Naples has earned its reputation as Southwest Florida's culinary capital, with over 800 restaurants serving everything from fresh Gulf seafood to authentic Italian cuisine. Whether you're searching for a romantic dinner on Fifth Avenue South or the best Cuban sandwich in Collier County, these ten locally-vetted restaurants represent the finest dining Naples has to offer in 2026.
Quick Navigation: Fine Dining | Italian | Seafood | Cuban | French
1. USS Nemo Restaurant
USS Nemo has been a Naples dining institution since 2000
A five-time TripAdvisor Hall of Fame member and perennial Yelp favorite, USS Nemo delivers an exquisite fine dining experience that has made it a Naples institution since 2000. This family-owned gem combines Asian-fusion techniques with the freshest seafood, creating dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
The restaurant's signature miso-glazed sea bass has become legendary among Naples food lovers, featuring a perfect caramelized crust and buttery-soft interior. The intimate setting seats just 65 guests, creating an exclusive atmosphere that justifies booking well in advance.
- Address: 3745 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34103
- Phone: (239) 261-6366
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Seafood
- Price range: $$$$ (Entrees $35-$65)
- Best for: Special occasions, anniversary dinners, seafood lovers
- Don't miss: Miso-glazed sea bass, sushi platters, crispy whole snapper
- Reservations: Required during season (December-April)
- Website: ussnemorestaurant.com
2. The Grill at The Ritz-Carlton
Naples' premier fine dining destination sets the gold standard for Gulf Coast luxury. Prime dry-aged steaks, impeccable caviar service, and an award-winning wine cellar with over 800 selections create an unforgettable experience. The white-glove service and elegant ambiance make this the ultimate choice for milestone celebrations, proposals, and business dinners that need to impress.
The restaurant's 28-day dry-aged steaks are sourced from premier ranches and prepared to perfection. Pair your meal with selections from their extensive wine program, recognized by Wine Spectator with an Award of Excellence.
- Address: 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, FL 34108
- Phone: (239) 598-3300
- Cuisine: Steakhouse, Fine Dining
- Price range: $$$$ (Entrees $55-$125)
- Best for: Proposals, business dinners, special occasions
- Don't miss: 28-day dry-aged ribeye, tableside Caesar salad, Dover sole
- Dress code: Resort elegant (jackets suggested for men)
- Website: ritzcarlton.com/naples
3. Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood and Crab
Fresh Florida stone crab is the star at Truluck's during season
Stone crab season (October through May) transforms Truluck's into a pilgrimage site for seafood devotees. The restaurant operates its own stone crab boats and processing facility, ensuring claws arrive at your table within 24 hours of harvest—a freshness guarantee unmatched in Southwest Florida.
Even off-season, this upscale spot delivers impeccably fresh catches, from Florida grouper to cold-water lobster tails. The elegant Inn on Fifth location in the heart of downtown Naples makes it ideal for combining dinner with a stroll down Fifth Avenue.
- Address: 698 4th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
- Phone: (239) 530-3131
- Cuisine: Seafood, Steakhouse
- Price range: $$$$ (Stone crab market price, typically $65-$95/lb)
- Best for: Stone crab season (Oct-May), upscale seafood
- Don't miss: Fresh stone crab claws, chocolate bag dessert, lobster bisque
- Location: Inn on Fifth, steps from Fifth Avenue South
- Website: trulucks.com
4. Barbatella
This spirited Italian trattoria in the heart of Old Naples brings regional Italian cuisine to vibrant Third Street South. Handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and an impressive selection of Italian wines make Barbatella a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The pet-friendly patio is perfect for people-watching.
- Address: 1290 3rd St S, Naples, FL 34102
- Phone: (239) 263-1955
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Italian comfort food, outdoor dining
- Don't miss: Fresh pasta, Neapolitan pizzas
- Features: Pet-friendly patio, wine bar
- Website: aielligroup.com/barbatella-naples
5. Tigress Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
Tigress offers contemporary Cantonese cuisine with stunning rooftop views
The newest addition to Naples' upscale dining scene, Tigress at The Perry Hotel brings contemporary Cantonese cuisine curated by award-winning Chef Dale Talde. Bold, shareable dishes showcase traditional wok-fired techniques with Gulf Coast influences. The rooftop bar with river views is the hottest spot in town for sunset cocktails.
- Address: 12155 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34110
- Phone: (239) 227-6980
- Cuisine: Contemporary Cantonese, Asian
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Trendy dining, rooftop drinks
- Don't miss: Wok-fried specialties, dim sum
- Features: Rooftop bar, river views
- Website: theperryhotel.com/dining/tigress
6. Chez Boet French Home Cooking
A hidden gem tucked away on 12th Avenue South, Chez Boet delivers authentic French country cooking in an intimate setting. The husband-and-wife team creates classic dishes like coq au vin and bouillabaisse with genuine warmth and skill. It feels like dining in a friend's Provencal kitchen.
- Address: 755 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
- Phone: (239) 643-6177
- Cuisine: French
- Price range: $$$$
- Best for: Romantic dinners, French cuisine lovers
- Don't miss: Bouillabaisse, duck confit, creme brulee
- Ambiance: Intimate, romantic
- Website: chezboetnaples.com
7. Limoncello Naples
Authentic Southern Italian hospitality shines at this family-run favorite. Brothers Nick and Cosimo Puccio bring generations of Italian tradition to every plate, from handmade pastas to wood-fired specialties. The warm atmosphere and generous portions keep regulars coming back week after week.
- Address: 13800 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34110
- Phone: (239) 260-7478
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Best for: Family dinners, authentic Italian
- Don't miss: Handmade ravioli, veal piccata
- Features: Family-owned, generous portions
- Website: limoncellonaples.com
8. Rumba Cuban Cafe
For the best Cuban food in Naples, locals head straight to Rumba. This colorful cafe serves authentic Cuban classics that transport you to Havana, from perfectly pressed Cuban sandwiches to slow-roasted lechon. The mojitos are among the best in Southwest Florida.
- Address: 1265 Airport-Pulling Rd S, Naples, FL 34104
- Phone: (239) 659-2996
- Cuisine: Cuban
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Authentic Cuban, casual lunch
- Don't miss: Cuban sandwich, ropa vieja, mojitos
- Atmosphere: Colorful, lively
- Website: rumbacubancafe.com
9. Sophia's Ristorante Italiano
Sophia's delivers refined Italian dining in an elegant setting
Old-world elegance meets modern Italian cuisine at this Pine Ridge Road gem. White tablecloths, impeccable service, and a menu of refined Italian classics make Sophia's the choice for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience. The extensive wine list complements the cuisine perfectly.
- Address: 3545 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples, FL 34109
- Phone: (239) 597-0744
- Cuisine: Italian Fine Dining
- Price range: $$$$
- Best for: Date nights, business dinners
- Don't miss: Osso buco, homemade tiramisu
- Features: Extensive wine list, elegant ambiance
- Website: sophiasitaliano.com
10. Fernandez The Bull Cuban Cafe & Bar
A more casual alternative for Cuban cuisine, Fernandez The Bull serves up hearty portions in a fun, energetic atmosphere. The midtown location on Pine Ridge is perfect for a quick lunch or a lively dinner with friends. Don't skip the plantains.
- Address: 3375 Pine Ridge Rd Unit 101, Naples, FL 34109
- Phone: (239) 653-9097
- Cuisine: Cuban
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Casual Cuban, groups
- Don't miss: Ropa vieja, tostones, Cuban coffee
- Vibe: Energetic, fun
- Website: fernandezthebull.com/midtown
Tips for Dining in Naples
Best Times to Visit
Season runs December through April, when reservations are essential. Even popular spots may have availability on weekday nights, but weekend dinners require advance booking.
Top Dining Districts
- Fifth Avenue South: Upscale restaurants, people-watching, walkable
- Third Street South: Charming bistros, art galleries, boutique shopping
- Vanderbilt Beach: Ritz-Carlton restaurants, beachfront options
- Pine Ridge Road: Local favorites, less touristy
Seasonal Considerations
- Stone crab season: October through May (don't miss it!)
- Summer deals: Many restaurants offer prix-fixe menus and specials
- Hurricane season: Some closures possible June through November
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best restaurant for a special occasion in Naples?
The Grill at The Ritz-Carlton offers the ultimate luxury experience, while USS Nemo provides award-winning cuisine in a more intimate setting. For romantic French dining, Chez Boet is unmatched.
Where can I find the best seafood in Naples?
Truluck's is the gold standard for stone crab and upscale seafood. USS Nemo excels at Asian-fusion seafood preparations. For casual waterfront dining, check out our waterfront restaurants guide.
What are the best restaurants on Fifth Avenue?
Fifth Avenue offers numerous options, but Truluck's (just off Fifth on 4th Ave) and the nearby Barbatella on Third Street are top choices within walking distance.
Do I need reservations in Naples?
During season (December through April), absolutely. Popular restaurants book up weeks in advance for weekend dinners. Summer is more relaxed, but calling ahead is still recommended.
What's the dress code at Naples restaurants?
Most upscale restaurants expect "resort elegant" attire, no swimsuits or flip-flops. The Grill at The Ritz-Carlton requires jackets for men at dinner. Casual spots like Rumba Cuban Cafe are come-as-you-are.
More Naples Guides
Ready to explore more of Naples and Southwest Florida? Check out these related guides:
- 10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in SWFL — Dine with stunning Gulf views
- Retiring to Naples: Complete 2026 Guide — Everything you need to know about living in Naples
- Vanderbilt Beach Live Cam — Check beach conditions before you go
- Best Restaurants in Fort Myers — More great dining just 30 minutes north
- Best Restaurants in Sarasota — Explore Sarasota's culinary scene
Have a favorite Naples restaurant we missed? Let us know and we'll check it out!
