Naples, FL, May 14th, 2024 — After nearly 35 years as a beloved local establishment, Old Naples Pub in downtown Naples is closing its doors at the end of the month. Co-owners and Naples natives, Tim Flock and Kent Schooley, have decided to retire, marking the end of an era for this popular hangout located at 255 13th Ave. S., just off Third Street South near the Naples Pier.

The Old Naples Pub, which opened in 1990, has been a significant part of the Naples social scene, originally founded alongside the late Stephen Briggs and Donald Flock, Tim Flock’s father. Tim Flock reminisces about the early days, noting, "The Pub idea came from Old Naples neighbors, friends, and business folk on Third Street. It was a fun lark building the place in the hot summer of 1990. I just helped light the match, but our fun-loving staff, loyal guests, and regular customers kept the burners firing, the beers chilling, and the music playing."

The pub has been renowned for its traditional pub fare, casual, family-friendly atmosphere, and live music played on a century-old tavern piano, not to mention its famous jars of pickles. It has become a staple in Naples' high-end shopping district, attracting both locals and tourists who cherish its quaint charm and vibrant social atmosphere.

Joan Tobin of Naples-based Neapolitan Enterprises, which owns the pub’s real estate, expressed her appreciation for the owners' dedication over the years, "The owners of the Old Naples Pub wanted to retire, and they’ve done a wonderful job, and they deserve a terrific next chapter. We’ll have a terrific next chapter too, but we haven’t decided what it’s going to be yet."

As the pub prepares to close, the community is invited to celebrate its long history and many memories with a final day of live music on May 31. "We’re going to end with a bang," said manager Linda Benson, encouraging everyone to join in commemorating the pub's storied past.

In other local news, development continues at Founders Square on the southeast corner of Immokalee Road and Collier Boulevard. Lake Park Diner recently opened its freestanding restaurant, joining other businesses such as 7-Eleven and Kelly’s Roast Beef. Notably, a new venture, Roadies Pit Stop, has broken ground. This innovative triple drive-thru concept will offer a variety of coffee drinks and high-energy performance beverages made with real fruit juices and no artificial ingredients.

Additionally, a Panda Express Chinese Kitchen drive-thru is planned for the area, with early plans including a nearly 2,700-square-foot restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating. This development underscores the ongoing growth and vibrancy of the Naples area, as it continues to attract both commercial and residential investments.

The closing of Old Naples Pub marks a significant change in the Naples community, reflecting the ongoing evolution of this dynamic city.

Source: Old Naples Pub closing after 35 years (gulfshorebusiness.com)