Perfect Pitch
Fort Myers Beach restaurant strikes a chord in the community
music be the food of love,” as borrowed from Shakespeare, then the wonderfully eclectic Nervous Nellie’s restaurant not only exceeds the bard’s concept, but also successfully reaches out to embrace a melodic, community- spirited fraternity at the same time. Underneath the shadow of the Sky Bridge in bustling Fort Myers Beach, the brightly colored exterior of the restaurant attracts foodies with a mouthwatering, extensive menu. However, the venue has also become a premier showcase for Southwest Florida’s musical talent on a daily basis from 11: 00 a. m. until closing time.
Creating an increasingly prestigious roster of performers is at the forefront of assistant general manager Steve DeAngelis’s ambitions. “I book ninety- five percent of the entertainment,” the Youngstown, Ohio, native says. “I have a very good idea of what the beach crowds want to hear; I’m tapped into the local community’s needs. I’m not a musician myself, but I feel I’ve organized a wonderfully talented showcase of singers and pickers who have put Nellie’s on the musical map.”
On any night, diners can expect to hear tunes ranging from country to classic rock. With two stages— one on the outside deck and the other at the upstairs bar called Ugly’s— guitarist and longtime regular Dave Collaton has come to appreciate the clientele.“Nellie’s is the coolest, most relaxing place for a gig,” he says. “If I’m playing on the deck outside, and the sun is shining on my face and the crowd loves what I’m signing, it’s the best feeling.”
The venue has also established itself as a hotbed of emerging country- style talent, including guitarist Matt Kemp. “The crowd at Nellie’s is respectful,” Kemp says, just before taking the stage as the opening act for country star Rodney Atkins. “But upstairs at Ugly’s, the crowd can get rowdy sometimes. Those nights are phenomenal.
NELLIE’S IS UNIQUE WITH ITS EMPHASIS ON QUALITY FOOD AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. I’M DETERMINED TO KEEP IT THAT WAY.”
Everybody just wants to have a good time.”
“This is not a karaoke bar,” DeAngelis is quick to point out. “I’m determined to invite the best musicians in Southwest Florida to perform at Nellie’s. This is a unique venue in Fort Myers Beach because of our emphasis on quality live entertainment. We support up- and- coming musicians and older, established artists alike. I’m determined to keep it that way.”
So, if you like musical variety with your food, the weekly lineup at Nervous Nellie’s is sure to please. Just be prepared for a stompin’ good time.