So, here’s the thing about The Grill Ritz Carlton Naples. People usually walk in expecting just another high-end hotel steakhouse where the linens are stiff and the waiters act like they're guarding the Crown Jewels. Honestly? That’s not it at all. While it definitely has that old-school "Vanderbilt Beach" prestige, there is a specific, almost moody energy to the place that most foodies miss if they’re just looking for a fancy slab of meat.
It is tucked inside the legendary Ritz-Carlton, Naples, which just underwent a massive "remastering." If you haven't been since 2023, the whole resort feels different—brighter, more "new money meets coastal chic"—but The Grill managed to keep its soul. They call the vibe "ocean after a storm." Think deep silver tones, lavender accents, and those massive, heavy-backed chairs that make you feel like you're in a private library rather than a Florida resort.
Why The Grill Ritz Carlton Naples Isn't Just for Tourists
Most locals in Naples are notoriously picky. They have a dozen steakhouses on Fifth Avenue South to choose from, yet they still drive up to Vanderbilt Beach for this one. Why? Because the kitchen doesn't play it safe with the sourcing.
We’re talking about dry-aged steaks that actually have a funk to them. A lot of places say they dry-age, but it's often a "wet-age" marketing trick. Here, you can taste the time. The 14-ounce New York Strip or the massive bone-in ribeye aren't just salted and tossed on a flame; they are treated with a level of technical respect you’d expect from a Michelin-starred spot in New York or Chicago.
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The Menu Staples You Can't Skip
- The Soufflé: You have to order this at the start of the meal. If you wait until dessert time, you've already lost. The Grand Marnier version is the classic, but honestly, the chocolate one hits differently after a salty steak.
- The Seafood Tower: Since you’re literally steps from the Gulf, the stone crabs (when in season) are non-negotiable.
- Agnolotti or Risotto: They usually have a seasonal pasta that acts as a "middle course." Don't skip it. It’s often where the chef shows off more than the grill station does.
The Secret to Getting a Table
You’ve probably tried to hop on OpenTable on a Friday night and seen nothing but 9:45 PM slots. It’s frustrating. The Grill Ritz Carlton Naples is one of the toughest gets in town, especially during "Season" (January through April).
Basically, you’ve got to be proactive. If you’re staying at the resort, the concierge is your best friend, but even they can't work miracles on a Saturday night if you call at 6:00 PM. Pro tip: Try a Tuesday or Wednesday. The service is just as sharp, but the room breathes a little more. You might even snag one of the booths near the wood-burning fireplace, which is arguably the best seat in the house for privacy.
The Dress Code: Don't Be That Person
Naples is weirdly casual but also incredibly expensive. You’ll see guys in $400 linen shirts and no socks. However, The Grill is one of the few places where "Smart Casual" is actually enforced. You don’t necessarily need a tie, but leave the flip-flops and cargo shorts at the pool bar (Gumbo Limbo).
A jacket isn't required, but you'll feel better in one. Most men wear a blazer; most women go for cocktail attire. It’s an event restaurant. If you show up looking like you just came from the beach, the "Ladies and Gentlemen" of the Ritz will still be polite—because that’s their whole brand—but you’ll feel out of place.
What Most People Miss: The Wine List
People focus on the beef, but the wine cellar here is massive. They have a Master Sommelier-curated list that isn't just a bunch of overpriced Cabernets. Yes, you can find the $1,000 bottles of Screaming Eagle if that’s your vibe, but the real value is in their international selections. Ask about the old-world reds from smaller producers in Italy or Spain. The staff actually knows their stuff—they aren't just reciting a script.
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Fact Check: Tiburón vs. Vanderbilt Beach
Don't make the mistake of driving to the wrong Ritz. There are two in Naples.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Naples (Beach): This is where The Grill is located. It’s right on the water.
- The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón (Golf): This is inland. They have great food too (like Ria), but they do not have The Grill.
Is It Actually Worth the Price?
Let's be real: dinner here is going to cost you. Between the $70+ steaks, the $20 cocktails, and the inevitable bottle of wine, you’re looking at a significant bill.
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But here is why it stays relevant: Consistency. In a town where restaurants open and close every single season, The Grill Ritz Carlton Naples has been the gold standard since 1985. They don't have "off" nights. The butter is always the right temperature. The bread is always warm. The steak is always exactly the temperature you asked for. That level of reliability is what you’re paying for.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
- Book 3 weeks out: If you want a prime-time slot (7:00 PM), do not wait.
- Arrive early for a drink at the Lobby Bar: The new Lobby Bar is stunning. Have a glass of champagne there first to soak in the "new" Ritz vibe before heading into the "classic" atmosphere of The Grill.
- Mention anniversaries: They are suckers for a celebration. If it’s a birthday or anniversary, tell them when you book. You’ll likely get a little extra magic at the end of the meal.
- Check the season: If you’re visiting in the summer, look for the "Dining Passport" deals or prix-fixe menus that sometimes pop up to entice locals.
The Grill isn't trying to be the trendiest spot in Florida. It’s trying to be the best version of a classic steakhouse, and honestly, it usually wins. Whether you're a local celebrating a milestone or a traveler wanting one "big" night out, this is the place that actually delivers on the hype.