Four Fantastic Restaurants for Oysters 🦪, Organically Twisted is a Hidden Gem, Chubby Mermaid Brewpub Debuts

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In this week’s issue of the Naples Florida Review, dive into our guide to Four Fantastic Restaurants for Cold Water Oysters, featuring standout spots like Captain & Krewe and The Claw Bar, where you can enjoy freshly shucked oysters along with other delicious seafood. Each venue offers a unique vibe, from the hidden gem ambiance at Captain & Krewe to The Claw Bar’s happy hour deal. Looking for gulf oysters instead? We’ve got you covered. 

We also highlight a Naples Hidden Gem, Organically Twisted, a vegan/vegetarian focused restaurant with fresh, vibrant menu options. Yes, it’s in a strip mall, but the restaurant’s inviting, relaxed atmosphere inside and grab-and-go options make it a local favorite for health-conscious foodies. This is not a place to skip, even if you are a meat eater like I am. 

Finally, explore Bonita Springs’ thriving brewery scene and read about the grand opening of amusingly-named Chubby Mermaid Brewery. This addition to Bonita's beer landscape offers craft brews in a fun, welcoming setting, just a short drive from Naples. 

Table of Contents

• Four Fantastic Places for Cold Water Oysters

• Naples Hidden Gem: Organically Twisted

• Chubby Mermaid Brewery Opens in Bonita Springs 

Four Fantastic Places for Cold Water Oysters

4. Sea Salt

Price: $24/half doz (prices vary, but are around $4.00-$4.25 each)

The ambiance and service at Sea Salt is top notch, and they reliably offer a good selection of cold water oysters from the east and west coasts. Importantly, the oysters are served ice cold and there are a options for accompanying options (horseradish, mignonette). I would recommend making a reservation in season, as the restaurant is located in the middle of the popular 3^rd Street South. After your oysters, you can stroll along third and shop or sightsee. 

3. Swan River

Price: $19/half doz

Swan River is an often-overlooked gem next to USS Nemo. They have a seafood market along with an attached restaurant. The market has some of the freshest seafood around and it is clean and efficient and doesn’t smell fishy. The restaurant is bright and open with a central bar and seating around the room. They have a good selection of raw cold water oysters that are fresh shucked, cold, and served up quickly. Pair with a cup of their excellent North/South Chowder and enjoy!

2. The Claw Bar

Price: $26/half doz

Happy Hour Price: $15/half doz (3PM-5PM daily)

The ambiance at the Claw Bar is amazing, and this spot has the cheapest happy hour oysters on the list. One thing I like about the Claw Bar is the variety of seating. From outside tables to dark indoor booths and tables, there’s something for everyone. Oyster lovers should sit at the raw bar and watch as oysters and crab are served up fresh. Happy Hour is a normal 3-5PM (some places in Naples have ridiculously short Happy Hours, so enjoy) and the oysters are nearly half price. Stop by at the end of a busy day and enjoy this gem of a restaurant inside of the Bellasera Hotel. 

1. Captain & Krewe 

Price: $24/half doz

Captain & Krewe is a true Naples Hidden Gem and I am continuously surprised by the number of local friends and family who have never heard of this spot. Captain & Krewe faces Cambier Park and the restaurant offers a variety of seating and fresh seafood. If you are an oyster lover, I recommend sitting at the oyster bar and watching the expert shuckers at work. They always have a good selection of cold water oysters and the quality is simply the best in Naples. 

Looking for good quality, inexpensive Gulf Oysters? Jack’s Seafood Bar & Grill is the place to go. Jack’s is a well-known and well-loved local  spot. They have a variety of seating ranging from the bar to high tops and regular tables. The live music in the evenings is a big draw and the generous 11AM to 7PM happy hour has 25% off wings and peel and eat shrimp. The gulf oysters are served cold and freshly shucked for $24/dozen. I ate a lot of cheap, questionable, gulf oysters when I lived in New Orleans. I can attest that these are a big step above other gulf oysters that you’ve tried. 

Naples Hidden Gem: Organically Twisted

Nestled in an inconspicuous strip mall on Livingston Road, Organically Twisted is the ultimate hidden gem for fresh, inventive vegan dishes, as well as options that will appeal to  the non-vegan crowd. Known for its incredibly fresh ingredients, this spot delivers a flavor-packed menu in a unique atmosphere. 

Must-tries include the Avo Loco Wrap (also available as a bowl) which is a crunchy, delicious veggie-filled delight that I recommend getting “spicy.”  The menu also includes excellent  Tacos Gone Nutz, a unique twist on classic tacos with walnut “meat” that packs a punch of bold flavors. Trust me – I am a meat eater and I was very pleasantly surprised by the texture and taste.  For meat eaters seeking some protein, the Curry in a Hurry wrap includes chicken and  is an excellent choice. I also recommend ordering  the Curry in a Hurry wrapped and spicy and pairing it with the side salad. All of the selections mentioned boasts crisp, fresh greens that are simply unbeatable.

Organically Twisted offers the ease of online ordering, making it convenient to grab a quick, healthy meal without the wait. Once you step inside, you’re transported from the strip mall exterior into a laid-back, cool space with both indoor and outdoor seating options. For those looking for a refreshing drink to pair with their food, the kombucha on tap is a delightful touch. They also offer a range of grab-and-go items in their cooler. With a relaxed vibe and thoughtfully curated menu, Organically Twisted makes healthy eating an exciting and accessible experience. 

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Chubby Mermaid Brewery Opens in Bonita Springs 

Bonita Springs is located just up the road from Naples, Florida and it boasts a variety of often-overlooked excellent restaurants. Bonita is also becoming a serious player on the brewery scene. With the opening of Chubby Mermaid Brewery on October 25th, Bonita will now have five breweries in a five mile radius, and it’s worth the trip north to explore the selection. 

Check out the latest on Chubby Mermaid Brewery from Gulfshore Business here. Chubby Mermaid Brewery  is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 9 p.m. Sunday; and is currently closed on Mondays.

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Why It Matters

The difference between an average night out and a memorable one often comes down to knowing where to go. Discovering these spots means you’re not just eating; you’re experiencing a slice of Naples’ culinary soul.

So, when you’re in town and craving the best, these insider recommendations will make sure every bite is one worth remembering.

And if you know someone who’d love this newsletter, share it on social media or forward it to a friend—let’s keep the local gems thriving with your help!

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

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