SALTLEAF ON ESTERO BAY TO DEBUT ACQUA BISTECCA ─ A MICHAEL MINA RESTAURANT OPENING IN EARLY 2026

In partnership with London Bay Development Group, Michelin-starred Chef Michael Mina will bring his signature culinary flair and convivial hospitality to Saltleaf Marina

NAPLES, Fla. (October 20, 2025) ─ Pioneer developer London Bay Development Group and globally renowned The MINA Group today announced Acqua Bistecca, a new Italian-inspired waterfront dining destination coming to Estero Bay, Florida. Set to open in February 2026 at Saltleaf Marina, the restaurant will bring Chef Michael Mina’s signature culinary artistry to Saltleaf on Estero Bay, Southwest Florida’s most anticipated master-planned community. The restaurant will be open to the public, with reservations available beginning in early November.

Chef Michael Mina is one of the most recognized American chefs and restaurateurs of his generation. As the visionary behind The MINA Group, which operates more than 30 acclaimed restaurants across the U.S. and internationally, Mina is a James Beard Award winner, and several of his establishments have earned Michelin stars. Notable brands include Bourbon Steak, MINA’s Fish House, The Bungalow Kitchen by Michael Mina, Orla, and PABU. The MINA Group’s arrival in Estero Bay marks a major milestone, bringing a distinctive dining experience to the community while filling a long-standing gap in Southwest Florida’s dining scene — true bayfront cuisine.

“This concept is rooted in bringing people together around the table to savor tradition, creativity and an inviting ambience overlooking the beautiful waters of Florida,” said Mina. “Our mission is to complement each community we enter with a fresh perspective on its culinary scene, and Saltleaf on Estero Bay proved the perfect setting for our latest endeavor, Acqua Bistecca.”

Blending wood-fired meats and pristine local seafood, Acqua Bistecca embodies its name — “water and steak”— through a menu that reflects the bounty of the Gulf and the warmth of the flame. Guests can expect standout dishes, such as delicately charred steak brushed with red Lambrusco butter, saffron risotto with osso buco, and raw bar offerings like Florida stone crab claws and oysters with negroni mignonette.

With a lively yet refined spirit, Acqua Bistecca will be a gathering place for indulgent flavors, inspired cocktails, and unforgettable occasions. Whether for a casual afternoon at the raw bar or a celebratory dinner, every visit will capture the essence of la dolce vita, infused with the charm of its location. The atmosphere will be energetic and welcoming, a place where guests can experience the mastery of a world-renowned chef and the comfort of camaraderie.

“Having Michael Mina and The MINA Group at Saltleaf is a tremendous achievement,” said Mark Wilson, CEO of London Bay Development Group. “Acqua Bistecca will not only elevate the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay, but also introduce a landmark waterfront concept that enriches the broader community.”

Designed by the acclaimed Meyer Davis Studio, Acqua Bistecca’s striking interiors capture the easy elegance of the bay with layered textures and natural materials. Spanning approximately 7,500 square feet, light woods, woven seating, and soft neutral tones create a sense of openness, while sculptural lighting and curated artwork introduce depth and character. Expansive terraces blur the line between indoors and out, offering direct views of the marina and lush mangroves. Inside, a striking marble bar with brass accents and greenery sets the stage, with seating for 184 guests between indoor and outdoor areas, including a private chef’s room for 16, dedicated to intimate gatherings. At 5500 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs, Florida 34134, Acqua Bistecca will sit along the waterfront at Saltleaf Marina, a signature destination within Saltleaf on Estero Bay—a coastal village surrounded by 500 acres of nature preserve and anchored by The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay. Situated just steps away from the restaurant, the twin 22-story residential towers will extend signature Ritz-Carlton hospitality to 224 condominium residences priced from the $3 millions. Designed by Arquitectonica, construction is actively progressing on both towers, with the first scheduled for completion in early 2026. Just beyond the marina, Saltleaf Golf Preserve—home to an 18-hole championship course and a nine-hole short course—further enriches the lifestyle offering.

For more information or to book a reservation beginning in early November, visit www.acquabistecca.com/estero-bay/.