A long-vacant waterfront property in North Naples is set for a major transformation. Developers have announced plans to build Cocohatchee River House, a modern, two-story restaurant overlooking the Cocohatchee River.

The 1.1-acre site at 12541 Tamiami Trail North, best known as the former home of the Pewter Mug, will soon see demolition of the existing building to make way for the new venue. The beloved restaurant, known for its prime rib and salad bar operated in the location from 1970 until its relocation in 2018.

Plans filed with Collier County show the restaurant will feature 2,383 square feet of elevated dining space on the second floor, a 1,100-square-foot lower-level dining area, and outdoor seating surrounded by landscaped gardens and brick pathways. The design includes a firepit, riverfront views, and space for up to 122 guests.

Parking for 69 vehicles, a bike rack, and eco-friendly elements such as preserved mangroves and permeable ground coverings are also proposed for the project. The building will be set farther back from U.S. 41 than the current structure to create a softer streetscape.

The site is owned by Forrest Hills LLC, an affiliate of Nashville-based Grace Development. Grace is teaming up with Naples Waterfront Hospitality LLC, which is connected to the Fort Myers-based Nils Richter Group, a company with an established track record in real estate and restaurant projects throughout Southwest Florida.