Chef Vincenzo Betulia has redefined fine dining at The French Brasserie on Naples’ iconic 5th Avenue South. Inspired by the overwhelming success of Rouge, his exclusive speakeasy concept introduced in August 2023, Betulia has infused The French with an elevated menu and sophisticated décor that mirror Rouge's intimate, luxurious ambiance.
Rouge, located within a secluded dining area of The French, has quickly earned a devoted following. The speakeasy offers an experience centered on premium steaks, rare wines, and an elegant, clandestine setting. According to Chef Betulia, the concept was designed to “focus on the finest quality steaks and rare wines in a lush setting,” and its popularity has been transformative for The French’s offerings.
Now, patrons of The French can savor a menu enriched with Rouge’s signature steakhouse selections, including standout dishes such as:
12-ounce Australian Wagyu New York Strip #5, served with Bearnaise sauce.
Eight-ounce Carrera Farms Prime Filet Mignon with pommes mousseline, crispy fried shallots, and Sauce au Poivre.
12-ounce Bavette Steak, a butcher’s cut lauded for its intense flavor, paired with green beans, shallots, and roasted potato.
These steaks are cooked over Floridian white oak coals, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor. Alongside these additions, diners can still enjoy The French’s signature brasserie classics, including escargot de Bourgogne, beef tartare, lamb loin persillade, and Mediterranean Dover sole.
The ambiance at The French has also been refined to complement its elevated cuisine. Romantic touches such as velvet draperies, flickering candlelight, and floral garlands now enhance the restaurant’s Mediterranean-inspired arches and crisp table linens.
Award-Winning Wine Program
The synergy between Rouge and The French extends to an impressive wine program that recently earned The French the prestigious “Best of Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator. This honor, awarded to fewer than 1,000 U.S. restaurants, recognizes establishments that demonstrate exceptional commitment to wine.
The achievement was highlighted in Wine Spectator’s July 2024 issue, which named The French one of its “13 Rising Star Wine Restaurants for 2024” and the only Florida establishment on the list.
“Our team is deeply honored by this recognition,” Betulia said, crediting director of operations and beverage director Marcello Palazzi, as well as general manager and sommelier Alain Rabault, for curating a wine list of more than 375 labels, including rare vertical vintages and renowned selections like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and California cult wines.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence
Since its opening in 2017, The French Brasserie has drawn inspiration from the Belle Époque, with its embossed tin ceilings, antiqued mirrors, red leather banquettes, and Parisian sidewalk café charm. The restaurant is part of Chef Betulia’s celebrated portfolio, which includes Osteria Tulia and Bar Tulia, Southwest Florida’s first craft cocktail bar.
Chef Betulia, alongside executive chef Ryan Bleem and Cannes-born chef Benoit Valota, leads a talented culinary team that continually raises the bar for dining in Naples. The French also offers a popular Sunday jazz brunch featuring live music and signature dishes like buckwheat crepes and smoked salmon avocado toast.
Located at 365 5th Avenue South, The French Brasserie is open daily for lunch, happy hour, and dinner. For reservations or more information, visit thefrenchnaples.com or call (239) 315-4019.
Collaborator Credits: Beth Preddy | Eben Morejon
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