bags. Crispy delights. 

Even if you have work to do afterward, it’s hard to resist a cold glass of wine. My six-ounce pour arrived with a mini carafe nestled in an ice bucket—a welcome touch that kept my wine chilled long into the meal (especially useful if you strike up a riveting conversation at the bar).

For $20 (a total of $36 with wine and tax), it felt indulgent without guilt. A mid-day escape that left me full and plotting my return.

Campiello
1177 3rd St South
11:30am – 3pm 2 for $20 Lunch Special
https://campiellonaples.com/

A Reliable Favorite: Jane’s Café on Third

Many of you recommended Jane’s on Third for brunch, and since I hadn’t been in a while, I figured it was time to go back. 

Especially with groups, I’m always on the lookout for a brunch spot with enough variety to please everyone. Jane’s has the opposite problem—so many options that it’s almost impossible for a full group to decide. All the omelets and eggs benedict you could want, sweet breakfasts, lighter bites, and plenty of lunch options too. When my brother and his girlfriend were in town, Jane’s felt like the obvious choice.

We arrived around 12:30 p.m. and were pleasantly surprised to find the courtyard mostly empty. The fans set up around the tables helped cut the worst of the afternoon heat. We sipped bellinis and mimosas—the perfect, if slightly silly, accoutrements for reminiscing about childhood.

I went for the A.B.C. omelet—avocado, bacon, and cheese—with a side of toast and fresh fruit. Others at the table ordered omelets and the Mexican hash, and our food arrived surprisingly fast, which was welcome considering we were famished. I was satisfied with my omelet, which was soft, cheesy, and a decent size. I snagged a bite of Mexican hash too, which was generous with its chorizo and guacamole. If you're expecting crispy home fries, note that Jane’s are soft and tender but still satisfying. The food is straightforward and no frills, just done well. The drinks are large, and one is enough to last the whole meal. Our server was kind and attentive, checking in often and making sure we knew the day’s specials. 

Between the convenient location and the charming ambiance in the courtyard, Jane’s is an easy answer to group brunch, without worrying about a sparse menu or finicky reservations. I appreciate that it’s first-come, first-served, which keeps things casual and low-stress. Jane’s for me remains a reliable favorite. 

Jane’s on Third
1209 3rd St S
8:30 AM – 3 PM (all day breakfast)
https://www.janesgardencafe.com/

Here’s What You Said: Brunch Reservations?

Last week's poll asked: Where would you make reservations for brunch?

Here’s where you landed:

Lots of love for many of these brunch spots, but even more for the favorites I missed! A few of you mentioned Jane’s on Third, and The Claw Bar also got a shout-out. Here’s what you said: 

  • L.J. - “Love the simplicity of The Rooster (hot honey on the Avocado Toast is my go-to). If I could afford Sails more often, I would go because their brunch experience is phenomenal! But I LOVE the bottomless beverage option at Old Vines!”

  • A.C. - “Crème de la Crème or Jane’s on Third. First Watch is also good!”

  • L.J. - Old Vines - “Chef Brooke is the best, bringing exquisite flavors and pairings for an unforgettable experience.” 

I love hearing your feedback; it makes this newsletter better. 

This Week’s Poll: What makes a good café?

When 10 AM rolls around on a summer weekday, I am itching for an iced coffee out of the house. Preferably cold brew, with (honestly) a bit too much half-and-half. Coffee always tastes better made by someone else—all things left the same.  

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Why It Matters

Beyond simply enjoying a good meal, these local eateries—like Campiello and Jane’s Café—become more than just restaurants. They're places of respite, spots for connection, and the backdrop for making memories with family and friends.

Your recommendations and feedback highlight how these establishments shape our community experiences, making everyday moments special.

Keep sharing your favorites—it’s what makes our local dining scene truly vibrant.

Elizabeth Bellotti
Editor-in-Chief
Naples, Florida
The Naples Florida Review

P.S. - Check out our sponsor’s vacation homes, comfortable for you, your family, and even your pets. Find out why they currently have more than 500 reviews (all 5 stars!). For more information and to book that perfect vacation, click here.

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