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Best Italian Restaurants in Sarasota

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24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano restaurant
1. Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano
4.9
Exceptional(3531)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 20 times today
With its modern but classic Italian cuisine and emphasis on artisanal and contemporary Northern Italian style, Mediterraneo is often credited with being the first restaurant to bring authentic contemporary Italian cuisine to Sarasota when it first opened in 1996. Still under the same ownership, Mediterraneo has consistently been rated one of the top restaurants in Zagat. The restaurant has received numerous accolades including the acclaimed Insegna Del Ristorante Italiano awarded by The Minister of Agriculture & Commerce in Rome. With its highest honor, inducting the restaurant into its Accademia Italiana della Cucina "Fine Dining Hall of Fame." Mediterraneo has been rated as Best of the Best in Sarasota Magazine since the first year of opening. So whether you're celebrating a special occasion or grabbing a quick bite to eat, at Mediterraneo you are always assured the best quality food accompanied by excellent service. All of it thoroughly Italian.
A photo of Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria-Sarasota restaurant
2. Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria-Sarasota
4.7
Exceptional(1086)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 8 times today
Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria in Sarasota is celebrated for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, a rare find as noted by enthusiastic diners. The restaurant prides itself on delivering a slice of Italy with its wood-fired pizzas, which many claim are the best in Sarasota. One reviewer raves, "Best pizza and atmosphere for a great night out with friends," highlighting the inviting ambiance and high-quality cuisine. Another exclaims, "The pizza is incredible. Real sourdough crust baked in a wood-fired pizza oven." Bavaro’s commitment to authenticity and quality makes every dining experience memorable, with patrons often returning for the "absolutely best Pizza Napolitana," and ending their meals on a high note with homemade tiramisu described as "THE BEST EVER!!!"
A photo of element: steak. seafood. pasta. restaurant
3. element: steak. seafood. pasta.
4.5
Awesome(1964)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 9 times today
At Element in Sarasota, the seafood cuisine is a true highlight, celebrated for its fresh, local ingredients and expert preparation. Diners consistently rave about the delicate flavors and inventive presentations, with one guest exclaiming, "The oysters were wonderful!" and another praising the "creatively prepared halibut." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, with offerings like lobster and crab gnocchi described as "little clouds of heaven." This attention to detail and dedication to sourcing the finest seafood make Element a must-visit for any seafood lover looking for an exceptional dining experience in Sarasota.
A photo of Bevardi's Salute restaurant
4. Bevardi's Salute
4.5
Awesome(2191)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
__ TO GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR NEW YEAR`S EVE DINNER, PLEASE CALL US! ___Salute offers five distinct areas for dining: Al Fresco, a casual Bar, Lounge, Wine Room, and Main Dining Room.We also have a full Bar, Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks to accompany your meal. Additionally, Salute imports Olive Oil and Wine from its own vineyards in Tuscany; which adds to the depth and authenticity of your dining experience.The menu at Salute is varied and extensive, offering Bruschetta, Appetizers, Imported Italian Cheeses, Cured Meats, Salads, Pasta, and many other delicious entree choices.With our nightly specials everyone is sure to find something to suit their taste.While you are dining, don't forget to take a look at our menu of homemade desserts for something to finish out your experience.
A photo of Cafe Amici restaurant
5. Cafe Amici
4.8
Exceptional(984)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 6 times today
Cafe Amici in Sarasota is a culinary gem that shines with its authentic Mediterranean and Italian offerings. Since 1996, this local favorite has been crafting dishes that transport diners straight to the Mediterranean shores with its exceptional menu inspired by regions like Puglia, Veneto, and Tuscany. Patrons rave about the "best lasagna I’ve ever had" and celebrate the restaurant's ability to consistently deliver "delicious, authentic Italian food." The atmosphere is described as having an "old world feel" that complements the cuisine perfectly. With an extensive wine list that includes vintages spanning decades, Cafe Amici stands out as a top destination for those seeking a genuine taste of the Mediterranean in Sarasota.
A photo of La Violetta Restaurant restaurant
6. La Violetta Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1040)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 13 times today
Intimate and designed to provide a rustic Italian experience. Buonissimo!
A photo of Cafe Gabbiano restaurant
7. Cafe Gabbiano
4.8
Exceptional(3755)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Siesta Key
Booked 16 times today
At Cafe Gabbiano in Siesta Key, Sarasota, diners indulge in an authentic Italian experience that consistently earns rave reviews for its "excellent service and food" and "homemade" culinary delights. Celebrated for its intimate yet vibrant atmosphere, Cafe Gabbiano stands out with its homemade sauces and pastas, ensuring each dish celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine. Patrons frequently commend dishes like the "Linguine Pescatora and Lobster Ravioli" and praise the freshness that comes from locally sourced ingredients. The extensive wine list and crafted cocktails complement meals perfectly, making every dining experience memorable. As one patron put it, if you're in Sarasota and haven't dined at Cafe Gabbiano, "you’ve missed a special experience!"
A photo of Paulo and Bill's restaurant
8. Paulo and Bill's
4.6
Exceptional(25)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Shawnee
Booked 1 time today
While Paulo & Bill's in Shawnee is renowned for its Italian and seafood offerings, those in the know rave about its Spanish cuisine as well. This restaurant delivers a Spanish dining experience that goes beyond expectations. Patrons frequently commend dishes like the wood-fired salmon salad and chicken marsala, often highlighting their impeccably balanced flavors that hint at Spanish culinary traditions. One enthusiastic diner noted, "the food was wonderfully prepared and scrumptious," underscoring the authenticity and quality of their meals. Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere or the consistently lauded friendly service, Paulo & Bill's stands out as a gem in Shawnee for those seeking a true taste of Spain.
A photo of Pietro's Italian Restaurant restaurant
9. Pietro's Italian Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(646)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 8 times today
Pietro's Italian Restaurant in Sarasota is a beacon of Mediterranean excellence, offering an authentic taste of Italy in every dish. Praised for its "delicious, authentic Italian food" and described as a "hidden gem," Pietro's provides a dining experience that is both heartwarming and exceptional. Diners rave about the "flawlessly prepared" veal dishes and the exquisite seafood, with one customer exclaiming it's the "best Italian restaurant" they've ever visited. The warm, intimate atmosphere and the personal touch of owners Peter and Susan enhance the authenticity, making every meal memorable. As one reviewer puts it, Pietro's is where the "chef's heart and soul are in everything," ensuring that every visit is not just a meal, but a delightful Mediterranean encounter.
A photo of Amore Restaurant restaurant
10. Amore Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(713)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 1 time today
Amore Restaurant in Sarasota brilliantly captures the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an unforgettable dining experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Guests are consistently impressed, describing the restaurant as a "hidden gem" with "phenomenal" dishes that are both visually appealing and delicious. The live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making every dinner feel special. The praise for their dishes is overwhelming, with one patron noting, "If I could give more than five stars, I would!" From the perfectly executed garlic shrimp to the delectable mushroom ravioli, Amore sets the standard for authentic and innovative Italian dining in Sarasota. The restaurant's commitment to quality and service shines, ensuring each visit is as memorable as the last.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • IanVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We sat at a bar hightop. Nice ambiance with grand selection and view of spirits behind the Bar. We had the 8 and 12 Oz filets which were amazingly tender and cooked just right. The servers were friendly and helpful. Team effort. Smiles all around and def a go back to place.
    More info
    element: steak. seafood. pasta.Price: Expensive• Steak• Sarasota
    •
    4.5
  • Cari
    Tulsa •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Everything we wanted. Ambiance, live music, food was magnificent
    More info
    Bevardi's SalutePrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.5
  • Paul
    Greater Boston •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The service was outstanding, and remarkable, due to the specifics of this particular night. Our group was at Bavaro's in Sarasota during a busy holiday week, and on a night when the restaurant was a little understaffed, yet filled to capacity with patrons. Even the food met the standard that we have come to expect from Bavaro's. I tip my hat to you Bavaro's.
    More info
    Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria-SarasotaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.7
  • Bob
    Southwest Florida •41 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Cafe Amechi continues to be our favorite go to restaurant. Detail to every dish from our Ceasars salad to my bronzino to my wife's beef braciole was prepared perfectly and delicious.
    More info
    Cafe AmiciPrice: Expensive• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.8
  • Steve
    New York City •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 17, 2024
    Looking forward to our next excellent ding experience at Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano. Reservations are simple with Open Table. A warm welcome upon arrival leads to a lovely dining table attended by hospitality professions who provided us with very attentive service while not obtrusive. The food is excellent; cold food is delivered cold and hot food is delivered hot! Numerous fine wines to choose from by the glass or the bottle. Lovely desserts, coffees, and after dinner libations. Thank you all at Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano for a wonderful dining experience last evening,
    More info
    Mediterraneo Ristorante ItalianoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.9

Discover best Italian restaurants in Sarasota

Explore the rich, authentic Italian dining scene in Sarasota and the broader Tampa / Central Florida West region, where you'll find a delightful array of Italian eateries catering to every taste and occasion. From traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations to innovative Italian fusion cuisine, these restaurants are celebrated for their culinary excellence and commitment to authenticity. Patrons can expect a diverse range of Italian flavors, from homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas to exquisite seafood and fine wines, all served in atmospheres that range from the casual and family-friendly to the elegantly sophisticated. Each restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every meal is as delicious as it is genuine. The dining experience is further enhanced by the warm, welcoming service typical of Italian hospitality. Sarasota's Italian restaurants are not just places to eat; they are destinations offering a taste of Italy right in the heart of Florida. Whether you're seeking a cozy trattoria or a lavish ristorante, the Italian culinary landscape here is sure to impress and satisfy all palates.

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