The Local on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
The Local 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples, Florida 34109
This event is SOLD OUT but be sure to watch from home!
The Local, a beloved farm-to-table restaurant in Naples, is set to make its national television debut on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives on Friday, April 4th, at 9 PM. To celebrate this exciting milestone, The Local will be hosting a special Watch Party starting at 8 PM, where all guests will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine to toast to the occasion.
Executive Chef and Owner Jeff Mitchell recalls the unexpected journey that led to this moment. “I got an email over the summer asking if I’d be interested in being on the show. At first, I thought it was a scam—I get a lot of emails. I think I responded, ‘Not sure if this is real, but I’m definitely interested.’” That response kicked off a rigorous selection process that included multiple in-depth interviews, culminating in The Local being chosen to appear on the hit show.
The filming process was an unforgettable experience. “It was fast-paced. I got the call on a Monday, and they filmed the very next week,” Chef Jeff said. “Day one, I cooked with Guy in the morning, and then we filmed the dining room scenes. Day two was all about B-roll footage—it was a long day, but it was worth it.”
While Chef Jeff enjoyed the entire process, what stood out most was Guy Fieri’s kindness toward his family. “I have three boys, and he treated them like celebrities. It was awesome to see. Everyone left feeling like Guy is a class act. Off-camera, he shared things with me that only real kitchen people understand—just little sayings and lingo that showed he’s the real deal.”
The Local’s appearance on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives is the culmination of a dream more than a decade in the making. “I actually emailed the show 10 or 11 years ago saying we’d be a perfect fit. Nobody got back to me—until now.”
About The Local
The Local is Naples’ first farm and sea to table restaurant offering simple, delicious and nourishing food options, prepared with healthy cooking techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Created by award-winning Naples’ veteran Chef, Jeff Mitchell in May 2013, The Local serves lunch, dinner and weekend brunch as well as vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Chef Jeff and his team source most of their products from local farms, ranchers, fishmongers and artisans. Located at 5323 Airport Pulling Road, Naples, Florida, The Local is open from 11:00am to 9pm Monday to Friday, and 10:00am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. For more information or to make reservations visit www.TheLocalNaples.com or 239-596-FARM (3276).