Caffe Abbracci

In the midst of all the chain restaurants that dot downtown Coral Gables sits the historic family-owned Caffe Abbracci. Celebrating more than 30 years in the Miami Area, this Italian comfort food, great wine and family atmosphere restaurant is the creation from Italy’s own Nino Pernetti.

Pernetti’s story is one of rags to riches. He started working at 14. By the age of 24 he was flourishing in his hospitality career which took him to 15 countries and learning many languages.

If you’re wondering what Abbracci means it is hug in Italian. You are greeted at the door with a hug and kiss-kiss on each cheek and feel the love in the food being served. The wait staff is extremely attentive, even offering suggestions for items off menu.

Favorites include beef carpaccio, pasta fagioli, meaty lentil soup, pasta stuffed with pumpkin, shrimp sautéed with balsamic vinegar, diced fresh tomato with a touch of marina and fresh basil tossed with Capellini, black lobster ravioli, red snapper baked in parchment with fresh herbs and bruschetta tomatoes, chicken marsala, veal, filet, lamb and New York Sirloin served with a Barolo red wine reduction and mushrooms. Everything is homemade and cooked to order. There are daily specials. Lighter menu items include salads with protein, grilled seafood and other Northern Italian specialities.

Desserts are traditional from napoleon, fresh berries with marsala zabajon served in an edible sugar bowl, lava cake, cheesecake, profiteroles, warm apple tart, tiramisu and handmade gelato.

Lunch is also available. Hours are Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Dinner from 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday hours: 6 p.m. – 12 a.m. and Sunday 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

There is private dining available for 15 to 70 people — good for private birthday parties, weddings, special events.

There is outside patio/sidewalk dining. Reservations are recommended.

Call 305-441-0700 for more information or check out the restaurant website at http://www.caffeabbracci.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cannoli Italian Market & Bakery — Under New Ownership

Sent from the Island of Sicily, two pastry chefs Salvo and Rosella Romeo have partnered up with Maria and Sonny Hewson to create Italian and Silican treats for all to enjoy. Located at 4703 SW 16th Place in Cape Coral, just north of Cape Coral Parkway is Cannoli Italian Market & Bakery.

Pastries are made fresh daily with more than 30 different cookie varieties flavored with almond flour such as linzer tarts, pignoli, assorted butter and sugar cookies filled with jam or dipped in chocolate and dusted with nuts.

Cannolis come in a variety of flavors: traditional, chocolate chip, hazelnut, pistachio, strawberry and chocolate. Share a cream filled zabaione filled tart topped with fresh strawberries and blueberries outside or inside. This little spot also makes wonderful coffees from lattes to expresso.

Stock up on fresh made tuna salad, sliced cut meats, olive salad, submarine sandwiches made-to-order, calzones, variety of pizza by the slice, baked bread. Add to your order a nice bottle of wine, olive oil, balsamic vinegar or ingredients to make your own sauce and pasta at home.

At lunchtime, check out $10 sub sandwich special which includes a cannoli and drink. Kids get a free cookie with every visit.

Hours are Tuesday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday’s they are closed.

 

 

 

 

Blu Agave

On National Margarita Day, Jeff and I decided go to Cape Coral’s newest restaurant on the Parkway so we checked into Blu Agave. This spot is family-owned with sister restaurants in Colorado and New Mexico.

The menu is extensive and traditional Mexican. Some highlights include Guacamole, quesadillas, Tortilla Soup, Salads, Dinners for Two, Fajitas, Beef, Chicken, Pork, Seafood Dishes, Burritos, Tacos. The restaurant is also open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

We loved the pico and chips with the house margarita after a long day at work. A side of guac followed and then our dinner. I had the creamy cheese enchiladas and Jeff had enchiladas verdes. The food was served on a piping hot plate.

Located at 1404 Cape Coral Parkway E in downtown Cape Coral this spot has parking in the back; outside and inside dining options. A children’s menu is also available.

You will love the fast and excellent service and attention to detail.