Reporter discovers SW Florida food scene full of family connections

Note to audience: For this installment of “What We Do” we caught up with Naples Food and Dining reporter Kendall Little, who recently wrote a story about family-owned restaurants in SW Florida.

More: Where tradition meets the table: 6 family-owned SWFL restaurants

Question: What made you want to tell the stories behind these family-owned restaurants instead of simply recommending where to eat?

Answer: The Southwest Florida community really values family-owned businesses, whether it be restaurants, med spas, grocery stores, or clothing boutiques. In a world full of lifeless corporate operations, I think it’s important to highlight restaurants that value community connection, real stories, and soulful food. I believe knowing the story behind where your food comes from makes you appreciate it more, which is why I felt it was important to tell the stories of the families behind the restaurants instead of just talking about the food.

After interviewing these SW Florida restaurant owners, what do you think is the secret ingredient that keeps a family restaurant thriving for decades?

Photos from Saucy! by KFC’s first day open in Naples

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Saucy officially opened in Naples, Florida, on March 24, 2026. (Kendall Little, Naples Daily News)

I think the secret ingredient to a successful restaurant is soul. The second you walk into these restaurants you can feel the love behind them. The walls are decorated in family photos, charming mementos, and art that shows character. The menus tell tales of recipes passed down for generations and family-favorite flavors. Each restaurant has personality. These places understand that it’s not just the food, it’s the stories behind each dish.

Which family’s journey surprised you the most, and why?

Mamma Anna Trattoria is a true story of resilience, family support, and drive. The Longobardi family immigrated to the United States with a dream of opening their own restaurant. That alone shows the determination of Anna Maria, Massimo, and their children. But after achieving their dream restaurant in Estero, Massimo died suddenly and unexpectedly. Anna wanted to return to Italy and sell the family restaurant, but her children banded together to support her during the dark time and kept the restaurant open.

Their story shows how strong family support can be and how big of a dream Mamma Anna Trattoria truly was for the Longobardis.

What surprised you most about how much history these restaurants have with Southwest Florida?

After every snowbird season, Southwest Florida experiences a wave of restaurant closures. It’s partly due to slower business, and partly because some restaurant owners can’t pay the ever-increasing rent. The fact that Kelly’s Fish House Dining Room in downtown Naples has been open since 1953 is mind-blowing. The restaurant has survived recessions, a global pandemic, and several hurricanes. Some restaurants can’t survive five or ten years, but Kelly’s has been a staple for more than 70 years.

Many readers know these restaurants for their food. What do you hope they’ll appreciate now that they know the people behind them?

I hope readers will appreciate the stories of determination behind these restaurants. I think diners have gotten very comfortable being rude or impatient with restaurants, whether it be the waiters, kitchen staff, or owners. I’m hoping knowing that these restaurants have stories, people, and life behind them will make diners pause and think before deciding how to treat the staff. These restaurants are run by locals, and that’s important to remember.

Mark H. Bickel is the Audience Development Director for The News-Press & Naples Daily News. Reach him by emailing mbickel@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Reporter discovers SW Florida food scene full of family connections