MEDI IS NOW OPEN, BRINGING A TASTE OF ST. TROPEZ TO NAPLES

MEDI IS NOW OPEN, BRINGING A TASTE OF ST. TROPEZ TO NAPLES

Vergina Enters a New Era of Mediterranean Dining and Entertainment on Fifth Avenue

Vergina, one of downtown Naples’ longest-standing and most beloved restaurants, is now open and beginning a new chapter as Medi, a Mediterranean restaurant and entertainment venue. Inspired by the chic, vibrant energy of St. Tropez and the Côte d’Azur, Medi introduces refreshed interiors, a new menu led by Executive Chef Víctor Villanueva and an expanded entertainment experience for locals and tourists alike.

Shaped by guest feedback and a desire to continue evolving with the Naples community, Medi builds on the hospitality and sense of connection that have defined Vergina for the past 26 years. The new concept retains the same dedicated management and familiar team, carrying forward the warm welcome and sense of family that have made the restaurant a beloved gathering place.

“For 26 years, Vergina has been a place where our guests feel like family, and that same spirit will continue at Medi,” said Eric Tancredi, Managing Partner of Medi. “We wanted to bring the vibrant energy of the Mediterranean to Naples through a fresh culinary direction, inviting interiors and evenings filled with live music and entertainment. We’re excited to share this next chapter with our longtime guests and welcome new faces to the table.”

Located in the heart of downtown Naples on Fifth Avenue South, Medi draws inspiration from the chic, vibrant atmosphere of the French Riviera, welcoming approximately 300 guests across its thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces. The main dining room seats 110 guests, while the indoor bar accommodates 52 in a lively setting for cocktails, dining and entertainment. For those who prefer alfresco dining, the front patio overlooks Naples’ vibrant Fifth Avenue South, while the courtyard seats approximately 45 guests in a charming, Mediterranean-inspired setting. Together, these spaces provide an inviting backdrop for everything from intimate dinners and casual cocktails to larger celebrations and special events.

Executive Chef Víctor Villanueva brings more than a decade of international culinary experience and a deep passion for Mediterranean cuisine to Medi. Originally from Venezuela, he pursued
culinary studies at Instituto San Ignacio de Loyola in Peru before earning a Certificate in Culinary Arts from the Mariano Moreno Culinary Institute. At Medi, Chef Víctor’s approach centers on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a balance of flavor, technique, texture and presentation. The menu offers a contemporary expression of Mediterranean dining alongside fresh takes on beloved Vergina signatures, creating an experience that honors familiar flavors while inviting guests to discover something new.

Menu highlights include the Artichoke Branzino, Moroccan Salmon with aromatic spices, Linguini Portofino with shrimp and zucchini, Sapore di Mare seafood pasta and Seafood Paella. For sharing, the Medi Platter features Mediterranean dips served with fresh pita, while the Labneh appetizer pairs creamy labneh with tomato chutney.

“With Medi, I want to bring the fresh flavors and warmth of the Mediterranean to Naples through
dishes that let the ingredients shine,” said Executive Chef Víctor Villanueva.

“Our menu celebrates vibrant produce, fresh seafood and the pleasure of sharing a meal. My hope is that guests discover something new while feeling completely at home around our table.”

Complementing the cuisine is an extensive cocktail menu inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavors. Highlights include the Peach Rosé Spritz, Passionfruit Martini, Coupe de Cantaloupe with fresh cantaloupe and melon liqueur, and Lychee Moon with lychee and Empress Gin. The Hibiscus 75 adds a floral twist to the classic French 75, while the Sarti Spritz Margarita features Sarti Rosa. A signature Limoncello Sorbet Cocktail combines limoncello sorbet, vodka and Prosecco for a refreshing finish.

Medi’s upgraded audio system sets the stage for daily live musical performances beginning in the late afternoon. The redesigned layout gives the dining room and bar distinct atmospheres, with early performances providing a warm backdrop for dining and conversation. As the evening progresses, entertainment shifts toward the bar, bringing livelier energy for after-dinner cocktails and a natural transition into nightlife. Medi’s holiday programming includes Thanksgiving and Christmas seasonal dishes from Chef Víctor alongside the full menu.

Medi is located at 700 5th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102. Medi will open daily from 11:30AM to 2AM, with lunch until 4PM, happy hour 3-4:45PM, dinner from 4PM to 11:30PM and bar service until closing. For more information, visit www.MediNaples.com or follow @Medi.Naples. For reservations, visit OpenTable or call 239-659-7008.

ABOUT MEDI NAPLES
Medi is a Mediterranean restaurant and entertainment venue in downtown Naples inspired by the chic, vibrant energy of St. Tropez and the Côte d’Azur. Evolving from Vergina’s 26-year legacy, Medi brings together a menu led by Executive Chef Víctor Villanueva, refreshed interiors and live entertainment, while retaining the same dedicated management, familiar team and warm hospitality. Medi welcomes guests for lunch, dinner, brunch and daily happy hour.

PHOTO CREDIT: Guardi STUDIO