French and Vietnamese flavors are coming together on Fifth Avenue South in Naples, and the pairing is turning heads at lunchtime.
It may sound unexpected, but the blend works beautifully. The bright herbs of Vietnamese cuisine, mixed with classic French technique creates dishes that feel both bold and comforting.
Le Colonial Naples now serves lunch seven days a week. Guests can order from the à la carte menu or choose between two prix fixe options, offering either two or three courses.
Le Colonial celebrates the vibrant spirit and flavors of Saigon in the 1920s. The restaurant, which launched more than three decades ago and has been in Naples for three years, brings a refined take on Vietnamese cuisine to Southwest Florida. The culinary team balances traditional recipes with modern, health conscious ingredients, using fresh, locally sourced vegetables, premium seafood, and high quality meats.
Executive Chef Jack Zhong leads the kitchen. He said he has been cooking since he was 12 years old. After briefly exploring other career paths, he said he realized the kitchen was where he belonged.
“I love cooking for people. Seeing their reactions makes it worth it,” he said.
Chef Jack said the fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors comes from history.
“The French colonized Vietnam, so they influenced the ingredients and cooking techniques,” he said. “That’s why our food is light, flavorful, and easy to eat.”
The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from shaking beef to vegetable rolls, all designed to feel fresh and approachable. Chef Jack said guests enjoy the food because it is both flavorful and lower in calories.
The team hopes the new lunch service invites more people to experience the restaurant.
“It’s the perfect opportunity for guests who haven’t been here before,” Chef Jack said.
Behind the bar, Tomas Duran has been with Le Colonial since it opened in Naples. He said the drinks reflect the same light and refreshing style as the menu.
“I recommend the Lychee Martini or the Green Makrut Gimlet. They’re so refreshing and perfect for Lunch or dinner,” he said.
But his favorite part of the restaurant? ” It’s the people. The people who come in and the people who work here.”
Together, the food and drinks at Le Colonial create a lunch experience that feels elegant, flavorful, and uniquely Naples.
Dining and Cooking