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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(3500)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 55 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(1071)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 18 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(1943)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 11 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
4.7
Exceptional(2182)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 13 times today
__ 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(976)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 16 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
4.9
Exceptional(1010)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 19 times today
Intimate and designed to provide a rustic Italian experience. Buonissimo!
A photo of Paulo and Bill's restaurant
7. Paulo and Bill's
4.7
Exceptional(23)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Shawnee
Booked 5 times 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 Cafe Gabbiano restaurant
8. Cafe Gabbiano
4.8
Exceptional(3742)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Siesta Key
Booked 27 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 Pietro's Italian Restaurant restaurant
9. Pietro's Italian Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(628)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 10 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 Casantica Ristorante restaurant
10. Casantica Ristorante
4.4
Awesome(1009)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 7 times today
Your host Roberto Ercolani comes to Sarasota from Rome, Italy, bringing the best and most delicious authentic Italian dishes to this area. He has been in the restaurant business since his youth. As co-owner of CasAntica, Roberto provides a refined and unique Italian culinary boutique atmosphere.The restaurant occupies a 1926 historic home nestled among the trees on the edge of downtown Sarasota. Patrons may choose indoor or outdoor dining (weather permitting), always the perfect setting... exclusive, romantic and intimate.Message from Roberto: “At CasAntica each and every dish is prepared upon request with tender loving care. Our food is not pre-cooked, ensuring the highest quality and fresh flavor every time. We strive to provide only the freshest meals for our patrons... We are confident that you will be delighted with our outstanding dishes and warm atmosphere!”CasAntica: A place to gather with old friends, meet new friends, and to enjoy a beautiful dining experience!!!!!

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barbaravip
    Tampa / Central Florida West •56 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    There are so many restaurants in Sarasota. So many of them good, most not great. Violetta is great. Vitello Tonnato, fois gras, spaghetti with shrimp and uni, ravioli stuffed with osso buco, and many traditional but not boring Italian cuisine, all executed perfectly. Well curated wine list and attentive, professional service makes for a perfect evening. I highly recommend this lovely restaurant for any occasion.
    More info
    La Violetta RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.9
  • Christophervip
    Greater Boston •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Mediterraneo is a family favorite as it serves the finest Italian cuisine in Sarasota. Standouts are the pastas, appetizers, salads and Italian wine selection. Ana is an incredibly gracious and thoughtful host/manager and her staff are extremely attentive and knowledgeable. Lunch is a particularly good value and we look forward to returning often!
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    Mediterraneo Ristorante ItalianoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.9
  • debi
    Southwest Florida •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Third year going to Element Steak & Seafood for Thanksgiving dinner. Started with happy hour at the bar, Trey was the BEST bartender and was SUPER busy but handling everyone promptly. Trey makes the best drinks! Seating for dinner was on time and we were waited on promptly. Wine selection was stellar, we both chose the traditional Thanksgiving diner. Very good and had so much food we brought home the leftovers for another full meal. Portions are really big at Element! Can't wait to go again next year, but I'm sure we will be back during the year for dinner a few times. Love their outside space on a warm evening! One thing to note, we have been going to Element for 4 years and there is VERY LITTLE turnover in staff. The staff is well trained, pleasant, hard working and they all pitch in to help wherever it is busy, including setting tables, bussing, filling water, helping at the bar, serving food. You are well pampered.
    More info
    element: steak. seafood. pasta.Price: Expensive• Steak• Sarasota
    •
    4.5
  • eric
    Philadelphia County •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had a great time again. For being a set menu, you couldn't tell. Typically quality, temperature etc has a fall off in mass productions at restaurants. Which is what should be expected for a holiday dinner out. Our dinner was great. I'm a big fan of the restaurants regular menu. They executed Thanksgiving dinner very well. Our server Eric did a great job. Attentive, engaging and friendly. Was consistent with service and and attention. Once again, Bervardi's Salute was an excellent dining experience.
    More info
    Bevardi's SalutePrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.7
  • Joevip
    Southwest Florida •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    As always the food and service was great. Nice cool night and sat outside by the fireplace. David was a great server and very attentive.
    More info
    Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria-SarasotaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.7

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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