Cafe Vico, nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a culinary gem that has been delighting diners with its exquisite Italian cuisine for over two decades. This family-owned restaurant has earned a reputation for serving some of the city's best dishes, made with the freshest ingredients and presented with impeccable style. In this review, we will delve into the world of Cafe Vico, exploring its rich history, mouth-watering menu, and exceptional service, to understand what makes it the best dining experience in town.
A Brief History of Cafe Vico
Cafe Vico was founded in 1997 by the Vico family, who brought with them a passion for traditional Italian cooking and a commitment to using only the finest ingredients. Over the years, the restaurant has evolved, but its core values have remained the same. The Vico family’s dedication to excellence has earned them a loyal following, with diners returning time and time again to experience the warm hospitality and exceptional cuisine that Cafe Vico has to offer.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Cafe Vico is a love letter to Italy, with dishes that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage. From the antipasti to the dolci, every dish is carefully crafted to delight the senses. Some highlights include the Grilled Octopus, served with a zesty lemon-herb sauce, and the Risotto alla Pescatora, a seafood lover’s dream, featuring shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a rich, saffron-infused broth. The Veal Parmigiana is another standout, with tender cutlets breaded and fried to perfection, served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
A visit to Cafe Vico would not be complete without trying one of their signature desserts. The Tiramisu is a must-try, with ladyfingers soaked in espresso and liqueur, layered with a creamy mascarpone cheese mixture. The Panna Cotta is another delicious option, topped with a mixed berry compote and a sprinkle of sugar.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Octopus | Octopus grilled to perfection, served with lemon-herb sauce | $18 |
| Risotto alla Pescatora | Seafood risotto with shrimp, scallops, and mussels | $32 |
| Veal Parmigiana | Breaded and fried veal cutlets, served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli | $28 |
| Tiramisu | Ladyfingers soaked in espresso and liqueur, layered with mascarpone cheese mixture | $10 |
| Panna Cotta | Creamy panna cotta topped with mixed berry compote and sugar | $12 |
Service and Ambiance
The service at Cafe Vico is top-notch, with a friendly and attentive staff who are always happy to help. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a cozy dining room that features dark wood accents, white tablecloths, and soft lighting. The outdoor seating area is also a lovely spot to enjoy a meal, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature.
Special Events and Catering
Cafe Vico is also available for special events and catering, making it the perfect choice for weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events. The restaurant’s experienced staff will work closely with you to create a customized menu and ensure that every detail is taken care of, resulting in a stress-free and memorable experience for you and your guests.
In addition to its exceptional cuisine and service, Cafe Vico also offers a range of special events and promotions throughout the year. From wine pairings and live music nights to holiday-themed menus and cooking classes, there's always something new and exciting happening at Cafe Vico.
What type of cuisine does Cafe Vico serve?
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Cafe Vico serves traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Does Cafe Vico offer catering services?
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Yes, Cafe Vico offers catering services for special events and parties. The restaurant’s experienced staff will work closely with you to create a customized menu and ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Can I make a reservation at Cafe Vico?
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Yes, reservations are highly recommended at Cafe Vico, especially on weekends and during peak season. You can make a reservation by calling the restaurant or using online reservation platforms.
