Fresco's Italian Restaurant & Pizza

Situated in an inconspicuous plaza, Fresco’s is definitely the hole-in-the-wall place to go for some of Sarasota’s best Italian food. After months of being bombarded by friends raving about this restaurant, we finally decided a date night was needed and went to see if it could live up to its hype. Without a doubt, it exceeded all expectations. Tomas (server/new friend) was very welcoming and made the restaurant feel more like you were stepping into his home than a business, while Angelo (chef) made sure everything that would be brought to the table was picture perfect, and tasted better than it looked. We kept it simple, cheesy garlic bread and two calzones. The garlic bread looked like it was homemade and seasoned well with garlic and herbs, and the sauce that accompanied it was good enough to convert my girlfriend, who hates red sauces, in the first bite. The calzones came out hot, crisp and packed with mozzarella and ricotta. By far the best calzones we have ever had. Don’t let the modest exterior fool you, step into this hidden gem and find the perfect place to have dinner with friends or a wonderful date night with someone special.

I don't expect much judging by the location, but perhaps that's judging the book by the cover. The contents may be considerably more, and I'll be going back to try different things. I had a cheese steak (I know, not Italian, but it was what I was feeling!) And it was absolutely delicious, with crispy bits and tender steak, a fluffy and toasted bun, and melted cheesy goodness. My wife had lentil soup, which was merely good (nothing to write home about), but she enjoyed. The next table over had a be pasta dish that was being served out of a giant parmesan wheel, and looked amazing! If the rest of the main courses are as good as the cheeses it's very much worth eating here. They have a phone order pick up window.

After reading so many reviews, we just had to finally try this place! What a hidden gem! The food was outstanding and you felt like you were part of their family! The staff was amazing and the owner came to meet you personally. We are looking forward returning and trying more delicious foods they offer!! As a local business owner myself, I think it’s very important to give positive reviews when earned and this place deserves all 5 stars!