Phil Sherman
Google
Vitolo Italian Restaurant – Where Flavor Meets Flair & an Energetic vibe that makes you feel alive!
If you’re in search of a high-end Italian dining experience with a lively, celebratory atmosphere, Vitolo—located inside the elegant Conrad Hotel 🏨 in Fort Lauderdale—will absolutely deliver. This is not your quiet 🤫 corner trattoria; it’s an immersive experience that brings modern Italian 🇮🇹 sophistication to life with style and spirit.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by beautifully designed interiors. A few steps down through arched ceiling walkways lead you to a warm and inviting dining room. Royal blue glass wall displays glow softly against warm lighting, striking a perfect balance between chic and cozy.
Service & Cocktails:
The service at Vitolo is exceptional—attentive without being overbearing. The cocktail 🍹 program is thoughtfully crafted to pair with the richness of the cuisine. I opted for an espresso martini 🍸 that was both smooth and energizing, while my wife enjoyed her go-to Aperol Spritz 🍹 , executed with classic precision and a refreshing twist.
Culinary Intentions & Starters:
The culinary philosophy at Vitolo seems to be rooted in elevating traditional Italian dishes while keeping them accessible, shareable, and deeply flavorful. Our table started with the cacio e pepe, a timeless Roman dish that was theatrically plated tableside. The pasta 🍜 , perfectly al dente, was gently bathed 🧽 in a creamy, pepper-forward sauce and finished with a luxurious shaving of truffles 🍄🟫 . It was rich, decadent, and shared as a perfect opener to the meal—clearly intended to showcase the harmony of simplicity and indulgence.
Main Courses:
Each main course reflected a careful balance between technique and tradition.
My wife and her friend chose the lemon 🍋 chicken 🐓 - lightly floured and pan-fried 🥘, served with crispy roasted potatoes 🥔 and a velvety lemon 🍋 sauce that complemented rather than overpowered. It was a bright, clean dish, designed to highlight the freshness of ingredients and balance richness with acidity.
My friend’s double-cut lamb 🐑 chops were a showstopper—beautifully grilled, seasoned with restraint, and plated with charred carrots 🥕 and asparagus that added smokiness and depth. The lamb 🐑 was tender and bursting with natural flavor.
As for me, I went with the signature chicken 🐔 parmigiana, a beloved classic that Vitolo does not shy away from embracing in full force. Pounded thin for a delicate bite, encrusted in golden breadcrumbs 🥖 , and topped with a silky tomato 🍅 sauce, it was bold and satisfying. The portion was generous—overflowing the plate in true Italian hospitality—and made for excellent leftovers. I added a side of sautéed mushrooms 🍄🟫 with peas 🫛 , a nod to rustic tradition with a pop of earthiness and texture that rounded out the dish.
Dessert:
We couldn’t skip dessert, especially since we were celebrating my wife’s birthday 🎉 . We shared a beautifully presented cannoli and a creamy, coffee-kissed tiramisu. The cannoli was crisp on the outside with a velvety filling, while the tiramisu struck the ideal balance between light and luscious. With a sparkler 🎇 and a round of festive cheers, the evening ended on a sweet, celebratory note.
Final Thoughts:
Vitolo captures the essence of Italian dining—warmth, vibrance, and a love for great food shared among friends. The culinary intention is clear: elevate the classics while creating an atmosphere that invites both indulgence and joy.
Highly recommended. Just don’t forget to get your parking 🅿️ validated if you’re using the hotel 🏨 valet 🚙 . Buon appetito!