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Bavaro’s in Sarasota hosts the perfect dinner party

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Ginger LaRue

“Outstanding food, service, oh my the meatballs, more on that later, location and spending time with our fellow Yelpers.” -Selmy B.

Christina B. shares photo from Yelp Elite Event at Bavaro’s

On July 10th the Yelp Elite Squad took a summer vacation to the Italian coast (without leaving Florida) thanks to the immersive and authentic experience by Bavaro’s in Sarasota. 

Upon arrival guests were greeted with the gorgeous Stefano Ferrara made, wood-fired oven. This focal point in the open kitchen is where owner, Dan Bavoro, and his sons stood hand making authentic Neapolitan pizza. Guests were led to a private dining room upstairs for dinner.

When Elites weren’t savoring delicious bites from the multi-course meal, or raising a glass of limoncello in Salute, they were sharing stories of adventures past and future.

See more photos like these on Yelp.

The meal started with crostini and burrata cheese, fresh arugula salad, and those aforementioned meatballs. “What makes these meatballs so exquisite was the ricotta. Smooth and light with a mild marinara sauce to compliment the meatballs. Truly the best I have had in ages. Yes, I have to go back for the meatballs” (Selmy B). 

And for entree guests were served Penne alla vodka. “The creamy flavorful sauce has just a hint of spice, it’s amazing. Best vodka sauce around” (Danielle V). Bavaro’s is famous for their sauces, even selling some of them, like the Neapolitan pizza sauce online, but the vodka sauce is special; an incredible combination of pancetta, onion, cream, and san marzano tomato, made to order. 

Before the dessert was presented, Dan Bavaro met with each guest by coming to them tableside.  “The tiramisu was spongy and fluffy, dare I say “ethereal”? !” (Ashley W). 

The Yelp Elites rave about their meal and experience on Yelp. And they all are quick to recognize that the Bavaro family’s passion and commitment are what make this business a sensation. 

With 4 locations across Tampa Bay, each Bavaro’s has its claim to fame while serving  authentic, from-scratch Italian food. Enjoy live music at Bavaro’s in Sarasota Tuesday through Sunday. Stop by Bavaro’s in downtown Tampa for lunch specials Monday through Friday (spoiler alert: those meatballs are on the lunch menu). And enjoy people watching with a table on Central Ave at Bavaro’s in St. Pete. You can also visit Bavaro’s in the airport, order catering, and send sauces to a loved one through Amazon. 


Keep up with the family by following them on Instagram and Faceook – @Bavarospizza

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