Went here tonight for my step-dad's 87th birthday. We made a reservation and came early. The ambiance is quiet and classy.... white table cloths, candles, lots of space between the round tables. Comfortable and relaxed. Puccini was playing softly in the background. Our server, Cristy, was friendly, and the service was very attentive. I had a delicious caprese salad to start, mom had mixed greens, dad had a shrimp cocktail with pleasantly spicy cocktail sauce. There was a large list of specials, many choices of fresh fish. I ordered a grouper (since I was in FL) and it was served in a brandy sauce with mushrooms. Absolutely delicious! Veal Marsala was not on the menu, but they offered to make it for my mom when she said it was her favorite. I don't eat veal, but she said it was very good. We ended with Italian coffees and desserts. Mom and dad split a special St. Patty's Day Boston creme pie (they brought theirs out on two plates... his with a candle), and I had a lemony dessert (I forget what it was called, but it is on the regular menu). It comes served like a slice of cheesecake, with fresh berries. It was creamy and tart. While this is not a low budget place, I thought the price was appropriate for the quality and amount of food (we had wine, appetizers, entrees, desserts, for less than $60/person, plus tip). Can't believe we haven't eaten here before since my parents have been living in Delray for decades! We all look forward to eating here again!
(5)
Wendy S.
One word describes this hidden gem...AMAZING! If you've lived in the Boca/Delray area, you've probably driven by this place without even knowing it was in the plaza behind the Dunkin Donuts in Tropic Isle. It's time you make it a point to go there! The owners opened it up 30+ years ago and have delivered dishes with such consistency and deliciousness, you will want to go back the very next night! My suggestion is to order the chix cordon bleu! It's hands down the best dish I've had at ANY restaurant! The decor is so charming, the staff is great, and everything on the menu is superb! I went last night, and cannot wait to go again!
Can't believe we have never tried this place! Stumbled upon it by accident on a Saturday night. Unfortunately (expected during season), there were no reservations available until later. The hostess was incredibly kind & apologetic. The menu looked delicious so we decided to get take out. The arugula salad with shaved almonds and parmigiano had the most exquisite dressing. Also loved the gnocchi with cheese sauce, the emmental was such a great touch to this dish. The take out packaging was thoughtful, bread/bread sticks included; as well as, a side of green beans & carrots. We will be back very soon.
(5)
Dawn G.
I can't believe this place has been here for 32 years, and I'm the first to review it. I'm doing my live review, so stay tuned. But first, Christy is our bubbly and knowledgable wait person. She just brought warm and fragrant homemade bread. Perfect crust, fluffy insides, and plenty of fresh formed butter--no foil wrapped numbers here. We had frog legs and an excellent canneloni with ricotta and spinach filling with a bechamel sauce. The latter was exceptional, and the former was very good. Hot towels and lemon for "clean up" was the thing that kicked this to a five star. I'd love to return for a second review.
(5)
George B.
Best Italian for the $$$'s in the Boca area. Lot of traditional dishes intermixed with some interesting creative dishes. Knowledgeable waitstaff. Charmingly rustic decor.
(5)
Mariam W.
I have to answer back Mr Joel K. review regarding IL GIRASOLE RESTAURANT, I am not sure where did you come with the idea or the information that IL GIRASOLE RESTAURANT does have a pizza and is terrible too, so please check your information clearly, before you talk about that restaurant. because they don't do pizza's. Just for your own info, IL GIRASOLE RESTAURANT, has been in business for 35 years, same owner, same location, and it is a northern Italian restaurant...... but for you to say all sauces come out of a can, it is not nice. Thank You
(5)
Bob D.
Some friends brought me to this restaurant last night. I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in the door. The restaurant is in a shopping mall and looks very uninviting from the outside but as soon as we walked inside it was busy, pleasant and had a very warm atmosphere. The food and service were excellent! I had veal with a side of linguine... It was perfect! I don't know how I have lived here so long without finding this place, but I know that now, I will dine there often.
(5)
Mitchell M.
If you're 80 (all patrons are in this age range) it's a 5 star restaurant, if you're of average age find another. Sorry I tried this place.
(2)
Serge B.
The restaurant where the cook is not afraid to try cooking calf brains, something you won't find often at the Italian restaurants in USA.
(4)
Zinchen N.
Upon walking in our first time, we were pleasantly surprised that the floors were carpeted and not a noisy cafeteria as most chain restaurants. The decor is warm and cozy. The food and service were fabulous from the salad to main courses of lemon sole and veal piccata, both lightly breaded but not fried, and with spectacular, light sauces and portions. For desert, we had cappuccino (below average - not 1/3 expresso, 1/3 milk foam, 1/3 steamed milk) and the lemon cake would have been better if it wasn't served frozen. The bill was $156 including 20% tip. Bottom line - I would go back, but other party would not because it was all old people; logic that I don't understand.
(4)
Damara C.
I have to start by saying I completely agree with the first review of this restaurant. In fact, this is how I discovered the place. It's been tucked in this Linton/ Federal shopping center for 32 years. Amazing because the center looks new. We walked in expecting a casual Italian spot, but we were surprised that it was quite formal. White table cloths, etc...and we were in jeans, but they graciously sat us. Everything was fabulous. Fresh ceaser salad the way it should be..lightly dressed with grilled bread croutons brushed w/ olive oil. Beef carpacio on arugula, jumbo cocktail shrimp, and my favorite a real Bellini made with new half split bottle of proseco and fresh peach nectar. Pricey but worth it. Not for the kids, but great for romantic or group dinner with adults. One of Delray's best kept secrets....
(5)
Marie J M.
As New Yorkers used to very fine Italian food - Girasole was a huge disappointment. The food was oily and greasy, one of our parties became ill, the service was good yet the server could remember an extensive dessert menu yet had to be asked three times for ice and the ambiance ok. Also - no wifi access.
(1)
Dianne S.
My friend and I were looking for a reasonable Italian resturant. Thought we would give this a try based o Yelp reviews. I'm so happy we did! The food was wonderful, seasoned perfectly, the service impeccable. We truly enjoyed the food, service and decor. Wonderful experience and we will be backache!
(5)
Minoo H.
Their food was SOOOO GOOD! I loved the linguini carbonara! The restaurant is cozy and cute, but a little stiff. The restaurant is freezing and the water was mostly ice, but really, i'm not complaining. The food is great, location fine, and service was great! I plan on coming back next time I'm in town!
(4)
Carlos C.
Best italian food in Boca/Delray. So far I've had the Steak au Poivre, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Shrimp Scampi, Yellowtail Snapper, Pappardelle Bolognese, Cannelloni, Linguine Pescatora, Chicken Marsala, and probably more but I cant think of them all right now. All 5 stars! I can't say enough good things about this place. Just go try it for yourself!
(5)
Justin F.
Had some killer Beef Carpacio !! Everything was served perfectly and I was amazed when the waitress told me this place has been open for 30 + years. Great spot to grab some killer food !
(3)
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Address :1911 S Federal Hwy
Delray Beach, FL, 33483
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Diane K.
Went here tonight for my step-dad's 87th birthday. We made a reservation and came early. The ambiance is quiet and classy.... white table cloths, candles, lots of space between the round tables. Comfortable and relaxed. Puccini was playing softly in the background. Our server, Cristy, was friendly, and the service was very attentive. I had a delicious caprese salad to start, mom had mixed greens, dad had a shrimp cocktail with pleasantly spicy cocktail sauce. There was a large list of specials, many choices of fresh fish. I ordered a grouper (since I was in FL) and it was served in a brandy sauce with mushrooms. Absolutely delicious! Veal Marsala was not on the menu, but they offered to make it for my mom when she said it was her favorite. I don't eat veal, but she said it was very good. We ended with Italian coffees and desserts. Mom and dad split a special St. Patty's Day Boston creme pie (they brought theirs out on two plates... his with a candle), and I had a lemony dessert (I forget what it was called, but it is on the regular menu). It comes served like a slice of cheesecake, with fresh berries. It was creamy and tart. While this is not a low budget place, I thought the price was appropriate for the quality and amount of food (we had wine, appetizers, entrees, desserts, for less than $60/person, plus tip). Can't believe we haven't eaten here before since my parents have been living in Delray for decades! We all look forward to eating here again!
(5)Wendy S.
One word describes this hidden gem...AMAZING! If you've lived in the Boca/Delray area, you've probably driven by this place without even knowing it was in the plaza behind the Dunkin Donuts in Tropic Isle. It's time you make it a point to go there! The owners opened it up 30+ years ago and have delivered dishes with such consistency and deliciousness, you will want to go back the very next night! My suggestion is to order the chix cordon bleu! It's hands down the best dish I've had at ANY restaurant! The decor is so charming, the staff is great, and everything on the menu is superb! I went last night, and cannot wait to go again!
(5)Michelle W.
This was definitely a find for us. We wanted to go out of our comfort zone and try something new. Pleasantly surprised by this place. The staff was welcoming when you walk in and the décor was lovely. Prices were reasonable and food was delicious. What more could you ask for. Nice and quiet too.
(4)JM S.
Can't believe we have never tried this place! Stumbled upon it by accident on a Saturday night. Unfortunately (expected during season), there were no reservations available until later. The hostess was incredibly kind & apologetic. The menu looked delicious so we decided to get take out. The arugula salad with shaved almonds and parmigiano had the most exquisite dressing. Also loved the gnocchi with cheese sauce, the emmental was such a great touch to this dish. The take out packaging was thoughtful, bread/bread sticks included; as well as, a side of green beans & carrots. We will be back very soon.
(5)Dawn G.
I can't believe this place has been here for 32 years, and I'm the first to review it. I'm doing my live review, so stay tuned. But first, Christy is our bubbly and knowledgable wait person. She just brought warm and fragrant homemade bread. Perfect crust, fluffy insides, and plenty of fresh formed butter--no foil wrapped numbers here. We had frog legs and an excellent canneloni with ricotta and spinach filling with a bechamel sauce. The latter was exceptional, and the former was very good. Hot towels and lemon for "clean up" was the thing that kicked this to a five star. I'd love to return for a second review.
(5)George B.
Best Italian for the $$$'s in the Boca area. Lot of traditional dishes intermixed with some interesting creative dishes. Knowledgeable waitstaff. Charmingly rustic decor.
(5)Mariam W.
I have to answer back Mr Joel K. review regarding IL GIRASOLE RESTAURANT, I am not sure where did you come with the idea or the information that IL GIRASOLE RESTAURANT does have a pizza and is terrible too, so please check your information clearly, before you talk about that restaurant. because they don't do pizza's. Just for your own info, IL GIRASOLE RESTAURANT, has been in business for 35 years, same owner, same location, and it is a northern Italian restaurant...... but for you to say all sauces come out of a can, it is not nice. Thank You
(5)Bob D.
Some friends brought me to this restaurant last night. I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in the door. The restaurant is in a shopping mall and looks very uninviting from the outside but as soon as we walked inside it was busy, pleasant and had a very warm atmosphere. The food and service were excellent! I had veal with a side of linguine... It was perfect! I don't know how I have lived here so long without finding this place, but I know that now, I will dine there often.
(5)Mitchell M.
If you're 80 (all patrons are in this age range) it's a 5 star restaurant, if you're of average age find another. Sorry I tried this place.
(2)Serge B.
The restaurant where the cook is not afraid to try cooking calf brains, something you won't find often at the Italian restaurants in USA.
(4)Zinchen N.
Upon walking in our first time, we were pleasantly surprised that the floors were carpeted and not a noisy cafeteria as most chain restaurants. The decor is warm and cozy. The food and service were fabulous from the salad to main courses of lemon sole and veal piccata, both lightly breaded but not fried, and with spectacular, light sauces and portions. For desert, we had cappuccino (below average - not 1/3 expresso, 1/3 milk foam, 1/3 steamed milk) and the lemon cake would have been better if it wasn't served frozen. The bill was $156 including 20% tip. Bottom line - I would go back, but other party would not because it was all old people; logic that I don't understand.
(4)Damara C.
I have to start by saying I completely agree with the first review of this restaurant. In fact, this is how I discovered the place. It's been tucked in this Linton/ Federal shopping center for 32 years. Amazing because the center looks new. We walked in expecting a casual Italian spot, but we were surprised that it was quite formal. White table cloths, etc...and we were in jeans, but they graciously sat us. Everything was fabulous. Fresh ceaser salad the way it should be..lightly dressed with grilled bread croutons brushed w/ olive oil. Beef carpacio on arugula, jumbo cocktail shrimp, and my favorite a real Bellini made with new half split bottle of proseco and fresh peach nectar. Pricey but worth it. Not for the kids, but great for romantic or group dinner with adults. One of Delray's best kept secrets....
(5)Marie J M.
As New Yorkers used to very fine Italian food - Girasole was a huge disappointment. The food was oily and greasy, one of our parties became ill, the service was good yet the server could remember an extensive dessert menu yet had to be asked three times for ice and the ambiance ok. Also - no wifi access.
(1)Dianne S.
My friend and I were looking for a reasonable Italian resturant. Thought we would give this a try based o Yelp reviews. I'm so happy we did! The food was wonderful, seasoned perfectly, the service impeccable. We truly enjoyed the food, service and decor. Wonderful experience and we will be backache!
(5)Minoo H.
Their food was SOOOO GOOD! I loved the linguini carbonara! The restaurant is cozy and cute, but a little stiff. The restaurant is freezing and the water was mostly ice, but really, i'm not complaining. The food is great, location fine, and service was great! I plan on coming back next time I'm in town!
(4)Carlos C.
Best italian food in Boca/Delray. So far I've had the Steak au Poivre, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Shrimp Scampi, Yellowtail Snapper, Pappardelle Bolognese, Cannelloni, Linguine Pescatora, Chicken Marsala, and probably more but I cant think of them all right now. All 5 stars! I can't say enough good things about this place. Just go try it for yourself!
(5)Justin F.
Had some killer Beef Carpacio !! Everything was served perfectly and I was amazed when the waitress told me this place has been open for 30 + years. Great spot to grab some killer food !
(3)