Friends and neighbors,

This week’s issue shines a spotlight on timeless Naples favorites reborn under the Four Seasons banner at the newly revived Naples Beach Club: HB’s and the Sunset Bar. These beachfront icons have been thoughtfully reimagined with the same stunning Gulf views. Tourists may fill the resort, but these two spots still feel very much for locals.

We’re also talking about BBQ. Naples isn’t known for it, but there are places locals consistently return to when the craving hits. From Michelbob’s (the default answer for a reason) to a few underrated options, we break down where to go depending on what you’re in the mood for.

Season is here, and rentals are booking quickly. Our sponsor has limited availability left, including pet-friendly homes with beach access and heated pools. Feel free to share this with friends planning a Naples stay. Dana can be reached at (239) 397-0929 to help match dates and budgets.

Thanks for being here and thanks for keeping it local.

Cheers,

If you’ve been nostalgic for the old beach club haunts HB’s and Sunset Bar, your wait is over. These beloved spots have returned in grand style at the new Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort, and have been revived with care in their original footprints, while being elevated by a Four Seasons signature. Dating back decades as local legends, they’re now open for crowds who miss their fresh seafood and those unbeatable Gulf sunsets. 

These spots are welcome additions back to the Naples dining scene, whether you’re a longtime Naples resident finally checking them out post-reopening or a guest wanting to try a quintessential Naples spot updated with refined taste. 

HB’s: Casual Seafood Heaven with a Beachfront Twist

This reimagined Naples seafood staple keeps its comfortable vibe while showcasing the freshest local catch in a stunning waterfront dining room and expansive terrace. Think raw-bar gems, beautifully prepared crudo, and dishes that let Florida’s seafood shine. Perfect for lunch or dinner right on the sand.

- Hours: Lunch 11:00 am–3:00 pm (last seating 2:30 pm); beverage service only 3:00–5:00 pm; dinner 5:00–9:00 pm (last seating 8:30 pm). 

- Must-Tries: Local seafood towers, artfully plated crudo, and grilled catches highlighting Southwest Florida’s waters. 

- Pro Tip: Arrive early for terrace seating; it’s prime real estate for people-watching and ocean breezes, and you can get the same views as the Sunset Bar with less jockeying. 

Early buzz calls it a seamless blend of nostalgia and upgrade, with diners raving about the quality of the raw bar and the effortless flow from beach to table. 

Sunset Bar: Golden-Hour Magic 

Legendary as Naples’ go-to beach bar for that perfect golden hour, the Sunset Bar is where locals and guests mingle over tropical cocktails and light bites. It’s the nightly ritual spot for ceviche, coastal tacos, and toasting the sun’s dip into the Gulf.

- Highlights: Fresh ceviche, tangy coastal tacos, and cocktails like sunset spritzes or frozen margaritas that scream beach bliss.

- Vibe: Lively and social, with a crowd that spans flip-flop-wearing regulars to sundress-clad visitors. Arrive by 4:30 pm to snag a prime perch.

- Pro Tip: Pair your drink with shareable bites for happy hour; it’s the perfect pre-dinner before heading to another restaurant on their property, or a sunset drink spot. 

These are Naples institutions reborn, while still celebrating their original legacy. While the Beach Resort may be for the tourists, these two spots, HB’s and Sunset Bar, prove they’re for locals too. 

Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort

- Reservations: Book via foursseasons.com/naplesbeachclub or call the resort. Essential for peak season and terrace tables.

- Dress: Beach casual. No stuffy rules at either locale.

- Access: Valet, self-park, or stroll from nearby beaches; open to non-guests.

Let’s get this out of the way: Naples is not Memphis, Texas, or the Carolinas. And that’s fine. But when the craving hits for BBQ, there are places locals consistently return to. That’s the key. Repeat business is the real review.

Here’s where locals actually go when they want BBQ in Naples: 

1. Michelbob’s Championship Ribs & Steaks

Address: 371 Airport-Pulling Rd, Naples, FL 34104
Website: http://www.michelbobs.com/

This is the BBQ place most locals think of first when it comes to Naples: ribs that are reliably smoky, heavy helpings, classic sides, and a vibe that feels more like the ’80s and ’90s. When you want a big meal without fuss and tender meat options, Michelbob’s should be your first stop. 

If you find the Marco Island outpost, that’s their offshoot take-out version: same basics, different digs. 

2. Mission BBQ

Address: 5795 Airport Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Website: http://mission-bbq.com/locations-and-menu/naples-fl/

Mission BBQ is a national chain, but I’ll recommend it because it’s consistent and easy with all the favorites: brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sandwich platters. Service is friendly, and the smoke is dependable, and you won’t find a dry, sad sandwich here. 

3. Fuse BBQ

Address: 2500 Tamiami Trl N, Unit 114, Naples, FL 34103
Website: http://fusebbq.com/

This one is more of a chef-driven, creative spot that happens to do BBQ. Think pulled pork sandwiches, inventive sides, and smart twists that come with fusion food. You’ll need an open mind because this is not your grandpa’s smokehouse, but it’s an underrated option that you might not think of when it comes to BBQ food. 

4. Backyard Fire Grill

Address: 794 Neapolitan Way, Naples, FL 34103
Website: https://www.backyardfiregrill.com/

Not as talked about as the others, but it’s one of those places where locals say, “Yeah, that was good.” If you’re in Naples and the others aren’t convenient, it’s worth tasting for yourself — especially for creative takes on smoked and grilled meats.

5. Texas Tony’s Rib & Brewhouse

Address: 4519 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112
Website: http://www.texastonys.com/

Casual, big portions, and Texas-style vibes right here in Naples. Locals who favor bold smoke and cold beer like this place, although it gets some mixed reviews, but it keeps coming up again and again for the best approximation of BBQ you cannot usually find in Florida.

In practice: start with Michelbob’s if you’re not sure. If you want something with a twist, try Fuse. If you just want dependable and easy, Mission is fine. 

Last week’s poll asked: Taking stock of this last year: What was your favorite activity you did in Naples this past year?

Here’s where you landed:

Live music and getting out on the water are the top two activities from this past year. I’m glad you all have found the right place to be for a beautiful mix of outdoor wonder and a robust cultural scene! Have you found any new spots where you like to listen to music? I would love to hear your recommendations! 

Naples season moves fast. Tables fill up, calendars get crowded, and the best weeks are the ones that feel simple. That is why this matters. When a local favorite comes back (and it is actually good), it is worth knowing early. And when you are craving BBQ in a town that does not specialize in it, a short list of reliable spots saves you from trial and error.

This issue is meant to reduce friction. Fewer “where should we go?” texts, fewer missed reservations, and more nights that feel like Naples at its best.

Cheers,

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

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