Naples, a city best known for its pristine beaches and leisurely pace, is experiencing a culinary renaissance. At the forefront of this transformation is Tigress, a unique dining destination that merges the eclectic flavors of modern Asian cuisine with the relaxed sophistication of a rooftop chophouse. Overseen by celebrated chef Dale Talde, Tigress is redefining what it means to dine in Naples. The restaurant, located in The Perry Hotel Naples, sits elegantly above the Cocohatchee River, offering diners not just a meal, but an experience that encapsulates the rich cultural tapestry of Naples’ evolving food scene.
The inception of Tigress is intertwined with the journey of chef Dale Talde, a culinary visionary known for his innovative approach to Asian American cuisine. Talde’s decision to open Tigress in Naples rather than a more established culinary city like Miami is a testament to his belief in the untapped potential of this Floridian locale. With roots deeply embedded in his Filipino-American heritage, Talde has long been celebrated for his ability to seamlessly blend traditional flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. The idea for Tigress was born from a desire to introduce a ‘Cantonese chophouse’ concept that would resonate with both locals and travelers seeking something fresh and unexpected. Since its opening, Tigress has not only met but exceeded expectations, becoming a beacon for those in search of a dining experience that is both innovative and comforting.
What sets Tigress apart in Naples’ burgeoning dining landscape is its unique culinary philosophy. At the heart of the restaurant’s appeal is its menu, which artfully combines the bold, vibrant flavors of Cantonese cuisine with the sophistication of an American steakhouse. Chef Talde’s signature style shines through in every dish, where exceptional seasonal ingredients are used to create flavor profiles that are as comforting as they are surprising. This commitment to culinary excellence extends beyond the plate. The ambiance at Tigress is equally noteworthy. Far from the formal dining rooms one might expect from a chophouse, Tigress offers a lively rooftop setting that encourages guests to relax and enjoy the view. The moody design, coupled with dramatic waterfront vistas, creates an atmosphere that is both energetic and inviting. It’s a place where diners are encouraged to linger over shared plates and handcrafted cocktails, making every visit a memorable occasion.
For chef Dale Talde, Tigress represents not just a restaurant, but a personal and professional milestone. Reflecting on his journey, Talde notes, “I wanted to create a space where my heritage could shine through in a way that felt both familiar and new.” This vision is evident in the restaurant’s menu, which features dishes that pay homage to his Filipino roots while embracing the diverse culinary influences he has encountered throughout his career. Talde’s path to opening Tigress was not without its challenges. Establishing a high-end restaurant in a city primarily known for its leisure tourism required a leap of faith. Yet, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. As Naples continues to attract affluent residents from major food capitals, their dining expectations are high. Tigress meets these expectations head-on, offering a dining experience that is as sophisticated as it is grounded in authenticity. Talde recalls a pivotal moment when a group of New York transplants visited Tigress and expressed their delight in finding a piece of home in Naples. “It reinforced for me that Naples was ready for something different, something that could hold its own against the best dining experiences in larger cities,” he says. This affirmation has fueled his commitment to making Tigress a cornerstone of Naples’ culinary identity.
Looking ahead, the team has ambitious plans for Tigress. They envision the restaurant as not just a dining destination, but a cultural hub that will continue to elevate Naples’ status in the culinary world. Their goal is to deepen the restaurant’s connection with the local community by hosting events that celebrate diverse culinary traditions and fostering a spirit of inclusivity. Talde is excited about the possibility of expanding the menu to include more globally inspired dishes, further cementing Tigress as a leader in innovative dining. As they continue to attract discerning diners from near and far, both Orangio and Talde are committed to maintaining the high standards of quality and creativity that have become synonymous with the Tigress name. In doing so, they hope to play a key role in shaping the future of Naples as a recognized culinary destination.
Tigress Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
📍 12155 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34110…