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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Sarasota

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3488)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 57 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 Amore Restaurant restaurant
4.4
Awesome(704)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 3 times 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.
A photo of La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian Cuisine restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(343)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 9 times today
At La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian Cuisine in Sarasota, diners are treated to an unforgettable Italian feast that brings together the heartwarming traditions of both northern and southern Italy. Under the expert hands of Chef Mauro, hailing from Naples, and his Sicilian wife, Tina, each dish is an authentic representation of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Guests rave about the "best lasagna in Sarasota" and the "superb Sicilian style snapper." The menu showcases Mauro's mastery, from "Polipetti alla Luciana" to "Risotto ai funghi porcini," while Tina's desserts, like the "Cannoli cake," are described as "heaven." Reviewers consistently celebrate their experiences, emphasizing the warm, family atmosphere, with one noting, "It’s like being welcomed into an Italian home." La Dolce Vita is not just a meal; it’s a slice of Italian tradition right in Sarasota.
A photo of Cassariano Italian Eatery Lakewood Ranch restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2608)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 41 times today
Nestled in the heart of Sarasota at Lakewood Ranch, Cassariano Italian Eatery stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Born from the culinary passion of Northern Italian natives Luca Cassani and Antonio Pariano, this eatery offers a perfect blend of bistro flair and fine dining. Diners consistently rave about the "well-balanced bolognese" and "delicious Branzino with risotto," highlighting the authentic flavors and innovative dishes. The ambiance is described as casual and relaxed, making it a local favorite. It’s no wonder patrons say, "Always a fantastic experience at the Cass!! Excellent service and delicious food." Cassariano is truly a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary Italian fare.
A photo of Maestrale restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(113)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Gulf Gate Estates
Booked 5 times today
At Maestrale in Gulf Gate Estates, Sarasota, the spirit of Puglia shines brightly through its contemporary Italian cuisine. This family-owned gem offers an array of authentic dishes, from the rich flavors of orecchiette and panzerotti to the freshness of their seafood. Guests rave about their experience, with one noting, "Best Italian spot in srq! Family owned!!! Lasagna was out of this world!!! Hidden gem for sure!!!" The cozy, inviting atmosphere is perfect for both family dinners and romantic evenings, creating a slice of Italy right in Sarasota. With its passionate service and exceptional dishes, Maestrale stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Elizabeth
    Tampa / Central Florida West •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Ash is great. I've only been this one time and I'm unlikely to return for a full meal as it's expensive, but I wish I could return again and again. I was there last night and woke up today thinking about the artichokes. I loved the razor clam pasta and the scallops. Others in my party raved about the beef tartare and the cassarecce. The Jimmy Nardello peppers turned out to be shishito instead, but we were comped the peppers since they weren't the ones we ordered. They were great, but I would really have loved to have Jimmy Nardello. The asparagus were yummy. Only the anchovy toast was underwhelming. The waiter recommended the focaccia with the pasta and that was a good call. I don't usually order a cocktail, but I had a great one last night. My partner, who always orders cocktails, thought that the price was high for what I got. The polenta cake was OK, but we all enthusiastically dug our spoons into the carmamelia. That was a great surprise. One note about service -- we were celebrating two birthdays and Ash celebrated the birthdays by putting candles in our desserts. I wish they had offered some prosecco or a free dessert or something. Why ask if we are celebrating if it's only going to entail a couple of candles? Also, about the noise level. We were on the patio two tables from the street. The noise level was generally fine, but large trucks and small, noisy cars drove by with some frequency. The quality and composition of the food was enough to overcome any deficiencies.
    More info
    AshPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Tampa
    4.5
  • Joann
    Puerto Vallarta •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Six friends dined outside. It was quiet - lovely atmosphere. Great food. Great wine and overall a beautiful evening.
    More info
    Cassariano Italian Eatery Lakewood RanchPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    4.7
  • RICHARDvip
    Southwest Florida •41 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Lovely wait staff. Great music. Excellent food and plentiful. Creative menu. Very good ambience, though semi-lost in a shopping strip. Parking a great improvement over its prior location in downtown Sarasota. They did not rush us. Would go back.
    More info
    Amore RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    4.4
  • Rick
    Tampa / Central Florida West •72 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 9, 2024
    Food and service were great! Ava is consistent! Pasta was amazing! Old Fashion was delicious. Highly recommend the bread service. Its special!
    More info
    Ava RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Tampa
    4.5
  • jennifer
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 2, 2024
    Great authentic Italian food. The service was great too!
    More info
    La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian CuisinePrice: Expensive• Italian• Sarasota
    5

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Sarasota

Discover the vibrant and sophisticated scene of contemporary Italian cuisine in Tampa / Central Florida West, Sarasota / Bradenton, Sarasota. This area is celebrated for its culinary diversity, with a focus on modern Italian dishes that combine traditional flavors with innovative twists. Each restaurant in this locale promises a unique dining experience where authenticity meets creativity, offering a range of dishes from expertly crafted homemade pastas to exquisite seafood delicacies enhanced with local ingredients. Patrons can expect not only a feast for their taste buds but also an ambiance that complements the high standard of the meals served, from casual chic to elegantly formal settings. Many establishments also cater to dietary preferences, ensuring a welcoming experience for all. The dining scene here is a testament to the area's commitment to excellence and innovation in the culinary arts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best in contemporary Italian cuisine. Whether you're a local foodie or a visiting gourmand, the restaurants in this region offer an impressive blend of taste, service, and atmosphere.

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