Antonio’s Pasta Grille--Savory Italian Dishes
Temple Terrace & St. Petersburg
-M. Wilson

If you are looking for excellent Italian cuisine, then there is no better choice than Antonio’s Pasta Grille. Not only is the food extraordinarily delicious, but also the service is friendly and the atmosphere is warm and relaxed.

I have frequented the Temple Terrace location since they opened 5 years ago. I love that I feel comfortable at Antonio’s as an individual dining alone or with friends, family, or business associates.

The personable staff and the warm atmosphere that the owners have created is truly one of the restaurant’s unique qualities. Being comfortable while you eat is extremely important. Who can focus on wonderful food if there is hustle and bustle all around you? The restaurant has an open and airy feeling and plenty of seating. They offer a combination of booths and tables for your dining experience.

The waiters and waitresses are polite, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu and specials. Many of the Temple Terrace staff are USF students and many of them have worked at Antonio’s for years. Jim Montevago, General Partner, coordinates shifts with the student’s workload and course schedule. “You know that your staff is loyal when they stay with you throughout their entire college career.” As a patron, I recognized that loyalty and camaraderie when I saw a young couple, both employees, dining at the bar on their night off.

On the floor and in the kitchen, the staff and managers work as a team. Kyle Kemp, Manager of the Temple Terrace location, exemplifies leadership and teamwork. I’ve watched him work alongside his staff. Kyle moves quietly yet quickly across the floor, assisting his staff to get the meals out to the customers. One minute he is at the front greeting patrons, and the next minute he has a tray in his hand serving meals or he might even be clearing a table. He finds the quiet moments to stop by tables and share a friendly hello with the guests.

Antonio’s hospitality is warm and genuine.

Ah, the mouthwatering Italian cuisine. . .
The perfect start to an Italian meal is Antonio’s warm and freshly baked loaf of bread accompanied with herbed olive oil. All dinner entrées include Antonio’s House Salad. The signature dressings are absolutely wonderful; my personal favorite is the Gorgonzola Peppercorn.

The menu offers a variety of chicken, seafood, veal and meats, pasta, and pizza dishes. Everything at Antonio’s is made from scratch with recipes created by the owners. Jim’s creative flair to traditional entrées is what he refers to as his “expression through food.” Beyond the extensive menu there are daily specials at lunch and dinner to provide even more delectable choices.

Salmon is often offered as the fresh market fish special. I am amazed at the different and delicious combinations that the cooks prepare. I love them so much that it is hard to convince myself to try something else. However, I am always glad when I do, as I have never been disappointed with a meal—Chicken Marsala, Eggplant Parmesan, Shrimp & Scallop Grand Marnier to name just a few.

Not to be forgotten are the eight appetizer choices. I have never had calamari that was as tender as Antonio’s Calamari Fritti. If salads are your fancy there are eight different salad selections. The luncheon Gourmet Chicken and Fruit Salad is nutritious and delicious!

The servings are ample and you may want a “to go” container to enjoy the best leftovers your taste buds have ever enjoyed. If you have a sweet tooth, you will want to save room for one of the delicious desserts. Look for the daily dessert specials, yum . . .

Located on North 56th Street just south of Fowler Avenue in Temple Terrace, Antonio’s Pasta Grille is a favorite lunch and dinner restaurant for individuals, couples, families, friends, and business associates. The restaurant has a large private room in the back that can be reserved for special functions. I have seen birthdays, prom dinners, and anniversaries celebrated. Antonio’s catering services are also available for events and office parties.

General Partners, John and Dean Koutroumanis, operate the original St. Pete restaurant located at 2755 Ulmerton Road, near Feather Sound. Both restaurants share the same menu, dining atmosphere, and team approach with their staff and cooks.

The restaurants are open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday; they open late afternoon for dinner on Saturday and Sunday. Make plans to visit one of the restaurants soon—you will be glad that you did!

Antonio’s Pasta Grille, 11401 56th Street North, Temple Terrace, Florida, (813) 914-8899

Antonio’s Pasta Grille, 2755 Ulmerton Road, St. Petersburg, Florida, (727) 572-5566

www.antoniospastagrille.com