Boys and girls, walk into a piece of Tampa history (circa 1984) with stucco arches, tapestries, gold leaf ceiling tiles, roses on each table. An owner greeting you at the door like you are an old friend. The dining room of pink hues and soft lights set a welcoming romantic mood for your Donatello experience.

It is like visiting the grande dame of temples, the shrine you’ve traveled across the world to see. The Iconic Tampa Bay Institution which we must protect – there are no landmark restaurant committees.

Menu items here are indicative of what Americans have embraced over the years from Northern Italians – the owners hail from Venice, Italy. The separate bar lounge area features a lively evening crowd replete with piano playing and great drinks.

Menu offerings range in price –
          Appetizers: $10-$22
          Entrees: $25-$60
          Great wine list.

Some Menu Choices:

Cannelloni Donatello – Rolled fresh pasta filled with veal, fresh mozzarella and baked with a besciamella tomato sauce.

Linguini All’ Aragosta – Linguini with Maine lobster in a blush tomato sauce.

Ossobuco Alla Milanese – Veal shank with marrow bone slowly braised in a delicate sauce with saffron risotto. (Love Chef’s favorite.)

Sogliola (Dover Sole) – is the freshest and definitely, if you’re a fan of – here is where you want to enjoy it!

Fiorentina – 32 oz. Porterhouse steak grilled with fragrant rosemary. My way. Simply prepared great meat!

Leave some room for their famous White Chocolate and Raspberry Creme Brulee.

Boys and girls, if you have never visited Donatello’s is a MUST, and if you have, then go back as countless regulars do!!

email: lovechef@thelovechef.com