Naples Becomes the New Power Hub for a Billion-Dollar Restaurant Empire

Florida: The New Center of the Culinary World

The Southwest Florida region is cementing its reputation as a leading destination for major corporate relocation as Paul Fleming, the respected veteran restaurateur behind national icons such as P.F. Chang's China Bistro and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, has relocated a significant portion of his enterprise to the area. In a major strategic move that speaks volumes about Florida’s economic appeal, the corporate headquarters for the Paul Martin’s American Grill concept was moved from California to Naples in October. Fleming and his wife, Jody Goodenough-Fleming, have resided in Naples for about ten years, and this decision is a full commitment to the state’s business environment. Fleming has publicly stated that Florida represents the best place in the entire country to operate a business, highlighting the operational efficiency as a key benefit of the change.

Local Footprint and Future Growth

The Paul Fleming Restaurant Group (PFRG) is quickly establishing a comprehensive base in Naples, with all corporate functions—including accounting, IT, branding, and human resources—now operating out of an office in Old Naples, close to Fifth Avenue South. This central office manages the company’s portfolio of four distinctive brands. Beyond the relocated Paul Martin’s American Grill, the group operates the successful Lake Park Diner, PJK Neighborhood Chinese, and Paulitas' Taqueria. Over the past year, PFRG has already expanded its local presence by opening a second Lake Park Diner in North Naples and launching a second PJK Neighborhood Chinese location in Estero’s Coconut Point.

The relocation of the Paul Martin's corporate offices is immediately followed by ambitious expansion plans for the brand itself. The restaurant, which was founded in 2006, currently has seven locations across California, Texas, and Arizona. PFRG is actively scouting sites in Southwest Florida, hoping to secure a new location in Naples or Estero within the coming year. Following this, the company plans to pursue further expansion into major Florida markets such as Tampa and Miami. Goodenough-Fleming stated that the company is delighted to integrate the Paul Martin’s business into their Florida management structure, preparing the brand for accelerated growth.