Culinary Collaborators Make Memorable Menus On Fifth Avenue South

Sails Restaurant Hosts Top Chefs In Naples

Everyone knows Naples is known for some of the most notable chefs in the nation, and Fifth Avenue South certainly has its share. We also know that competition among distinguished chefs regardless of location is keen and universal. While Naples’ chefs are always respectful of one another, their paths rarely cross when it comes to the kitchen.

Recently, these assumptions were challenged when Sails, one of Fifth Avenue South’s most popular and prominent restaurants, launched an initiative to bring some of Naples’ top chefs together in a “culinary collaboration,” where they combine their creative cooking skills to the delight of the community. These are not cook-off experiences; they are exciting gastronomic events where a combination of culinary skills is orchestrated to the delight of Sails’ guests.

The first of these collaborations was held on May 21 and featured a pairing of Sails’ head chef Raj Holuss, known for his classic French cuisine, and Chef Asif Syed celebrated for his South Indian cuisine.

Above: Sails Owners Veliko Pavicevic and Corinne Ryan

Chef Holuss’ culinary career has spanned multiple Michelin-starred kitchens, including those run by the Roux family culinary dynasty, including Chef Alain Roux’s illustrious three-Michelin starred restaurant, The Waterside Inn. It was there that Chef Holuss refined his French cooking skills during a decade-long tenure. He also served on the team of celebrated French chef Daniel Boulud in New York City and was first sous chef at The Ritz London, among other prominent restaurants and hotels. Chef Holuss’ immeasurable experience has brought him much acclaim and culinary awards.

Chef Syed is a highly recognized chef locally and nationally. In 2018, he defeated world-famous Food Network chef Bobby Flay on the TV show Beat Bobby Flay. He has also appeared on other Food Network shows, including Guy's Grocery Games and Cutthroat Kitchen. Syed served for 14 years as the executive chef at the Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort. He also opened and served as chef at 21 Spices in East Naples for 10 years.

The exclusive seven-course tasting menu, created by the dynamic twosome, consisted of alternating courses, based on each chef’s culinary heritage of French or Indian cuisine. The packed house of diners was also offered an optional sommelier-selected wine pairing with each course. Guests were dazzled with each presentation, and their palates were pleasingly satiated.

Sails' co-owner and general manager Veljko Pavicevic, says “We value warmth and hospitality – it’s our culture, and hospitality is all about connection. We created the Chef Collaborative Series as a way to bring our local chefs together—uniting visionary culinary artists around a shared table to create an unforgettable dining experience for our guests. This is as much about collaboration as it is about community.”

Above: Chef Raj Holuss

On July 22nd Chef Holuss will join forces with Crave Culinaire Chef Brian Roland, who has made a miraculous comeback after a tragic accident more than three and a half years ago that almost cost him his life. His injuries were severe, requiring long and extensive rehabilitation. Chef Roland’s recovery has been challenging, but through it all he has shown remarkable courage. Just months before the accident he and his wife and business partner Nicole welcomed a baby daughter named Remington. With Nicole’s support and little Remi by his side, Chef Roland was determined to make it through his life-altering event and return even stronger. Throughout it all, Crave Culinaire, thanks in part to Chef Roland’s amazing employees, has continued to thrive.

The collaboration with Chef Holuss is a can’t miss event where Chef Roland will publicly demonstrate once again his extraordinary culinary skills. The series will continue through the summer, so check the Sails’ website to see who’s up next!

Chef Holuss says of the Sails’ idea, "I'm so honored to work with Chefs Asif and Brian, as well as other talented culinary artists. The energy, the exchange of ideas, the mutual respect—it all fuels my creativity. It’s a reminder that food is meant to bring people together, not just at the table, but in the kitchen too.”

Sails opened on Fifth Avenue South on Valentine’s Day 2018, and the love story has continued as co-owners and wife and husband, Corinne Ryan and Veljko Pavicevic, have lovingly created a special jewel on iconic Fifth Avenue South. The restaurant continues to delight its guests with a combination of New World French cuisine and Old-World hospitality. To make a reservation for the upcoming event with Chef Holuss and Chef Roland call 239-360-2000.

Veljko also credits location as part of Sails’ success. “Being on Fifth Avenue South in Naples puts us at the center of everything we love—vibrancy, elegance, and an audience that truly appreciates the art of fine dining. It’s a daily inspiration to be part of such a dynamic and distinguished neighborhood.”

July 14 - August 28

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Weisberg Wealth Management

The Federal Highway Trust Fund spending tends to spike in July. July marks a historically large month for infrastructure disbursements via the Federal Highway Trust Fund. States accelerate road and bridge projects due to optimal summer weather. This leads to a mid-year surge in construction employment, material demand, and capital outflows from federal accounts. If you have questions, please reach out to Rich Weisberg, CRPS, Financial Advisor, RJFS and President of Weisberg Wealth Management at 239-367-7152 or rich@weisbergwealth.com. Located at 400 Fifth Avenue South Suite 302.

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