Tony & Nello's Southern Italian Cuisine & Grille

We came with a party of 10 and arrived absolutely starving. We left with so much food because the portions are huge! The service was great, especially considering how busy they were. It was a little warm where we were seated next to the kitchen, but the restaurant was packed, so it was understandable. The only issue we had was that my lasagna came out a little cold. I asked for it to be warmed up, and they were happy to take care of it. The pizza was delicious, and while a couple of dishes could have used a little less salt for our taste, everything was clearly made fresh to order. The calamari was perfectly fried—light, crispy, and not greasy at all. And the bread… absolutely amazing! I need that sourdough starter recipe! Overall, we had a great meal and would definitely come back. We’d also recommend it to anyone looking for generous portions, fresh Italian food, and friendly service.

Outstanding food, impeccable service (thanks, Adam) in this hidden gem. We had shrimp scampi and Veal Saltimboca. Huge portions! Next time we know to share a meal so we can have dessert! I'm sure it is as great as the main dishes. The only negative is that it's a little run down inside....ceiling falling in (A/C issues?) and tables shoved to one side. Cute bar area with TVs on sports channels. They seemed to be doing a great take out/pick up business all during our meal. We've found our new favorite Italian restaurant in the area! Thanks to our neighbor, Jim, for the recommendation.

We can’t get enough! Authentic, delicious with every bite. We’ve had the pizza three times - fresh ingredients on every one. Meals are huge without sacrificing taste. Sad to be heading North but we will be back. The staff, especially our host/server loved her job and it showed.

We were fortunate to find a seat at the bar, where a friendly, experienced bartender greeted us with a warm smile and a great memory. We ordered the veal parmesan with angel hair pasta and the meatball sub, and the portions were generous enough for four. The meal also came with a delightful commentary salad and warm, fresh bread. We thoroughly enjoyed the food and bread, and definitely look forward to coming back.

If you are anywhere near Tierra Verde or St. Pete and haven't eaten at Tony & Nello's, what are you even doing with your life? I walked in expecting a standard Italian dinner and left feeling like I needed to be baptized in marinara. Let’s talk about the **Bruschetta**. First of all, the tomatoes on this thing are so fresh I’m entirely convinced Tony (or Nello) was out back growing them in the Florida humidity while I was ordering. They are *really* fresh tomatoes. But the true star of the show? The garlic. There are literal whole garlic cloves to just crunch right into. Paired with that fresh basil, it's a flavor explosion that doubles as the ultimate vampire repellent. I could breathe on a *Twilight* convention and wipe them all out. Then came the **Gamberi Fra Diavola** (the Diablo Shrimp). I chase a spicy flavor profile like it's a competitive sport, and Tony & Nello did not disappoint. The shrimp were swimming in a spicy, fresh tomato marinara that actually had some real, beautiful malice to it. It was exactly the kind of fiery kick you desperately want but rarely ever get at an Italian joint. My sinuses are perfectly clear, my soul has been purified, and my tastebuds are drafting a formal thank-you note. Do yourself a favor: get down here, crunch on the garlic, sweat out the Diablo sauce, and thank me later. 10/10.