Finding a great spot for Italian-American cuisine can be challenging, but Bar Italia in Lakewood Ranch has stood out since it arrived. Having dined here multiple times, I can say it’s one of those places where you’re likely to become a regular after just one visit. From the warm ambiance to the spot-on service and, of course, the dishes that transport you to Italy, Bar Italia checks all the boxes for a solid dining experience. Here are the reasons I keep coming back.
Ambiance
The first thing you notice when you enter Bar Italia is its welcoming vibe. It’s a place that strikes the perfect balance between casual and upscale. The ambiance adapts whether you’re out for a family dinner or a date night. The décor is modern yet classic, with a few subtle nods to Italy. The large windows let in plenty of natural light during the day, creating a bright and lively atmosphere, while at night, the soft lighting and candlelit tables make for a cozy, intimate setting.
Seating is thoughtfully arranged so you don’t feel cramped, even when the restaurant is bustling. However, the bar area can get quite noisy, making it difficult to converse if seated near it. For a quieter experience, the semi-private dining area is the best spot, offering a peaceful escape. The outdoor patio is another great option, equipped with fans and misters, perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal while people-watching guests come and go.
Menu
Bar Italia’s extensive menu offers everything from fresh seafood to hearty pasta dishes. Over my multiple visits, I’ve sampled several of their offerings, and each dish has left a lasting impression. Below are some highlights that stood out to me.
It might sound simple—bread and olive oil—but trust me, simplicity can be extraordinary. The Grilled Country Bread is everything you want in a great loaf: crusty on the outside, airy and soft on the inside. Be sure to add the whipped ricotta if you’re into that. It’s one of those dishes that makes you slow down and appreciate the basics done right. Whether waiting for your entrée or sharing with friends, this bread sets the tone for the meal.
While a well-executed Fritto Misto is hard to come by, Bar Italia delivers. The calamari, shrimp, and confetti peppers are fried to golden perfection, retaining that light crispness that pairs perfectly with the marinara and lemon aioli dipping sauces. Grilled lemon slices add a citrusy freshness that cuts through the dish’s richness. It’s one of those starters that disappears from the table before you know it.
I’m always a sucker for a good Beef Carpaccio, and Bar Italia’s version hits all the right notes. Thinly sliced eye of round beef, delicately dressed in lemon aioli and topped with arugula and capers, creates a perfect balance of flavors. The crostinis on the side provide that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melt-in-your-mouth beef. It’s light, fresh, and sophisticated—an ideal start to any meal.
Another appy favorite of mine is the House-Made Meatballs. The blend of house-made marinara, whipped ricotta, and hearty meatballs is a solid definition of comfort food. These meatballs are tender, flavorful, and generously portioned, served with slices of that tasty grilled country bread to soak up all the extra sauce. The whipped ricotta is a standout—light and airy. It adds a touch of creaminess that makes each bite feel indulgent without being too heavy.
The Bar Italia Chopped Salad is a great choice for something on the lighter side. It’s loaded with chopped greens, salami, feta, garbanzo beans, kalamata olives, and more, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Various textures keep each forkful interesting, from the cucumbers to the croutons. It’s a substantial salad, perfect for sharing or as a lighter entrée.
Bar Italia’s Italian Sandwich is everything you want in a classic Italian. Layered with pepperoni, salami, capicola, and provolone, it’s a flavor-packed bite every time. The chive aioli adds a nice creamy zing, and the roasted banana peppers bring just the right amount of heat. It’s a solid lunch choice if you don’t want a full pasta dish.
Speaking of classics, Bar Italia’s Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser. The chicken is perfectly crusted with a mix of romano and parmesan, fried to a golden brown, and served with spaghetti pomodoro. The marinara is bright and fresh, complementing the savory, cheesy chicken. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug—familiar, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.
Bar Italia’s House-Made Lasagna is one of the best I’ve had at a restaurant. Made fresh daily, this is lasagna as it’s meant to be: layers of tender pasta, rich bolognese, creamy ricotta, and zesty marinara, all baked to perfection. It’s hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious. This lasagna leaves you planning your next visit before you finish your last bite.
Pasta lovers, rejoice. Chef Andy’s Bucatini Bolognese is a masterclass in how to do a classic dish justice. The house-made meat sauce clings to each strand of bucatini, creating a rich and satisfying bite. The sauce is robust, with a depth of flavor allowing the ingredients to meld together into something truly special. It’s the dish that makes you want to savor every forkful.
For a lighter option, the Crispy Snapper Piccata is a standout. The snapper is crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, topped with a tangy lemon and caper beurre blanc sauce. The arugula salad on the side adds a fresh, peppery bite, balancing out the richness of the fish. It’s an elegant yet unpretentious dish, perfect for those who prefer seafood over pasta or meat.
Finally, the Spumoni is a delightful way to end things if you’re into dessert. This chocolate, black cherry, and pistachio ice cream trio is topped with a luxurious Luxardo cherry sauce. It’s a playful, nostalgic dessert that hits all the right notes—sweet, creamy, and indulgent.
Overall Experience
Bar Italia strikes a perfect chord between comfort and sophistication. Whether dropping by for a casual Italian sandwich or settling in for a full-course dinner, this restaurant delivers flavor and atmosphere. It’s a spot that feels like it could become a regular part of your dining rotation, with enough variety to keep things interesting on repeat visits.
The service is friendly and attentive without ever being intrusive. You can tell the staff takes pride in what they do, from answering questions about the menu to checking in to ensure everything is right. I also appreciate that they provided crayons to our six-year-old for doodling on the paper table cover.
Final Thoughts
Combining high-quality ingredients, solid preparation, and a menu that honors tradition and creativity makes Bar Italia a standout in the Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota dining scenes. I think the pricing is reasonable for the area, considering the quality and quantity of the food. If you haven’t been yet, you’re in for a treat—this place is worth the visit.
Bar Italia Sarasota is located at 6568 University Pkwy, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240, and their phone number is (863) 354-1479. On-site parking is available.
I hope you found this review helpful. If you have any questions, connect with me on social media. And be sure to check out my other restaurant reviews here. Thanks for reading!