Through South Florida’s Own iL Paesano
By Steven O. Evans, PhD
You won’t need your passport, but you will need your full appetite when you spend an evening at iL Paesano, South Florida’s own Italian Gourmet Food Cafe, Deli and Wine Market. How does food go from merely eating, to an experience? Visit them, and you’ll find out.
You immediately feel part of Italy when you enter. The smells, the sounds, and owners’ amazingly friendly voices, all bring you into a night to get away. Ready for romance with your special someone? Trying to impress that first time date with your charm? This is the place. Paola and Vergilio make sure every detail is exact. And you and your guest(s) will feel special.
Ah, but the wine? Yet another experience. Venture to their wine boutique with a selection of favorites and unique things to try. Also a great place for conversation starters with the date you’re working on for a second date. Hint: Head over on a night before to take notes on the wines and research them. You’ll then have some topics to discuss. If not, no worries. The staff will guide you on selections.
Now for the real truth. Ready? The food. It’s Italy brought to your table. All foods are made in house by hand or imported from Italy. There is no detail left unnoticed when it comes to bringing you (and your date) the most unique and amazing trip of flavor. Sauces, spices, pastas, breads . . . I can hear you calling them now to make reservations.
Start with the Antipasto Misto. One by one, each is a bite of original cold cuts, cheeses, roasted peppers, olives, and stuffed artichoke hearts. Don’t miss the Grilled Octopus. It’s authentic with a taste and texture that will have you asking for more.
For dinner, the Cartoccio Linguini is a must. It consists of clams, mussels, shimp, calamari, and crab or lobster meat in a wine and tomato sauce. Please promise me you’ll not miss this treat. The Fiocchetti Tartufo is an amazing pasta filled with truffle cheese and a cream of porcini sauce. Pick any other selection – you won’t go wrong.
Numerous desserts are on hand that are imported directly from Italy. Pair them with their fresh coffee to round out the perfect night for you and your date.
Make your life the best it can be. And your world of dining – extraordinary.
Visit this amazing family and handcrafted meals at iL Paesano at 2645 East Oakland Park Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306. www.iLPaesanoMarket.com (954) 396-1700
