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Even though it’s about a mile from the beach and in Mercato, one of Naples’ busiest plazas, The Hampton Social feels as if it’s just steps from the water. Of course, that’s by design—the white-washed dining room with nautical accents like ropes and oars are meant to channel the lively coastal character of the Hamptons, New York’s sophisticated summer stomping grounds where bougie fun reigns. (If you’ve ever been, you’ll instantly get the clever nod to the miles of hedges with the dining room’s green ceiling panels.)
There’s room for about 300 guests, plus an extra 66 on a patio that catches spillover traffic from the full-size and fully stocked bar. While there is a host of creative cocktails, the libation of choice is hands-down rosé—with a special bottle of the day; multiple other options (including Jon Bon Jovi’s exciting new award-winning Hampton Water); plus the frosty blended frosé made with rosé, Tito’s vodka and pureed peach.
Sure there’s plenty of seafood, like the “Jar of King Crab” with lump meat afloat in garlic butter and a true-to-form lobster roll (most entrees are in the mid-$20 range). But there’s also a healthy selection of nibbles and bar bites that include liberal twists to classics, like chicken wings (with a wilted pepper relish) and pizza (where avocado and corn team with lemon zest and basil).
If any of this seems slightly familiar, it might be because this is not the first you’ve heard of The Hampton Social, which made its debut in Chicago’s River North in 2015. What’s unique is that this is the first outside of Illinois and just the fourth overall; restaurateur Brad Parker handpicked Naples because it was the site of many childhood vacations and a place he frequents to this day.
To plan a visit: The Hampton Social 9114 Strada Place, Naples (239) 202-2038 thehamptonsocial.com/naples