How did I miss this little gem of a restaurant literally in my back yard for years! Osteria Natalina, located in the Palma Ceia area of South Tampa,
has made my list of one of the best Italian restaurants.
Cozy, with only about 12 tables, the aromas of Italy greet you as you step over the threshold. The owner, Spartaco, escorts you to your table and recites the amazing specials of the day. My taste buds were watering just listening to him. Fortunately for me, I was seated at a table in front of the kitchen, so I could eye all the scrumptious orders heading to anxiously awaiting patrons.
The shared appetizer was the mussels in a delicate white broth. The soothing broth was perfect for dipping the soft, warm bread. I selected for my entree the strozzapreti pasta with crab and lobster in a spicy white wine sauce and tomato. Drop the fork, amazing! The strozzapreti pasta is the specialty homemade pasta of the owner's hometown of Rimini, Italy and a favorite of his mom, Natalina, who still lives there. The table also had this pasta with a seafood mix of shrimp, calamari, and mussels. (They are very accommodating on substitutions!) The five layer sausage lasagna with a pink sauce was the days special. The lasagna was also available in a white or red sauce. And who doesn't like the traditional spaghetti and meatballs! Every dish was fresh, made to order. Assolutamente delizioso!!
There are no reservations accepted; first come first served. But, trust me, you are going to want to wait your turn! Dress is casual as in the name of of the restaurant "Osteria". In Italy, restaurants are ranked in order of formality: Restaurant, Trattoria, Osteria, and then Locanda. Don't miss out on this spectacular family owned and authentic Italian restaurant!
5 of 5 Valcooks Aprons
Golden Apron Award
Osteria Natalina
3216 S. MacDill Ave.
Tampa, FL 33629
www.osterianatalina.com
"Live life with an exclamation point!"
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