November 17th, 2011

Handsome Harry’s Third Street Bistro, Naples, Florida, Restaurant, Review, Paradise Coast

Since a good friend has made his home in Naples, I decided I needed to learn a little about this town that is known for its beaches, its simple elegance and its wonderful restaurants, relaxing cafes, fun bistros and shops. 

Naples is also known as Paradise Coast.  It is in Collier County and it was founded in the late 1880s.  I did not know why it was called Naples bu,t apparently, when it was founded, stories telling of the mild climate in the area, as well as having abundant fish and game, likened it to the Italian peninsula.  Then, the people promoting the area described it as “surpassing the bay in Naples, Italy”.

So, after driving a couple of hours from Delray we were a little hungry.  Having someone with a gluten allergy, at times, it can be tricky as where you find a restaurant that can accommodate you.  Of course, on my husband’s mind were stone crabs, having seen them at the Delray GreenMarket on Saturday.  That might have to wait.

We arrived in the historic district of Naples; Historic Third St. South and we set our sights on a restaurant called Handsome Harry’s Third Street Bistro, located at 1205 Third Street South, Naples, FL 34102.  Tel. 239-434-6400.  Website? www.handsomeharrys.com.

Our friend, Jay, had never been, but the restaurant had been recommended some time ago.  This was the perfect time to try it out.

The restaurant was not very crowded when we arrived.  You could sit outdoors, or, in a dining room that opened on all sides, where you could still enjoy the warm weather, but sheltered from the direct sun.

Handsome Harry’s also has an indoor dining salon that is more sophisticated and reserved than the other casual and relaxing dining choices.

Thirsty; drinks were ordered.  Looking through the menu; definitely American Cuisine.  There was an extensive wine list, which by the way you can check on their website.

Following is what we ordered:

The “Lobster” Salad – Chilled Maine Lobster meat tossed in their unique dressing, and served over a nest of greens with sliced avocado and fresh mango; finished with a lemon chive aioli.  A generous serving and my husband thought it was very good.

The Lobster Roll – It was the lobster salad served in a toasted hoagie roll New England style with sweet potato fries.  Jay thought it was delicious. 

When I opened the menu, my eyes went to their Char Grilled C.A.B. Cheese Burger – Cooked medium and served on a seeded Kaiser roll with aged cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle and French fries.    This burger was big and, yes, I ate it all, including the fries.  Very good.

We did not have dessert; just our own conversation was enough at this time.  The day was still young, plenty of time for dessert later.

Handsome Harry’s has entertainment in the evenings.  You can check the schedule on their website. 

If you are an early diner, they have available a very good offering; a starter, entree and dessert at a reasonable price.

Note:  It will be closed for Thanksgiving.

So far, so good, Jay….next…

November 16th, 2011

Naples, Florida, The Gulf of Mexico, The Beach

All these years in Florida and I had never visited Naples.  Some of my friends are on the east coast of Florida, while others have opted for the gulf.  So, after an invitation was extended to visit a friend, off we went, taking Alligator Alley and in a couple of hours we were there.

With only 24 hours to explore Jay took us around, introduced us to Historic Naples, fed us and housed us, as well.

I wanted to see the beach.  I used to go to Venice, Florida, but it was so long ago.  It really was a pretty day, so we stopped at the Naples Municipal Beach. 

The sand on this particular beach was powdery white; quite different than the sand found on the east coast of Florida.  I can see why it is such a big hit for those that love to sand sculpt.

At a distance the famous Naples Pier stood, just as it has stood since 1888 when it was built as a freight and passenger dock.  It is a landmark and in the early 1900’s freight and baggage were transported by a narrow gauge train spanning the length of the pier.

On the Naples Pier you will find a concession stand, and a bait shop.  No fishing license is required for fishing from the pier.  The City of Naples has a bulk fishing license for the actual pier.

During the day you can also find a game of volley ball since there are nets on the beach; and if you want to stay to see the sun set, please do so because it is gorgeous and every day is an experience.

I found that there is a marked difference from the beaches on the west vs. the beaches on the east.  It is a different sensation.  The east has that salty smell and the sounds of the waves which are special.  The gulf is quiet and pretty too, but I guess I am partial to the east coast.  It is just something in the air; maybe the way the palm trees move or its ocean breezes…yes, I think that’s it!!

Have a great day!!  Great restaurants in Naples…coming up next.