Friends and neighbors,

Lately, it feels like Naples is begging us to get outside. This week, I’m excited to share a couple of standout experiences: a reimagined Naples classic, Ottimo on 5th (open again after a brief fall hiatus), and a handful of adventures that show off Southwest Florida’s natural beauty.

If you’re hosting out-of-town guests and need a local touch, Dana has you covered — check out Naples Florida Rentals. And as always, thank you for letting me share the small moments and big experiences that make Naples so special.

I hope you find inspiration to get out, explore, and enjoy this beautiful season.

See you out there,

If you have a tip or event to share, email me at [email protected] — I’d love to feature your favorite finds!

Ottimo on 5th is the newest chapter in a long-loved Naples story. Formerly known as Roma Italian Bistro & Pizzeria, this family-run restaurant moved just three blocks west along Fifth Avenue South into a larger, more elegant space in January of 2025. While closed for a few weeks in the fall, they reopened, and it’s worth checking out if you haven’t been.  

Owners Edmond and Ledia Metaj took over Roma several years ago, building a loyal following with classic Italian comfort dishes and warm hospitality. In 2025, they rebranded as Ottimo (“excellent” in Italian), transforming their cozy pizzeria into a polished cucina and bar. The new space on 5th Avenue South offers more seating, a full bar, and a spacious kitchen — welcome changes that elevate what Naples locals already loved about the original.

On the front patio, café tables line the avenue beneath soft lights, while the interior is warm with an upscale ambiance. The bar, now central to the dining room, is the perfect locale for a dignified lunch or a happy hour catch-up.

Ottimo’s menu honors its Roma roots but broadens its reach. Hand-rolled pastas, seafood, and grilled meats form the backbone of the kitchen. They knock a lot of dishes out of the park. Everything from basics—Whipped Ricotta starters and Caesar salads—to their Smoked Tuna app and Lobster Ravioli in a silky cream is executed beautifully. Other standout entrees include the Tagliatelle Bolognese and the Branzino with artichokes, as well as their signature Lasagna that is uniquely rolled and stands upright (and is deceptively filling). Pizzas remain a favorite from the Roma days: thin-crusted and wood-fired with a perfect leopard-spotted char on the bottom.

Service remains one of Ottimo’s strongest suits. The Metajs are often in the dining room greeting regulars, and the staff brings a sense of warmth that’s more genuine than rehearsed. If you liked Roma for the food, you’ll love it now in a more elevated atmosphere.

Ottimo on 5th feels like the natural evolution of a Naples favorite: a restaurant that grew with its guests and refined its style while staying true to what locals cherished about the original restaurant. With expanded space and a menu with a lot to love, it’s a worthy neighborhood spot to add to, dare I say, a weekly rotation.

Ottimo on 5th Cucina & Bar
409 5th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102
ottimonaples.com

Hours
Thursday–Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Monday–Wednesday: 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Happy Hour Daily: 3:00 p.m. –5:00 p.m.

With the air finally cooling, it feels like Naples is inviting us back outdoors. Beyond the beaches and golf courses lies a wilder side of Florida: mangroves, estuaries, and miles of calm water just waiting to be explored. This week, I’ve pulled together a few eco-tours that show off SWFL’s natural beauty. This is a great reference when you’re hosting out-of-towners or simply want to realign yourself in nature. 

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 300 Tower Rd, Naples
rookerybay.org
Best for: Bird lovers and anyone new to kayaking

This 110,000-acre reserve is a living laboratory of mangroves, estuaries, and tidal creeks. The Friends of Rookery Bay host guided kayak tours led by biologists who share insights on the delicate balance between the Gulf and the glades. You’ll spot herons, dolphins, and maybe even a roseate spoonbill or two. Tours run daily from November through April. Reservations required.

238 Mamie St, Chokoloskee, FL
evergladesareatours.com
Best for: Wildlife photographers and adventurous spirits

These small-group kayak and boat tours are led by certified naturalists who’ve spent decades exploring the Everglades backwaters. Expect close encounters with manatees, ospreys, and (at a respectful distance!) alligators. They also offer motorboat eco-safaris if paddling isn’t your thing. Tip: Early morning tours are best for wildlife sightings, but they also do fun “full moon” tours. 

Tin City, 1200 5th Ave. S, Naples
napleswatertours.com
Best for: Families and first-time visitors

A fun, family-friendly way to explore Naples Bay and the Gordon River. Captains share stories about the local marine life, mangroves, and how the estuary supports everything from tiny fish to playful dolphins. You can choose a sightseeing cruise or a private charter. Sunset cruises are especially beautiful this time of year.

375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples
corkscrew.audubon.org
Best for: Nature enthusiasts and birders

Walk the famous 2.25-mile boardwalk through pine flatwoods, wet prairie, and ancient cypress forest. The sanctuary’s naturalists lead guided tours that reveal the ecology and hidden wildlife of this magical place — you might see barred owls, otters, and ghost orchids. Mornings are best before the crowds and heat.

740 Palm Point Dr, Goodland, FL
floridaadventuresandrentals.com
Best for: Quiet exploration and small-group tours

For a more peaceful experience, launch from Goodland with a local outfitter like Florida Adventures and Rentals. Paddle through serene mangrove tunnels, listen for fish jumping, and end your trip with lunch at a waterside café.

Last week’s poll asked: Are you planning on going to the Stone Crab Festival this weekend at Tin City?

Here’s where you landed:

I wanted to share a couple of the comments we received and thank M. for sharing their perspective! I really appreciate hearing our readers’ thoughts; it makes the conversation more interesting and keeps me thinking.

Why It Matters

These choices shape Naples. When we support local restaurants and book trusted tours, we keep great jobs here, protect the places we love, and give visitors a better first impression of our town. Getting outside also reconnects us to the ecosystem that makes Southwest Florida special.

Try one new spot this week, share what you discover, and help us highlight the people and places worth preserving.

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

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