Caffe' — Restaurant in San Carlos Park

da Michele Osteria e Pizzeria is nestled in what was once Rosatti’s at 15245 S Tamiami Trl #1, Fort Myers, FL.

Here, in the heart of SW Florida's sprawl, the authenticity of Italy finds its roots. Da Michele Osteria e Pizzeria has transformed this space into a portal to the old country, where the simplicity of true Italian cuisine reigns supreme.

We started with the Pappardelle alla Bolognese – a dish that respects the ritual of slow cooking, the meat melding into the sauce with a patience that only time can perfect. Each strand of pasta, made from imported semolina flour, possessed the right bite, the kind that tells you it's been crafted with care, not compromise.

Then came the Cavatelli alla Pugliese, a testament to the Puglian sun, the tomatoes bursting with a sweet acidity, balanced by the earthy undertones of the vegetables. It's food that doesn’t shout; it whispers, inviting you to lean in and listen to the story of its origin.

But the real magic happened when the owner, a man whose eyes sparkle with the tales of his homeland, approached. With each shared story, it felt like we weren’t just diners but travelers, momentarily transported to Italy. He introduced us to beverages, not just drinks, but liquid history - each with its own narrative.

This place, da Michele Osteria e Pizzeria, isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing Italy in its most unadulterated form. In a world where authenticity often feels like a lost art, here's a place where it finds refuge. Go, sit, eat, listen. You might just find yourself, like me, a little more Italian by the end...

Da Michele opened in Fort Myers two months ago and is under the same ownership as Caffe da Michele in Estero. We were personally greeted by the owner, Michele and I was given a long-stemmed rose for Valentine’s Day. Michele wanted all the women there to feel special. It was very sweet.

Our server was very friendly, knowledgeable and efficient. We started with wine, a glass of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cantina Teanum, Puglia and Valpolicella Ripasso Superione, La Sorte, Veneto. Both were quite lovely.

With our wine came a basket of bread with olive oil, garlic dipping sauce. We enjoyed both until there was no more! For mains, we ordered Pappardelle alla Bolognese with two meatballs added at our request and Casarecce alla Pugliese (Broccoli Rabe, sausage, garlic , red chill peppers and ricotta salata). Each was fantastic.

The atmosphere was especially nice with a man playing the accordion. I really want the word to spread, so that Michele may receive the success he deserves. This restaurant hits...

Outstanding dining experience! I first experienced Michele’s fantastic food and service at his restaurant in Estero Mall. For Valentine’s Day, we visited his new location in Fort Myers with family, and it did not disappoint.

The starters were exceptional—especially the beef capaccio and fried calamari. For the main course, we enjoyed the branzino, salmon, pesto gnocchi, lamb, and ravioli stuffed with meat or lobster. Dessert was equally impressive, with pistachio-stuffed ravioli and tiramisu.

The wine recommendations, particularly La Sorte and Alanera, were excellent. Highly recommend! Thank you so much, Michele! We wish you great success with your restaurants, and may the food continue to be spectacular. Highly...