Florida welcomes the opening of Vitolo, a new Italian restaurant by the executive chef of New York City’s Emilio’s Ballato, Anthony Vitolo. Partnering with Miami hospitality guru Rob Crosoli, Vitolo aims to bring the same classic Italian cuisine that has made Emilio’s Ballato a popular spot for celebrities and locals alike. With a focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive dining experience, the restaurant offers a three-pronged dining experience and a private dining room. Let’s take a closer look at what Vitolo has to offer.
Vitolo’s vision is to create a place where everyone is welcome. According to Vitolo, “It doesn’t matter if you’re Joe Shmoe or a celebrity.” The team wants to build a long-lasting relationship with the community and provide an approachable and welcoming dining experience. They aim to bring a little bit of their family-oriented values to the Fort Lauderdale community, ensuring that everybody deserves a memorable dining experience.
Vitolo is designed to offer a multi-faceted dining experience. The first room, known as Vitolo’s “Cucina,” provides a chef’s table-style environment, allowing guests to witness the culinary magic happening in the kitchen. The second room, “Sala Arco,” is an art deco-inspired supper club lounge, perfect for guests looking for a more intimate and stylish setting. Lastly, the outdoor “Terrazza” offers al fresco dinners with breathtaking views of the ocean, adding a touch of elegance to the overall dining experience.
Unlike Emilio’s Ballato, which is known for its exclusive back room where celebrities casually dine, Vitolo offers a private dining room with a similar atmosphere. However, Vitolo clarifies that this back room will not be exclusive but rather a more upscale space where guests can enjoy their food, access an exclusive wine list, and indulge in a variety of drinks. This inclusive approach aims to make all diners feel special and catered to.
Fortunately for New York City-based diners, Anthony Vitolo will not be leaving his post at Emilio’s Ballato. He plans on traveling back and forth between both kitchens to oversee operations. This seamless transition is made possible by the great team he has built at Ballato’s kitchen, allowing him the freedom to expand his brand as a chef. Despite the distance, Vitolo’s commitment to his family’s recipes and providing Florida with the kind of cuisine it needs remains unwavering.
When it comes to the must-try dish at Vitolo, both Anthony Vitolo and Rob Crosoli agree on the Vitello Antonio. This 16-ounce veal chop, pounded thin and panko-crusted, is fried to perfection. It is then served in a delightful vodka sauce with peas, prosciutto, and fresh mozzarella, topped off with a crispy broiled finish. The dish is served on the bone, enhancing its visual appeal and overall flavor. This masterpiece from the menu aims to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Unlike Emilio’s Ballato, known for its strict walk-in policy that often leads to long lines of eager diners, Vitolo in Florida is accepting reservations. Whether you plan to enjoy a Sunday to Thursday dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. or a Friday and Saturday night meal from 5 to 11 p.m., you can secure your spot and ensure a smooth dining experience.
Vitolo brings the essence of Emilio’s Ballato to South Florida, offering authentic and classic Italian cuisine. The restaurant aims to create an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their background, can enjoy a memorable dining experience. With its three-pronged dining options, inclusive private dining room, and a must-try dish, Vitolo is poised to become a go-to spot for both locals and tourists in Fort Lauderdale. So, whether you’re a celebrity or just a regular person, make sure to reserve your table and savor the delectable dishes at Vitolo.