Fine dining is defined by a restaurant experience that is sophisticated and unique, albeit a bit more pricey than one would find in your average restaurant — but definitely worth it.
Nestled on Ocean Avenue, just off the beaten path in downtown Stuart is a lovely, romantic Itspanlispann restspanurspannt cspanlled Pepe &spanmp; Sspanle. Translation: Pepper and Salt, your basic seasonings, but there is nothing basic about this exquisite wine bistro serving modern gourmet Italian cuisine with impeccable service.
Owned and operated by the Cavallaro family, via Sicily and Brooklyn, they have brought their love of delicious food, wine, and exceptional service to sunny Florida. Considering the amount of indoor and al fresco diners, word is out and they are a hit!
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A reservation guaranteed us a cozy table and we marveled at the tasteful decor and noshed on complimentary house-made garlic bread.
We began with the Tortellini in Brodo ($10). Rich house made beef broth brimming with hand-made meat stuffed Tortellini and a pinch of nutmeg. It was hearty and flavorful.
We also sampled a half portion of Insalata Di Spinaci ($7). Tender baby spinach with sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and sliced mushrooms tossed with a gorgonzola dressing. It was a wonderful meld of tastes and textures.
My husband found all of the components he loves in a meal, the Tagliata Di Manzo Alla Toscana ($29). One of Italy’s most popular dishes, tender and thinly sliced grilled New York strip steak with fresh peppery arugula, rosemary, black pepper, and shaved parmigiano cheese finished with extra virgin olive oil. It was a stunning presentation and I struggled to take the photo before he dove in.
The fresh house made Tagliatelle Alla Bolgnese ($26) was my choice. Freshly made pasta with its chewy, bouncy texture and rich flavor make it so much better than the dried variety. This, coupled with a slow braised beef, pork, and vegetable ragu made for one exceptional entree.
For dessert, I simply couldn’t resist my absolute favorite, Llmoncello cake ($9) . A wonderful pairing of sweet and tart and an excellent palate cleanser.
There is so much to love about this charming restaurant. The exceptional service, the passion and care put into every dish, the professionalism, the epicurean delights along with an impressive wine collection.
This authentic European style establishment is bound to impress even the most sophisticated palate.
Pepe & Sale
Cuisine: Italian
Address: 101 SE Ocean Blvd Stuart
Phone: 772-872-6251
Hours: Monday-Thursday 4pm-9pm; Friday/Saturday 4pm-10pm; Closed Sunday
Alcohol: Beer and Wine
Online: pepe-sspanle.com