Caragiulos Italian American Restaurant Menu

  • Vasetti
  • Insalati
  • Zuppa
  • The Business Lunch
  • Panini
  • Pizze
  • Contorni

Healthy Meal suggestions for Caragiulos Italian American Restaurant

  • Vasetti
  • Insalati
  • Zuppa
  • The Business Lunch
  • Panini
  • Pizze
  • Contorni

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  • Lorraine W.

    We went two nights in a row so that should tell you something! The bread they give out to their guests is pretty good, what makes it the best though is the Venice olive oil and the Venice Balsamic vinegar, absolutely tasty. I could just eat that all night. The cappers appetizer is beautifully presented on a hard wood block and arranged artistically. Our son loved making his own pizza on both occasions. They bring out a special platter with cheese, sauce, fresh dough and extra dough for the kids to amuse themselves; even a wipe to clean their little paws. The chicken parmesan was pretty good, however i would like to see it presented with a more unique pasta and a little extra sauce. The filet was terrific but with the porcini mushrooms it was a bit much, not everyone enjoys mushrooms that much. I think a better paring would have been with fingerling potatoes, maybe sautéed onions and keep the grilled asparagus that it already comes with. My mother ordered the salmon and she was really impressed which says a lot because she has pretty high expectations for a good salmon dish, it was perfect and again presented beautifully. The desserts were great the flourless chocolate brownie and tiramisu were very good, served with fresh fruits and whip cream, the coffee was flavorful and the service was a pleasure. Wether you are seated inside or outside, the ambience is relaxing and inviting. Even on a chilly night, the heater lamps keep you warm and the area is protected from the elements. I highly recommend Caragiulo's, a great place to try out and come back to.

    (4)
  • Victor R.

    Great food. Very fresh and tasty. The bread was out of this world. My child enjoyed making her own pizza and playing with the dough. Very friendly staff and the banana gelato was soooooo delicious.

    (5)
  • Kia B.

    A favorite place to visit anytime we to come Sarasota. This was our 2nd visit and if anyone wants good Italian food that's a little fancier but won't break the bank this is the place to go. They have good dinner specials as well so be sure to check out what they are beforehand if you are debating on which day to go.

    (5)
  • Ryan C.

    Went here for a business dinner and had a great experience. Service was great and food was delicious. Would definitely recommend to friends and family.

    (5)
  • Helen L.

    This is a wonderful lunch place in downtown Sarasota. Their pasta is delicious. The prices are reasonable and the staff is nice.

    (4)
  • Jillian H.

    Great service. Great food. Within walking distance to my work so it's a great place for lunch for me. I enjoy the food very much.

    (4)
  • John L.

    Goo Food, friendly staff; always delicious. Pizza night was extra good; Excellent Pizza at an outstanding price. Very flavorful and enjoyable and right in downtwn. I recommend this restaurant fully.

    (5)
  • Taryn C.

    This place has AMAZING Italian food. I always get their Chicken Parmigiana and never had a bad experience. The staff have also always been really friendly.

    (5)
  • B H.

    A delicious lunch of lentil soup (tastes home made) spaghetti meatball ( great red sauce and meatball) and even a vegan cheese ( non dairy) gluten free pizza ( very tasty). Reasonable prices and lovely setting in Downtown Sarasota. A return trip is in order.

    (5)
  • Steve D.

    Our first time here - We had a great meal and even better service! My wife had the Penne Pasolini (with chicken, sun dried tomatoes, Gorgonzola sauce) and I had the chicken Parmesan. Our server was Mychael and she was terrific! Made recommendations for food and wine, was attentive and made our dining experience very enjoyable. We will return and ask for her again. Not sure about some of the comments in other reviews as bread was good, portions large and food with layered with flavors.

    (5)
  • Lizet H.

    The restaurant is conveniently located and there is a parking facility around the corner. Parking on the street is 2 hour parking and they are very strict. They offer valet parking for the dinner crowd. I recommend their Pear and Gorgonzola Pizze and their Tortelloni a la Vodka. I've had other items on their menu but these are my two favorites. My only complaint is their portions. They are ridiculously small even for a girl who is watching her weight. I ordered their Totelloni a la Vodka dish from their lunch menu and it came with (3) medium size tortelloni. I realizet they cater to the trendy Sarasota crowd but for goodness sake you would like to at least get a taste of what your eating before you are done eating it.

    (3)
  • Mike L.

    Stayed the night nearby and heard bad reviews about another Italian place nearby thankfully this restaurant was close. Excellent food, service, and kid friendly. Cappuccino and cannoli's we're great. Pleasantly surprised.

    (4)
  • Mel B.

    We were just passing through the area and stopped at this wonderful place! We ordered the bruschetta and I had the penne with shrimp! Also, is you like something smooth and light have Peroni on draft.

    (5)
  • Sarah L.

    This is some of best Italian food that I've had. I ordered some dish with loads if chicken and veggies. My husband had some really spicy seafood pasta. Everything was delicious. Even the kids Mac n cheese was the best! Highly recommended! If you've got older kids they'll let the kids make their own pizza. VERY family friendly! Even met the owners while we were there. This place come highly recommended for everyone.

    (5)
  • Veronica L.

    I went here with my sister and we shared an appetizer, a pasta dish, and two desserts (we are big on desserts). We had the shrimp bruschetta and it was fantastic! It was smaller than I expected but the flavors were on point. The scampi sauce was creamy without being overly buttery, with a lemony scent that picks up the dish as a whole. We had the beef braised tortelloni for the pasta, and it was also really good. The vodka sauce was amazing and the pancetta bits took it to another level. The reason I took points off was because the desserts were really meh. We had the ricotta cheesecake and tiramisu. I hated the chocolate sauce, it tasted like the supermarket bought kind and ruined both dishes. The cheesecake just tasted off and the tiramisu was soggy and lacking flavors. Although the menu stated that I can choose caramel or choc sauce for my cheesecake, my waitress never asked me if I wanted either, which brings me to my next point. The service was very underwhelming. Although my waitress wasn't exactly cold, she was definitely distracted and intermittently forgot about my sister and me. There was also a male staff walking around and he was very not friendly.

    (3)
  • Mark S.

    Good but not great. Service a little slow, but courteous. Food is missing that authentic touch. Good but not great. Service a little slow, but courteous. Food is missing that authentic touch.

    (3)
  • John R.

    .

    (5)
  • Patsy T.

    Very nice dinner here!

    (4)
  • Bob G.

    Lasagna and amazing meatballs keep this one on our list, everything else is pretty average.

    (3)
  • John G.

    Nice atmosphere and food good. The salumi and cheese was a nice start followed by calamari with a nice spicy red sauce. The butter fish was tough and not like Roy's melt in your mouth. I had the veal piccata which could have had a lighter sauce. Overall good experience.

    (3)
  • Lisa L.

    Fantastic italian food!!! The service was attentive and wine selection was superb. We ordered chicken piccata, lasagna,margarita pizza and ravioli. Everything was authentic italian!

    (5)
  • Cheri P.

    Everything about Caragiulo's seems to strike a balance of being up to date and classic at the same time, of being fresh while feeling like it's been done for years. The dining room is sprinkled with foreign versions of domestic classic films, anything from Love Story to New York, New York. And while it may sound cliche, looking around and seeing a young DeNiro or Pacino frozen in time while delivering a fondly remembered performance gives you a sort of warm feeling. Our entire visit was just that -- an extremely warm experience. We came a little before the dinner rush since Caragiulo's doesn't take reservations for less than 6 people, and we were seated in a dining area that was maybe 1/4 full at around 6:00pm. Our server was friendly, knowledgeable about the specials and wasted no time in visiting us, and after a bit of language-barrier awkwardness, was off to submit our drink and appetizer orders. Drinks: Lemon Drop - This was served with the usual garnish - a slice of lemon on the edge and a sugar-rimmed glass. It was delicious, strong and light without being overbearing. Not too lemon-y; just balanced and sweet. Appetizers - Arancini Telefono and Polenta Board: The Arancini was almost perfectly fried to a golden crisp, and remained light instead of tasting like it had been forgotten in oil for too long. The polenta was no less appealing, with a small piece of chicken nestled within a rich, creamy polenta that left you satisfied and still hungry for your main course. Italian Wedding Soup: We both ended up choosing the Italian Wedding Soup. It's an easy litmus test to gauge what you may be in store for with your meal, and the soup did not disappoint. Like the other appetizers, it was a light chicken broth that was helped by the inclusion of pasta and meatballs, not weighed down by it. A hint of lemon contributed to that feeling, and we were both glad to find that the broth was thinner than some other local Italian eateries, who tend to thicken it in an attempt to make it more filling. The Chicken Marsala: We agreed that it was well-prepared and very well presented, but it didn't seem to stand out in the same way the other dishes had. We've certainly had worse, but we might have been expecting more after such a stellar beginning. That being said, it was a very satisfactory dish that didn't leave anyone disappointed. Perhaps our expectations for this were a little high after the bar had been set early-on. The Highlight of the Meals, The Pork Chop Special: To say that the plate was well-presented would be a gross understatement. The butterflied pork was a veritable work of art, and might have been left intact if it wasn't so delicious. The pork was perfectly cooked, remaining tender and moist and retaining its crisp, light breading. We put in for the gelato (one banana, one chocolate) and Tira Mi Su, both staples of Italian restaurants that we wanted to see stand up against previous experiences elsewhere. This is the only part of the meal we felt an improvement was necessary. The gelato, while full of smooth, rich flavor, was very icy, and we had to work through a few large chunks of ice every other bite or so. The Tiramisu, traditionally prepared soaked in a rich coffee or espresso usually mixed with a liquor, was not soaked in anything, and while it wasn't dry, it lacked that coffee flavor so commonly identified with the dish. Though the dessert was still well-received. Also, they actually only gave us half an order of Tiramisu apparently, but as you can see from the picture we didn't even notice. But they noticed it, corrected it, and gave us another "half" order to go! All-in-all, we were pleased with the delightful satisfaction of having had a fulfilling meal in a restaurant that is at once friendly and casual without losing some of its formality and dignity. For those looking to enjoy a well-prepared, authentic Italian meal, Caragiulo's will certainly live up to your expectations without striking too heavy a blow on the purse.

    (5)
  • Phil M.

    This is a nice place! The food was good even the kids menu. The wait staff was a bit slow but kind and attentive. the staff was very kid friendly. Shrimp Ravioli dish was excellent - 4 large shrimp Ravs, tossed with mussels, scallops and prawns... Delicioso! Lasagna Bolognese was also very good. Cesar salad was not so good. I'm not a huge Italian food fan, but I would definitely go back to Caragiulo's.

    (4)
  • Mike E.

    Caragiulos is a regular spot for me and everyone at StrongHouse upstairs. We are accustomed to great service in a quiet atmosphere with an amazing menu. It's not expensive for the selection. Must try.

    (5)
  • Ian T.

    We were exploring downtown Sarasota one afternoon and my daughter was really craving italian, so in we went.....so glad we did wife, kid and myself had Sandwiches, Mom in law had fish all were very tasty exelant service, nice atmosphere,great portions for the price. Will definitely return here next time we are in town.

    (5)
  • David M.

    This place is right down town in Sarasota. They have a nice outside eating area. We sat inside and found it to be very welcoming also. The service was very good. They did a good job refilling drinks and cleaning up our dishes as we finished each course. The food was very good and well presented. I had the chicken parm, which filled the plate. It came with a side of spaghetti which was also very good. My wife got the chicken picatta. It was a very generous helping, which came with mushrooms and cappers. If you like good traditional Italian food, you will totally enjoy this place.

    (5)
  • Sharon T.

    Neighborhood Italian with great service,good food,and a big outdoor patio! Also has a really nice bar and it definitely is a place loved by locals!!

    (4)
  • Pamela M.

    I've been here many times as I work only a few blocks away. They have consistently good food, excellent service and a casual/authentic atmosphere. Last night I had dinner on the patio with a group of 30. Even with the large group every dish was beautiful, service impeccable and genuine. We were a large group and therefore had a special menu but I was very impressed. Great selection! We had a fabulous antipasto plate, breads with toppings and calamari. All very good and received well by the entire group. I had the Butterfish and one of my colleagues had the Lasagna Bolognese. My Butterfish was well cooked and nicely presented. The lasagna was absolutely beautiful and the small slice that I tasted confirmed the taste was equally luscious. If you haven't tried this traditional gem of a restaurant in Downtown Sarasota yet get on down there and check it out. You will not be disappointed! Great food and service, without the pretension.

    (4)
  • Tim T.

    Been coming here for over 20 years. This is a family business and the family is all involved. Rob C. seems to run the show and he is great. One of the C brothers is almost always there. The Penne Passolni is fantastic, and they have the best Calamari ever. I sample Calamari every place I go, and nothing compares to Caragiulos. I used to own a business across the street and ate here several times a week, I miss those days. When I am in town, we always go to Caragiulos. This is a great spot on Palm Avenue.

    (5)
  • Gregory N.

    Just visiting Sarasota for one day and it happened to be our wedding anniversary. We were completely satisfied with the food, the service and everything else. They started us with a nice salad large enough for two to share. I went simple, spaghetti with meatballs and sausage, she ordered the pork chop done Italian style. They were both very tasty and well presented. It was an enjoyable evening out in Sarasota. I recommend this restaurant and if I am back in town, I will be coming back!

    (4)
  • Celia B.

    I like Caragiulo's. I have been coming here for years and the service is always great. They start you off with some free bread that is more like focaccia. It is amazing, fresh, and tastes like pizza. My family really enjoys the salads (ceasar especially) and the Italian wedding soup. I highly recommend the linguine with clams, as this is the dish that many of us keep coming back for. We've tried the ravioli which was also very good, and I ordered some capellini with tomato sauce, which wasn't on their menu but they were willing to be flexible. My brother enjoys their pizza. The atmosphere in here is very nice and really has an Italian feel to it.

    (4)
  • Barry W.

    Second visit to Caragiulo's and had THE worst restaurant experience in memory. It was not the food. We were "served" by Rachid (big guy, well over 200 lbs., over 6 feet tall, soul patch). He is years overdue leaving the occupation as a waiter. It was early evening and my wife and I were looking forward to a pleasant evening of Italian fare. Waiter Rachid was rude, arrogant and condescending from the moment he came to our table. No reason for Rachid to be anything but pleasant with us. We were not demanding. We were not poorly dressed. When he came to take our food order there was no "May I take your order......or our specials tonight are.......Rachid walked up to the table and with his open hands to his side as if to say, "okay, you know the drill". Rachid never returned to our table to see how the first bite was. An expediter brought the food. We had to stop Rachid to ask for our check. He never asked if we would like dessert etc. I can't think of the last time I gave a negative review of a restaurant but our experience here was one I wanted to share so the owners and management could see how we felt after being waited on my Rachid. Obviously, we will never go back to Caragiulo's.

    (1)
  • Moe B.

    Great pork osso bucco. Excellent $19.89 bottle of wine to go with it. Also leek mushroom soup was delicious. Good simple every day dining.

    (4)
  • John C.

    True Sarasota restaurant. Fantastic food, amazing service. It can seem a bit pricy, but most everything on the menu is seriously worth it.

    (5)
  • Andrew H.

    Found this great italian restaurant in downtown Sarasota. Friendly staff, great food and wonderful atmosphere!

    (5)
  • Shelly J.

    We have dined here a few times based on others recommendation but honestly, Its a step below the Olive Garden I'm sorry to say, Try Salute or Galileo instead, much better food and atmosphere

    (2)
  • Hunter B.

    I can't speak to what this place used to be, but it was a dining highlight of our recent trip to the Tampa Bay area. The service was great -- prompt, friendly and attentive. And the food we had was excellent, from the flatbread trio with five-star caponata and olives, through a fine salad, delicious tortelloni, and four-cheese ravioli. The gentleman playing guitar in the dining room did a nice job. We still can't think of anything we didn't like about the place. Not being Sarasota locals, we can't compare it to other Italian places in town. But we think it would fit in just fine in South Philly, Boston or New York (the family apparently comes from Brooklyn), and as a casual spot, would be a hit. We'd go back and would definitely recommend it, including to our Italian family and friends. ;)

    (4)
  • Jennifer K.

    Very good american-italian food from a local ma and pop restaurant. Beef Tortellini or spaghetti and meatballs are my choices here.

    (4)
  • G. K.

    Fabulous food for 20+ years. Fabulous pizza (check out the caramelized onion-TDF!). The salad, steak, pasta... it goes on and on. No affiliation just a happy customer since we moved to town. Thanks guys.

    (5)
  • C K.

    Caprese fun. Sauce good. Slightly reminds me of Classico, which is OK, as I buy that a lot.

    (4)
  • Zenide R.

    I used to frequent/swear by/love this place. In the last couple of years, however, it has sort of gone downhill. I'll always love the fun decor - Italian movie posters everywhere, nice little patio - and the location is good, of course. Lately, the service has been lacking and the food isn't as awesomely fresh-tasting or neatly prepared/served. The food is good for what it is - it's pretty much super-comfort food (penne pasolini and eggplant parmigiana ... drool) - and the pizzas are decent. But diner beware: you might walk out of there feeling 10 lbs heavier. I'll still give it a shot once in a while - for old times' sake - but it's no longer on my list of "must-go" restaurants when I'm in town.

    (3)
  • Thomas D.

    The food was generally quite good. In particular, the mussels and the linguine Fra Diavolo were tasty. On the other hand, the garlic was a bit overcooked in the orecchiette with broccoli rabe and sausage (and I am more a fan of the version without the tomatoes). The Wedding soup lacked flavor and was a bit light on the meatballls. I am a beer drinker, and the beer list was quite limited. While it is quaint to have Italian beers in an red sauce restaurant, in this day and age it would be nice to have a couple micro brews on the menu or at least Sam Adams. The atmosphere is comfortable, if a bit dated. On the downside, the service was not really up to snuff. Our waiter did not provide us the specials, and we needed to ask for bread before our appetizers. Our dishes were served more than 1 hr after we were seated, which is a problem when hungry children (and adults) are involved. While this may have been an isolated incident, the wait staff and management seemed indifferent. I think we will probably look elsewhere for a good Italian meal when in Sarasota.

    (2)
  • Adam A.

    This is what happens when you order the "warm" chicken Caesar salad. Bravissimo! Great place locals love it been coming here for 15 years great every time.

    (5)
  • GoodDay S.

    Nice location, atmosphere, service... but I'm really sorry to say the food was just okay. We try the calamari everywhere we go and here is it on the lower end of good (even the sauce left question marks in our heads), Caesar salad just okay, and the pizza was all it's own style and taste... but not a new favorite unfortunately. We won't be back for the food, but hope if it's your preference that you enjoy the experience. Cheers!

    (3)
  • Kimba Z.

    They have Daiya cheese, for a little extra. Fantastic option for vegans and those avoiding cholesterol.

    (4)
  • Nancy C.

    Came here a a recommendation from a friend. Came before the Singing Christmas Tree show so our waitress put a rush on our meal. Shared a Caesar w husband. Very good dressing and not too much of it. My entree was tortellini ala vodka with a beef filling. It was ahhhmazimg!! My husband has a seafood pasta special and he raved about it!! I will be back for sure. Thy had a great menu!!! And we loved our server Julie. She was Attentive and offered suggestions.

    (4)
  • Kem F.

    Wonderful place. Great food. Pork osso bucco and the chicken Marsala were both perfect. Nice atmosphere--both indoor and outdoor seating. Great service and great prices. 5 stars!

    (5)
  • Paulette T.

    My husband and I eat at Caraguilo's once a week when in Sarasota. The staff is very friendly and the wedding soup and Da Vinci Pizza are fabulous. The family owns several restaurants in town but this is our favorite.

    (5)
  • Ashley R.

    With my first bite of bread still in my mouth, I mumbled "holy moly! Best bread ever!" It just got better from there. Amazing. Phenomenal. Perfection.

    (5)
  • F T.

    Good location and accommodated a large group. Our server was friendly enough. Food was just okay. Pizza was enough for two to share. Salads were basic, not noteworthy. One in our part had spaghetti and just shrugged when asked how it was. We'll try this place again and hope for a better experience.

    (3)
  • Brian C.

    Really enjoyed this place. Cozy and comfortable. Good food and good service. We had the antipasti and a pizza, which both were good. I'd be back if I'm in this side of town again

    (4)
  • Gregory H.

    This was tough giving them 2 stars. The service was less than mediocre. I had to ask for a larger table from the get go as they put one of us in the traffic aisle. This decision had to come from the manager as the waitress seemed very taken aback and argued that the larger tables were taken by patrons of 6 or more who had reservations. When I pointed out that I had reservations she was a bit perplexed as that shouldn't have been since there were only 5 of us. This set the tone for the rest of the night. The hummus and bread were the highlight of the meal. The steak special I asked for medium rare came out well done. The Oso Buco was heavily seasoned and far too fragrant with anise. The service was slow as pointed out in other reviews. I guess I have been spoiled by other Italian soul food restaurants. They have some soul searching themselves to do to stay competitive in the Sarasota area. I hope that they are not relying on their sister establishments such as Owens Fish Camp or Nancy's BBQ to keep their place alive.

    (2)
  • Brian G.

    Consistently great atmosphere, service, food, and drinks. The manager, Brian, is always on his game. The two veal choices are amazing. Desserts are tasty. Just a great place overall!

    (5)
  • Jack B.

    Neighborhood Italian restaurant with Italian movie theme decor. Had been by here for years and always thought it an upscale dining experience. Pleasantly surprised to find it casual and family friendly. Both of us had pasta dishes and would rate both very good. The spinach side was well done. We will be back with the whole family.

    (4)
  • Kyle G.

    Had another meal here last week. Arrived later than usual and was surprised to find the restaurant still quite busy. No wait for a table, which is always a plus. Our server was super friendly and helpful with suggestions on food and beverage choices. I elected for a Peroni and the gnocchi pasta with a side of brussels sprouts. The gnocchi was life changing; their basil cream sauce that accompanies it is truly amazing! The sprouts were also very delicious. After almost 4 years since my last review, I feel that the service - unfortunately - is still a tad subpar compared to other nearby eateries. But, the food was SO good that the wait was well worth it. I'll be back sooner than later!

    (4)
  • Moe G.

    We accidentally discovered this place after the Resteraunt we set out for was closed. We found this place on yelp due to the fact we wanted Italian food. Well we were pleasantly surprised we were greeted and seated quickly! Shepard was our waiter and he was amazing, the food was awesome from the apps to main course. We had the caprese, baked clams and I had the artichoke crusted grouper...all was awesome This was more than a pleasant dining experience and can't wait to go back

    (5)
  • Lauren B.

    Went here the other night for a late dinner after walking around the area with a friend. It's a classic Italian place with a fairly inexpensive menu for the area. We started with the Calamari & Zucchini Fritti which was perfectly crispy and the breading was not too heavy. I am not normally a fan of mayonnaise, but the anchovy mayo really complimented the dish. I had the Margherita pizza which was made with very fresh tasting mozzarella. My friend loved the sea scallops and goat cheese ravioli. It was interestingly paired with a limoncello sweet sauce, but the flavoring went well together. The mojito was fresh. Loved the generous portion of italian bread they bought to the table before the meal. Service was okay, pretty standard. Nothing worth noting on that front. i would definitely come here again if I was looking for a nice quiet Italian meal in downtown Sarasota.

    (4)
  • A W.

    This place is ahhhhmazing! The balsamic with bread, the pizza, the lasagna, the veal, what a great place to enjoy the evening.

    (5)
  • Pat A.

    Great Vibe. Great Food. Their bread is "da best" - like Sicilian thick pizza. I would have been content with the bread and glass of wine! Their Chopped salad is a dense fresh bowl of flavorful greens with beans, salami, tomatoes, olives in a tasty parmigiano dressing. A meal in itself!. The Mixed Grilled Vegetable appetizer comes on a wooden board with goat cheese and balsamic excellent. I am full, but I am still going to have dinner. The Chicken Parm comes out and the chicken breast is a full breast and it could easily feed 3 people, and its sitting on top of a full plate of spaghetti. I finished it - yes it was that good. My other 3 tables mates slopped up each of their meals - Orrechiete Pugliese with sausage and broccoli rabe, veal Milanese and rigatoni. The service was excellent. The house wine at only $7 a glass was very good. We wanted to stroll down Palm Avenue and Main Street so we did not stay for dessert. We will return here - the only problem is that they only take reservations for 6 or more people. The place fills up quickly but there is a small bar area - and there is outside seating. We will come again to try their pizza and dessert.

    (4)
  • Nadia Z.

    Old, tired and very traditional menu. Old, tired and traditional decor. Very old, tired and traditional folks sitting around the tables. Very tired waiter. Had dinner with coworkers here. Nothing really memorable. Pizzas we shared for appetizer were only semi-decent menu item. Bread, mussels, mozzarella and tomatoes, and several other appetizers I cannot even remember were just meh. Veal piccata portion was huge, drowned in sauce and served on the bed of soggy rice they call "risotto". Skip. There is better Italian food around.

    (2)
  • Tom D.

    What a great place! Our waiter Anthony was the best and the food was even better. I recommend highly to everyone looking for great Italian food, in a wonderful environment at reasonable prices.

    (5)
  • Ron B.

    We stopped here for an early dinner and we loved the place food was great prices were reasonable and service was outstanding. Besure to make it a point to visit when In Sarasota

    (5)
  • J V.

    Wonderful experience, great service. Our waitress was so attentive and our drink glasses never got below half full. She was awesome! The caesar and house salad were excellent, just the right amount of salad dressing and it was delicious. The calamari cooked perfect and tasted great. The bread and balsamic vinegar and oil was terrific. I got the linguine in white wine sauce with clams and it was great. Wedding soup- perfect! Also recommend the gelato for dessert- the caramel with bits of chocolate was scrumptious! We made a reservation for 5 pm and were seated right away. The atmosphere was nice, not loud and perfect for conversation as you weren't right on top of other tables. Will definitely go back for more!

    (4)
  • C J.

    Best pizza since NYC (I am talking about the good NYC pizza). So many other great dishes also. Eggplant parm, various pastas, etc. They also had a nice wine selection. Great for kids as well because they can build their own pizza. My family will definitely be back!

    (5)
  • Sue Z.

    Service was great but food was not what I was expecting from the other reviews. Our server was gracious and helpful.The bread basket was good. I was optimistic but the rest of the meal didn't live up to it. I ordered the linguini with clams and it was so salty I had to send it back. It was served with more conventional toasted bread. I love clams and it was sad to see the little guys ruined this way. Others in my group ordered a calzone, eggplant Parmesan and lasagne. The calzone was decent but the other dishes were barely warm. I opted for spaghetti with marinara for the second try. The sauce was very chunky and thick, heavily seasoned and salty. No taste of pasta or tomatoes. The fresh grated cheese on top was the best part. The spaghetti was also broken, making it difficult to twirl on a fork to eat.

    (2)
  • Matthew M.

    The food was delicious and Lucas at the bar was great. He was really hustling behind the bar. He was making drinks for the servers and tending the bar like a champ! I highly recommend this place for the service, drinks, and food!

    (5)
  • Mike E.

    Went last week based on other reviews. The bread everyone raves about must have changed because ours was tasteless and dry. Our server must have had a off night because after our order never saw her again untill long after we were finished eating. Although the portions were adequate the food lacked flavor and was way underseasoned. I really think all the 4 and 5 star reviews were written by owners and staff.

    (2)
  • Brian P.

    Good location. Food is avg to slightly above. One thing I particularly don't like is nutmeg or cinnamon in a red tomato sauce and they have that here.

    (3)
  • Tim R.

    The difference between eating out and dining out is a kitchen that tastes the pasta to check for done-ness. The difference between an experience and satisfying a need is that same kitchen informing wait staff of the unavailability of gluten-free pizza dough before service, not after a customer orders. The difference between wanting to return and searching elsewhere is a sad old tarted-up cheesecake dessert. And just what in the name of Thor is "Italian-American Soul Food", their tag-line printed on the pizza boxes? Whatever it is, I left with my soul veering towards applying to join the Mob. Their food at least has a beating heart.

    (2)
  • Christina S.

    This was not my favorite:( the food was cold and wait staff was under pare.. I would recommend going somewhere else??

    (1)
  • Joann G.

    We went to dinner last night. The waitress was very nice but not that helpful. My friend had the grouper which she said was delicious and I had the eggplant which was very good. Our husbands had pork osso pucco. It was very bland. They both would not order that again. The dishes do not come with any sides. Usually an eggplant would come with pasta but it did not. When I return I would not go back. I am in that are frequent and love to try neighborhood restaurants. I have tried a few that are great.

    (2)
  • Aaron B.

    Great food! Good portions for the price! Great service by IVAN. Recommendation - A!

    (4)
  • Jane P.

    Great food once again! Service by Ashley went above and beyond.

    (5)
  • Jerry O.

    This place was fantastic for a family diner! Service was excellent and the food was wonderful! I will come back here on a regular basis!

    (5)
  • Tom D.

    What a great place! Our waiter Anthony was the best and the food was even better. I recommend highly to everyone looking for great Italian food, in a wonderful environment at reasonable prices.

    (5)
  • Ron B.

    We stopped here for an early dinner and we loved the place food was great prices were reasonable and service was outstanding. Besure to make it a point to visit when In Sarasota

    (5)
  • Joann G.

    We went to dinner last night. The waitress was very nice but not that helpful. My friend had the grouper which she said was delicious and I had the eggplant which was very good. Our husbands had pork osso pucco. It was very bland. They both would not order that again. The dishes do not come with any sides. Usually an eggplant would come with pasta but it did not. When I return I would not go back. I am in that are frequent and love to try neighborhood restaurants. I have tried a few that are great.

    (2)
  • Lauren B.

    Went here the other night for a late dinner after walking around the area with a friend. It's a classic Italian place with a fairly inexpensive menu for the area. We started with the Calamari & Zucchini Fritti which was perfectly crispy and the breading was not too heavy. I am not normally a fan of mayonnaise, but the anchovy mayo really complimented the dish. I had the Margherita pizza which was made with very fresh tasting mozzarella. My friend loved the sea scallops and goat cheese ravioli. It was interestingly paired with a limoncello sweet sauce, but the flavoring went well together. The mojito was fresh. Loved the generous portion of italian bread they bought to the table before the meal. Service was okay, pretty standard. Nothing worth noting on that front. i would definitely come here again if I was looking for a nice quiet Italian meal in downtown Sarasota.

    (4)
  • A W.

    This place is ahhhhmazing! The balsamic with bread, the pizza, the lasagna, the veal, what a great place to enjoy the evening.

    (5)
  • Pat A.

    Great Vibe. Great Food. Their bread is "da best" - like Sicilian thick pizza. I would have been content with the bread and glass of wine! Their Chopped salad is a dense fresh bowl of flavorful greens with beans, salami, tomatoes, olives in a tasty parmigiano dressing. A meal in itself!. The Mixed Grilled Vegetable appetizer comes on a wooden board with goat cheese and balsamic excellent. I am full, but I am still going to have dinner. The Chicken Parm comes out and the chicken breast is a full breast and it could easily feed 3 people, and its sitting on top of a full plate of spaghetti. I finished it - yes it was that good. My other 3 tables mates slopped up each of their meals - Orrechiete Pugliese with sausage and broccoli rabe, veal Milanese and rigatoni. The service was excellent. The house wine at only $7 a glass was very good. We wanted to stroll down Palm Avenue and Main Street so we did not stay for dessert. We will return here - the only problem is that they only take reservations for 6 or more people. The place fills up quickly but there is a small bar area - and there is outside seating. We will come again to try their pizza and dessert.

    (4)
  • Nadia Z.

    Old, tired and very traditional menu. Old, tired and traditional decor. Very old, tired and traditional folks sitting around the tables. Very tired waiter. Had dinner with coworkers here. Nothing really memorable. Pizzas we shared for appetizer were only semi-decent menu item. Bread, mussels, mozzarella and tomatoes, and several other appetizers I cannot even remember were just meh. Veal piccata portion was huge, drowned in sauce and served on the bed of soggy rice they call "risotto". Skip. There is better Italian food around.

    (2)
  • Steve D.

    Our first time here - We had a great meal and even better service! My wife had the Penne Pasolini (with chicken, sun dried tomatoes, Gorgonzola sauce) and I had the chicken Parmesan. Our server was Mychael and she was terrific! Made recommendations for food and wine, was attentive and made our dining experience very enjoyable. We will return and ask for her again. Not sure about some of the comments in other reviews as bread was good, portions large and food with layered with flavors.

    (5)
  • Lizet H.

    The restaurant is conveniently located and there is a parking facility around the corner. Parking on the street is 2 hour parking and they are very strict. They offer valet parking for the dinner crowd. I recommend their Pear and Gorgonzola Pizze and their Tortelloni a la Vodka. I've had other items on their menu but these are my two favorites. My only complaint is their portions. They are ridiculously small even for a girl who is watching her weight. I ordered their Totelloni a la Vodka dish from their lunch menu and it came with (3) medium size tortelloni. I realizet they cater to the trendy Sarasota crowd but for goodness sake you would like to at least get a taste of what your eating before you are done eating it.

    (3)
  • Adam A.

    This is what happens when you order the "warm" chicken Caesar salad. Bravissimo! Great place locals love it been coming here for 15 years great every time.

    (5)
  • Lorraine W.

    We went two nights in a row so that should tell you something! The bread they give out to their guests is pretty good, what makes it the best though is the Venice olive oil and the Venice Balsamic vinegar, absolutely tasty. I could just eat that all night. The cappers appetizer is beautifully presented on a hard wood block and arranged artistically. Our son loved making his own pizza on both occasions. They bring out a special platter with cheese, sauce, fresh dough and extra dough for the kids to amuse themselves; even a wipe to clean their little paws. The chicken parmesan was pretty good, however i would like to see it presented with a more unique pasta and a little extra sauce. The filet was terrific but with the porcini mushrooms it was a bit much, not everyone enjoys mushrooms that much. I think a better paring would have been with fingerling potatoes, maybe sautéed onions and keep the grilled asparagus that it already comes with. My mother ordered the salmon and she was really impressed which says a lot because she has pretty high expectations for a good salmon dish, it was perfect and again presented beautifully. The desserts were great the flourless chocolate brownie and tiramisu were very good, served with fresh fruits and whip cream, the coffee was flavorful and the service was a pleasure. Wether you are seated inside or outside, the ambience is relaxing and inviting. Even on a chilly night, the heater lamps keep you warm and the area is protected from the elements. I highly recommend Caragiulo's, a great place to try out and come back to.

    (4)
  • Victor R.

    Great food. Very fresh and tasty. The bread was out of this world. My child enjoyed making her own pizza and playing with the dough. Very friendly staff and the banana gelato was soooooo delicious.

    (5)
  • Kia B.

    A favorite place to visit anytime we to come Sarasota. This was our 2nd visit and if anyone wants good Italian food that's a little fancier but won't break the bank this is the place to go. They have good dinner specials as well so be sure to check out what they are beforehand if you are debating on which day to go.

    (5)
  • Ryan C.

    Went here for a business dinner and had a great experience. Service was great and food was delicious. Would definitely recommend to friends and family.

    (5)
  • Helen L.

    This is a wonderful lunch place in downtown Sarasota. Their pasta is delicious. The prices are reasonable and the staff is nice.

    (4)
  • Jillian H.

    Great service. Great food. Within walking distance to my work so it's a great place for lunch for me. I enjoy the food very much.

    (4)
  • John L.

    Goo Food, friendly staff; always delicious. Pizza night was extra good; Excellent Pizza at an outstanding price. Very flavorful and enjoyable and right in downtwn. I recommend this restaurant fully.

    (5)
  • Taryn C.

    This place has AMAZING Italian food. I always get their Chicken Parmigiana and never had a bad experience. The staff have also always been really friendly.

    (5)
  • B H.

    A delicious lunch of lentil soup (tastes home made) spaghetti meatball ( great red sauce and meatball) and even a vegan cheese ( non dairy) gluten free pizza ( very tasty). Reasonable prices and lovely setting in Downtown Sarasota. A return trip is in order.

    (5)
  • Kyle G.

    Had another meal here last week. Arrived later than usual and was surprised to find the restaurant still quite busy. No wait for a table, which is always a plus. Our server was super friendly and helpful with suggestions on food and beverage choices. I elected for a Peroni and the gnocchi pasta with a side of brussels sprouts. The gnocchi was life changing; their basil cream sauce that accompanies it is truly amazing! The sprouts were also very delicious. After almost 4 years since my last review, I feel that the service - unfortunately - is still a tad subpar compared to other nearby eateries. But, the food was SO good that the wait was well worth it. I'll be back sooner than later!

    (4)
  • Moe G.

    We accidentally discovered this place after the Resteraunt we set out for was closed. We found this place on yelp due to the fact we wanted Italian food. Well we were pleasantly surprised we were greeted and seated quickly! Shepard was our waiter and he was amazing, the food was awesome from the apps to main course. We had the caprese, baked clams and I had the artichoke crusted grouper...all was awesome This was more than a pleasant dining experience and can't wait to go back

    (5)
  • J V.

    Wonderful experience, great service. Our waitress was so attentive and our drink glasses never got below half full. She was awesome! The caesar and house salad were excellent, just the right amount of salad dressing and it was delicious. The calamari cooked perfect and tasted great. The bread and balsamic vinegar and oil was terrific. I got the linguine in white wine sauce with clams and it was great. Wedding soup- perfect! Also recommend the gelato for dessert- the caramel with bits of chocolate was scrumptious! We made a reservation for 5 pm and were seated right away. The atmosphere was nice, not loud and perfect for conversation as you weren't right on top of other tables. Will definitely go back for more!

    (4)
  • C J.

    Best pizza since NYC (I am talking about the good NYC pizza). So many other great dishes also. Eggplant parm, various pastas, etc. They also had a nice wine selection. Great for kids as well because they can build their own pizza. My family will definitely be back!

    (5)
  • Sue Z.

    Service was great but food was not what I was expecting from the other reviews. Our server was gracious and helpful.The bread basket was good. I was optimistic but the rest of the meal didn't live up to it. I ordered the linguini with clams and it was so salty I had to send it back. It was served with more conventional toasted bread. I love clams and it was sad to see the little guys ruined this way. Others in my group ordered a calzone, eggplant Parmesan and lasagne. The calzone was decent but the other dishes were barely warm. I opted for spaghetti with marinara for the second try. The sauce was very chunky and thick, heavily seasoned and salty. No taste of pasta or tomatoes. The fresh grated cheese on top was the best part. The spaghetti was also broken, making it difficult to twirl on a fork to eat.

    (2)
  • Matthew M.

    The food was delicious and Lucas at the bar was great. He was really hustling behind the bar. He was making drinks for the servers and tending the bar like a champ! I highly recommend this place for the service, drinks, and food!

    (5)
  • Mike E.

    Went last week based on other reviews. The bread everyone raves about must have changed because ours was tasteless and dry. Our server must have had a off night because after our order never saw her again untill long after we were finished eating. Although the portions were adequate the food lacked flavor and was way underseasoned. I really think all the 4 and 5 star reviews were written by owners and staff.

    (2)
  • Brian P.

    Good location. Food is avg to slightly above. One thing I particularly don't like is nutmeg or cinnamon in a red tomato sauce and they have that here.

    (3)
  • Tim R.

    The difference between eating out and dining out is a kitchen that tastes the pasta to check for done-ness. The difference between an experience and satisfying a need is that same kitchen informing wait staff of the unavailability of gluten-free pizza dough before service, not after a customer orders. The difference between wanting to return and searching elsewhere is a sad old tarted-up cheesecake dessert. And just what in the name of Thor is "Italian-American Soul Food", their tag-line printed on the pizza boxes? Whatever it is, I left with my soul veering towards applying to join the Mob. Their food at least has a beating heart.

    (2)
  • Christina S.

    This was not my favorite:( the food was cold and wait staff was under pare.. I would recommend going somewhere else??

    (1)
  • Celia B.

    I like Caragiulo's. I have been coming here for years and the service is always great. They start you off with some free bread that is more like focaccia. It is amazing, fresh, and tastes like pizza. My family really enjoys the salads (ceasar especially) and the Italian wedding soup. I highly recommend the linguine with clams, as this is the dish that many of us keep coming back for. We've tried the ravioli which was also very good, and I ordered some capellini with tomato sauce, which wasn't on their menu but they were willing to be flexible. My brother enjoys their pizza. The atmosphere in here is very nice and really has an Italian feel to it.

    (4)
  • GoodDay S.

    Nice location, atmosphere, service... but I'm really sorry to say the food was just okay. We try the calamari everywhere we go and here is it on the lower end of good (even the sauce left question marks in our heads), Caesar salad just okay, and the pizza was all it's own style and taste... but not a new favorite unfortunately. We won't be back for the food, but hope if it's your preference that you enjoy the experience. Cheers!

    (3)
  • Kimba Z.

    They have Daiya cheese, for a little extra. Fantastic option for vegans and those avoiding cholesterol.

    (4)
  • Nancy C.

    Came here a a recommendation from a friend. Came before the Singing Christmas Tree show so our waitress put a rush on our meal. Shared a Caesar w husband. Very good dressing and not too much of it. My entree was tortellini ala vodka with a beef filling. It was ahhhmazimg!! My husband has a seafood pasta special and he raved about it!! I will be back for sure. Thy had a great menu!!! And we loved our server Julie. She was Attentive and offered suggestions.

    (4)
  • F T.

    Good location and accommodated a large group. Our server was friendly enough. Food was just okay. Pizza was enough for two to share. Salads were basic, not noteworthy. One in our part had spaghetti and just shrugged when asked how it was. We'll try this place again and hope for a better experience.

    (3)
  • Brian C.

    Really enjoyed this place. Cozy and comfortable. Good food and good service. We had the antipasti and a pizza, which both were good. I'd be back if I'm in this side of town again

    (4)
  • Kem F.

    Wonderful place. Great food. Pork osso bucco and the chicken Marsala were both perfect. Nice atmosphere--both indoor and outdoor seating. Great service and great prices. 5 stars!

    (5)
  • Paulette T.

    My husband and I eat at Caraguilo's once a week when in Sarasota. The staff is very friendly and the wedding soup and Da Vinci Pizza are fabulous. The family owns several restaurants in town but this is our favorite.

    (5)
  • Ashley R.

    With my first bite of bread still in my mouth, I mumbled "holy moly! Best bread ever!" It just got better from there. Amazing. Phenomenal. Perfection.

    (5)
  • Gregory H.

    This was tough giving them 2 stars. The service was less than mediocre. I had to ask for a larger table from the get go as they put one of us in the traffic aisle. This decision had to come from the manager as the waitress seemed very taken aback and argued that the larger tables were taken by patrons of 6 or more who had reservations. When I pointed out that I had reservations she was a bit perplexed as that shouldn't have been since there were only 5 of us. This set the tone for the rest of the night. The hummus and bread were the highlight of the meal. The steak special I asked for medium rare came out well done. The Oso Buco was heavily seasoned and far too fragrant with anise. The service was slow as pointed out in other reviews. I guess I have been spoiled by other Italian soul food restaurants. They have some soul searching themselves to do to stay competitive in the Sarasota area. I hope that they are not relying on their sister establishments such as Owens Fish Camp or Nancy's BBQ to keep their place alive.

    (2)
  • Brian G.

    Consistently great atmosphere, service, food, and drinks. The manager, Brian, is always on his game. The two veal choices are amazing. Desserts are tasty. Just a great place overall!

    (5)
  • Jack B.

    Neighborhood Italian restaurant with Italian movie theme decor. Had been by here for years and always thought it an upscale dining experience. Pleasantly surprised to find it casual and family friendly. Both of us had pasta dishes and would rate both very good. The spinach side was well done. We will be back with the whole family.

    (4)
  • C K.

    Caprese fun. Sauce good. Slightly reminds me of Classico, which is OK, as I buy that a lot.

    (4)
  • Barry W.

    Second visit to Caragiulo's and had THE worst restaurant experience in memory. It was not the food. We were "served" by Rachid (big guy, well over 200 lbs., over 6 feet tall, soul patch). He is years overdue leaving the occupation as a waiter. It was early evening and my wife and I were looking forward to a pleasant evening of Italian fare. Waiter Rachid was rude, arrogant and condescending from the moment he came to our table. No reason for Rachid to be anything but pleasant with us. We were not demanding. We were not poorly dressed. When he came to take our food order there was no "May I take your order......or our specials tonight are.......Rachid walked up to the table and with his open hands to his side as if to say, "okay, you know the drill". Rachid never returned to our table to see how the first bite was. An expediter brought the food. We had to stop Rachid to ask for our check. He never asked if we would like dessert etc. I can't think of the last time I gave a negative review of a restaurant but our experience here was one I wanted to share so the owners and management could see how we felt after being waited on my Rachid. Obviously, we will never go back to Caragiulo's.

    (1)
  • Moe B.

    Great pork osso bucco. Excellent $19.89 bottle of wine to go with it. Also leek mushroom soup was delicious. Good simple every day dining.

    (4)
  • Mike L.

    Stayed the night nearby and heard bad reviews about another Italian place nearby thankfully this restaurant was close. Excellent food, service, and kid friendly. Cappuccino and cannoli's we're great. Pleasantly surprised.

    (4)
  • Mel B.

    We were just passing through the area and stopped at this wonderful place! We ordered the bruschetta and I had the penne with shrimp! Also, is you like something smooth and light have Peroni on draft.

    (5)
  • Sarah L.

    This is some of best Italian food that I've had. I ordered some dish with loads if chicken and veggies. My husband had some really spicy seafood pasta. Everything was delicious. Even the kids Mac n cheese was the best! Highly recommended! If you've got older kids they'll let the kids make their own pizza. VERY family friendly! Even met the owners while we were there. This place come highly recommended for everyone.

    (5)
  • Veronica L.

    I went here with my sister and we shared an appetizer, a pasta dish, and two desserts (we are big on desserts). We had the shrimp bruschetta and it was fantastic! It was smaller than I expected but the flavors were on point. The scampi sauce was creamy without being overly buttery, with a lemony scent that picks up the dish as a whole. We had the beef braised tortelloni for the pasta, and it was also really good. The vodka sauce was amazing and the pancetta bits took it to another level. The reason I took points off was because the desserts were really meh. We had the ricotta cheesecake and tiramisu. I hated the chocolate sauce, it tasted like the supermarket bought kind and ruined both dishes. The cheesecake just tasted off and the tiramisu was soggy and lacking flavors. Although the menu stated that I can choose caramel or choc sauce for my cheesecake, my waitress never asked me if I wanted either, which brings me to my next point. The service was very underwhelming. Although my waitress wasn't exactly cold, she was definitely distracted and intermittently forgot about my sister and me. There was also a male staff walking around and he was very not friendly.

    (3)
  • Mark S.

    Good but not great. Service a little slow, but courteous. Food is missing that authentic touch. Good but not great. Service a little slow, but courteous. Food is missing that authentic touch.

    (3)
  • John R.

    .

    (5)
  • Patsy T.

    Very nice dinner here!

    (4)
  • Bob G.

    Lasagna and amazing meatballs keep this one on our list, everything else is pretty average.

    (3)
  • John G.

    Nice atmosphere and food good. The salumi and cheese was a nice start followed by calamari with a nice spicy red sauce. The butter fish was tough and not like Roy's melt in your mouth. I had the veal piccata which could have had a lighter sauce. Overall good experience.

    (3)
  • Lisa L.

    Fantastic italian food!!! The service was attentive and wine selection was superb. We ordered chicken piccata, lasagna,margarita pizza and ravioli. Everything was authentic italian!

    (5)
  • Cheri P.

    Everything about Caragiulo's seems to strike a balance of being up to date and classic at the same time, of being fresh while feeling like it's been done for years. The dining room is sprinkled with foreign versions of domestic classic films, anything from Love Story to New York, New York. And while it may sound cliche, looking around and seeing a young DeNiro or Pacino frozen in time while delivering a fondly remembered performance gives you a sort of warm feeling. Our entire visit was just that -- an extremely warm experience. We came a little before the dinner rush since Caragiulo's doesn't take reservations for less than 6 people, and we were seated in a dining area that was maybe 1/4 full at around 6:00pm. Our server was friendly, knowledgeable about the specials and wasted no time in visiting us, and after a bit of language-barrier awkwardness, was off to submit our drink and appetizer orders. Drinks: Lemon Drop - This was served with the usual garnish - a slice of lemon on the edge and a sugar-rimmed glass. It was delicious, strong and light without being overbearing. Not too lemon-y; just balanced and sweet. Appetizers - Arancini Telefono and Polenta Board: The Arancini was almost perfectly fried to a golden crisp, and remained light instead of tasting like it had been forgotten in oil for too long. The polenta was no less appealing, with a small piece of chicken nestled within a rich, creamy polenta that left you satisfied and still hungry for your main course. Italian Wedding Soup: We both ended up choosing the Italian Wedding Soup. It's an easy litmus test to gauge what you may be in store for with your meal, and the soup did not disappoint. Like the other appetizers, it was a light chicken broth that was helped by the inclusion of pasta and meatballs, not weighed down by it. A hint of lemon contributed to that feeling, and we were both glad to find that the broth was thinner than some other local Italian eateries, who tend to thicken it in an attempt to make it more filling. The Chicken Marsala: We agreed that it was well-prepared and very well presented, but it didn't seem to stand out in the same way the other dishes had. We've certainly had worse, but we might have been expecting more after such a stellar beginning. That being said, it was a very satisfactory dish that didn't leave anyone disappointed. Perhaps our expectations for this were a little high after the bar had been set early-on. The Highlight of the Meals, The Pork Chop Special: To say that the plate was well-presented would be a gross understatement. The butterflied pork was a veritable work of art, and might have been left intact if it wasn't so delicious. The pork was perfectly cooked, remaining tender and moist and retaining its crisp, light breading. We put in for the gelato (one banana, one chocolate) and Tira Mi Su, both staples of Italian restaurants that we wanted to see stand up against previous experiences elsewhere. This is the only part of the meal we felt an improvement was necessary. The gelato, while full of smooth, rich flavor, was very icy, and we had to work through a few large chunks of ice every other bite or so. The Tiramisu, traditionally prepared soaked in a rich coffee or espresso usually mixed with a liquor, was not soaked in anything, and while it wasn't dry, it lacked that coffee flavor so commonly identified with the dish. Though the dessert was still well-received. Also, they actually only gave us half an order of Tiramisu apparently, but as you can see from the picture we didn't even notice. But they noticed it, corrected it, and gave us another "half" order to go! All-in-all, we were pleased with the delightful satisfaction of having had a fulfilling meal in a restaurant that is at once friendly and casual without losing some of its formality and dignity. For those looking to enjoy a well-prepared, authentic Italian meal, Caragiulo's will certainly live up to your expectations without striking too heavy a blow on the purse.

    (5)
  • Phil M.

    This is a nice place! The food was good even the kids menu. The wait staff was a bit slow but kind and attentive. the staff was very kid friendly. Shrimp Ravioli dish was excellent - 4 large shrimp Ravs, tossed with mussels, scallops and prawns... Delicioso! Lasagna Bolognese was also very good. Cesar salad was not so good. I'm not a huge Italian food fan, but I would definitely go back to Caragiulo's.

    (4)
  • Mike E.

    Caragiulos is a regular spot for me and everyone at StrongHouse upstairs. We are accustomed to great service in a quiet atmosphere with an amazing menu. It's not expensive for the selection. Must try.

    (5)
  • Aaron B.

    Great food! Good portions for the price! Great service by IVAN. Recommendation - A!

    (4)
  • Jane P.

    Great food once again! Service by Ashley went above and beyond.

    (5)
  • Jerry O.

    This place was fantastic for a family diner! Service was excellent and the food was wonderful! I will come back here on a regular basis!

    (5)
  • Ian T.

    We were exploring downtown Sarasota one afternoon and my daughter was really craving italian, so in we went.....so glad we did wife, kid and myself had Sandwiches, Mom in law had fish all were very tasty exelant service, nice atmosphere,great portions for the price. Will definitely return here next time we are in town.

    (5)
  • David M.

    This place is right down town in Sarasota. They have a nice outside eating area. We sat inside and found it to be very welcoming also. The service was very good. They did a good job refilling drinks and cleaning up our dishes as we finished each course. The food was very good and well presented. I had the chicken parm, which filled the plate. It came with a side of spaghetti which was also very good. My wife got the chicken picatta. It was a very generous helping, which came with mushrooms and cappers. If you like good traditional Italian food, you will totally enjoy this place.

    (5)
  • Sharon T.

    Neighborhood Italian with great service,good food,and a big outdoor patio! Also has a really nice bar and it definitely is a place loved by locals!!

    (4)
  • Pamela M.

    I've been here many times as I work only a few blocks away. They have consistently good food, excellent service and a casual/authentic atmosphere. Last night I had dinner on the patio with a group of 30. Even with the large group every dish was beautiful, service impeccable and genuine. We were a large group and therefore had a special menu but I was very impressed. Great selection! We had a fabulous antipasto plate, breads with toppings and calamari. All very good and received well by the entire group. I had the Butterfish and one of my colleagues had the Lasagna Bolognese. My Butterfish was well cooked and nicely presented. The lasagna was absolutely beautiful and the small slice that I tasted confirmed the taste was equally luscious. If you haven't tried this traditional gem of a restaurant in Downtown Sarasota yet get on down there and check it out. You will not be disappointed! Great food and service, without the pretension.

    (4)
  • Tim T.

    Been coming here for over 20 years. This is a family business and the family is all involved. Rob C. seems to run the show and he is great. One of the C brothers is almost always there. The Penne Passolni is fantastic, and they have the best Calamari ever. I sample Calamari every place I go, and nothing compares to Caragiulos. I used to own a business across the street and ate here several times a week, I miss those days. When I am in town, we always go to Caragiulos. This is a great spot on Palm Avenue.

    (5)
  • Gregory N.

    Just visiting Sarasota for one day and it happened to be our wedding anniversary. We were completely satisfied with the food, the service and everything else. They started us with a nice salad large enough for two to share. I went simple, spaghetti with meatballs and sausage, she ordered the pork chop done Italian style. They were both very tasty and well presented. It was an enjoyable evening out in Sarasota. I recommend this restaurant and if I am back in town, I will be coming back!

    (4)
  • John C.

    True Sarasota restaurant. Fantastic food, amazing service. It can seem a bit pricy, but most everything on the menu is seriously worth it.

    (5)
  • Andrew H.

    Found this great italian restaurant in downtown Sarasota. Friendly staff, great food and wonderful atmosphere!

    (5)
  • Shelly J.

    We have dined here a few times based on others recommendation but honestly, Its a step below the Olive Garden I'm sorry to say, Try Salute or Galileo instead, much better food and atmosphere

    (2)
  • Hunter B.

    I can't speak to what this place used to be, but it was a dining highlight of our recent trip to the Tampa Bay area. The service was great -- prompt, friendly and attentive. And the food we had was excellent, from the flatbread trio with five-star caponata and olives, through a fine salad, delicious tortelloni, and four-cheese ravioli. The gentleman playing guitar in the dining room did a nice job. We still can't think of anything we didn't like about the place. Not being Sarasota locals, we can't compare it to other Italian places in town. But we think it would fit in just fine in South Philly, Boston or New York (the family apparently comes from Brooklyn), and as a casual spot, would be a hit. We'd go back and would definitely recommend it, including to our Italian family and friends. ;)

    (4)
  • Jennifer K.

    Very good american-italian food from a local ma and pop restaurant. Beef Tortellini or spaghetti and meatballs are my choices here.

    (4)
  • G. K.

    Fabulous food for 20+ years. Fabulous pizza (check out the caramelized onion-TDF!). The salad, steak, pasta... it goes on and on. No affiliation just a happy customer since we moved to town. Thanks guys.

    (5)
  • Zenide R.

    I used to frequent/swear by/love this place. In the last couple of years, however, it has sort of gone downhill. I'll always love the fun decor - Italian movie posters everywhere, nice little patio - and the location is good, of course. Lately, the service has been lacking and the food isn't as awesomely fresh-tasting or neatly prepared/served. The food is good for what it is - it's pretty much super-comfort food (penne pasolini and eggplant parmigiana ... drool) - and the pizzas are decent. But diner beware: you might walk out of there feeling 10 lbs heavier. I'll still give it a shot once in a while - for old times' sake - but it's no longer on my list of "must-go" restaurants when I'm in town.

    (3)
  • Thomas D.

    The food was generally quite good. In particular, the mussels and the linguine Fra Diavolo were tasty. On the other hand, the garlic was a bit overcooked in the orecchiette with broccoli rabe and sausage (and I am more a fan of the version without the tomatoes). The Wedding soup lacked flavor and was a bit light on the meatballls. I am a beer drinker, and the beer list was quite limited. While it is quaint to have Italian beers in an red sauce restaurant, in this day and age it would be nice to have a couple micro brews on the menu or at least Sam Adams. The atmosphere is comfortable, if a bit dated. On the downside, the service was not really up to snuff. Our waiter did not provide us the specials, and we needed to ask for bread before our appetizers. Our dishes were served more than 1 hr after we were seated, which is a problem when hungry children (and adults) are involved. While this may have been an isolated incident, the wait staff and management seemed indifferent. I think we will probably look elsewhere for a good Italian meal when in Sarasota.

    (2)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :11:00 am - 10

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : Yes
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Dinner
    Parking : Valet, Garage, Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : Full Bar
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : Free
    Has TV : Yes
    Dogs Allowed : Yes
    Waiter Service : Yes
    Caters : No

Categories

Italian Cuisine

The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.

Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.

If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.

Pizza

Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.

Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.

Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.

Caragiulos Italian American Restaurant

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