Alfano's Restaurant

This is a must try if you love great Italian food !!! They have a menu for all tastes !!!…read moreFantastic lobster bisque soup !!! Escargot !!! And service that cannot be beat !!! Seafood is also very very good!!! You will not be disappointed!!!

Many Clearwater OGs have recommended Cesare's At The Beach. Doing a quick google research dive,…read moreyou'll find the owners are directly from Italy...let's give it a try!! Upon entering, the ambiance is filled with Eros Ramazzotti playing. For those of you who don't know, he's probably the most recognized pop star voice of Italy...think like a Peter Cetera. You hear it, you know. Automatically a point for authenticity. Unfortunately, that's where the authenticity ended for me. We started the evening with a simple bruschetta. On presentation, it looks and tastes like a mini pizza from a middle school cafeteria. Then we got the ceasar salad to share. A generous serving, but tasted like it came out of one of those quick serve plastic bag salads. For entrees, my wife ordered the fettuccine bolognese. Nothing outstanding; I ordered the pollo piccata, which was quite good and saved the evening for me. Food service speed was disappointing. Our server and assistant server were appropriate. Drinks were always addressed without asking. My complaint was how long it took for our actual entrees to come out of the kitchen. It was close to 50 min. In fact, I know the table that was sat after us received their entrees before us. Que será será. Unfortunately, because we were overall so underwhelmed with the quality of the food, we did not get any desert. Cut our losses, and run. Additionally, the prices were higher than other comparable Italian establishments. This of course is because it is located "at the beach." They can do that because the tourists will pay. They will have their loyal patronage. Just not for me...

Quaint little waiting area

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Cristino's Coal Oven Pizza

4.5(1.4k reviews)

1.4 mi

We stumbled upon this restaurant coming back from the beach. It was an authentic Italian bistro. It…read moredid not feel touristy at all and was in a nice neighborhood. The food was great. We got a coal fired pizza & it was one of the best pizza's we have had. We also got gelato afterwards which we really enjoyed. It would be a perfect date night spot or a place to bring your family. Would love to stop here again on our next trip.

Food not good... At all…read more And I will not say anything positive about gelato either The service was poor. Ambiance so so

Inside the restaurant

Margherita Di Lusso

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Linguine with Clams

Soul Sicilian Fusion

4.3(115 reviews)

2.2 mi

The experience was the best dining experience I've ever had. Everything from the food, ambiance,…read moreand service were all beyond exceptional. I didn't take a picture because I was so in the moment of everything. I told the wonderful front of house woman that i wish they were also located in Nashville where i live- but I appreciate what they have here lol. I went a week ago and still think about it. SO WELL DONE!

I was actually searching the Sicilian foods restaurant. My finding of Soul Sicilian Fusion was much…read morebeyond of expectations! They showed me the new Chef book, which will be released next week. The foods quality is awesome! Tiramisu is top notch. The service level is really high; treatment is like home cooking for the family. Cannot recommend this place enough!

Tessa recommended!

Shrimp fettuccine Alfredo

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View looking toward the front

Gondolier Italian Restaurant and Pizza

4.0(655 reviews)

2.8 mi•Clearwater Beach

It is a standard for us after Mass on Sunday in Safety Harbor to build up an appetite and drive…read moreover to Clearwater Beach about 40 minutes west. The two servers are always professional, but down to earth and friendly. If I drop my pizza on the floor- YES I did. She laughed and replaced it at no charge. She even told an anecdote about a table of seven who once had the same thing happen to them. Their pizza somehow slid the length of the table and before anyone could catch it, it was on the floor. The server can tell if you are a patron who shares your grandchildren's activities or you are just there to enjoy a good Italian/Greek or American meal. If you are there early in the day on a Sunday morning six or eight older men are often enjoying breakfast and speaking the language of their fathers. It is a joy to hear them freely speaking their language. Oh, by the way, the Stromboli, eggplant parm, and waffles are delicious and the Tiramisu is to die for. The food here is always delicious. The menu is extensive and the prices are very reasonable. The time between placing your order and getting your meal is reasonable. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner anytime is good. The restaurant is always picked up and the tables are clean.

Had a nice quiet lunch mid-week with our family. The service was very friendly and quick. The…read morespanikopita appetizer was amazing and highly recommend it. I ordered the manicotti but I didn't like the flavor. Wish I had ordered a pizza or more spanikopita instead but overall we enjoyed ourselves and want to try other food there.

Chocolate mice dessert

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Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana and Pastaria

4.2(126 reviews)

3.7 mi•Clearwater Beach

My favorite pizza on the beach. Neopolitan type pizza. The crust is extra doughy and it's a little…read morechewy not the best but I do like to bring it home and drizzle olive oil on it and shreds of Parmesan toasted in the oven and it becomes a really good crispy breadstick just because the crust is super doughy. I like to get the garlic cheese bread. It is fully loaded with raw roasted garlic and it's so delicious. You will stink like garlic all day long. It's just so fabulous. I love that feeling lol. The place is always packed to the max. There's never been a time and I've been there where there's one open table. It is packed to the max at all hours. There is no parking since it's on the beach side.

It's pretty unique and cosy place. There is a pizza oven and…read morevery thin dough pizzas that I like. Service was quick. In the beginning he brought us veeeery warm water but when we said he change it in the minute and he apologized. It was nice! Pizza was good.

The oven

Garlic cheese bread with Bolognese sauce

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Tomato Basil Soup Cup

Forlini's Restaurant

3.4(184 reviews)

3.7 mi•Clearwater Beach

Looking for a great Italian restaurant, good food, good service, casual relaxing atmosphere, this…read moreis the spot. Wasn't crowded but it was a Wednesday evening. Server said on weekends make a reservation. We are visiting from California, walked from our hotel. Quick service, and fresh ingredients. I had the sausage and peppers. Very good. Wife had a seafood pasta also very good. Extensive wine list. Nice bar area. All locals were there we could tell, yet we were treated as if we were locals. Not ignored. Fresh baked bread was delicious. Music was soft, place is clean. Great spot for a family or a romantic dinner.

Forlini's is always a great experience! Excellent true Italian cuisine! New Year's Eve dinner was…read morefantastic! The Lamb was so tender and perfectly prepared. We had a table of 12 and all of us had excellent food. Drinks were delicious and perfectly made. Love the Espresso martini! This is a family owned restaurant and it shows in the personalized service, excellent food, and an atmosphere that makes you feel at home! Perfect for a romantic evening out or to gather with friends, Forlini's is the place to be! Definitely a place to return to again and again! What an excellent way to bring in the New Year, any special occasion or just a nice evening out!

PICT of inside, great atmosphere, perfect for a family or a romantic date night.

Chicken parm

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Al & Stella

3.6(168 reviews)

2.4 mi

We eat here when we are at Sand Key, I like the atmosphere. This time was different, there was ONE…read moreperson working. The white pizza was good, the pepperoni pizza was not... the sauce seemed sour along with the sour sangria. We did enjoy the white wine, mozzarella sticks, (no dipping sauce) cheese bread and penne fettuccine. We were the only ones in the restaurant, until we were leaving and there was another couple. The place was clean!

Outside seating is a must do! Beautiful sunset views, and the best tiramisu I've ever had.read more

4 Cheese Ravioli and grilled chicken

Spinach Ravioli

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Seaguini - Opal Sands

4.4(817 reviews)

3.2 mi•Clearwater Beach

I have eaten here 10-12 times over several years and each time is better than the last. I've had…read morethe lobster bisque, the linguini, the steak tartare, salads, scallops, shrimp, etc. Not to mention the ice creams and desserts which are to die for. The restaurant is always filled with a lively and polished crowd, and the best part of SeaGuini is watching the gorgeous sunset after your meal. SeaGuini never disappoints.

Our first time at Seaguini was a great experience. Brian was a great server that was very…read moreknowledgeable and professional. The four of us enjoyed all of our dishes. From the grouper with pineapple salsa to the shrimp dishes. Everything was à la cart and you have to pay extra to add protein to your dish as well as the salad but it was still a great experience.

Entrance of Sea-Guini inside of Opal Sands Resort

Penne alla vodka with scallops

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Sunset at the pool outside the restaurant

Downtown Pizza Sports Bar And Grill

4.2(130 reviews)

2.2 mi

I'm in town for medical treatment. i came in to get some protein and to avoid grains tonight…read more(Friday night). I didn't want to spend too much. I got the 6 meatballs and cheese. Counter person (I asked for just 3 pieces of lettuce to replace the bread)....gave me a small casorolle bowl of lettuce and oil and vinegar. Helpful to avoid my addiction to bread. Thank you. Slept tonight well for the first ime in 17 years.

We stopped in for late lunch before a show locally and was pleasantly surprised by the selection on…read moretheir menu. Hubby ordered two slices of cheese pizza, and I ordered the Cosa Nostra sandwich with tots, which came with eggplant that was crispy and crunchy on one of the freshest rolls I've ever had. He enjoyed the pizza and I thoroughly enjoyed the sandwich. Service was great, and we were able to view at least three tv screens for the NFL teams playing on a Sunday afternoon. We will definitely be back - it was enough to fill us up!

Spacious restaurant and bar

Downtown Pizza Sports Bar And Grill - Menu

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Amici Italian Eatery

4.0(207 reviews)

1.4 mi

Food from the mother country prepared by the family were sampled about 8 dishes all fresh and…read moreprepared well just like home the tripe was as my mother made it.

Tasty gnocchi with a choice of many different sauces. I enjoyed my choice of homemade marinara…read moresauce but I'm glad i paid $2 extra to add a small cup of grated parm. Was equally delicious when reheated the following day. Came with bread and a side salad. My husband ate those so i cant comment on them but he probably liked them or i would have heard otherwise.

Things to do in Clearwater

Pepata di Cozze

Tiramisu

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Pasta Pescatore

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11 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Bob K.

3 years ago

Alfano's Italian Restaurant is a charming and cozy restaurant located here in Clearwater that maintains an old-style Italian-American atmosphere. The waitstaff, dressed in black-and-white uniforms, are knowledgeable about the menu and regular customers. Their menu includes a range of dishes, such as pasta, fresh seafood, and elevated treats like Scallops Rockefeller, Escargot, Cannelloni Florentine, and my favorite, Lamb Chops Scottadito! During my recent visit with a party of ten, we were seated at a large round table in the dining room, under a large garden umbrella that had a "Tuscan Garden" vibe to it. The atmosphere was comfortable and charming, with beautiful, interesting Italian touches throughout. The service was exceptional, and we did not feel rushed at all, allowing us to enjoy our dining experience at a leisurely pace. The food was fresh, and delicious, and arrived at our table hot and on time. The appetizer of Scallops Rockefeller was delightful. The lamb chops were perfectly seasoned and cooked. Their wine list is extensive, with many great choices, and they even have a wine cellar that has a table you can book for a private party. The General Manager, James Jerichow, an affable young man, was kind enough to show us around and share the history of Alfano's, along with interesting stories of some of their previous diners, such as Margaret Thatcher (yes, the Iron Lady herself has enjoyed dining at Alfano's). Overall, we had a great time, and the restaurant truly exceeded our expectations. Alfano's Italian is my go-to restaurant when friends and family are visiting, as it never disappoints! I highly recommend Alfano's to anyone who enjoys great Italian food, desserts, and friendly service. Go and enjoy! Trust me, you won't be disappointed, and you can thank me later! read more

Loretta Marie C.

10 years ago

I thought I tried this place cause everyone in my entire family says its so good. Well I tried it with a group of friends last week. Although the meal was so so, The price was 25.00 pp. Not a great meal but never the less it was ok, How much can they do to bowl of pasta? Well, that was the first thing. My friend ordered a Canoli, she said it was ok, a bit dry inside was not filled. Whats wrong with you people? I heard from others that the food is so exceptional? Where is it?? Also I asked for my Spoumoni Ice Cream and he I guess the owner who is a nasty rude old man who says You must be a paying customer to get that. I paid my $25.00, he bought me last years cake. IT was chocolate glaze with chocolate inside like a brownie more dense, not so good, tasteless. I said to the man I guess he was the owner, Why did you post on our menu's about the icecream and not give it to us? He just walked away, did not answer me. Whats wrong with him? I doubt it if our group of ladies will come in again. We were burnt once then next time I will go to the media, maybe they will get me my ice cream. The other table of women who were drinking a lot of wine said to us, I guess you all do not count. We just got our Spoumoni Icecream cause we are special. What the..... I guess if you do not complain, you get nothing. I called out this to his attention. He said You eat Cake, What Am I a famous person now? Never be back again unless he states what he puts on his menus counts, if not then he will lose a lot of people. read more

Lyn H.

9 years ago

JUST AMAZING! Food & presentation! Owners Linda and her husband. Reception. Ambiance. Best Italian restaurant in Clearwater. My husband and I with his sister, brother and sister-in-law, celebrated post-valentines dinner and celebrate my husband's 80th birthday on Feb 17. My sister in law and I had the lobster tail. My husband had the veal marzala. I forgot what my brother in law had. They were all superb!!! The restaurant was full. But there is ample parking. And I think the acoustics in the restaurant and the way the restaurant is arranged allows for people to have wonderful conversation. Thank you Linda, and hubby and staff for another wonderful evening at Alfano's. Lyn, hubby and family. read more

Carol M.

12 years ago

We have dined her for several years as a couple and with friends & family. The atmosphere in the Venetian room is like being in an Italian Villa. The food is delicious, very tasty. We drive from Dunedin to dine at Alfano's the servers are very knowledgeable about the menu and provide impeccable service. I love the fact that this is a family owned restaurant rather than the usual Italian chain dining. The piano is a wonderful touch. I suggest the Eggplant parmigiana. Delicious.The salad which comes with the meal is like a mini antipasto salad. They do an excellent job with banquets and large parties. read more

Vegas T.

4 years ago

Terrible food and WAY over priced the service was absolutely terrible. He served the wrong food and when our food came out it was disgusting! read more

Tyrone B.

2 years ago

The food wasn't the best. I got heartburn from it, but they were open after the storm, which was good, and the menu item are also limited.

Bob L.

4 years ago

Sometimes good sometimes not so good, I wouldn't be upset if I never went there again, that is allI have.

Ryan M.

325

8 years ago

Food was great and staff was friendly. Go see Keith at the bar he's the best. I'll be back again!

Jaclyn K.

156

5 years ago

I don't know which was better the atmosphere of the food. Such a cool place! Seriously go!

K G.

16 years ago

Great food and service. Nice for a romantic outing. Not the best neighborhood

Laura C.

6 years ago

I love the beef carpaccio, hands down the best I've ever had! Love Matt!

Alfano's Restaurant - italian - Updated October 2026

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First time dining at Sages West Bay Bistro and it was very nice!! Originally ordered food to go,…read morebut we decided to dine in because they had availability on Valentine's Day. Our server, Tracy, was pleasant to host us!! Service was great, food and drinks had great flavor and served efficiently!! Inside is very quaint with nice lighting. Definitely recommend trying this place out!! Great date night spot!! Glad we chose a mom and pop restaurant for Valentine's Day dinner!!!

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A Mother's Day evening to remember. Thanks to Howlie (Mike)! You made our experience fabulous!…read more We thoroughly enjoyed our evening. Thank you for the great recommendations. We enjoyed the calamari & the veal entrees. Oh & the dessert was fabulous! We will be back very soon.

This is my favorite Italian restaurant, my wife and I have been here many times. We went here last…read moreweek to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We had Calamari Fritti and tomato and mozzarella caprese as appetizers. I had Pollo Parmigiana and my wife had Eggplant Rollatini as entrees. As usual, the food was excellent. Our server, Brian B. was great and constantly made sure that we had everything we needed. Luigi, the owner is always great and attentive. This is a small but high class place. The decor is beautiful and the wall in the hall where the rest room is is decorated with signed pictures of celebrities who have been there. I find that cool. If you are in the area and looking for great Italian food then I recommend Villa Gallace very much.

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We had such a great experience here! We started with the ricotta toast, which was delicious, and I…read moregot the cheese wheel pasta -- creamy, flavorful, and so fun to watch being made right in the wheel. Another person in our group had the spaghetti and meatballs, one had the salmon, and another ordered the evening special. Everyone loved their meal. The service was impeccable too. Everyone was so kind, welcoming, and genuinely made us feel taken care of. It's also BYOB, which we loved. Between the food, service, and relaxed atmosphere, this is definitely going to become one of our new go-to spots to meet up with our friend group. We'll absolutely be back!

We've driven past this spot countless times, so my wife and I finally decided to stop in--and I'm…read moreglad we did. It's tucked away in a small plaza on the right if you're heading west toward Clearwater Beach, and the moment you walk in, the quiet, cozy atmosphere sets the tone for a great Italian meal. They make their pasta fresh in-house, and there's even a pasta showcase where you can see it being made from scratch. Our server--possibly the owner or manager--was incredibly friendly. We didn't catch his name, but he greeted us warmly and ended up chatting with us about pasta making after we mentioned our own (disastrous but funny) attempt at home. We talked flour, water ratios, and pasta machines. That conversation alone made the whole experience feel personal and memorable. Now, the food. We started with warm house-made bread and olive oil, plus a Caesar salad that was easily big enough for two. My wife ordered the cheese wheel fettuccine, where they mix the pasta right inside the wheel--super fun to watch. I went with a classic: spaghetti and meatballs. The cheese wheel pasta was perfectly al dente with a creamy, rich sauce. My wife said it was the best pasta she's ever had. My spaghetti was just as impressive--the red sauce tasted incredibly fresh, not overly tomato-heavy, just balanced and delicious. We were both more than satisfied. To finish, we grabbed a tiramisu to go, made fresh to order. They offer other desserts, but tiramisu is our all-time favorite, so that was a must. I'm really glad we finally stopped in. We'll definitely be back. I've had plenty of Italian food, but this place truly stands out. If you're in the area, make sure to stop in.

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