Bar Italia
If you're seeking an authentic Italian dining experience in Lakewood Ranch, Bar Italia is a destination that promises to delight your senses. Located at 6568 University Parkway, this bar-centric, white-tablecloth bistro brings the essence of New York City's Italian-American restaurants to Florida, offering a menu that combines traditional dishes with contemporary flair.
A Culinary Tribute to Italian-American Classics
Bar Italia's menu pays homage to the great Italian-American eateries of New York City, where delicious, well-prepared food is served in settings that are both elegant and unpretentious. The culinary team takes pride in offering a diverse selection of dishes that cater to various palates. Here are some highlights:
Appetizers (Primi):
Fritti Misto: A delightful mix of calamari, shrimp, lemon, and confetti peppers, served with marinara and lemon aioli.
Beef Carpaccio: Thinly sliced eye of round beef, accompanied by lemon aioli, capers, arugula, and crostinis.
Heirloom Tomato & Burrata: Fresh burrata cheese paired with heirloom tomatoes, arugula salad, and a balsamic drizzle.
Pasta Dishes (Fresh House Pastas):
Bucatini Bolognese: Classic fresh bucatini pasta tossed in a house-made special meat sauce.
Spicy Vodka Rigate: Fresh rigatoni pasta enveloped in a spicy vodka-infused tomato sauce, inspired by the renowned "Carbone Style."
Pesto Genovese: Pipe rigate pasta combined with parsley, pine nuts, zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and basil.
Entrées (Secondi):
Classic Chicken Parmesan: Romano and Parmesan-crusted chicken breast served over spaghetti pomodoro.
Grilled Branzino "Via Carota" Style: Open-faced branzino accompanied by cipollini onions, fennel, spicy broccolini, and lemon butter.
Seared Halibut Risotto: Seared halibut filet presented atop mushroom Parmesan risotto.
Wood-Fired Pizzas:
Margherita: A classic combination of Roma tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, olive oil, torn basil, and flaky salt.
Pepperoni: Pepperoni and mozzarella atop house tomato sauce, finished with a honey and chili oil drizzle.
The Pig and Fig: A unique blend of ripened figs, prosciutto, jam, fresh mozzarella, arugula, lemon, and olive oil.
A Vibrant Atmosphere with Modern Elegance
The ambiance at Bar Italia is inspired by classic NYC Italian restaurants, combining elegance with a welcoming atmosphere. The bar area is central to the dining experience, offering a selection of fine wines and hand-crafted cocktails that complement the menu. Whether you're enjoying a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, Bar Italia provides a setting that's both sophisticated and comfortable.
Operating Hours and Specials
Lunch: Daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Dinner: Monday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM; Friday and Saturday from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM; Sunday from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Happy Hour: Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the bar, featuring specials on drinks and select appetizers.
Reservations and Contact Information
Reservations are recommended to ensure a seamless dining experience and can be made through their website or by calling the restaurant directly.
(863) 354-1479