From Farewell to Fresh Plates: Naples’ Dining Scene Sees Major Shake-Ups This Fall

Naples’ restaurant scene is serving up a season of change — with local favorites closing, fresh concepts stepping in, and powerhouse restaurateurs expanding their footprints across Southwest Florida. From long-time diners bowing out to national brands testing new ideas, here’s the full menu of what’s happening around town.

Golden Grove Kitchen Replaces Mel’s Diner

After more than 15 years at 12035 Collier Boulevard, Mel’s Diner has officially handed over the spatula. The new tenant, Golden Grove Kitchen, has opened its doors with a modern farmhouse look and an updated menu focused on elevated comfort food.

The transition marks a new chapter for the Collier Boulevard corridor, bringing a locally driven concept where traditional diner charm meets chef-inspired plates — think homestyle meals with craft-kitchen execution.

Outback Steakhouse Bids Farewell to Its Original Naples Location

A familiar sight to generations of locals, Outback Steakhouse’s original Naples restaurant has closed after more than three decades of serving Bloomin’ Onions and steaks. The closure is part of a broader national realignment by the brand’s parent company, Bloomin’ Brands, as it retires older locations and updates its portfolio.

For many residents, the closure marks the end of an era — but it also opens a prime commercial space that could soon see a new dining concept move in.

Old Vines Expands with The Supper Club’s North Naples Move

Downtown Naples favorite Old Vines continues to evolve beyond its roots as a wine bar. Its sister concept, The Supper Club, known for its elevated yet approachable dining experience, is relocating north this winter — just minutes from Old Vines’ Mercato location.

The move positions the brand for larger crowds and a more flexible space while keeping its signature cozy-chic atmosphere. It’s part of a growing trend of downtown concepts expanding north to reach new neighborhoods without losing their Naples charm.

Paul Fleming Returns to His Florida Roots

Naples hospitality heavyweights Paul Fleming and Jody Goodenough-Fleming, known for creating local favorites like Lake Park Diner, PJK Neighborhood Chinese, and Paulita’s Taqueria, are once again turning their attention to the Sunshine State.

The duo is preparing to bring Paul Martin’s American Grill — their polished, West Coast-born restaurant brand — to Florida for the first time, with Naples and Estero at the top of the list. The concept already has seven locations across Texas, California, and Arizona and is celebrated for its made-from-scratch menu, warm interiors, and neighborhood-friendly vibe.

If plans stay on track, Naples diners could be enjoying Paul Martin’s signature dishes by next year.

PDQ Shutters — Saucy by KFC Steps In

Fast-casual chicken chain PDQ will close its Naples location on November 18, but fans of crispy tenders won’t have to go far for a replacement. The site will reopen under Saucy by KFC, a new Yum! Brands concept centered around chicken tenders and 11 signature sauces.

Saucy launched earlier this year in Orlando as a test market and features a sleeker, modern design with a menu built for customization. Naples will be one of the first markets to get this bold, sauce-centric rebrand.

Riko’s Pizza Opens in North Naples

Connecticut-based Riko’s Pizza officially opens October 29 at 8710 Addison Place Drive, just off Immokalee Road. The popular bar-pie chain brings its signature ultra-thin crust pizzas, wings, salads, and full bar to North Naples — expanding its growing Florida footprint.

Located near Founders Square, the new Riko’s offers a casual yet lively atmosphere, positioning itself as the next go-to pizza spot for locals craving crisp, tavern-style slices.

The Big Picture

From family-friendly diners reimagined as modern eateries to national brands debuting new prototypes, Naples continues to attract culinary reinvention.

The common thread? Adaptation. Whether it’s longtime locals expanding north, legacy chains stepping aside, or new players testing fresh formats, the city’s dining landscape is shifting — and fast.

Naples remains what it’s always been: a destination where food meets community, and where the next great meal is always just around the corner.