Naples, Fla. (May 31, 2023) – Mercato’s eclectic dining and social scene is growing once again. North American Properties (NAP) has signed leases with Old Vines and Waxin’s Restaurang & Bar (Waxin’s) to open at the mixed-use development as part of a repositioning strategy aimed at transforming the property into a community-oriented entertainment destination.
New to Mercato
Old Vines – Rick Taranto, Jon Ellms, and Brooke Kravetz, co-owners of the Maine-based Old Vines Wine Bar and Old Vines Supper Club in East Naples, are gearing up to introduce the concept’s third iteration at Mercato later this summer. Kravetz will execute the brand’s growth strategy and manage daily business operations of the 3,530-square-foot, full-service restaurant and bar located in suite 3125 across from Aveda. Old Vines at Mercato will feature an elegant, casual vibe with rustic design elements highlighted by charcoal and red hues. Fine wine, creative cocktails and inventive, Florida-inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients will be available to enjoy indoors and outdoors. A wine loyalty program will also be offered for charter members to receive exclusive discounts, preferred access to special events, and other VIP benefits.
Waxin’s – Known for his many successful business ventures in the European food and beverage industry, Patrick Waxin established his first U.S.-based restaurant in 2020 with the opening of Waxin’s, a Swedish-American eatery located on the border of Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The global cuisine has been so well-received that a second location is currently underway in West Palm Beach, and a third will launch at Mercato next to Burntwood Tavern this fall. Waxin’s will be the first of its kind in the market, dedicating 40% of the menu to classic Swedish dishes and drinks. To maintain authenticity, 30-year Swedish restaurant veteran Andrea Cagliesi will move to Naples and manage the Mercato location. Design plans for the 3,030-square-foot space are focused on creating a modern and upscale yet approachable environment with a Stockholm-meets-New York City-type feel. Upon completion, the restaurant will boast chic architectural details such as an indoor/outdoor bar, a patio flooded with greenery, a wine vault, and gas lamps. Waxin’s will serve lunch and dinner. It will also host a tasteful dining club for adventurous foodies.
“When we first took on leasing at Mercato, we recognized an opportunity to further diversify the culinary landscape and bring in new, unrepresented experiences like Old Vines and Waxin’s,” said Morgan Liesenfelt, NAP director of leasing. “As the identity of Mercato starts to shift, we’re excited to see how our loyal fanbase and first-time visitors react. Mercato is already the gem of Florida’s Paradise Coast and will only continue getting better with time.”
Mercato owner PGIM Real Estate hired NAP in August 2022 to elevate the development and strengthen its regional relevance. A key component of NAP’s vision for accomplishing this goal centers on upgrading the current merchandise lineup, beginning with the addition of Old Vines and Waxin’s.
To keep up with happenings and updates at Mercato, visit ExperienceMercato.com or follow the destination on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
