4529 Cardinal Cove

Green and red drapes and tables covered in white tablecloths lend a cozy, comfortable vibe at this Thai restaurant where sharing is paramount. The menu pulls inspiration from across the region; classics like miang kham, drunken noodles with mussels and curries like khao soi with impressively tender hunks of beef short rib are some of the hits. Servers will always ask for spice preference. Be brave, as courageous diners who embrace the heat will be rewarded with cooking at its most kinetic.

At this neighborhood favorite in North Naples, find sincerity and creativity in ample supply. A warm front of house team treats everyone like a regular, while the kitchen prepares a playful, inspired menu that is endlessly tempting. Where does one begin? Caviar with bugles and crème fraiche? Chorizo potatoes with chipotle hollandaise? The signature vanilla soft serve doused with olive oil from the owner’s own vineyard in Italy is a sweet, honest reflection of the restaurant itself. A tastefully designed dining room makes this a sharp pick both for lunch and dinner.

Monday could be Friday, and Saturday could be Tuesday at this colorful hotspot in Bonita Springs. Dark, moody lighting and striking teal walls adorned with eclectic art set the tone as crowds file in throughout the week looking for a proper good time. The menu roams the globe and takes much of its inspiration from Asia: A deconstructed banh mi features smoked short rib, and serious steaks come with Japanese sweet potatoes. Everything is designed to be shared, so bring friends.