Il Contadino

My husband and I were initially going to go to the restaurant next door to here for dinner, but we were drawn into Il Contadino by the music and ambience. Our experience with Michael, who was the only person working (waiter/chef/owner) was amazing. It was a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle. The food was great, wine selection was astounding, and it felt like an authentic New York Italian restaurant. I have absolutely no complaints.

I never write reviews but I had to warn future patrons. Easily put: do not waste your money or your appetite at this place. My girlfriend and I were looking for a nice meal in Pineapple Grove. Roses daughter next door had an 1.5 hr wait so we decided to give this restaurant a try. I got the short rib over spaghetti and my girlfriend had the “branzino.” Horribly prepared, lacking flavor and culinary experience. The food was not quality and we were charged around $45 per entree. I have never felt scammed like this before. The waiter and also chef and maybe owner? Never asked how the food was or cared that we clearly were not happy even after we only ate 25% of our meals. We got the Bill and complained. He ignored our requests. The inside smelled and looked like it had not been cleaned or sat in, in a few months (dusty and old). Boxes everywhere. There was even a small camping stove inside the restaurant with onions on it that seemed old as well. Bathroom was also dirty. Avoid this joint and save your money. You are better going to McDonald’s or ordering a pizza from a chain.

I will start with the fantastic jazz night, the entertainment is absolutely wonderful. Pasta took more than 45 min to get on the table. Servers were with disorder. Our server got lost for 20 min around, then we had to ask for help a different one. Food is normal, I’m not going to say it’s the worst but it’s not the best. The entertainment singer was who made me like the dinner. We asked for the check and the server gave us a broke phone to sign and whatever the check. I won’t come back but I guess around you can find something better.

Legitimately one of the best dinning experiences I've had in years. The food is out of this world, the atmosphere was authentic & the owner couldn't have went further out of his way to make sure we enjoyed everything (including making food that wasn't even on the menu, like a veggie platter). It genuinely felt like I was having dinner at Arthur Ave in the Bronx, New York. Also, they must have 1,000s of different kinds of wine & the owner is one of the most knowledgeable people I've met when it comes to Wine. I cannot recommend this place anymore to anyone who wants an authentic Italian Dining Experience.

Absolutely Fabulous! Michael (the owner) stayed open late for us, and blew us away with homemade pastas and traditional Italian dishes like only a grandmother can make. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and delicious - and made with a care that shows he loves his work. This is a restaurant not to miss if you like Italian food and you are anywhere in South Florida! Buonissimo!

Had dinner there Monday night. The place was empty which is not a problem but there was a wait for the food. I had chicken saltimbocca which had absolutely no flavor. My girlfriend had pasta which was overcooked. She had the runs that night and next day. My stomach was also upset. Terrible experience. Never again