C U I S I N E
FAMILY STYLE
COMFORT
Babbo’s Rustic Italian Bistro and Wine Bar
By Margaret Word Burnside and Aaron R. Fodiman
The Eggplant Parmigiana at Babbo’s, which covers the entire plate,
OF ALL THE ETHNIC FOODS
available in this country, Italian
is probably the most universally
enjoyed. The flavors are rich, straightforward
and please the palates of those who
encounter them. There are many Italian
restaurants that make bold attempts to
improve on this classic cuisine, but like
in so many other things, basic Italian food
that adheres to the traditional recipes is
usually the most satisfying. Babbo’s is
reminiscent of what you might find
throughout Italy’s countryside.
To begin, there are the standards such
as Mussels Marinara or Mussels in white
wine and garlic, Shrimp Cocktail, Crab
Cakes, Fried Calamari, Chicken Tenders,
a Caprese Salad of tomatoes and fresh
mozzarella, a Cheese and Veggie Platter
and a not-to-be-missed Bruschetta that
places the standard recipes on hearty
For lunch, they also offer wraps and
burgers for those who want something
lighter. However, they serve their homemade
desserts, such as their light and tasty
tiramisu, at both meals for the perfect
ending to your dining experience.
The warm, homemade bread, tasty
dipping oil and efficient, friendly service
added to the enjoyment of our meal, as
did the pleasant background music that
ranges from opera to Louis Prima. This is
a place where the entire family will feel
comfortable.
9
EDITOR’S NOTE: Babbo’s Rustic Italian Bistro
and Wine Bar is located at 13575 58th Street
North, Suite 111, in Clearwater, (727) 538-4273.
is topped with their delicious, hearty marinara.
bread, which is then baked in order to
create a uniquely delicious appetizer. There
is also a soup of the day, as well as fourteen
salads, most of which can be turned into
a meal by adding grouper, salmon, shrimp,
scallops, chicken or steak.
Babbo’s pasta selections range from
Meatballs or Sausage with Marinara or
Alfredo Sauce to a gigantic serving of
Ravioli with Cheese or Seafood. The
Baked Manicotti and their Eggplant are
both spectacular. They also offer two
steaks and chicken four ways – Piccata,
Marsala, Parmigiana or with shrimp in a
gorgonzola sauce.
The seafood dishes include Shrimp
Marinara, a combination of Shrimp and
Scallops with gorgonzola, Grouper Piccata,
Salmon Babbo’s, and Mussels, all of which
are made to order, so they can be modified
to suit you.
192 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015