We have always been invited to cross the waters to Clearwater for dinner at our friend Lenny Cristino and his brothers place, Cristino’s Coal Brick ,Oven Pizza at 1101 South Ft Harrison Ave. This is an authentic Italian fare restaurant. Winner of the Best Pizza in the Bay and hundred of other awards on the wall. A beautiful night out and they have a lighted and landscaped patio for dining. Three of us made the night out, Mathieu, Mark & Carrie. The reservation lines were out the door but we got settled inside next to the counter where we could talk with Lenny working in the kitchen. Just like eating at a first class pampered chefs table.
” That couple comes in every Saturday night.” Lenny told us smiling. “And those guys drive in a couple of times a month from Orlando just to come and eat.” The glass showcase had a variety of homemade Ravioli’s, homemade Manicotti, and a huge glassed freezer full of 20 kinds of freshly handmade Italian Gelato. All made by a secret family recipe we were told. People were lined up just to order the gelato or get samples. We told Lenny to order us whatever he wanted, we didn’t care it all looked so good dishes coming from the kitchen. “I want to let you know we make our own mozzarella cheese, grind and make our own pastas, our sauces…” Wow, I thought we were in old Italy!
We were first brought Calamari Fritti,and a Shrimp Manicotti appetizer. Out of this world! We were there to relax, eat and share. Then came the specials of the night Key West Shrimp over Tilapia, Fresh Pesto Pasta, and Margherita Di Lusso Pizza made with fresh homemade mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, basil and fresh oregano. It was so aromatic fresh and very savory to all our eyes and our filling appetites. Stop!!! We were all full. Except Mathieu who said bring on the sampler tray of gelato! The Italian boutique spot has a full variety menu of vegetarian, chicken and fish entrees, salads, pasta dishes and of course their fantastic pizzas. Thank You Lenny and terrific staff for a great night out. www.cristinospizzeria.com
Keep on the look out, Lenny wants to add another location in South Tampa very soon.