Industry Standard Kitchen + Bar | Bonita Springs Dining

A new culinary gem has emerged in Bonita Springs, breathing fresh life into the space once occupied by The Causeway food hall. The Industry Standard Kitchen + Bar, located at 28280 Old 41 Road, debuted in mid-September under the leadership of co-partners Ken Delaney and Executive Chef Adam Nardis. Together, they’ve reimagined the former concept, offering a unique, chef-driven dining experience that blends gourmet food with an inviting, casual atmosphere.

After the closure of The Causeway, which housed four food concepts under one roof, Delaney saw potential in the space and didn’t want to give up on it. With a new vision and the culinary expertise of Nardis, the duo launched a full-service restaurant and bar, complete with an open kitchen and a pizza ghost kitchen—BrAva Pizza. “We tried it out with The Causeway. It didn’t work out,” Delaney remarked, but this fresh approach promises a different result.

A Chef’s Playground
Chef Adam Nardis, a well-established name in Southwest Florida’s culinary scene, brings a wealth of experience and creativity to The Industry Standard. Having previously run Coldwater Oyster Market & Bar and held prestigious chef positions at establishments like M Waterfront Grille, Nardis was ready for a new challenge. With The Industry Standard, he has found the perfect playground to showcase his culinary artistry. The restaurant's expansive kitchen is more than just a workspace—it’s a laboratory where Nardis and his team experiment and craft dishes with passion and precision.

From scratch-made bread to meticulously cultured European-style butter, attention to detail is a hallmark of every dish. For instance, the restaurant’s “Grouper Taino” pays homage to the indigenous Taino people of the Caribbean, incorporating traditional jerk spices and cultural influences in a modern gourmet presentation. Nardis ensures that every menu item is thoughtfully curated, blending history, technique, and creativity.

A Blend of Casual and Upscale
One of the most exciting aspects of The Industry Standard Kitchen + Bar is its balance between casual dining and fine cuisine. While the open kitchen and chef's bar provide an upscale touch, the vibe remains approachable and relaxed. Guests can enjoy an intimate dining experience with dishes like Australian Wagyu short ribs, wood-grilled filet mignon, and diver scallops—or opt for casual fare such as a smash burger or lobster roll in the lounge area.

The 160-seat indoor restaurant is complemented by an 80-seat outdoor patio, offering various seating options for guests to enjoy live music and the Florida sunshine. Inside, the open kitchen layout allows nearly every table to have a view of the culinary action. A special feature of the restaurant is the chef’s bar, where during peak season, guests can reserve spots for a front-row seat to interact with the chefs as they prepare dishes.

In addition to the gourmet dining options, The Industry Standard also brings a self-serve beer wall with 20 taps, adding a fun and unique twist to the dining experience. Guests can select from a wide variety of craft beers and choose the appropriate glass for their selection—an added touch that emphasizes the thoughtful details behind the restaurant’s concept.

BrAva Pizza: A New York-Style Slice of Perfection
For pizza lovers, The Industry Standard has something special up its sleeve: BrAva Pizza, a ghost kitchen dedicated to creating the perfect New York-style pizza. Available for takeout and delivery starting in early October, BrAva Pizza promises a menu of hand-crafted pies developed through weeks of research and experimentation. Chef Nardis and his team tested various combinations of sauces, flours, starters, and fermentations to achieve the ideal pizza, resulting in a mouth-watering lineup sure to please even the most discerning pizza aficionados.

BrAva Pizza will also be featured in the restaurant’s late-night offering, “Pies After 9,” where the lounge will stay open until 11 p.m. serving pizzas after the main kitchen closes. It’s an ideal option for those looking for a more casual late-night bite with friends.

A Collaborative Culinary Experience
The Industry Standard is not just about the food; it’s about the people behind the scenes. Chef Adam Nardis has assembled a talented team, including Chef de Cuisine Noel Willhite, who he has worked with for years. Nardis and his team bring a collaborative energy to the kitchen, ensuring that every dish is crafted with care and expertise.

While Chef Nardis is the creative force behind the menu, he credits his wife, Erin, for her integral role in the success of the restaurant. Together, they balance family life and business, working as a team to ensure that every detail is handled with precision.

A New Era for Bonita Springs Dining
The Industry Standard Kitchen + Bar represents a new era for dining in Bonita Springs. With a commitment to high-quality, chef-driven food in a casual yet elegant setting, it stands out as a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in the mood for a gourmet meal, a slice of New York-style pizza, or a casual drink with friends, The Industry Standard offers something for everyone.

The restaurant is open daily from 4 to 10 p.m., with late-night pizza available until 11 p.m. The space promises a lively atmosphere with live music, a vibrant patio, and a welcoming vibe that invites you to stay a little longer. As the cooler Florida months approach, the garage doors leading to the outdoor patio will remain open, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience and inviting guests to enjoy the fresh air while indulging in exceptional food.