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Best Italian Restaurants in Siesta Key

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano restaurant
1. Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano
4.9
Exceptional(3531)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 21 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 La Violetta Restaurant restaurant
2. La Violetta Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1041)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 14 times today
Intimate and designed to provide a rustic Italian experience. Buonissimo!
A photo of Sardinia Sarasota restaurant
3. Sardinia Sarasota
4.7
Exceptional(1491)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 6 times today
At Sardinia Sarasota, the essence of Mediterranean cuisine is not only preserved but celebrated with exceptional authenticity and flair. Chef Carta, with his commitment to the Sardinian tradition, has crafted a menu that speaks volumes about the purity and simplicity of Mediterranean flavors. Diners rave about the "authentic Sardinian paella" and the "homemade pastas" that are a testament to the restaurant's dedication to freshness and quality. The glowing reviews highlight the "perfectly roasted Branzino" and the "unique flavor of bottarga," which are just samples of the culinary delights that await at Sardinia Sarasota. Located in the heart of Sarasota, this gem offers a true Mediterranean dining experience with dishes cooked in an imported wood-burning oven, echoing the authentic Sardinian techniques. Whether it's the daily baked Sardinian bread or the freshly made pasta, every meal here is a celebration of good food and good conversation, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Mediterranean cuisine in Sarasota.
A photo of Cafe Gabbiano restaurant
4. Cafe Gabbiano
4.8
Exceptional(3758)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Siesta Key
Booked 15 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 Dolce Italia restaurant
5. Dolce Italia
4.8
Exceptional(606)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 4 times today
Dolce Italia was established in 2010 by Tiziana Di Costanzo who came from Ischia, an island in the Gulf of Naples. Using a combination of classic Italian dishes, family recipes passed down for generations, and warm hospitality, Dolce Italia has built a reputation in Sarasota as a destination for anyone seeking great food and ambiance. In 2015 Matthew joined as manager of the front of house and is now a managing partner of Dolce Italia. The kitchen staff trained by Tiziana from the beginning are still with the restaurant with Maria being the capocuoco.Some of the specialities Dolce Italia has become famous for are the Napoletan Eggplant- a tender sautee eggplant with fresh tomatoes crowned with ricotte, the Trenne Dolce Italia- the signature pasta dish with creamy tomato sauce, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and mushroom.
A photo of Pietro's Italian Restaurant restaurant
6. Pietro's Italian Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(646)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 7 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 Flavio's Brick Oven Bar - Siesta Key restaurant
7. Flavio's Brick Oven Bar - Siesta Key
4.7
Exceptional(1463)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Siesta Key
Booked 11 times today
Our casual restaurant has a retro contemporary theme which includes a carved wood bar topped with marble, granite table tops and bright turquoise and red accents flanking the wood-burning brick oven. Terrace seating is shared with our fine dining concept Bella Roma. Flavio, a third-generation chef from Venice, Italy, says his Farinata is not available anywhere else in the area. The thin pancake (much like a tortilla) is made of chickpeas, baked in the wood-burning oven and enhanced with rosemary and other savory toppings. Among Flavio's thin-crust pizzas (his grandfather's recipes) are the popular Quattro Stagioni (fresh mozzarella, mushrooms, prosciutto, olives) and the Pizza Vegetariana with assorted grilled veggies. The rustic bread and focaccia are made on the premises. Flavio's also serves up house-made pasta dishes, plus veal and seafood entrees. We look forward to serving you!
A photo of element: steak. seafood. pasta. restaurant
8. element: steak. seafood. pasta.
4.5
Awesome(1964)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 7 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 La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian Cuisine restaurant
9. La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian Cuisine
4.9
Exceptional(349)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 5 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 Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria-Sarasota restaurant
10. Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria-Sarasota
4.7
Exceptional(1086)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sarasota
Booked 9 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!!!"

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Richard
    Southwest Florida •110 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We went for Christmas dinner. The service was spot on and the food was great. Many places have issues on a holiday with either service or a special menu that is disappointing, but NOT Café Gabbiano. We have had several holiday dinners there and they have all been superb. Hats off to a wonderful restaurant.
    More info
    Cafe GabbianoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Siesta Key
    •
    4.8
  • GailVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •25 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    It was wonderful as always! From the montane walked we felt very welcomed . Food was delicious. Service was excellent . One if our favorites!!
    More info
    Sardinia SarasotaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.7
  • DeborahVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We highly recommend La Violetta. This is one of our favorites. Never disappoints.
    More info
    La Violetta RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.8
  • NancyVIP
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •165 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 18, 2024
    The food at Pietro's is always so delicious that we keep returning time after time and year after year. The daily specials offer an interesting variety of options...LOVE all of the pasta dishes! Wine selection is terrific and the staff are always willing to give recommendations . The new location is a bit small, but very cozy. The owners, Pietro and Susan, are wonderful humans. Kudos to all of the staff: EVO, Wendy, Johanna, and Alejandro! A must go to in Sarasota!
    More info
    Pietro's Italian RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Sarasota
    •
    4.9
  • 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 Siesta Key

Discover the rich and diverse Italian dining scene in Siesta Key, Tampa / Central Florida West, Sarasota / Bradenton area. This region offers a tantalizing variety of Italian eateries that cater to all preferences, from traditional family-owned trattorias to modern gourmet restaurants. Each establishment prides itself on delivering authentic Italian cuisine, featuring homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and artisan pizzas, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The dining experience is enhanced by the warm, welcoming atmospheres, which often provide both intimate settings for romantic dinners and spacious accommodations for larger groups or events. The culinary expertise showcased across these restaurants emphasizes a deep respect for traditional Italian cooking methods while also embracing innovative culinary techniques. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Italian restaurants in this picturesque area promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey, reflecting the vibrant and eclectic dining scene of the locality.

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