Summer at Sea Salt, Naples Dining

Many Southwest Florida restaurants have summer menus that are not only full of seasonal specialties, but also spectacular deals, aimed to get the locals out of hiding from the heat. As I started previewing some a while back, I somehow got sidetracked. I found this draft, waiting sadly in its queue to see the light of day.

Sea Salt in Naples is quite spectacular, in its food quality, presentation, service and of course wine list. I recently got to sample some of the summer specials created by Chef/Owner Fabrizio Aielli and his Executive Chef Josh Zeman staff, like a delicious Zellwood corn bisque with double smoked gulf shrimp and potato hash. The rich, salty/sweet treat also offered a fun table presentation.

And how could anything be bad with these three magic ingredients: Lobster. risotto and truffles. I was hoping there was a vat in the back that I could dive into.

Another flavor packed dish was the White Peking Duck with celery root veloute, crispy parma ham, pear and currants. And one of my favorites, the Foie Gras saucisson; fennel potato puree, red onion jam, pickled mustard seeds

Just at the moment when I thought I couldn't possible eat anymore, pastry chef Chelsea Phillips sent out plates of decadence so beautiful it would make a grown man cry.

Try the summer specials while they last and take advantage of some outstanding Sea Salt specials such as lunch at the bar. It's only $12.95 and that includes a glass of wine. There are lots of 1/2 price options for happy hour, and the pre-sunset menu is 3 succulent courses for a mere $29.95.

Wednesday is half-price on bottles of wine under $100 AND no corkage fee if you have something special you would like to open from your home cellar. If you have not been to Sea Salt, or it has been awhile, now is the time to check it out; the tourists are gone, you can get a great seat and an even better deal on some of the best food in the area.  Cheers to summer in Southwest Florida.