Friends and neighbors,

This week’s issue focuses on two things Naples does well: good sushi and well-designed experiences.

Starting with sushi, I’ve narrowed down a controversial top 5 list of restaurants that sushi lovers recommend again and again, from the old classics to the new favorites. 

You’ll also find a closer look at Porsche Studio Naples on Fifth Avenue South which I toured earlier in the season, a space that’s part gallery, part café, and part community hangout. You can stop in for espresso, try the racing simulator (I’ve seen both seasoned racers and eager teens take a turn), browse merchandise, or just enjoy a calm break from downtown.

Thanks for reading — and as always, feel free to forward this to a friend who loves Naples as much as you do. 

Cheers,

Let’s be clear upfront: Naples is not an omakase town. But when Naples residents want sushi with fresh fish, properly made rice, good service, and ambiance, the same names come up over and over again. Freshness matters. Volume, more often than not, matters. And consistency is key. This list reflects both.

5. Lola 41

Lola 41 is polarizing, but it still earns a spot.

At its best, it delivers creative rolls, bold flavors, and a polished dining experience that feels more “night out” than a quick sushi run. At its worst, it can feel rushed or unfocused depending on timing. Still, plenty of friends swear by specific rolls and come back regularly.

This isn’t traditional sushi; it’s global, stylized, and leans into the “fusion” aspect. Go here when the atmosphere matters as much as the food.

What to order:
Anata Roll, Snowy Roll, spicy tuna variations, edamame, blistered shishitos

Address: 560 9th St S, Naples, FL 34102
Website: https://www.lola41.com

4. Stix Sushi & Seafood

Stix earns its spot not just on popularity, but on repeat visits.

Yes, it’s known for all-you-can-eat sushi at an unbeatable price — but unusually, the quality actually holds up. The fish is consistently fresh, the rice is right (which matters more than people realize), and the menu is big enough that you’re not stuck ordering the same two rolls.

Service is another reason locals stay loyal. Even on busy nights or close to closing time, guests consistently mention feeling welcomed rather than rushed. That doesn’t happen by accident.

If you want variety, value, and a lively atmosphere without sacrificing quality, Stix delivers.

What to order:
Jimmy Roll, Princeton Roll, salmon sashimi, tuna tataki, bang bang shrimp

Address: 4221 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112
Website: https://www.stixnaples.com

3. Mimoto Japanese Seafood Café

Mimoto opened just last year, and locals noticed immediately.

Located near downtown, this spot quickly built a reputation for pristine fish, thoughtful presentation, and an experience that feels intentional. Sitting at the bar and watching the kitchen work is part of the appeal, and the menu goes deeper than standard rolls into traditional Japanese seafood.

Multiple longtime Naples residents have already put it in the same conversation as Namba, which says a lot this early on. If you like discovering places before they become impossible to get into, this is the move.

What to order:
Chef’s sashimi selection, tuna, ama ebi, clams, nigiri specials

Address: 71 9th St S, Naples, FL 34102
Website: https://www.mimotonaples.com

2. DUSK at The Ritz-Carlton Naples

DUSK is not a casual sushi stop, and it’s not pretending to be one. Set inside the Ritz-Carlton on Vanderbilt Beach, this is a sleek lounge where sushi is part of a larger, polished night out. The crowd comes dressed, the lighting is low, and the energy is upscale. It’s a place we save for dates, visitors, or evenings when atmosphere matters as much as what’s on the plate.

The sushi program itself is strong. Fish quality is high, the presentation is clean, and the menu leans modern without going overboard. Sashimi and nigiri are the smartest orders here, and the cocktail list is just as much a draw as the food.

Yes, it’s expensive. But it also delivers dinner as an occasion.

What to order:
Sashimi selections, nigiri, specialty rolls, sushi-forward small plates, signature cocktails

Address: 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd N, Naples, FL 34108
Website: (Ritz-Carlton Naples dining page)

1. Namba Ramen & Sushi

This is the benchmark right now.

When locals say “nothing compares,” they’re not exaggerating. Namba stands out for one simple reason: quality across the board. Fish is clean and fresh, rice is dialed in, portions are thoughtful, and the menu goes well beyond rolls without losing focus.

It’s one of the few places where sushi, hot dishes, and ramen all hold their own. Complimentary touches like dessert or tea feel confident, not gimmicky. You’ll go once and then bring everyone back.

If you care most about food quality and execution, this is your answer.

What to order:
Spicy tuna crispy rice, salmon belly, yellowtail jalapeño, beef ramen, rock shrimp tempura

Address: 8847 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34108
Website: http://www.nambanaples.com

Porsche Studio Naples on Fifth Avenue South, which opened this past summer, isn’t a typical dealership. It’s part museum, part merchandise, part public space hangout where you can see cars, sip coffee, and try automotive experiences without sales pressures.

Inside, you’ll find Porsche models on display in a clean, modern environment. If nothing else, the space is cool to visit for its museum-like design. Visitors can get up close to the cars, take photos, or just admire the cars. You can design your own car at one of the tables, or wait for your turn at the racing simulator, where I’ve seen both seasoned racers and teens try their hand at the different tracks. It’s hands-on, interactive, and approachable.

While you're waiting for your turn on the simulator, affable baristas will happily make you high-quality espresso, with some select pastries on hand too. Sit down at the sleek coffee bar and you’ll find Porsche owners eager to chat, hopefuls (like me) pining after a vintage 911, and even folks getting some remote work in. Stop by the merchandise shop to try on Porsche apparel, accessories, and collectibles. 

The Studio also hosts events from tech talks to community gatherings, designed to be social and educational rather than sales-focused. Occasionally, special exhibits feature rare or historic Porsche models. The space is also available for private rentals, combining simulators, coffee service, and curated experiences.

Porsche Studio feels incredibly in Naples. But it’s also a calm, well-designed oasis from the energy of downtown, making it an easy and worthwhile stop along Fifth Avenue.

Last week’s poll asked: Will you check out the new HB’s or Sunset Bar this season?

Here’s where you landed:

Yes! leading with 40.45% of votes! A couple of you agree you’ll wait for some time before trying, but most of you will make it out one way or another. I respect the 20% of you who have your favorite spots already. 

Naples is at its best when it’s not trying too hard. A great sushi counter with consistent fish and rice, and a place like Porsche Studio that feels more like a gallery and coffee break than a sales floor, both hit the same note: quality, design, and a little quiet confidence.

Before you go, vote in this week’s poll and tell me where I should go next. If you have a sushi spot you swear by or a “hidden” Fifth Avenue stop worth adding, just reply to this email. I read every note.

Thanks for being here,

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

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