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A super-sized number of independent burger, hot dog and sandwich shops have recently debuted or are opening soon. Here’s the 411 on their special sauce.
Brooks Gourmet Burgers & Dogs: Consistently praised as one of the best casual spots for juicy bites in an unpretentious setting, a second location has landed at the Pavilion. 845 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, brooksburgers.com
Danger, Danger: When the owners of irreverent Nevermind and Nice Guys get together to open a tiny (primarily take-out) joint, you know you’re in trouble: Upon entering through 47th Terrace, it’s impossible to resist the burgers and flatbreads. 1017 Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral
Flat Top Larry’s: The River District got a classic retro diner (complete with eau de grease). The menu is short but long on comforts that are familiar yet just different enough: The signature burger on brioche is capped with cilantro-lime mayo and jalapeño-infused bacon, and the red velvet waffles are sinfully rich. 2122 First St., Fort Myers, 239-332-2000, flattoplarrys.com
Henning’s Chicago Kitchen: It started as a pizza pub, but after relocating to a more central area this fall it also upgraded its offerings, adding a list of brisket-and-short-rib blended burgers named after Windy City characters. 2360 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, 239-309-0123, henningschicagokitchen.com
Jimmy P’s Burgers & More: Carving out a niche between the original Jimmy P’s Butcher Shop & Deli and the upscale steakhouse Jimmy P’s Charred is this fast-casual place off Immokalee Road using the same high-quality meats. 1201 Piper Blvd., Naples, 239-643-6328, facebook.com/jimmypsburgers/
Motor City Coney Island Grill: Detroit transplants will eat up the chili-topped Coney dogs, but anyone can appreciate the selection of specialty dogs and burgers, with omelets and gyros, too. 1514 Immokalee Road, Naples, 239-784-3740
Shea’s at Lansdowne Street: Although there are one or two patties and dogs on the sports bar’s menu, the main draw besides New England teams on the flat-screens is the plethora of hot and cold sandwiches plus a mean clam chowder. 720 Fifth Ave. S., Naples, 239-304-9274, sheasatlansdownest.com