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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
4.8
Exceptional(3600)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 65 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
4.5
Awesome(725)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 3 times today
Amore Restaurant in Sarasota is a true gem when it comes to Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an unforgettable dining experience that blends authenticity with innovation. Guests rave about the "delicious food and outstanding service," highlighting their delightful pasta dishes and exquisite Italian specialties. The ambiance, with live piano music from renowned local musicians like Eddie Tobin, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the delectable fare. Diners are especially fond of the "succulent lobster bisque" and "mushroom ravioli," with each dish crafted to perfection. Whether you're a local or visiting, Amore's commitment to quality makes it a must-visit for any Italian food enthusiast.
A photo of La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian Cuisine restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(363)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 15 times today
La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian Cuisine in Sarasota is a delightful gem that truly captures the essence of Contemporary Italian dining. Helmed by Chef Mauro from Naples and his wife Tina from Sicily, the restaurant offers a harmonious blend of Northern and Southern Italian recipes with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "magnificent" food and the family-like atmosphere, describing meals as "like being at a Sunday dinner with family." From Mauro’s exquisite lasagna to Tina’s homemade desserts, each dish is crafted with love and authenticity. With its welcoming ambiance, it’s no wonder La Dolce Vita is hailed as "the best Italian restaurant in town!"
A photo of Cassariano Italian Eatery Lakewood Ranch restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2709)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Sarasota
Booked 48 times today
Cassariano Italian Eatery Lakewood Ranch is the epitome of "Contemporary Italian Cuisine," expertly crafted by Northern Italy natives Luca Cassani and Antonio Pariano. Their passion for authentic flavors shines through in every dish, creating a memorable dining experience that "exceeds expectations." Located in Sarasota's Lakewood Ranch, this delightful eatery blends bistro charm with refined elegance. Guests rave about the "exceptional food and attentive service," while the menu offers unique dishes that delight the palate. From the perfectly cooked branzino to the veal stuffed ravioli, each plate is a testament to their culinary artistry. Cassariano is truly a "restaurant gem" worth visiting.
A photo of Maestrale restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(126)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Gulf Gate Estates
Booked 1 time today
Maestrale, located in the charming Gulf Gate Estates, Sarasota, is a delightful Mediterranean gem known for its authentic flavors from the heart of Puglia, South Italy. This family-owned restaurant offers a taste of the Mediterranean with dishes like "la puccia, focaccia, and orecchiette" that transport you straight to the Italian peninsula. The atmosphere is inviting, perfect for family gatherings or romantic evenings. Rave reviews highlight the "delicious food" and "superb service," with guests returning time and again for the "fantastico calamari" and "lobster ravioli." Maestrale's exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, paired with a fine selection of wines, ensures an unforgettable dining experience.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MaureenVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We celebrated an early Valentine's dinner at the bar. Our martinis were spot on perfect, French 75 and a Vesper. The staff was enthusiastic to make recommendations. A very enjoyable evening. We live in the neighborhood. :-)
    More info
    AshPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Tampa
    4.5
  • Kim
    Cincinnati / Dayton •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our evening was one of the best yet! Delicious food, fantastic service, and wonderful entertainment! We will be back
    More info
    Amore RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    4.5
  • MargoVIP
    Orange County •66 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had a wonderful meal, and great service! We are visiting Tampa, and so glad to have enjoyed this restaurant. We’ll be in Tampa again in the Fall and will definitely eat at Ava again!
    More info
    Ava RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Tampa
    4.5
  • GordonVIP
    Northwest Florida •35 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Yet another great meal at Cassiarino. Our group had both the Salmon and Ricotta/Walnut Ravioli. Always a favorite.
    More info
    Cassariano Italian Eatery Lakewood RanchPrice: Moderate• Italian• Sarasota
    4.7
  • Janet
    Tampa / Central Florida West •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 30, 2025
    The food was exceptional. We shared the sautéed squid with garlic & anchovy breadcrumbs - nice change from the standard fried calamari. The bread was wonderful. Next up was linguine vongole- homemade pasta was delicious & sauce exceptional. Next was the misto seafood - great selection of giant shrimp with heads, mussels, octopus & squid. All cooked perfectly & the olive oil sauce was great - of course more bread for sopping up the sauce. We ended up bringing some of the seafood home.
    More info
    La Dolce Vita Authentic Italian CuisinePrice: Expensive• Italian• Sarasota
    4.9

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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