We had a similar experience to Camille G. We made a reservation for 6:30 on Sunday June 9 to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. We arrived a little early to find the door locked. Waited a few minutes - still locked. Knocked on the door - nothing. Called and got the answering service. Waited till 6:45 until we left. Never got a call back. My wife called them on Tuesday and was told they had our reservation for Sat. Nonsense. Here's what's happening. They're a reservation only restaurant. If they don't get enough reservations they don't open and don't have the courtesy to call customers to cancel. That's no way to run a restaurant. read more

Worst experience! I have eaten here a couple of years ago and was very excited to bring my family for a special night out. From the moment we walked in we were treated rudely by the hostess/waitress. Our party was treated like we were getting a favor by being seated and the staff wanted to go home. Our meal was rushed and every interaction with the hostess/waitress was rude. I will be sure to let all our friends traveling to Sarasota to stay away from this restaurant... the shopping strip it is located in is almost empty with 90% of space for lease, I imagine this restaurant will be next. read more

Horrible and very disappointed. Called on a Thursday to make reservations for Sunday. The girl that answered the phone told me the only reservation left was at 6 pm on Sunday (they are open 6pm-10pm) and so I took it. On Sunday we arrived at 5:45 pm. The door was locked but we thought it was because we were too early. So we waited. Tried the door again at 6pm, still locked. Knocked on the door. No answer. Waited another 10 minutes. Still no answer. Called them on the phone and there was no answer. The place looked as if it hasn't been open in months. There were dead roaches inside in the window sill. After I saw this I knew I wasn't going to eat there and we left. I'm still wondering why they took our reservation when the place looks out of business. read more

Puccini's - Italian Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

We loved former owner/chef Richard and we LOVE new owner/chef Eric!!!!! The meal, ambiance and service does not disappoint!!! We had the specials of grilled eggplant, artichokes, and the lobster crepe! OMG! They were all delicious!!!!! For dinner we had the filet and the shrimp and scallops. Both were so flavorful and unique!!! The new chef Eric is truly talented!!!! Do yourself a favor and try out this hidden gem! Ask to sit in the chefs room. BYOB. They provide wine opener, ice and glasses. Don't forget they're cash and check only. Please, please, please go to this one of a kind experience!!! read more

We had a wonderful dinner this evening at Puccini's. We had not visited for a few years... it's a long drive, COVID, etc. But Savor Sarasota brought us back and we are happy it did. The food was very good, as it has been in the past and the service was excellent, as it always has been. But, it has a much friendlier atmosphere. Three in our party enjoyed the Savor Sarasota menu, starting with amuse bouche, which was fresh, rustic, and delightful; followed by salads that were also very fresh and generous, and one of us had savory baked mushrooms with cheese and light tomato sauce. Two of our entrees included wonderful flounder with lemon caper sauce with two lovely pink shrimp sitting on top. The third of us had the veal medallions in tomato sauce. He enjoyed it but commented he would like a lighter sprinkle of mozzarella next time! The fourth of our party was drawn to the regular menu by the crispy half duck and was very happy with his crispy choice. We all chose the chocolate mousse cake, which was beyond delightful. We are sure to make our way back soon. I want some of that crispy duck myself! read more

Superb food in a small setting. Make a reservation. Leave your credit card at home and bring your favorite wine. The appetizers and main courses are prepared with great care and the flavor is exceptional. And please save a little room for dessert. If you can't find it there's no sign, it's next to the dry cleaner! read more

For anyone who has eaten at Puccini's restaurant and are concerned about the ownership change, there is nothing to worry about. The food and service is still great! The new chef (Chef Eric) studied under the former Chef Richard for 10 years and Eric maintains the same quality and variety of food for which Puccini's is known. For anyone who hasn't tried this restaurant, I highly recommend it. It's not a cheap night out but it's great for a special occasion. You must have a confirmed reservation and there are specific seating times. Try to get the 8pm seating so you have plenty of time to enjoy the evening. The restaurant is BYO beverages (beer, wine, spirits, sodas, etc). They serve water and may now serve coffee but double check. Finally, the restaurant only accepts cash so be prepared before you go. Enjoy! read more

I've been to Puccini's on several occasions and really enjoy the food and the experience, especially if you are seated in the chefs room. We were surprised to hear that Chef Richard had retired, however the new Chef Eric and his family have taken over the business and are doing an amazing job. The staff was friendly and attentive as usual and the meals was delicious. I look forward to visiting again. Great food, great friends and great times! read more

This is our second time to Puccini's. Our first visit was over a year ago. I called a few days ahead for a reservation, and Chef Richard graciously gave us ringside seating right in front of all the action. Located in an ordinary strip mall, the storefront of Puccini's is very low key and can be easily missed. They have white window shades drawn, and display none of the usual advertising in the windows generally associated with restaurants. It's almost like they're trying to keep it a secret. First time visitors will start second guessing that perhaps their GPS has let them down. The only give away that you're at the right place is the word "Puccini's" on the door which opens promptly at 6pm, resulting in an orderly convergence of Puccini-files headed for the door with their bottles of wine. No one's in a rush because we all know each party has an assigned table. The interior decor is rustic and romantically lit. Our table seating was right next to Chef Richard's work station, so we were able to watch him at work. With the freshest ingredients spread before him, and the orders for each table in his head, Chef Richard enters his trance-like state and NEVER stops moving. Don't expect him to look up or socialize with you while he's "in the zone". He's busy concentrating to make everyone's meal perfect. In a flurry of knives, veggies, pans, meats, dishes, and spices the chef conducts his hypnotic symphony of chopping, grilling, and sautéing, which fills the air with a succulent aroma. Every movement of the chef is coordinated, and flows toward serving up the chef d'oeuvre for everyone at the table at the same time. There's no inconvenience of waiting for someone's dish to arrive. We started off with wine (BYOB) and focaccio compliments of the chef. Pamela introduced us to the menu for that evening (it changes daily). We ordered two dynamite appetizers; large mussels in a red sauce, and a yummy lobster crepe. Both were outstanding. For the main course, our party of four had grouper, lamb, veal, and flounder. Everyone raved about their dish over a second bottle of wine. We finished with deserts of banana drizzled with caramelized honey, and the triple chocolate cake that was too large to finish. I do wish they had coffee. However, the entire dining experience was absolutely amazing, and we were delighted to find it consistent with our first visit over a year ago. We won't stay away so long next time. Puccini's Cucina is not for everyone, which explains some of the other reviews. It's not for "difficult" people, or folks who want to bring their kids, or want to camp out all night at a table, selfishly depriving later diners of the table they reserved. I truly do not understand the reviews describing the staff as brusque or in a hurry. During our visits, we've found the wait staff to be very warm, gracious, and friendly toward us. How you are treated is usually a reflection of how you treat other people. When we dine out, we've always done our best to be friendly toward our waiter, remember their name and show some interest in them as a person, not a servant. Never hi-brow, and that approach usually pays off in spades. Puccini's is a dining experience that is very different from anything else in Sarasota, which explains it's cult following, and preserves it as one of the best kept secrets in Sarasota. read more

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What an amazing place! The food was awesome! Everything was cooked perfectly! Definitely call in advance because the place fills quickly. Best advice to give is come hungry and ask for a table beat the chef! I'm going back again! read more

We've been to Puccini's about 3-4 times over the last several years. Generally, I've been a fan of the establishment due to the chef-inspired menu, the intimate setting, and the excellent dishes we've enjoyed. Like many patrons, I don't mind the reservations-only requirement, BYOB, and the fact that they don't accept credit cards. No problem - it all adds to the experience. However, last evening we had guests joining us and I recommended Puccini's for our party of eight. I'm a little sorry I did. We arrived at 8 (the time of our reservation), and were told the table wouldn't be ready for another twenty minutes (and furthermore to let them know if we didn't plan to stay). Nearly forty minutes later, we finally sat down. In the meantime, we had to stand outside - no comfortable benches, no one coming out to offer us an appetizer while we waited, and no apology. Our entrees were very good. Some were excellent. We enjoyed two different veal dishes, grouper, flounder, pompano and lamb. The mussels starter was wonderful. For dessert, we had the baked banana, which was also delicious. The service was ok - not the same level as I've experienced before at Puccini's. We uncorked our own wine, had to ask for water more than once, had to ask for wine buckets, and generally found the wait staff to be inattentive. Fortunately, we had a brought along a very good assortment of Italian whites and reds, along with a nice bottle of California Chardonnay and a Spanish red that I found absolutely tasty. So we remained in good moods and enjoyed our dinner very much. In the end, I am not sure I will go back any time soon. It takes more than delicious food to earn repeat visits. read more

Recently went to Puccini's for the first time for an anniversary. I completely agree with the reviewers who thoroughly enjoyed the delicious Italian food, attentive service, and intimate atmosphere that Puccini's offers. The fact that it's entirely BYOB was also a great plus. Those who have never been to Puccini's should know, however, that it is a unique restaurant, so go prepared to experience it on its own terms. Puccini's is run by its charismatic chef-owner, Richard, who personally prepares each meal entirely by himself. Unlike most restaurants where the chef works in a back-room kitchen, Richard cooks in an area that is open to all guests. If you are so inclined, you can (and in my opinion should) ask to be seated near him. There are several tables that offer a view of the grill area (though not all do), with the closest being the "chef's table." It's just really cool to see your entire meal prepared (by one guy!) from essentially raw ingredients through to the final product. Anyone who has ever tried to prepare a meal will be astonished watching Richard cook. Plus, it gives you and your fellow diners a great topic of conversation. If you are interested in a more private, quiet dining experience, the restaurant can accommodate that too. The menu at Puccini's is focused on a handful of generously-portioned appetizers, main courses, and desserts (say, four to seven choices for each course). I understand the menu changes regularly, based on what's in season and what Richard feels like cooking. But have no fear of the focused menu, it's mostly straightforward Italian fare, so even" picky" eaters will find several tempting options. Among the three people at my table we had nine different dishes (including appetizers, entrees and deserts); most were excellent, and none was disappointing. Each dish was on the table literally less than 10 seconds after Richard took it off the grill, so they arrived piping hot and bursting with fresh flavors. A few things to keep in mind: First, again, Puccini's is BYOB (i.e., they do not have a liquor license) but they do provide wine/champagne glasses and will uncork for you without any charge. Second, make reservations ahead of time, several days ahead if you want to sit at the chef's table. Third, cash or check only. Finally, as others here have said, do not be dissuaded by the fact that the restaurant is tucked away in a nondescript strip mall -- just know that the lackluster exterior is more than made up for by what you'll find inside. read more

We LOVED our meal and evening at Puccini's! Been there many times when Chef Richard served us delicious cuisine - now owned by Chef Eric,our dining experience was exceptional! From the bruschetta to the appetizers we shared to the entrees (duck, scallops and veal), one better than the. next! And the desserts (chocolate cake and lemon cake) were so light- a scrumptious sweet ending to the meal! Our waitress, Haley couldn't have been more gracious and helpful! We are excited to go back - right after dinner made a reservation next month for a large group to celebrate birthdays!! Don't miss out on this establishment for a special evening!!! read more

Puccini's - Scallops and shrimp over lobster ravioli - Italian Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

It is an interesting and in some ways odd, restaurant. The chef-owner is clearly in it for the love of food, as demonstrated by the number of standard restaurant practices he ignores (and which have all been described at length in other reviews). The food is the reason people show up here, and it's carefully prepared and generously portioned. We were a group of five all ordering something different (lamb, duck, fish, pork chop and ravioli), and in each case the dish was served hot and appropriately prepared. There wasn't much else served with it, a little rice and a few green beans but keep in mind that it's basically one person directing and preparing all the meals. So presentation takes a bit of a back seat. But the ambiance is nice and the deserts are delicious. Only thing worth adding would be coffee or espresso, which they don't serve. read more

My wife, some friends and I went to do Puccini's Chefs Table experience last Saturday. Holy Cow!! This place has an excellent chef who prepares seasonal dishes with an Italian flare. The Chef's Table is definitely the way to go if you are dining at Puccini's Cucina Amore, although you will need to make a reservation and the wait can be long, sometimes a week or more. But even the dining experience is great if you are opting to go with friends or on a date night. The entrees are huge and always flavorful. I had the opportunity to taste many dishes here and non left me wanting anything. Bring your own bottles of wine, I would suggest a dry white and robust red, that way you can pair with what you are eating. Enjoy the experience and if you are able to reserve the Chef's table definitely do it! read more

Oh my goodness. Every visit... goodness. I almost don't want to write this fabulous review... they will get even more popular and then I won't be able to get in!!! Food is fresh and made right in front of you. Richard is busy all night and his staff are beyond wonderful. It's a perfect culinary Experience at ALL levels. Thank you Richard and staff for offering such a fabulous dining experience!! Lisa S read more

Puccini's - Richard doing what he does do well. - Italian Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Great food, great entertainment watching Rich, great to be able to BYO and great when you can get a reservation. This is a rare gem of a restaurant and you'll be happy you've gotten in on the secret (thanks Peter for telling me about it). I won't recommend any dishes because I liked everything I tried but Rich will! Enjoy! read more

Entertaining and delicious. Chef Richard doesn't disappoint with incredibly fresh ingredients and a large list of specials not listed on the menu. Worth noting for future guests: Reservations are required time options include 6 or 8 pm You must wait outside for your reserved table to be ready Cash or check only BYOB/W no cork fee (we were the only ones who brought beer and wine) read more

This is one of my top 5 restaurants. Eating here is more of an experience, than juts hung out and having a great meal. Everyone I bring here falls in love with this restaurant. Just imagine being at a friends home and watching them cook you a gourmet meal, all made from scratch right in for the of you. You bring your own web and they supply the glasses etc... even the deserts are made in house. Do yourself a favor and just go. read more

I can't even begin to tell you how incredible Puccini's made my birthday dinner. We walked into this cozy, romantic gem and felt right at home. It's family owned and ran, which I loved because it makes you feel like a part of the family when you're sitting at a table in their cozy spot. They sat us at the chefs table where we were able to enjoy chef Eric's food art and conversation. The place is BYOB, which we loved because I was able to bring my favorite Oregon Pinot noir. There's no corkage fee and they provide a wine key and wine glasses. They brought out this cute little starter of bruschetta with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, cucumbers, salami and beans, which I said "if this is any indication of how the rest of our food is going to taste, I'm in heaven". Next we enjoyed a sausage and pepper special-- I have no words for how delicious that was!! Chef Eric's mom (our server) even brought us some bread to soak up the sauce with. For our main entree I enjoyed the grouper special, which was grouper over lobster ravioli and green beans topped with shrimp and a lemon butter sauce. My boyfriend had the veal chop special served over green beans and a spinach ravioli with an indescribably good sauce. Lastly we ordered their homemade pecan pie for desert because it came highly recommended. While it was our first time having pecan pie, I think I may have a new favorite dessert. It was just that good!! They also brought a chocolate mousse cake out for my birthday. So sweet!! Needless to say we absolutely loved this whole experience! And to make it even better, chef Eric let us into his work place for a photo. That's like saying "here come into my home". I don't know any chef who goes out of their way to make the guests experience this memorable. Thank you a million times for making my birthday dinner so wonderful! Everyone should go to Puccini's! And tip them a little more than a standard 20% would ya? They're not charging you a corkage fee people. This is a small business I will continue to support. read more

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Read my 12/15/2012 review for more details. This is just an update to say that 15 months later, Chef Richard's magic is consistent -- the food, service and atmosphere remain wonderful and world-class. We were a party of three this time, with the benefit of being able to taste a few more dishes. Fresh mushroom ravioli and homemade Italian sausage with fennel appetizers were terrific. The Brazino (European seabass) was an unusual treat - a thin, white fish with nice consistency similar to Dover sole. Veal Puccini was delicious as before but seeing the quality and size of the steaks and veal chops coming off the grill puts them at the *top* of our list for the next visit. Great service by Eric and Dylan. Oh...and this time made it to dessert...the pecan pie is truly not to be missed. Richard is an artist who loves what he does...and you can taste it! Kudos. read more

Excellent food and speak easy atmosphere set this place apart...I highly recommend you take a chance and try this place. You will be happy you did! read more

This is the perfect date place! It is small and intimate and gives you the feel of being some place exclusive, which in fact you are since they ONLY take reservations. No walk ins. THe entire menu is bought the day of your meal so you know everything is as fresh as it can be. The chef/ owner makes cooking look as easy as tying your shoes. I can't wait to return! read more

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Don't let the outside fool you! Look towards the flickering lights at the top of the door. This unassuming "hole in the wall" opened up into a cozy, charming, and intimate setting reminiscent of the best BYOB's in Philly. The four of us were celebrating my best friend's bachelorette and we could not have been more pleased with this meal. Dinner starts off with an excellent waitress who quoted the specials without fail and offered great recommendations on her favorite dishes. After an amazing surprise for the bread course, we ordered the mussels special which you could have with white or red sauce. We chose the white wine herb sauce that was complimented to the sweetest, freshest mussels I have had. Also the artichoke app was insane! Our mothers had the grouper and halibut specials which were out of this world fresh. My friend and I had Cioppolini over fettuccine one with red sauce and the other with white. It had an entire piece of flounder with assorted shell fish and crab. Perfection! The dessert of chocolate cake airy and delicious!! No corkage fee and moderate pricing. This is my new fav place in Sarasota!! Must go!! read more

The most interesting restaurant in Sarasota, with a single chef & one waitress! Richard is an incredible talent with his cooking & so interesting to watch him prepare the meals. we love that you can bring your own wine, with no fees. The biggest jumbo Gulf shrimp I have ever seen. All of Richards sauces, temp you to lick your plate. Wonderful steaks & lamb chops. The Pecan pie is the way to wrap up the evening. A must do restaurant in Sarasota! read more

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First time to this hidden gem last night and WOW! Loved the staging of this Puccini opus. Scallops, mushroom crepe, grouper, and veal were all excellent. Just wish we had a place like this back home in New Hope, PA! A little pricey, but love that we can bring our own wine. We'll definitely be back. read more

Not for groups. employees do not know how to solve any issues without being rude and inappropriate.

Excellent service, delicious food, especially, enjoyed speaking with the Chef while he prepared this awesome meal.

Awsome dinner as usual. Ciopino and roasted artichoke app. Good fresh ingredients. Great atmosphere and BYOW. Richards knows his ...... Despite being an eagles fan a good guy. read more

Puccini's - Chef Richard. - Italian Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

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This was a phenomenal dinner !! From the second you walk into Puccini's it feels like you were somewhere else like , maybe a speakeasy or a cozy part of Italy. We had the chef's table. There were four of us and we brought our own wine. They do not serve alcohol there so you just bring your own, which we loved. Chef Richard made us feel right at home he was super busy and still took the time out to acknowledge us And even recommend some of his specials. We each got an appetizer, a dinner, and a desert each! We wanted to have the entire experience and try everything as it is all so fresh and delicious!! The scallops I had were amazing so tender and fluffy cooked to perfection. The eggplant was delicious also. For my dinner I had Shrimp and the most delicate tasty fish w/ capers on top of homemade lobster ravioli. I ate everything on my plate LOL. For dessert we each had a bite of the chocolate cake, the most delicious bananas I ever had in this sweet sauce almost like a bananas foster, out of this world pecan pie and a bite of blueberry crêpe. I have to tell you with all this food all of us felt perfectly comfortable and we were not overstuffed. Chef makes all of his sauces and gravies so light we couldn't Believe we weren't weighed down by any of the food. It was amazing and I'm so happy our neighbors told us about this place. We never knew it was there as it is in a what looks like deserted strip mall. It is a small and has really cool Decour. It was great for a double date took us about two hours total. I will definitely be bringing family back to eat at this amazing one-of-a-kind restaurant!! read more

We hadn't been back in a bit, but had dinner at Puccini's today. This restaurant is wonderful! Don't be turned off by the small menu. They always have plenty of specials for both appetizers, main course, and dessert. That said, anything on the menu is wonderful too! This is a must try for anyone seeking a great dinner in Sarasota, FL. It is a very romantic location for special celebrations too. Highly recommend this place. Great food! Great service! read more

Puccini's - Restaurant tables from corner. - Italian Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

When you pull up to the restaurant you're going to think you're in the wrong place. But you're not. Open up the door and you're in a beautiful charming and warmly inviting space. The attention to detail is perfect. And the food is unsurpassed. I absolutely love being able to watch Richard cook right in the middle of the dining room. He's calm and serene and goodness knows how he's able to put out the phenomenal food that he does all by himself. His partner Melanie is an absolute delight. She's knowledgeable, attentive and a real professional. Definitely a must!!! You'll thank me. read more

Food was good, mussels were great. But prices are very high yet they don't accept credit cards. I will not go back simply because they don't like a 3% credit card charge on their $150 bill for two. read more

Strip steak was not only burned, but it was a very poor cut - full of sinew. No bread and butter for the table. The bruschetta was OK, but the bread needed to be toasted or baked longer. Very noisy. Pretentious. No coffee or even sparkling water. There are better restaurants in the area at that price. The only redeeming feature is that it is BYOB read more

Great great food!! The atmosphere was relaxing and our group were all very happy with the entree they ordered. The chef was amazing as he cooked in the same room. The only cash or check policy is unusual but not a deal breaker. It was convenient to bring our own wine selection too. Definitely going back! read more

Hands down my favorite restaurant in Sarasota! Pamela is always warm & friendly upon arrival. Atmosphere is perfect. The regular menu is exquisite.... Duck with mushroom sauce , Ribeye Marsala & the specials make for a tough decision! Always plenty of fish appetizers & pastas to choose from as well as entrees! Oh & save room for dessert! Remember to bring cash or check ... No credit cards accepted & BYOB!! read more

Puccini's - Master chef & Personable too! - Italian Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Best restaurant in Sarasota! We had such a great meal and amazing service. The complimentary bread dish was delightful and we split the artichoke, sausage and salad. These were all amazing, the salad may sound ordinary but it was extraordinary! We had specials over the regular menu (lobster ravioli was insane!) and ended with crepe and grilled banana. Can't say enough about this hidden gem! read more

Our friends took us there and WOW. The food was exceptional and fresh. Very intimate atmosphere where everyone seemed happy to be there. From appetizer to main entree, everything was perfect. read more

"Puccini's isn't for everyone." This is the phrase I see the owner commenting on most negative reviews, and I couldn't agree with her more. Upon not even being greeted when we arrived to this restaurant, the then continued hostility during the entirety of this experience was tangible by our entire party of 4 and quite frankly the entire room of diners. Our appetizers were great, dinners were bland and had a watery consistency. Continuing with a lovely $200 bill which we eagerly awaited to leave this establishment, we were told that cash was the only accepted form of payment and the waitress basically tossed our credit card back on the table towards us. Okay, fine. But maybe use your big girl manners and approach that situation differently? She had this snarky smile on her face during this entire experience that was actually terrifying! If you want a happier experience, and one where you don't feel like you are an absolute inconvenience and borderline disgust at the hands of the hostess/waitress/owner (whatever she is), I highly suggest eating anywhere except this place. We at least had some good laughs in the car ride home about this woman and our experience, but she unfortunately has such a toxic, arrogant, and overall bad demeanor about her that will leave your dinner even tasting rotten. read more

We are repeat customers and can't wait to come back. The meal is always incredible from start to finish. Bring your favorite bottle of wine (or three of them) and sit down to enjoy the recommendations. We have done the specials and the actual menu options. Our favorites: lamb, short rib, fish special, veal, banana dessert and pecan pie!!! We recommend this to everyone. We moved out of the area and still come for dinner when we are in town. This place is a true hidden gem. We recommend the chef's table. read more