Reviewed 5/5/09Cosimo's Too!
Trattoria & Sports Bar
Southgate’s landmark eatery has opened a Brand NEW location at Sarasota Square.
Not only do they have great food but, this spot has great amenities, too!
Located at the entrance to AMC′s 12 screen theatre and shops like Claire′s, Build-a-Bear Workshop, The Buckle and Sports Fan Attic; toddlers to teens will thoroughly enjoy their visit.
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the Tavern with...8...flat screen TV′s...featuring high top tables, booths and sleek granite bar. There’s even an outdoor patio for viewing the kids as they exit the mall.
Now, mom and dad can have that relaxing libation, adult conversation, exceptional munchies...or possibly...
You′d rather experience a romantic afternoon or evening sipping martinis in a well appointed dining retreat that′s away from the din of the tavern.
It′s here!
Diners seeking solitude can escape to relaxing comfort in an area with roomy banquets or at tables along expansive windows. Exposed ductwork with a free form dropped center feature accent cans and pendant lighting providing a soft romantic glow while stainless and wood divide the room for added privacy. Outdoor patio service is available at colorful umbrella tables that run the length of the dinning area.
Arriving for lunch, my spouse and I sat comfortably side by side in a booth with plenty of room to spare. The wait staff promptly provided the daily specials; then returned with our requested house (Puccini) Chianti, crusty rosemary bread and herbed olive oil.
Do not skimp on the Appetizers, as Cosimo′s has won some significant Awards. The Tempura Shrimp with wasabi aioli & sweet chili sauce won THE BEST of the best at the "Taste of Sarasota Chef′s Competition".
Do I have your attention?
Now, read on for more mouth watering selections like...
Crispy Polenta, Hot Crab Appetizer, Fried Calamari, Bruschetta Trio, Smoked Salmon, Mussels and much, much more. My favorite is the Stuffed Portobello…Two sautéed caps atop a creamy Gorgonzola sauce layered with spinach, marinated tomatoes and caramelized shallots. WONDERFUL!
I′ve reviewed Southgate′s Cosimo′s several times and can′t resist ordering their individual pizzas!
As a matter of fact, the Personal Size wood fired pizza is perfect as an appetizer! With a thin, light crispy crust topped with a selection of up to 20 toppings.. my spouse and I sipped a little wine, enjoyed some light conversation and lingered over our little mushroom and garlic pie.
For more upscale dining there’s plenty to ponder!
Entrees include The Grilled Marinated Pork Chops with mango chutney; New York Strip topped with rosemary/red wine reduction; Potato Crusted Tilapia; Swordfish Piccata or the Grilled Salmon topped with tomatoes, basil and artichokes. And...let′s not forget the "ever popular"...Herb Roasted Chicken with parmesan potato wedges and balsamic grilled veggies. You won′t be disappointed!
Pasta lovers will appreciate made to order freshly sautéed ingredients from broccoli rabbi to little neck clams. And, the chef aims to please with his daily ravioli special in homemade sauce.
My spouse was immediately drawn to linguini with tender baby clams sautéed in olive oil, garlic, herbs and lemon. The portion is huge with a nice selection of tender morsels that are easily retrieved from opened shells that he expertly wrapped in strands of succulent pasta and broth...MMM...Life is GOOD!
After eating my share of pizza, pasta was not going to be on my plate. Instead, I opted for the grilled salmon topped with tomatoes, basil and artichokes. Served with grilled vegetables, I knew I was headed in a healthy direction. And then... there was that crispy polenta on my plate...hmmmm...Oh well! Life is REAL GOOD!
Soups, salads and personal pizzas can be ordered at lunch or dinner...Sandwiches and wraps are... available at lunch only...featuring Italian Sausage, Prosciutto, Salami, Chicken, Salmon, Eggplant, Tilapia and grilled veggies.
On a Low Carb diet? Enjoy some oven roasted veggies with a side salad. You might think about a little grilled chicken or Italian sausage on top.
After an afternoon of grazing, we headed for the bar and watched Tiger Woods as we sipped another glass of wine.
I spotted a martini menu revealing 9 signature drinks that included an interesting twist...UV Vanilla Vodka, Bailey′s Irish Cream, Kahlua, a splash of freshly brewed espresso served up in a sugar rimmed glass...Hmmmmmmmmmmmm...
Wish I had known sooner for that sounded Yummy!!!
By the way, the Tavern′s Happy Hour is from 11:00 – 7:00...
WITH A $5.00 MENU?
Yes, we love those messy wings...But, there’s much...much...more...
Petit Burgers, Pizza Quesadillas, Beef Kabobs with pineapple salsa, Toasted Ravioli, Calamari and Waffle fries with Gorgonzola! WOW!!!
So, bring the family to the MALL!
Enjoy a day of shopping and/or movie...
But...
Be sure to include a gastronomical delight or two!!!
