🎇 🎇Fun foodie events for readers 🍽️ 🍷

Hello and happy 4th!

You've got Diana here as your scribe this week. I hope you’re enjoying a fun holiday and the weather holds up for your plans.

What we’ve been up to

The reviews are in: NDN’s inaugural At the Table dinner chat with Old Vines Supper Club’s chef-managing partner Brooke Kravetz was a smash, according to the 30 readers who joined us on this intimate night of fun fine dining.

Knowing how hard permitting can be in town — whether you're a resident or a business owner, I remain in awe of Brooke, who opened two of JLB's top 5 new restaurants in Naples last year.

Her second Old Vines location in Naples is at Mercato, where the format is a la carte.

JLB's suggestion: Try both.

Like a dinner party, new friends were made. Conversation flowed, as did the wine.

For this reporter, a highlight was meeting our subscribers and gleaning their feedback on which food and restaurant stories resonate most.

If you want to start a conversation, we always welcome your thoughts.

My colleague Robyn George covers Lee County and can be reached at rhgeorge@fortmyers.gannett.com.

I cover Collier County, and if you want to connect, email me at diana.biederman@naplesnews.com. I love hearing from readers, whether it’s praise or criticism about our coverage.

Talking about fun food events…

Mark your calendars for November 16 when USA Today’s Wine & Food Experience arrives in Naples at Paradise Coast Sports Complex.

In September 2023, Mother Nature seemed to save all the rain we didn’t get last summer for the event’s last half.

Torrential rain didn't stop the ticketholders who enjoyed sipping (downing?) wine and cocktails while savoring delicious nibbles and plates from Southwest Florida's top restaurants.

And better yet, November (usually) means sunnier, cooler AND drier weather than September in Southwest Florida.

Early bird tickets earn discounts

VIP admission is $70 right now and grants four hours of access. General admission is $60 for three hours and includes the same sips and bites.

Prices go up Oct. 2, then again when purchased on the day of.

While many people attended last year with a group of friends, it was also fun for those who went solo.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit wineandfood.usatoday.com/naples.

I'll be there, and hope to see you too!