Cafe Italia | Hollywood, FL

Scallops Caprese, Salmon Salad, Tuscan Panini, Prosciutto Ravioli, Shrimp Linguine Alla Sciciliana, Frutta Di Mare and Gourmet Pizza Pies

Owners Carlo and Nila Salvatore have continued to draw a steady clientele since the eatery’s opening more than four years ago.

Combining husband/chef Carlo’s family recipes from Palermo, Italy and restaurateur/baker Nila’s Ecuadorian enthusiasm and fabulous homemade desserts, the couple cooks up Southern Italian favorites and killer Illy coffee drinks at pre-inflation prices.

Uniquely, every meal is freshly prepared, obvious in both taste and texture.

A popular hangout for locals and visitors alike who enjoy basking in the Italian style ambiance, Café Italia has become a ‘must visit” – if not for the cuisine, then for the outdoor patio and free Internet access.

Visiting from Atlanta, Michael and Pamela Capo are an example of those who chance upon Cafe Italia and just keep coming.

"We're here from out of town. We stumbled on this three nights ago and we've come here every night. We went to Tuscany two years ago and this is just as good," said Michael Capo.

"We had Tilapia the other night and it taste like they just caught it," said Pamela Capo.

For locals, a quick stop for a cappuccino becomes an excuse for a fabulous Italian dinner.

Just ask longtime customer, Eli Shubert.

“I come here all the day because the coffee’s great. This is the best coffee.I’ve found they are very friendly. The pizza, the cakes, the spaghetti," Shubert said, reciting his all time favorites.

"I moved to Brickell, but I'm always happy to be back, " said lunch companion Joe Orriols.

“All our entrees and dishes are gourmet including the pizza. Once people come here and try our spectacular dishes, you will be happy,” said Nila Salvatore, while rushing back and forth between the kitchen and filled tables.

“My pizza -- you have to eat it with a fork-- typical Sicilian pizza. Our most popular dish is the Tilapia in white wine, fresh tomato , garlic and olive oil. Our pleasure is having people here for dinner. Please come in and introduce yourself and make yourself at home. MY idea of a restaurant is having a large space where you can cook for your friends and enjoy yourselves. I hope Café Italia is like that, “ said Carlo Salvatore.

People come from as far as north as Boca Raton and as far south as Brickell just for a taste of the eatery’s homemade Tiramisu. Made from a 65 year old recipe handed down in Carlo’s family, the secret to the dessert’s success looks like it will remain a mystery.

Even famed Chef Bobby Flay, who chanced upon the small town success, couldn’t drag the recipe out of Carlo. Not even the promise of a TV show could pry the Tiramisu secret from Carlo’s lips. But, hey, speaking of lips, just thinking about some of Café Italia’s most popular dishes, reminds of their lip smacking, mouth watering fare.

So, now that you know all about us, please stop by and tell us all about you!

Ciao!