Fifth Avenue South has added new places for a quick lunch, reimagined a longtime favorite and made room for a future restaurant project. As Naples heads into the 2027 season, here’s a look at the dining changes from January through November 2026.
Two New Casual Spots Arrive on Fifth
All Too Well Gourmet Sandwiches opened in February at the corner of Fifth Avenue South and Eighth Street South. The Chicago-born concept brings chef-crafted sandwiches to the avenue, including creations served on Tuscan schiacciata, a flatbread similar to focaccia.
A few blocks west, Barrio Taqueria opened at 539 Fifth Avenue South. Owned by Sal Muñoz, who also operates Unidos Latin Kitchen & Bar, Barrio serves tacos, empanadas, quesadillas, salads and other Mexican-inspired fare. Its creative empanada fillings include chicken and poblano, beef with olives and golden raisins, and spinach, guava and goat cheese.
Both openings bring more casual, walk-in dining to an avenue known for its special-occasion restaurants. They give visitors another option for a quick meal between shopping, sightseeing and dinner plans.
Vergina Begins a New Chapter as Medi
After 26 years on Fifth Avenue South, Vergina became Medi in October. The Mediterranean restaurant and entertainment venue has a fresh menu, updated interiors, cocktails inspired by the French Riviera and live music. The management and familiar team remain, giving regulars a new experience in a familiar space.
The menu includes dishes such as Artichoke Branzino, Moroccan Salmon, seafood pasta and paella. Medi also serves brunch and offers daily happy hour, with indoor and outdoor seating, including a courtyard.
La Pescheria’s Space Is Planned for Redevelopment
La Pescheria, the Italian seafood restaurant that had been on Fifth Avenue South since 2018, left its space as part of a planned redevelopment. Plans call for a new mixed-use building with a restaurant on the ground floor and residences above.
The restaurant planned for the site is, inspired by restaurateur Stefano Frittella’s Monaco concept. The project has faced permitting delays, and an opening date has not been announced. It is not expected to be part of the 2027 season’s early lineup.
Pazzo! Reopens with a Refreshed Menu
Pazzo! Cucina Italiana temporarily closed for roof and kitchen improvements before reopening in October, just ahead of its 31st anniversary. Its refreshed menu keeps familiar favorites while adding dishes such as sea bass and flounder Milanese.
Pazzo! also plans to introduce lunch service for the first time in its history, beginning December 1. That gives diners another opportunity to enjoy the longtime Fifth Avenue restaurant during the day.
A Possible New Arrival: Linea
Restaurant plans filed for Linea at 465 Fifth Avenue South offer another possible addition to the avenue. The filing lists a restaurant project, but the concept, operator, menu and opening timeline have not been publicly confirmed. For now, it’s an early lead to watch rather than an announced opening.
Still on the Watchlist: Riva and Zanu
Two other planned restaurants are tied to the gutted building just west of Inn on Fifth: Riva Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge and Zanu Sushi Bar. The projects have been delayed by building-permit issues. The latest reported estimate put a possible opening after the 2027 season begins, but neither restaurant has announced a confirmed date.
What to Expect This Season
Fifth Avenue South’s dining mix continues to broaden. All Too Well and Barrio add casual lunch options, Medi brings a fresh take on a longtime address, and Pazzo! is back with updates while keeping its familiar character. Meanwhile, Avenue 31, Linea, Riva and Zanu remain future possibilities to keep an eye on.
For the 2027 season, there are new menus to try, familiar favorites to revisit and a few upcoming projects that could bring even more changes to Naples’ iconic dining avenue.
