steak
As much as Naples’ party-on-a-patio temple of steak and craft cocktails is known for all-day fun, The Continental on Third Street South makes no bones about being truly serious about the quality of its sips and seared meat.
Much like its Craftsman bar series aims to educate guests about the nuances behind crushed ice versus a solid sphere and how from-scratch infused liquors can make all the difference in a cocktail, the restaurant’s team hopes to accomplish that with guided three-course tours of its menu at regular intervals during the summer. They’re billing the occasion as the Chef’s Table Summer Wine Dinner series.
It’s not what immediately comes to mind when hearing the term "chef's table" (which most often equates with an in-kitchen dining experience rooted in an extensive tasting menu reflecting the chef’s whims of the day—and a steep price). Instead, this is a structured offering with each themed session running $85 per person. The full line-up is below, and besides the food and wine, the real treat is to be led through the thoughtful selections by both chef Andrew Wicklander and sommelier Higor Valle (not only a charismatic guy, but a Level 3 Advanced in the Court of Master Sommeliers, a huge professional honor only bestowed on the worldwide equivalent of a handful of people).
Dates and themes, all courses include wine pairings:
- June 18: Breeds—variation in flavor and texture of beef breeds
- July 16: The Art of Aging—the dry-aging process and how it affects taste
- Aug. 27: Summer Whites—chilled and cooked seafood courses
- Sept.10: Bold Cabs—wagyu selections paired with Napa cabernets
For reservations, call (239) 659-0007.
