Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar

Italian restaurant · Carrollwood

Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar

Italian restaurant · Carrollwood

1

14306 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618

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Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar by null

Highlights

Upscale Italian eatery with veal chop pizzaiola, chicken marsala  

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14306 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 Get directions

espositositaliantampa.com
@espositostampa

$20–30

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14306 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 Get directions

+1 813 769 9098
espositositaliantampa.com
@espositostampa

$20–30

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Last updated

Aug 27, 2025

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A father-and-son operation drawing crowds for generous, New York–Italian comfort—rigatoni alla vodka, braciole, and classics set to Sinatra. Voted Best Italian by Tampa Magazine readers in recent years.

https://espositositaliantampa.com/
Italian Restaurants in Tampa (2025)
View Postcard for Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar

Alex

Google
My experience at Esposito’s Italian Restaurant was deeply disappointing and fell far short of expectations for a fine dining establishment. The veal chop, while flavorful, was not prepared as described on the menu, which was misleading. The grouper and shrimp Francese was an even greater letdown. The dish was significantly undercooked and had an overpowering fishy odor, unlike any grouper I’ve ever tasted. When we raised our concerns with the manager and showed him the dish, he dismissed our feedback without addressing the issue, which was frustrating and unprofessional. At these price points, diners expect exceptional food, impeccable service, and a memorable experience. Unfortunately, Esposito’s failed to deliver on all fronts. Based on this visit, we will not be returning.

Bob Bardel

Google
As Tampa Bay's top-rated Italian restaurant, Esposito's has earned its stellar reputation through exceptional cuisine, outshining even NYC's most revered establishments. The elegant atmosphere recreates the experience of dining at a refined Italian bistro. Moreover, the service is outstanding, deserving of a perfect five-star rating. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, I strongly recommend visiting this exceptional restaurant on Dale Mabry Hwy in Carrolwood. 10 Stars

Tony Costa

Google
There is a reason this amazing family Italian restaurant has such a great reputation and fantastic reviews! First the atmosphere was so warm and inviting. Wonderful are on the walls in the big dinning room. The service and the food were some of the best I have ever had. There was veal saltemboca, eggplant parmigiana, braggole and gnocchi all were amazing. The wine was also terrific. This was our first time and I am really looking forward going back. Keep in ming there are no reservations but we only waited 30 minutes on Saturday night.

Claire Campbell

Google
Outstanding! And I do not use that word lightly. I came in after a long day and just wanted a nice dinner at the bar and that is exactly what I got. Two bartenders, Robbie and Fernando, were manning it and they were engaging, super hard working, attentive and interesting. I got the Eggplant appetizer for just a taste of the sinful stuff and it was amazing. Such a steal! I am taking over half of it home for tomorrow's dinner. It's a full meal for sure. Cheesy and sinful. For my main entree I got the Caesar with salmon expecting the usual 4 ounces of salmon tops but instead got this massive slab. It has been grilled but crisped on top. Amazing. Wine was a very nice pour and a great selection. I got the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

AG Z

Google
Voted #1 Italian Restaurant in Tampa Bay for a reason!!! Go to this restaurant for the most amazing experience - dining five star, white glove with a cozy, retro feel. The food is absolutely delectable! Try their Lump crab meat stuffed Salmon - WOW - The restaurant was classy and the food and drinks were exceptional. No other words! Additionally, the overall ambience and experience you experience is similar to New York or Chicago vibe - here in Tampa - classy yet Tampa casual/cozy. Our visit was topped off by the most attentive and best waiter ever - JOE! Ask for him - he is the best. Highly recommend for any celebratory family, friends night out or business. Ps don’t forget dessert and the wine is exceptional, too!

KATIE PAULK

Google
Esposito’s in Carrollwood is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, the warm, inviting atmosphere and top-notch staff make you feel right at home. The garlic knots are perfectly golden and bursting with flavor, and the fresh, crisp salad is a delightful start. My absolute favorite is the veal Marsala—tender, savory, and paired beautifully with their creamy fettuccine Alfredo, which is pure comfort on a plate. Every dish is crafted with care, and the service is impeccable. I’m a forever fan and will keep coming back as often as I can!

B T (Lord Turnage)

Google
A great place for a fancy dinner. Left stuffed, and had plenty of leftovers. Since it was our first time, they brought us some cannolis at the end which were OUTSTANDING

Wyatt Clark

Google
Angela is an amazing server. Her recommendations and kind approach made the dinner special. We had Grouper Puttanesca, Zuppa and an Esposito special. They were all outstanding dishes. The cannolis were a great topper. If you’re in Tampa and want an authentic Italian dinner - try Espositos.

Lauren M.

Yelp
The atmosphere here is amazing and the food was delicious. Our waiter Angela was very kind and her cappuccino was perfect!
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Arthur F.

Yelp
This is my third time eating at this Italian restaurant. The food does not disappoint. My wife and I shared a veal plate with spaghetti. Delicious. Their sauce is home made, and all the ingredients very fresh. They have a complimentary salad to start your meal that is excellent. This place hits a home run always!
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Todd G.

Yelp
Very good food and a fun atmosphere Love the family style salad and the food is always the right portion size Definitely recommend Just wish they would engage their bar offerings
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Dana S.

Yelp
Don't judge a restaurant by the location they are in. That's my TIP for today. I've passed this strip mall many times and other than checking out 4Rivers when they first opened I've never given the other occupants nary a glance. My daughter recommended it and I decided to give it a try. We went on a Tuesday and luckily we were seated immediately without a reservation. I know it was because we got there early because around 7 the place was getting crowded and by the time we left folks were waiting outside. Drinks: perfectly made. we had patron margarita and on the second order they rimmed with salt vs sugar. immediately fixed. Waitstaff: perfect. we had Percy and even though he's been there only abt 9 mths (i asked) he was knowledgeable on the history and what made the restaurant popular. He was attentive and super nice with the utmost professionalism. Food: nice portions. the salad is included in your order and it was a pleasant departure from the normal standard salad. Dessert. i ordered tiramisu and i'm a snob about this dessert. Everywhere i travel globally if its on the menu I order. the portion was tiny and it was the only item that didn't impress. actually a letdown.
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Vicky F.

Yelp
Food was unfortunately subpar at best. Server was nice but they were slammed on a Friday night so as much as he wants to help, we wait quite awhile for everything.
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Darby T.

Yelp
I've dined in Vegas, little Italy -both San Fran and NYC. This is a wonderful comparative! The food is great! The dessert is magic, imported from Italy. The ambiance perfect, from the music to the decor. The buzz of a full restaurant. The owner greeted us from the hostess stand and walks the floor to make sure you are enjoying your experience. I would dine here again 100 times! Highly recommend! The only thing I could add, gluten free options including pasta would be great! ;))
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Christina O.

Yelp
We were absolutely blown away by the friendly and attentive service, the Amazing food, huge portions and a manager who checked in on us and even gave us some cannolis as a welcome gift. This establishment has Real Italian Culture and Values, which is hard to find in Tampa!!
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Laura M.

Yelp
We have been to Esposito's many, many times! The food is always delicious and enjoyable. I would describe it as authentic New York style Italian food. When we arrived on this Monday evening it was pretty empty. We were seated and in 10 minutes the place was packed! They had a happy hour when we arrived and we each ordered the Aperol Spritz. When it arrived I didn't care for it. For some reason it tasted off to me. When the server returned he asked about our drinks and I told him I wasn't crazy about it and it tasted different! He offered to exchange it and I declined. I hate to send things back! Two minutes later the very sweet bartender appears at our table. He explained to us that they offer two kinds of Aperol Spritz and the server should have explained that. What we really wanted he said was the traditional version!! He scooped up our drinks and returned with two new delicious drinks that were exactly what we were looking for! He was extremely sweet and we really appreciated that! When our server returned we ordered Eggplant Rollatini for our appetizer and for dinner we both ordered the Veal Saltimbocca which is always delicious and is served with a side of pasta. Esposito's gives you delicious garlic rolls and a very nice salad to share included with dinner. We shared a cannoli after dinner for my husband's continued birthday celebrations! We both enjoyed our meal and will continue to go to Esposito's in the future.
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Paola Z.

Yelp
Delicious food, generous portions, friendly and attentive staff, and nice ambiance. Can't wait to go back!
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Janet R.

Yelp
A hidden gem when it comes to authentic Italian cuisine in Tampa! Everything we ordered was delicious!
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Kathy L.

Yelp
Amazing food & service! Love the atmosphere as well. The salad is served family style & is a delight of different flavors, the dressing was extremely good. The garlic rolls were freshly made & delicious! Entrées we enjoyed were the house rigatoni, veal Parmesan, and the gnocchi. All the various sauces were wonderful & the portions were generous. On a side note they don't take reservations for parties under 6 so be prepared to wait a while to be seated.

Barbara G.

Yelp
My son took me out because he wanted to try this place. He'd moved to the area a few months ago. O-M-G!!! I usually stick to basics - spaghetti & meatballs, raviolis, lasagna - but we both decided to try something different. So glad we did. Food was delicious, but after the appetizer, shared salad & garlic rolls, could only finish about a third of my Bucatini Amatriciano. Lots of food, our server, Joe, was the best, of course. Friendly staff, Manager came by. Yes, we took food home, but also got dessert to go. Hope to visit again when I'm in the area (hint to son & daughter-in-law. ) Can highly recommend (I know that's a surprise, right?) Thank you, Joe for all your helpful suggestion & information. My mouth is still saying "more, more" while my stomach is saying "don't you dare!"
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Cheyenne S.

Yelp
Our first time here, we were able to sit at dinner time without a reservation. Our server was a bit bland at first, but I think he opened up by the end. There is a large seating area in the dining room, and a pretty long bar also. We started out with a couple appetizers, the calamari, which was a huge portion. And muscles in red sauce. These had me so impressed, I came back days later for another portion. They serve you warm rolls and a salad when you order a meal. This was a nice touch. I ordered the chicken marsala, and my husband ordered the veal Parmesan. Both were a very nice portion, enough to share between two people. Parking can get a bit crowded at dinner time, but there is a large lot in the plaza. Located off of Dale Mabry it's easy to get in and out of.
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Lauren B.

Yelp
Being from PA, normally strip malls dont house the *best* restaurants. But boy is that not the case here in Fl. This italian place was very clean, all the workers went out of their way to say hello and help us, and the food was toooooo good. We started with the arancini balls, which contain beef, but were tasty with calamari that was tasty but a titch too greasy for my liking. But the main entrees are where its at. My shrimp scampi was decked in garlic, just like the rolls, and just how I like if. The family style salad is also a cute touch. My friend knew how to order best though, her italian wedding cake cocktail and gnocchi bolognese had to be the best 2 things on the menu.
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Miguel N.

Yelp
Went for Mother's Day to treat my wife. Upon arriving the ambiance was delightful. When her plate arrived this is what she got. A plate with a handful of gnocchi and two kid size chicken breasts for $30 covered in cheese sauce. No way! We're not going back. At Olive garden the food is more presentable and appealing.
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Amber W.

Yelp
Has your bread service ever been swimming in garlic butter? Interested in having enough leftovers from one dish to feed two people again? Yet to experience both large portions and great quality food at the same time? This spot delivers Italian food to feed your soul. You'll leave warm and full and happy. It's a family-owned restaurant that gives a bit of an "nice" vibe, as if you were craving Carrabbas but wanted to take your family somewhere a little nicer when they came to town. Everything is executed well and made with love. Even the family-style salad served with each meal. Our table enjoyed the bruschetta-style caponata siciliano and the fried artichoke hearts with the pesto sauce that made you want to lick the ramekin clean. The saltimbocca was surprisingly generous with the veal and was a rare low-carb option at an Italian spot.
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Michael M.

Yelp
The food is authentic. Red sauce is delicious. Friendly service and beautiful atmosphere makes you feel like you're in Italy.
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Dennis S.

Yelp
A wonderful experience start to finish. Short wait for very nice table in the back. Our waiter Jorge was amazing, attentive, helpful and friendly. The lasagna was spectacular, preceded by a delicious salad We finished the meal with a tiramisu, so tasty. We will be back soon.
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Pam R.

Yelp
Loving this place!!! Greg J was the best ever! Helped us to choose. Fettuccine Carbonara for me and braicole for hubby. I lovely old fashioned Italian restaurant. Very fun, family oriented.
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Kim N.

Yelp
Shame of me for not knowing about Espositos! This is the most authentic Italian restaurant I've been to. Everything was perfect and reasonably priced. Located in Carrollwood right next to Chuck E. Cheese , parking can get crowded quickly but it's a quick the around time. The restaurant only takes reservation for 6 or more which is understandable otherwise there would be no tables available for walk ins. I was meeting a friend early Saturday and there was no wait. Once seated , service was insanely good . My friend was 45 mins late and I was ready for the server to kick me out as lines were forming at the door and food had not been ordered. He patiently brought me a drink and let me 'save' the table lol Garlic knots and salad are complimentary . Came out fresh and soft all throughout . I usually don't ask for seconds but they are that addicting. I ordered the Penne a la vodka with chicken 5/5 and my friend had the chicken Marsala 5/5 one of the best one I've had. Both cooked to perfection but the secret was in the sauce. Portion size was huge and shareable. For dessert we had the tiramisu 5/5 absolutely amazing and melts in your mouth. Excited to come back with the kids to try out more items but now reading the other reviews I'm not 100% certain they are kid friendly? I certainly hope so.
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J L.

Yelp
We had the pleasure of dining at Esposito. I have to say coming from New York one of the best experiences we had. From the moment we walked in the service was impeccable. The staff was warm, attentive, and genuinely enthusiastic about the menu, making us feel welcomed and well cared for throughout the evening. The owner also came over to give us a little history of the restaurant. The food? Absolutely outstanding. Every dish we ordered was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The ingredients were fresh, the portions generous, and the attention to detail in both preparation and plating was evident. Whether you're a fan of bold flavors or more classic comfort dishes, there's something on the menu that will impress you. Special shoutout to the Chilean Sea Bass with Shrimp and Risotto - it was a standout and worth coming back for on its own. Overall, Esposito delivers not just a meal, but an experience. With its combination of exceptional food and top-notch service, it's a place I'll definitely be returning to and recommending to family & friends.
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John C.

Yelp
Great hidden gem in carrollwood! The food is amazing and fresh the service is exceptional and the drinks are delicious The manager stopped by our table and when we said it was our first time, sent us delicious cannoli for dessert!! Get there early it gets busy but the service is fast and friendly The mussels are a must try and any of the pasta is can't miss!!
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Tonya B.

Yelp
Always an excellent experience. Tonight was a little rough only because we were in the back room with 2 large table of 25 each. We had to move further away so we could talk. And the server had no issue with that. Delicious pasta and salad! Those garlic rolls. Wow! 5 star rolls.

Amanda S.

Yelp
*Warning to POC and people with Service Animal* Can't really call it a visit I made it two steps inside the restaurant , what a disgrace of a restaurant owner ,our party of 6 people were denied entry into the restaurant for having a service dog in our party. Myself and 2 others from out party of 6 made it 2 steps into the front door of restaurant where, who I now know is the owner came into my face and my personal space asking for papers , "where's your papers and I want the dogs papers " for the a seizure alert dog in our party! mind you the dog was under 11lbs and was sitting inbetween my legs waiting in a seated position with my back to the glass front door while another larger party was checking in ahead of us with the host , which by the way what the owner did is illegal and Against ADA laws! So I added screenshots from ADA website so maybe the owner can read and educate himself on the laws he likes to break , I told him the service dog is for a disability and he's a seizure alert dog for a military veteran, Then when I stood my ground and told him what he was doing was against ADA law and he told us in much more colorful words that we could leave! when I asked for his Name and the business card for the company he told me no and this is when I found out thinking he was just a manager then found out he's was the OWNER!! cursing at me and telling me to get out in much more colorful words! After calling me a lunatic, and a nut job and other words I can't bear repeat out of respect for readers,Then after we went outside to inform the rest of our party what happened , he tried to back track following us out the restaurant trying to talk to Older Male who was my father ,which unbeknownst to the owner ,it was his service dog the owner just refused us entry to his restaurant and I was holding the dog so he could use the restroom prior to us sitting down for dinner and the after I informed the owner that we would possibly be persusing a discrimination lawsuit and then trying to talk to other members of the party's and not me who he cursed and embarrassed , and disrespected! And when no one would listen to the owner nonsense he called us all lunatics and said if we didn't leave this property he would call the police , which we were standing in shared parking lot of a strip mall getting a 93 year old family member back into the vehicle to take our business somewhere else! I can't tell you about the food because I will never step back into this restaurant and I would encourage any military active or retired to refrain from patronizing this restaurant after the disrespect and discrimination that occurred to myself and my father! Ambiance is hostile, discriminatory ,disrespectful and down right disgusting! To co sign that all the bad reviews on yelp were confirmed in less than 15 minute interaction with the owner Paulie Espositos.
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Jerrod S.

Yelp
Amazing, authentic, and one of Tampas best. East coast family making Florida better with their personal touch to great recipes.
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Carl F.

Yelp
Great atmosphere, wonderful staff, a variety of selections on the menu and most importantly, the food is good and fairly large portions. The one things to keep in mind is this place fills up quickly and only take reservations of parties six or more.
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Mark B.

Yelp
I can't believe I've lived in Tampa 24 years and never been to Esposito's. Tried it last night and it was wonderful!! Best Italian in town. Yummy salad, bolognese and those rolls are to die for. Topped it off with limoncello cake. Everyone at the table raved about their meal. Can't wait to return!
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Deanna F.

Yelp
My husband and I came here at 5 o'clock on a Thursday by 6 o'clock. The restaurant was full and I can understand why the food in the service are very good. We ordered the scallop cupcakes which are perfectly done scallops with a mascarpone type cream topped with a little Cherry pepper. House salad came as well as fabulously delicious garlic rolls. We ate them all. My husband ordered the grouper and shrimp franchise. I had the pasta carbonara service was wonderful. It's a spacious large restaurant I would recommend during the week. weekends seem to be extremely busy. Priced right for a family. This is very Enjoyable.
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Farnush J.

Yelp
The pasta was absolutely creamy and rich. The scallops were seared perfectly. The staff gave excellent help. Our waiter was very knowledgeable and helpful. Perfect date night spot. Romantic vibes and family vibes.
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Melanie N.

Yelp
My second review of Esposito's because, well, it's just the best! We started off with the eggplant rolitini which was "the tits" as described by my friend. Also calamari with an orange dipping sauce that I could have bathed in it was so good. The crab risotto has sooooo much flavor it was hard to stop eating because I have no self control. Scallop sambuca and branzino were enjoyed by my dining partners as well. Such a fun atmosphere and great service!
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Sherilyn S.

Yelp
Hidden gem with great service (Thank You Fernando) with wonderful and flavorful cuisines. I cannot wait to try other ones on the menu. The salad with chickpeas and beets were awesome. The bread ...love!! I had the sambuca scallops pasta with fettuccine and I added shrimp.

Suzanne S.

Yelp
Excellent!! Completely authentic, service was as good as the food. Feels like you're at Nonna's house with Sunday sauce. Classic Italian music playing....perfect! Randall is amazing. We will definitely be back!!!! Delicious!
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Steve K.

Yelp
I'm honestly laughing. Went here tonight and the food was good for the most part. We had a meatball that was rancid. Yep, rancid. First manager told us we were lying because they make 10lbs of meatballs every day and the second acted like a 50c mafioso toward my wife. "You don't want to know what I think"! Are you fuc*ing kidding me? I'd already left by this time fortunately as my wife went to the restroom. I'm gonna say this nicely. The management think they are Italian tough guys but they're really Olive Garden servers. We won't be back and don't give them your business. There are way better cheap Italian places locally with same quality food like Olive Garden and Carrabas that are cheaper and their management don't think they are fake tough guys. We've been here often but not again. For the management, you don't want me back in there. Pricks.

Jim T.

Yelp
Esposito's opened in our old neighborhood a few months before we moved. The food was fantastic then and remains excellent. You will always have box to take home that part beyond your capacity to consume. Excellent bar and wine offerings. Service is always great. So anytime we have an excuse to visit the old neighborhood, Esposito's is on our list for dinner!

Jack M.

Yelp
Had an Amazing evening tonight at Esposito's. Between the Food and my waitress Angelina my family couldn't of picked a better place to spend Father's Day - Just incredible. Thumbs up to this Italian Gem..
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Charlie G.

Yelp
First time here... and really enjoyed it. Service is top notch, great people, very helpful and friendly. Nicely laid out, and plenty of seating. We had a party of nine, and they took care of us quickly and competently. Food was good, I had the Shrimp and Grouper Franchese, and it was a nice portion. The sauce was very mild, not very tangy, but tasty. Grouper was perfect and wonderful... and the shrimp, well... I could have eaten those all night! Pasta (spaghetti) was perfect also, although I would have preferred Angel Hair (just a personal preference) The house salad that was brought to the table was very good, just iceberg with a wonderful Italian dressing, some diced tomato, some diced beets, and some garbanzo beans. Wine was excellent, a single glass of Malbec... very nice. Dessert was ok. I asked our waitperson which he preferred, the Lemoncello cake or the Chocolate cake, and he suggested the Fuhgetaboutit Pie... so went with that. Basically a chocolate mousse with heavy peanut butter overtones in an oreo crust. Heavy, and a large portion. I will probably stick to one of the cakes next time. I had a wonderful espresso with my dessert... it was really good! No shots of the main course, I got distracted... but I did get dessert.
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Lisa W.

Yelp
We had a great dinner for 10 people! Everything was delicious! The meals started off with the family style salad and we loved everything! We also received the complimentary garlic knots that the owner's family has been making/eating for over 50 years. The best garlic knots in Tampa Bay! The restaurant gets crowded because it serves some of the best Italian in our area! Dine in! You won't be disappointed. I only had a few photos, but others in our group had the Gnocchi with portabello mushrooms (she loved this special), a few had the huge seafood/pasta dish which looked amazing! I had the Grouper Puttanesca and would definitely order again. Take a minute to look around the restaurant. Family traditions are everywhere... even in the decor! And, it's a nice touch when the managers/owners check on you during the meal, and introduce themselves.
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Carissa W.

Yelp
All the one star reviews specifically left about management/owners are accurate. I can't believe the way I've witnessed them speak to employees, especially in front of guests. Terrible environment overall, and the place is also disgusting. I've seen numerous cockroaches multiple times that I've eaten here. Avoid at all costs
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Stephanie L.

Yelp
*Review Updated* My earlier review has easily been validated. See manager's passive aggressive, and insecurity shine in the comment below.
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Roberta M.

Yelp
4/20/24 - My husband and I were the guests of a couple we've known for many years. They selected the restaurant based on its location midway between where each of lives but neither they nor we had ever been there before, nor did we know of anyone who did. Apparently we were among the few who didn't know what a GEM this place is! Despite it being an early dinner time, there was already about a 30 min wait. It's been over a year since we'd gotten together so we began to catch up on the bench out side. Every time the door opened, the aromas were fantastic. About 20 min later we were called and escorted to a nice booth. The interior is neither fussy nor bland but comfortable. Our server John, was clearly both experienced and polished. He knew the menu, offered wine suggestions and paced that, appetizers and our entrees perfectly. The Chianti was wonderful both before and with our food. All of us shared an appetizer and ordered 4 different entrees which came with salad options. The food was beautifully presented and delicious. Portions were ample and filled us so that we weren't able to face dessert. This may have been the first time my husband and I were there, but it will most definitely will not be our last! Next time I will also focus on a making a reservation.
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Brigitte L.

Yelp
Found this place in my search for Italian food and excited because it's so close to home! Wait time when we arrived around 8 was 35 minutes which wasn't bad. We sat outside on the bench they have available and waited. Called in at exactly 35 minutes. Immediately greeted by our server who was so attentive and friendly the entire night! We ordered the fried mozzarella as the appetizer along with the peasant soup. The mozzarella was lightly fried and what I loved was you got more cheese than breading! This was definitely delicious! I wish there was more than 2 on the plate! The peasant soup was just wow! So worth it and a must try. Perfectly salted and kept me going back for more. Dinner was the chicken parm which WOWZA the chicken was melt in your mouth tender and the sauce was delicious! It comes with a side of spaghetti. The rigatoni with sausage and peppers was delicious. The sauce was light and you get the flavor of that sausage! Rigatoni a la vodka was delicious also! The portions are huge so be prepared to take some home!! Meals are served with a house salad and garlic knots. The salad has chickpeas, tomatoes, beets and lettuce with their house made Italian dressing. Absolutely fresh tasting and so good. I love the bets on the salad. And don't even get me stared on how good the garlic knots are! They have bar, booth and table seating. All indoors. It's dark so we did have a bit of trouble seeing the menu. And the atmosphere is loud. Overall great experience and this is now on my list as one of my top fav Italian restaurants!! Although I think I probably gained 7 lbs just in 1 visit. lol. But it's DANG GOOD!!
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Nancy B.

Yelp
Just ok. I don't really get the hype. At the suggestion of our server I ordered the carbonara. Definitely not authentic, too creamy, almost an Alfredo, and a bit light on the guanciale. My husband had the lasagne. It was, well, lasagne. Complimentary salad was adequate, kinda salty though. The garlic bread came in a bowl of the garlic sauce and was messy, but tasty. Basic red sauce place, nothing that would impress your Nonna. Oh, good wine by the glass!
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Evan C.

Yelp
Family dinner and party of 7. Party of 7 shouldn't be an issue for an experienced server but our server struggled a bit. As in typical large parties, shared appetizers including baked clams, calamari and artichoke hearts. Entrees included veal piccata, Mediterranean Sea Bass, chicken Frances's, pasta, ect. We had several different wines and great recommendation from the server. Everything was excellent.
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Dumon P.

Yelp
IF YOU ARE A POC, BEWARE!!!!! I found this establishment online last night and thought I'd give it a shot. I was overly excited to do so as I have had a taste for pasta lately. Everything went well, at least in my eyes (the person who went with me thought otherwise) until the end of our meal. As we finished our meals, who I perceived to be the manager (a caucasian appearing gentleman) approached our table with a plate of cannolis and said "your waiter Gustavo, said you were well behaved today" and the proceeded to offer the plate of cannolis to us. Imagine the look on our faces as we are two visibly POC!!! As to not cause a scene I attempted to keep my mouth shut, until the gentlemen questioned the look on my face. I picked up the plate, sat it in front of him and turned down the free offer. He then proceeded to question my concern, and when I expressed what he said was inappropriate, he said "I say that to every guest". STILL NOT SEEING THE ERROR IN HIS STATEMENT. Upon reflection, now it made perfect sense why we seemed to have been the only POC patrons dining at the moment. WE WILL NEVER BE COMING BACK HERE! P.S. this is not a negative review against Gustavo, as his service was generally warming, besides him being in a rush.

AJ R.

Yelp
My family and I eat here regularly because it is consistently good. It is very reasonably priced, considering we never leave without taking enough food home with us to have 2 more meals. The staff and owners are very friendly and attentive and we've never had a bad experience.

Ryan M.

Yelp
Ok, been to the best of the best in Tampa but the service, by JOHN, and the food was more than fantastic. We went to celebrate a birthday but will be going back for the food and the service. ABSOLUTLY the BESt!!!!

Maggie B.

Yelp
Food, service, and ambiance were wonderful! We have been back many times. Best fettuccine Alfredo I've ever had!
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Krystle M.

Yelp
I am so happy to have discovered Esposito's! Our experience was probably just the first of many to come! While our server was a little off-putting at the beginning, he quickly relaxed after we placed an order for the calamari appetizer. He also admitted to being relatively new, so I expect that he will lighten up with some more experience. It was a Saturday night when we arrived between 6 and 615 and were quoted about 30 minutes. I plopped my toddler at a bar seat and ordered a glass of wine to pass the time. All of the patrons and bar staff were so comical and welcoming. About 30 minutes later, our party of 3 was seated. I ordered the pear Fiocchi with chicken, which was good, but quite sweet, as others reported. The baby had linguine with butter and Parmesan, which he happily ate, but I was a little disappointed that they didn't have a kids menu. If they did, our server told us firmly no way. I was hoping for a smaller pasta that baby could handle a little easier and more efficiently. Our dining mate had shrimp scampi, which he reported was very good, and we both enjoyed the salad and garlic knots, which were complimentary with dinner. With no room for dessert, we took our leftovers in boxes, and I later experienced a night of holy heartburn. Let's just say there was a LOT of garlic in the garlic knots. Regardless of my not so happy ending, I plan to bring my parents back very soon! This place easily rivals Bella's and I can't wait for them to try it!
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Joseph H.

Yelp
Fantastic food, and best lobster ravioli I've ever had. Atmosphere is great definitely recommend one of the big booths if you can get it!