Author Archives: Xsivjosh

Our first visit to Bleu Provence was about thirteen years ago on our first trip to Naples. I was shocked to hear that Naples was in Florida, having always assumed it was in Italy. We were escorted into a very lovely dining area and given menus and a book entitled “Liste des Vins”. The menuContinue reading “Bleu Provence in Naples: a very special occasion every time”

In Philadelphia we enjoy tons of Uzbeki and Russian restaurants. I shop at several Russian supermarkets as well as small Mom and Pop shops. The choices of prepared foods as well as raw ingredients is impressive. Quite the opposite in Naples. We just got our first Uzbeki restaurant. The choices are limited, but truly deliciousContinue reading “Afsona finally brings Uzbeki food to Naples”

Perfect for Sue and Zola’s last night in Naples. We enjoyed a round of perfectly made cocktails at the outdoor bar before we sat for dinner. Nice ambiance and very pleasant bartenders. It’s amazing how much I have missed having a professional make my cocktails for me. I’m no slouch at mixing drinks, but I’llContinue reading “Claw Bar in Naples”

Had dinner with our friends Sue and Zola who are visiting Naples this week. Took them to Lima Pisco Bar at their new location in East Naples. Started dinner with Pisco Sours, their signature cocktail. They started us off with an Amuse Bouche of tomato soup. This course is always delicious and is often potatoContinue reading “Great Dinner at Lima Pisco Bar in East Naples”

This is a big favorite of ours and pretty simple to make at home. The tenderloins usually come in a package of two, so we marinate them both and freeze the one we haven’t used for a later date. I make a foil tray that can be placed on the grill and used for theContinue reading “Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Pablanos and Onions”

A refreshing happy hour cocktail. The original Shmengie was made with just Vodka and Triple Sec. I’ve altered it and upgraded it with Lillet and Cointreau. Both ways it’s a fun cocktail. 1/2 oz Lillet 1 oz Cointreau 3 oz Vodka Shake with ice 30 times. Strain into martini glass. Garnish with a slice ofContinue reading “The Shmengie”

We decided to meet our dear friends, Bobby and Debby, who we hadn’t seen for over a year. We’ve met at Connors twice before and enjoyed it both times. Last night was an excellent reunion and, rest assured, we did not finish all three bottles. They did, however, all get opened. Once again I forgotContinue reading “When friends from Venice and Naples (Florida, that is) want to meet, they go to Connors Steak and Seafood in Fort Myers”

I’ve been buying this wine at the Costco in North Naples for $33. When I applied the Vivino app it says the going price is $49.99 and that they’ll sell it to you for $74. it’s a delicious Pinot Noir loaded with cherries and cassis. My favorite style. The MacPhail family sold their winery andContinue reading “If you can find it, buy it!”

Went out for Mikes big birthday. He chose his favorite pizza spot in Naples, Florida. The pizzas had a very thin crust, the way we like them. Lots of delicious toppings. You could customize your pizza anyway you want. 10 inch, 13 inch and two larger sizes. Several wine choices by the glass “on tap”Continue reading “Mike’s Birthday Dinner at The Crust in North Naples”

So sad that a.p.vin closed down his winery. For the past several years these were my favorite Pinot Noirs. He sourced grapes from several excellent vineyards and shlepped them to San Francisco where he made the wines. The Wine Spectator always rated his wines in the 90 plus range. They were great for quaffing orContinue reading “If you can find it, buy it!”