A Century of Italian Heritage Reimagined: BiCE Naples Reopens After Landmark Renovation
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NAPLES, Fla. — The doors have reopened at BiCE Naples, marking not only the return of one of Old Naples’ most recognized dining institutions, but the beginning of a new chapter in a story nearly 100 years in the making.
On Dec. 22, the restaurant officially unveiled its fully transformed space, coinciding with the global centennial celebration of its parent brand, BiCE Group. The reopening signals what company leaders describe as a “new era” — one that honors tradition while embracing contemporary refinement.
A member of our team attended the reopening dinner service, stepping into a dining room that feels both familiar and newly elevated. The 5,566-square-foot space blends Old World Italian elegance with Naples’ relaxed coastal sophistication. A sculptural white mosaic bar anchors the room, framed by navy velvet bar stools and cream banquettes with subtle blue accents. Floating textile ceiling panels soften the space overhead, while hand-painted scenic wall panels evoke the Italian countryside.
The redesign was completed in collaboration with Sinfonia Group, a New York and Treviso-based firm known for merging Italian craftsmanship with American execution. The result is a seamless balance of Milanese tradition and Gulf Coast ease.
Outdoors, the expanded terrace extends onto 5th Avenue South, with cascading bougainvillea, woven white seating and softly draped canopy lighting creating the ambiance of a refined seaside promenade. The terrace now includes 81 seats across multiple patio spaces, complementing the 90-seat main dining room and 10-seat bar.
While the design refresh is significant, the heart of the evening remained the cuisine.
The menu continues BiCE’s legacy of classic Italian structure, beginning with antipasti such as Vitello Tonnato and Burrata di Bufala, followed by composed salads including the Caprese di BiCE and Acquamarina Porto Cervo featuring Alaska crab and avocado.
During the reopening dinner, signature pastas stood out as a clear tribute to the brand’s Milanese heritage. Pappardelle BiCE al Telefono delivered rich, comforting depth, while Spaghettone alle Vongole balanced brininess with restrained elegance. Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe, elevated with red shrimp tartare, demonstrated the kitchen’s commitment to both tradition and contemporary expression.
Entrées continued that narrative. Cotoletta di Vitello alla Milanese paid homage to northern Italy with precise execution, and the Filetto di Manzo with Barolo wine sauce offered a refined take on classic steakhouse indulgence. Seafood options, including branzino, reflected the restaurant’s coastal setting while remaining true to Italian roots.
Wine plays a central role in the new experience. A temperature-controlled cellar showcases an extensive collection from Italy, France and the United States, with an emphasis on Italian varietals designed to complement the culinary program.
BiCE’s story began in 1926, when Beatrice Ruggeri — affectionately known as “Bice” — opened a modest trattoria in Milan. Inspired by her Tuscan upbringing, she built a reputation around handmade pasta and heartfelt hospitality. Over the decades, the family expanded the concept globally, maintaining its “Made in Milan” spirit while adapting to cities around the world.
Today, leadership remains in the family’s hands, with Roberto Ruggeri, founder of BiCE Group, and CEO Raffaele Ruggeri guiding the brand into its centennial year. In Naples, the reopening reflects that stewardship — a careful modernization without sacrificing identity.
Since first opening in 2005, BiCE Naples has been known for white-tablecloth service and refined Italian cuisine. Its renovation reinforces its place among the anchors of Old Naples dining, at a time when 5th Avenue South continues to evolve as one of Southwest Florida’s premier culinary corridors.
BiCE Ristorante is located at 300 5th Avenue South and is currently serving dinner daily. Expanded lunch service is now available, and happy hour is offered at the bar from 3:00–4:45 PM, with additional offerings expected later this season.
For Naples diners, the reopening is more than a renovation. It is the continuation of a century-long culinary legacy — one plate, one glass of Barolo and one warm welcome at a time.
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Collaborator Credits: BICE Naples
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