Most Outrageous Prices, Dry January Hot Spots🍹, Top 7 Events, Awesome Floral X Bakery Collab

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Dear Friends & Neighbors,

Naples is currently struggling with insane restaurant pricing, lack of parking, and an overabundance of things to do. 

We are here to help. 

In this issue we tackle some great local cocktails for Dry January, the Top 7 Events this Week, the Worst Pricing in Naples Restaurants, and a fabulous new collaboration between Kaleidoscope Floral and Wolfmoon Bakery. 

I can’t wait to hear your ideas for 2025! What do you want to hear about? What’s your favorite new place? Email me at [email protected]

Thanks,

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Table of Contents

• Dry January Doesn’t Have to Be Boring: 5 Great Non …

• Kaleidoscope X Wolfmoon = Perfect Marriage 

• Top 7 Events This Week

• Poll: Unbelievable Pricing in Naples

Dry January Doesn’t Have to Be Boring: 5 Great Non-Alcoholic Drinks/Places in Naples

Whether you are in the midst of a “Dry January” - or you don’t drink at all – the cocktail scene has shifted dramatically in the last decade. Where once there were terrible approximations of beer, now we have non-alcoholic (NA) beer that is pretty much as good as the real stuff. Also, forget about “leave out the booze”….now there is booze-less booze (wrap your head around that).  

The reality is that no one can tell if what you’re holding is booze-full or booze-less. What a beautiful country. 

Some restaurants in town have taken the time (over time) to develop robust NA beer and cocktail menus. If you’re looking for something different to crave this January (or longer term) check out these options:

#1: Coco Loco @ LoLa 41

Just as gorgeous as it tastes, the Coco Loco from LoLa 41 pairs subtle herbaceous tones with bright, sweet flavor from coconut water. It is served in a coup with a tasteful garnish, and you’ll forget the buzz is missing. 

#2: “NA”PEROL SPRITZ @ The French 

This is about as close to the real deal as I’ve sampled. Looking for that Aperol Spritz feel without the hangover? Head over the The French, where they’ve paired a decent NA prosecco with appropriate accoutrements. You’ll feel like you’re back in the midst of a boozy summer abroad. 

#3 Painkiller @ The French

I was skeptical to say the least – but the Florida-classic-island-time drink is possible in an NA form. Maybe sweeter than the original, the French’s version combines a rum alternative, pineapple, orange and coconut in a refreshing mix that still makes you feel like you’re in the Keys! 

#4 The Mockingbird @ The Warren

Gin-tasting without the gin? The Mockingbird at the Warren comes pretty close. This NA cocktail combines Seedlip Spice 94, Orgear, Cirtus & Pineapple Juice Cream for a solid, not-too-sweet take on a classic herbaceous drink. 

#5 The Kava Bars

Kava is an herb that has gained significant popularity in recent years. Known for its calming effects, it is commonly prepared as a drink or tea and is often used as an alcohol alternative at “Kava Bars” around the U.S. Naples has been proactive in cultivating this trend, and we have more Kava Bars here than you probably realize.

Kava is known for relaxing effects, and it’s one way to wind down the day without the fear of a hangover tomorrow. Check out these local Kava Bars that you might have missed:

Nectar Lab Kava Bar

Address: 2500 Tamiami Trail N Suite 112, Naples, FL 34103

Cosmic Kava

Address: 2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd #406, Naples, FL 34109

Kava Culture

Address: 8925 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34108

Did I miss your favorite NA cocktail or beverage? Email me at [email protected] and let me know what’s out there! My favorite NA beers so far are Stella, Athletic Brewing & Heineken…what am I missing? 

Kaleidoscope X Wolfmoon = Perfect Marriage 

1780 Commercial Drive
Naples, Florida 34112

Full disclosure: Kaleidoscope and I have some history. 

When I planned my (turned-out-to-be post-Irma) 2017 wedding in Naples, I wanted someone young and inventive (please read this = maybe cheaper than usual, and more creative than what I’d seen around Naples) to tackle our lean floral requirements. We were pointed in the direction of Kaleidoscope – an “up-and-coming” floral venture, manned by a young couple - and honestly I’ve never looked back since. 

Today, Kaleidoscope has become a huge brand around town, but they’ve struggled (due to leases, property sales, etc) to find a permanent home for their business. They’ve finally found a home for their dream collaboration, however, and I think it will become a Naples staple.

I’ve also heard many good things about Wolfmoon Bakery in Bonita over the past year and a half. I’m not a sweets person, but I love a great croissant, so everyone has been trying to send me their way.  

Luckily for me, my favorite florist and a wonderful croissant outfit have joined forces out in the Bayshore District. Kaleidoscope X Wolfmoon is a wonderful combination of coffee shop, flower shop, goods store and lunch spot. 

Driving into their parking lot, you aren’t really ready for the peaceful oasis that awaits you. This is certainly an up-and-coming part of Naples, and you’ll feel that way in the parking lot. Once you step through the doors, however, you’ll understand how much “downtown Naples” is expanding into parts of our city that you haven’t explored. 

A cozy shop boasts a large cooler with drinks and to-go items and tasteful home goods are displayed throughout. When I was there, the owners were busily preparing for a wedding, putting together gorgeous flower arrangements in a back, glass-doored room.

A coffee bar greets you inside, where you can order one of the famous croissants (go early they sell out). I recommend a latte and a regular croissant to get started.

I loved the original Wolfmoon croissant and the Juicelation beverage that I picked up from the fridge. My girlfriends loved their coffee and sweet treats. Stop by and let me know what you think!

Top 7 Events This Week

Tuesday, January 14^th to Wednesday January 15th, 7:30pm — Jan 15^th @ 7:30pm: Chicago Symphony Orchestra @ Artis-Naples

Where? 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples, FL 34108

Tickets

A rare chance to see an excellent orchestra out of state. 

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra starts in Naples tonight with two great nights of music. The first night features a Mediterranean-inspired program with works by Donizetti, Verdi, Falla, Chabrier, and Golijov’s Megalopolis Suite from Francis Ford Coppola’s 2024 film.

The second evening includes Bellini’s Overture to Norma, Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony, and Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony, taking audiences on an emotional journey from sorrow to triumph. A rare chance to experience an expert orchestra. So important in this day and age. 

All Week: Publix Exhibit opens @ Golisano Children's Museum of Naples

Where? 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109

The new Publix Exhibit for Children has opened at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples and – if you have young children - it’s time to check it out if you haven’t already! 

Remember the dated grocery store display at the C’mon Children’s Museum? Well, it’s been updated to mimic everyone’s favorite Florida supermarket, and it’s guaranteed to amuse you as well! Swing by with the kids/ grandkids / other people’s kids before they switch it up again. 

Thursday, January 16^th to January 19th, 9am to 4pm, Gulf Coast Boating & Marine Expo

Where? 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913

My husband is more of an expert in the “boat show” world than I am, but from what I can tell, this boat expo should be pretty decent. 

Hosted in Jetblue Park, this boat show hosts a variety of dealers, vendors, food options, and bounce houses for children. On Friday, November 17th, the event will include an evening of country music, with performers to be announced. Tickets are $7.00 per person per day (what a deal!), with free entry for children aged 7 and under. The event will also showcase all of the latest boat stuff (that’s the technical term, right?).

Thursday, January 16^th to January 18th, 6:30pm to 9:30pm, Collier County 4-H Livestock Show

Where? 1215 Roberts Ave W, Immokalee, FL 34142

You may be in Naples, but we still have plenty of open space and great 4-H youngsters. Looking for a fun activity to support local youngsters? Check out their prize winning entries this weekend a short drive away in Immokalee. 

Thursday, January 16^th 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Thunder Beach @ Mercato

Where? 9110 Strada Pl, Naples, FL 34108

Live music isn’t always easy to stumble upon here in Naples. Never mind for free! Check out Thunder Beach for free at Marcato this Friday for a fun, family-friendly outdoor event. 

Thursday, January 16^th to January 18th, 6:00pm to 9:00pm, Tom Arnold @ Off The Hook

Where? 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd #1100, Naples, FL 34109

Ok, he’s still funny. Tom Arnold is best known for his roles in Roseanne, True Lies, and numerous comedies. He began as a stand-up comedian, gained fame in TV and film. Definitely worth the trip if you’re looking for a laugh this weekend. 

Go see the Everblades this Season!

Have you seen the Everblades in Estero? Interested in some live-action hockey this weekend? The Florida Everblades will be playing the Savannah Ghost Pirates this weekend at Hertz Arena and there are still tickets available here. 

Poll: Unbelievable Pricing in Naples

The other day, my dad told me that he made 18K a year at his first job post-law school in the late 70s. He said this with a heavy brow, emphasizing how little that was. 

The first job I had after law school paid 75K. In 1976 18K = 100K. Inflation is crazy!

Prices in Naples restaurants have gone vertical the last few years, but there are still a few places where it really stands out (in my mind = mostly appetizers and drinks). 

Share your most offensively priced item in the comments and check back next week.

As Dylan said, “[f]or the times they are a-changin'”! 

I’m hoping that the prices level off like the real estate has, but we can’t know for sure. Send me the craziest prices you’ve paid, and we can help each other avoid money traps this season! Email: [email protected]

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Why It Matters

Life is full of surprises, and Naples proves that the best ones often come in unexpected forms—like a floral shop serving the perfect croissant or a booze-free cocktail that rivals the original.

These discoveries remind us that the ordinary can be extraordinary, and that there’s always a new way to savor life’s flavors. Exploring what’s fresh and vibrant keeps us connected, curious, and inspired.

So here’s to finding joy in every twist, whether it’s in a glass or around the corner!

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

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