Palette to Palate: A Feast for the Senses
- Cathy Bonacci
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
On February 12, from 6–9 p.m., creativity takes center stage in the Naples Art District as Palette to Palate returns. Hosted by SOHO Design Group at 1610 Trade Center Way, guests are invited to experience culinary dishes inspired by original artworks by Naples Art District artists. This year, accomplished chefs will participate, including restaurant owners, private chefs, Michelin-trained professionals with experience in the yachting and country club industries, and elite hotels.
The event also serves a greater purpose: it is a fundraiser for the Naples Art District’s 501(c)(3) organization, supporting local artists and helping provide free art and cultural events to the local community.
In keeping with this month’s Women in Business–themed issue, the Naples Art District is proud to highlight three participating women chefs who own and lead their own culinary businesses.
Marina Nikolic, Owner and Chef of Angelic Desserts, has created more than a bakery/café; it’s a must-visit destination. More than one person has walked into Angelic Desserts in Naples, bought a pastry, taken a bite, and said, "This is heavenly." Baking is therapy for Marina and a way to give back joy and comfort to others. Guests last year voted her sweets as best of show.
For Brittany Lee of SWFL Private Chef, her flavor signatures are bright yet comforting. “If there’s lemon zest in the kitchen, I’m using it,” she says, noting her love for a touch of maple to add warmth and balance. She also believes homemade chicken or mushroom stock is a professional secret weapon. “Bright, cozy, and practical—that’s kind of my whole approach.” Brittany also sees a shift in local dining trends. “They want organic, pasture-raised proteins, whole-food ingredients, and clean cooking they can feel good about.”
Chef Dally Rios of Dally’s Kitchen Creations, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, draws from an international background, highlighting fresh ingredients, ginger, and bold, layered profiles. Central to her work is umami, often called the fifth flavor, layered seasonings of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter that give food its lingering richness. Through her catering business and food truck, Umami Twist, Dally delivers that culinary experience. “I like bringing something mysterious,” Dally says. She also notes that Naples’ diners are increasingly seeking farm-fresh ingredients and vegan options, observing that crowds at local farmers' markets continue to grow.
All chefs were drawn to the event for its creative challenge. “We LOVE creative challenges,” Brittany shares. “Then we got assigned blues and purples and thought—what were we thinking? It pushed us to work locally and seasonally and think more about mood and feeling than exact color.”
Dally echoes that enthusiasm, calling the event “so much fun,” and valuing the opportunity to experience original artwork and connect with fellow chefs who share a creative spirit.
As Naples Art District President Paula Brody explains, “Like Artful Arrangements, where artwork is reimagined through floral artistry, Palette to Palate is a fun and festive pairing of visual artists and culinary artists, creating delicious edible treats inspired by our artwork.”
Guests can learn more about Palette to Palate and purchase tickets at naplesartdistrict.com. Visitors are also invited to explore the district’s many February offerings, including Open Studios every Thursday and Saturday from 1–5 p.m., and Art After Dark on Wednesday, February 4, from 5–8 p.m. Free community events continue throughout the season until the end of April.
Support the Arts!
We are a 501(c)(3) organization.
Please consider giving at naplesartdistrict.com to help the local arts thrive and
continue to be a part of our community’s cultural fabric.
We greatly appreciate your support.
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