Naples came alive with food, music, and Greek flair as the team behind one of Chicago's hottest restaurants introduced their latest concept, Violi, to Southwest Florida. WINK News was at the lively grand opening, where the story of a culinary journey from Mykonos to Naples unfolded.
Owners Luke Stoioff and David Rekhson of Violi have been eyeing Naples for their restaurant for five years.
"This city was just completely alive with people. And where I was at the time, it was very much not alive. And we thought, man, we should really try to expand into this particular town," said Stoioff.
The pair met Greek chef Athinagoras Kostakos during a trip to Mykonos and instantly connected.
"There was one day in particular where we were at a restaurant in Greece, and we were just really, really loving the vibe, the food and everything. And we said, Who's the chef, who's who's in charge, who's making all this delicious food back there?" said Rekhson.
Kostakos now brings his authentic Greek flair and warmth to Violi, blending culture and cuisine with the Greek spirit of hospitality.
"We really provide service from our heart, and we try to do our best of the best of our souls to having people enjoying and experience in our restaurant. It's about the sequence. It's not just having another experience for us is a memorable thing, having a great dinner," said Kostakos.
The grand opening night was filled with excitement as guests experienced "The Ritual," with sparklers lighting up the room and a live saxophone player energizing the Naples crowd.
"I don't consider Naples like another spot in the States, because from the first moment I arrived here, it feels like home. People are charmed. They're smiling, they're humble. The weather is insanely good, and it reminds me back of Greece," said Kostakos.
As the evening concluded, it was clear that Naples had warmly embraced this new Greek gem.