When we moved from Los Angeles to Naples two years ago, I was very concerned that the restaurant scene would be pretty dismal. I was wrong. Naples has a plethora of culinary successes, one being the notable Ocean Prime in downtown Naples.
Many restaurants have suffered greatly in the past year because of Covid, but Ocean Prime has stood the test of time. Situated in the heart of downtown, Ocean Prime is flanked by many world-class art galleries, boutiques, theaters and businesses.
At the helm of the restaurant is General Manager, Rick Giannasi who brings his conviviality to set the tone for our evening. Having come from an extensive background in theater and television, the restaurant is his stage, creating a lively backdrop for the culinary expertise of Vladimir Trivunovic who brings more than eight years of culinary experience to his role as Executive Chef.
Find out what's happening in Fort Myersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
We decided to opt for the early dining specials, to avoid the crowds and sample what was available from their wide selection of three-course menu options. It was hard to decide.
Beverages were definitely in order. It’s easy to crown any culinary glory with a selection from their notable drink menu. The table was set. Let’s sip, sample and savor.
Find out what's happening in Fort Myersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
My first course was a lobster bisque, which certainly gained our collective “wow” with its generous chunks of seafood. The soup coupled nicely with my partner’s zingy Caesar salad crowned with those crispy Parmesan crisps. Home run on the first courses.
Although the meats looked tempting, my partner selected a buttery Chilean Sea Bass with whipped potatoes, and champagne truffle sauce. Thankfully she offered me a few bites, when she saw me staring at her plate.
We both devoured most of my Sea Scallops layered over Parmesan risotto, English peas and citrus vinaigrette. Portions were more than ample with both selections, allowing us to box the remains home.
I’m a sucker for peanut butter so I couldn’t resist the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with my partner hoarding the towering Five Layer Carrot Cake. We both promised to go to confession later.
This is the way to go if you want to have a delectable meal at a bit of a discount, prefer to dine in early, or have a theatrical engagement next-door.
Or if you prefer, simply walk the neighborhood afterwards and thank your blessings, which is what we did.
We will be back.
Ocean Prime
Adjacent to the Inn on Fifth