Mercato Plaza Grows With Groundbreaking Expansion in North Naples

A Big Upgrade Starts This Summer

Construction officially began on July 23, 2025, to expand Mercato’s Central Plaza at Strada Place in North Naples. The project will triple the public gathering space to around 3,000 square feet, stretching from Narrative Coffee across Strada Place to Beeline Bar—connecting more pedestrian zones and creating a unified hub for events and outdoor leisure.

What Comes With a Tripled Piazza

• State‑of‑the‑Art Performance Stage: A covered stage near Narrative Coffee and Waxin’s will host concerts, outdoor movies, and community programming—all year-round.

• Expanded Seating & Shade: New lounge-style seating walls, turf areas, shade sails, and benches will offer more comfort for visitors and event attendees.

• Pedestrian‑First Design: Flattened curbs, lowered green spaces, and widened sidewalks across Strada Place will enable car-free flow during big events and a smoother walk year-round.

Timeline and Why It Was Delayed

Originally slated for a fall 2024 start, the project was postponed due to internal adjustments by campus managers. With approvals finalized this summer, design and scope remained largely unchanged. The goal: deliver a freshly refreshed space in time for the 2025–2026 high season.

Construction is expected to wrap by mid‑October, followed by a grand opening event in early November—just in time for Naples’ busy season.

Who Stays Open During Construction

Despite work underway, all stores, restaurants, and cafes around the plaza—including Beeline, Waxin’s, and Alamo Drafthouse—remain open and accessible. Traffic on Strada Place is temporarily restricted in the construction zone, but access to tenants is maintained.

What’s Changing Nearby

Since the expansion was announced, Mercato’s tenant lineup has evolved:

• Taberna Burntwood replaced the old Burntwood Tavern.

• Waxin’s launched its Swedish–American concept.

• Beeline Lounge opened across Strada Place.

• Shake Shack is under construction, expected to open later in 2025.

• Violi Greek restaurant is slated to open this fall in the former Bravo Italian Kitchen space.

Why It’s a Game-Changer for North Naples

Mercato has long been a go-to destination for outdoor concerts, markets, dining, and community events. This expansion turns it into a truly walkable, event-ready lifestyle hub, increasing capacity and ambiance for year-round activity.

The changes reflect Naples’ broader move toward experiential spaces where shopping, dining, entertainment, and wellness intersect seamlessly.