Emilio’s Ballato, a legendary Italian restaurant in New York City, has long been a hotspot for celebrities. Recently, it hosted Taylor Swift, along with Blake Lively, Sophie Turner, and Brittany Mahomes. Now, the executive chef of Emilio’s Ballato, Anthony Vitolo, has partnered with Miami hospitality guru Rob Crosoli to open a new Italian restaurant in South Florida: Vitolo. Located inside the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach hotel, Vitolo aims to bring the same no-frills, classic Italian cuisine with a touch of seafood to the area.
Vitolo is not just about catering to celebrities; it is a place where everyone is welcome. Both Vitolo and Crosoli emphasize their desire to create an inclusive dining experience for the local community. Their vision is to build a long-lasting relationship with the people of Fort Lauderdale. They want Vitolo to be approachable and welcoming to all, regardless of their status.
Vitolo offers a three-pronged dining experience to its guests. The first room, called Vitolo’s “Cucina,” provides a chef’s table-style environment for an intimate dining experience. The second room, “Sala Arco,” is an art deco-inspired supper club lounge, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal and drinks. The outdoor “Terrazza” offers al fresco dining with breathtaking ocean views. Unlike Emilio’s Ballato, which has an exclusive back room accessible only to a select few, Vitolo provides a private dining room with a similar atmosphere that is available to all patrons.
Vitolo will continue to oversee his post at Emilio’s Ballato in Soho while also taking charge of the kitchen at Vitolo in Fort Lauderdale. He plans to travel back and forth to ensure that both locations maintain the same standard of excellence. Vitolo expresses his gratitude for his family’s support, allowing him to expand his brand as a chef and bring his culinary skills to Florida.
When it comes to the go-to dish at Vitolo, both Vitolo and Crosoli agree that the Vitello Antonio takes the spotlight. This dish, already a favorite at Emilio’s Ballato, features a 16-ounce veal chop, pounded thin and coated in panko breadcrumbs. It is then fried and served in a vodka sauce with peas, prosciutto, and fresh mozzarella. The dish is topped with a crispy broiled layer. The veal chop is served bone-in, adding an extra touch of flavor to this exquisite creation.
If the long waits and limited availability at Emilio’s Ballato deterred you from experiencing their culinary offerings, fear not. Vitolo in Fort Lauderdale accepts reservations, making it easier for guests to secure a table and enjoy the authentic Italian cuisine. Operating hours are Sundays to Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 11 p.m.
With the opening of Vitolo, South Florida residents and visitors now have the opportunity to savor the same exceptional Italian dishes that made Emilio’s Ballato a celebrity magnet. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Vitolo promises a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone can indulge in the timeless flavors of Italy. Don’t miss out on this new dining experience by the beach!
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