Now Open – Dancing, Dining, & Dessert
Photo credit to the Promenade at Bonita Bay.
The long-awaited opening of DeRomo’s Gourmet Market and Restaurant is scheduled to happen this month, bringing 18,000 square feet of European flair to The Promenade at Bonita Bay.
Founder Francis Cuomo says the Italian eatery and international marketplace will be a destination unlike any other in Southwest Florida. The meandering, Old World-style marketplace will feature multiple storefronts, each with their own specialty. There will be a fresh deli, bakery, butcher shop, seafood counter, gelato shop and Tuscan-style outdoor bar. DeRomo’s also will make its own pasta for sale and for use in the 300-seat authentic Italian restaurant.
Another new retailer is adding to the Italian experience offered at The Promenade. Divino Gelato Cafe opened in May, offering artisan Italian ice cream. Owner Lori Lester previously managed three gelato cafes in Wisconsin and was trained in Italy as a “Master Gelaterian.”
“We take the time and spend the money to make it right every time,” she says. “Great gelato is creamy and intense in flavor.”
Another place to satisfy the sweet tooth recently opened in Miromar Outlets. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory features handmade truffles, fudge, caramels, ice cream and confections of all kinds. Shoppers can watch as fudge is made the old fashioned way, on a traditional marble slab, or as apples are dipped into thick, bubbly caramel from a copper kettle for this classic treat.
Norman Love also is expected to open a chocolate salon at Miromar by the end of the month. The 1,100-square-foot shop will offer artisan gelato, plus waffles, crepes and Norman Love’s signature chocolates and coffee drinks.
More international dining is coming to Miromar with the opening of French Deli, featuring French-inspired salads, sandwiches, tapas, crepes, desserts and drinks. Maui Wowi Coffees and Smoothies also recently open at the outlet mall, offering Kona blend coffee, espresso and fresh fruit smoothies.
After trying the newest in sweets and international cuisine, it may be time to work off those calories with European champion dancer Stefan Zhivkov at Enchanted Ballroom at The Promenade. Owner Susan Scott of Sanibel Island’s “Dancing with the Island Stars” has opened a second location, offering private lessons, group classes and dance parties. Learn American and international ballroom dancing, including Argentine Tango and West Coast Swing.
“I’ve been doing it for four years, and I love it,” Scott says. “I like the exercise, I like the challenge, I like the music, and I like the friends that I’ve met competing all over the world.”
Adding to the unique experiences offered at The Promenade is Kay Casperson Beauty Inside Out. This 1,500-square-foot flagship boutique offers head-to-toe beauty and wellness services, including nails, hair and lash extensions. Also get pampered at Hand & Stone, recently opened at Coconut Point Mall, featuring professional massage, facials and hair removal.
As Estero grows, new retailers are offering unique shopping, lounging and learning experiences. From dancing to dining, new adventures await those who seek a break from the ordinary.