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Il Tesoro-Sanibel Reviews List

Il Tesoro-Sanibel

IL Tesoro Ristorante, the restaurant name which means ,"the Treasure" in Italian, features authentic Italian cuisine with a modern sophisticated touch using only the freshest seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a festive experience in a Bistro-style setting, with hundreds of Italian wines and dozens of original oil paintings decorating the walls. Open kitchen flair is added enjoyment of the evening as you can watch your dinner being carefully prepared. Our menu is the total creation of Chef/Owner, AJ Black, where his motto reigns supreme, “Fresh Ingredients, simplicity, love are the recipe for a treasured dining experience."
See more Il Tesoro-Sanibel details
102 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
(102 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 102 reviews
5 stars
(60)
4 stars
(36)
3 stars
(2)
2 stars
(3)
1 star
(1)
Food 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Service 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.3 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(65)
  • special occasion(47)
  • neighborhood gem(42)
  • romantic(40)
  • notable wine list(35)
  • hot spot(9)
Il Tesoro-Sanibel Reviews List
Review 1 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful dining experience!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was exceptional and generous in proportion. The filet was perfectly cooked, accompanied by delicious vegetables. Service was attentive and knowledgeable. And the lemoncello parfait dessert is not to be missed! Loved it!"
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 2 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We always try to eat here twice during our visits. The food is fantastic, delicious italian food, we had osso bucco and short ribs with gnocci. The dessert was excellent, good strong coffee. And topping the meal off with wine, what could be better!"
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 3 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

a hidden gem

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We'd been to Sanibel several times in the last few years, but never even noticed this great little Italian gem, tucked away behind an art gallery near the start of the San-Cap Road. The food is authentic (by way of the owners' New York roots) and delicious. The quirky decor sets a nice ambiance. The staff is attentive and helpful. We'll definitely be back on future trips, and we'll be sure to try their sister establishment on the upper East Side next time we're in NYC!"
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 4 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mom's vacation highlight

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Eating here was one of the highlights of my mom only vacation! Loved loved loved it!!!!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
0points
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Review 5 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

for a special occassion

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"wonderful evening with great food. Lots to chose from so I hope to come back for another special time to have something different. My husband had the sea bass and said it was one of the best he had--even better then the fish at a well known chef in New York. This was off season so it was quiet but I could not have asked for a better evening"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 6 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice Little Find

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A very nice meal with great ambience in a little space with a lot of character. It offered all the frills of a fine dining restaurant with the charm and island flare that is Sanibel. They have a great balance of menu offerings and their lamb with a reduced balsamic was absolutely delicious!"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2012
Special Features: notable wine list
+1point
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Review 7 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

A bit underwhelmed...

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We went to Il Tesoro-Sanibel as it had one of the highest rated restaurants on Sanibel thru Open Table and other rating sites. We were a bit underwhelmed. The service was excellent. It was very noisy, but that didn't bother us. It was the food which left us underwhelmed, especially considering the prices. The calimari appetizer (fried) was good, but the sauce with it was more reminiscent of something from a jar. Required a lot of parmesan cheese to add excitement. The lobster ravioli and seafood risotto were OK - but at those prices I would have thought they would be exceptional. The best part of the meal was a lemoncello sorbet. The creme brulee was pedestrian."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2007
Special Features: good for groups
0points
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Review 8 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We went here for our last

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We went here for our last night in Sanibel and had a very good meal. My husband thought the sea bass was outstanding and we both really enjoyed the anti-pasti. The staff and service was very friendly and attentive. They were even able to accommodate our 6 year old. If your looking for a special or splurge meal that is different from the standard fare in the area, go here."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2007
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
+1point
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Review 9 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This is one of our favorite

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is one of our favorite restaurants......anywhere. The daily specials are always superb.....and yet the regular menu has choices to which we can't seem to say "no". Taylor Trinkle, the chef, does a marvelous job with everything he creates. It's a "special" place and we recommend it to everyone who desires a great dining experience."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
+1point
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Review 10 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A step above restaurant in

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A step above restaurant in an resort town. Excellent, over the top great food, huge portions, fun waiter, attentive owner, only wish I had room for dessert! Great tables for four people, would have preferred a larger table for the five of us, I would not go with a huge group. Otherwise, I would recommend this to everyone!!!!"
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
+1point
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Review 11 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fantastic food in a comfortable

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fantastic food in a comfortable setting. You could be in a small village restaurant in Italy. We've been twice and have loved our food both times. Definitely a gem!"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic
+1point
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Review 12 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Small but very special restaurant.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Small but very special restaurant. Open kitchen so a little noisy. Wait staff are excellent, knowledgeable and attentive. Food was great."
Dined on 04/11/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
+1point
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Review 13 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Magnific!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
"As outstanding in atmosphere, service and cuisine as I remember from my trip to Sanibel last year. Bravo"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2009
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
+1point
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Review 14 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delicious food and an espresso

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Delicious food and an espresso the way it should be!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
+1point
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Review 15 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

This is a wonderful, if unevenly

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This is a wonderful, if unevenly priced, well staffed, and thoughtfully considered gem."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
+1point
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Review 16 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food and service were

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food and service were terrific. The space is small so it's a bit croweded. We go every year we are in Sanibel and would highly recommend it. It's a bit pricy but well worth it."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
+1point
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Review 17 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A sanibel treat

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I love the open kitchen. The antipasto is a must!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
+1point
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Review 18 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A must for anyone looking

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A must for anyone looking for a great meal while on Sanibel"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
+1point
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Review 19 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A great change of pace

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is, without question, the best Italian food I've found on Sanibel Island!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic
+1point
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Review 20 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our evening at Il Tesoro was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
"Our evening at Il Tesoro was pleasant. The service was very strong and the menu was well rounded. The wine list was very limited, poorly edited and very expensive -- not a match for the menu. The bill, moreover, was astounding placing the restaurant way out of the competitive frame on the island. A good dining experience but bring an armored car and be prepared to feel taken."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2001
Special Features: hot spot
0points
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Review 21 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Nothing to rave about

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"After reading the rave reviews for this restaurant, I was looking forward to a memorable meal. However, the food was only OK and seemed over priced for what we received. I ordered the snapper over risotto. The risotto was good, but the sauce and snapper had little flavor. The key lime tiramisu was good. Overall, the meal was not worth the price and was nothing to rave about."
Dined on 03/28/2013
 2010
0points
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Review 22 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

N

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food and service was outstanding!! Highly recommend for fine evening dinning."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2013
Special Features: late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 23 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent food preparation

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent food preparation and presentation in a quaint Italian "family-style" setting. Diners will enjoy the visit, food, and service. PS: if time permits, visit the art galary located in the building just in front of Il Tesoro."
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
+1point
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Review 24 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food was fantastic...my wife

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was fantastic...my wife and daughter were fighting over the last bites of Lobster Ravioli."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
+1point
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Review 25 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

the owner is so awesome- she

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"the owner is so awesome- she greeted us then showed us some dishes being made in the kitchen while we waited for our table. Delicious bread- the antipasti platter is the best. We got specials -- osso bucco, lobster pasta with spicy sauce, lamb with asparagus and cheese fried up in a little pouch. YUM. I went with my parents for dinner in March. Vibrant charming little gem. Its name I believe means the "treasure" in italian-- perfectly fitting name! Highly recommend. this is now one of our top choices for dinner in sanibel up there with sunset grill, thistle lodge & cips."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
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Review 26 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of the best

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fantastic food! This was one of the top meals we had on Sanibel. I had the Duck confit gnocci and my husband had the seafood fettuccini (sp?). The service was attentive. We had a very minor problem with our appetizer (the antipasti) which they fixed immediately. They were too apologetic! Our server was professional, yet friendly. I highly recommend the restaurant."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 27 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The place to go on the islands

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"At last, a restaurant on Sanibel or Captiva that serves food worthy of the toll bridge. Wonderful starters, Esp. Antipasto. The Grouper and Sea Bass were well prepared and Not Mushy, Fishey, or deep fried. The chicken breast was flavorful and tender. However, the star in my opinion was the bolegnase over the tartadelle pasta. Rich, full flavored meat selections in a deep tomato base over aldente pasta was outstanding. Dessert sections also excellent and light. Only low point was the wine on one trip. The lower priced $35 red Italian blend was a relative bargain. Will come back here often."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
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Review 28 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a late reservation

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a late reservation - 8:45 and had to wait for a few minutes before being seated. Obviously the other diners were enjoying their dinners and lingering longer than expected. The owner offered us a glass of wine while we waited and was very gracious. We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner (the bolognese polenta and sea bass were superb). We, too, lingered - all the way to closing!"
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic
0points
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Review 29 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Overall food was very good.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Overall food was very good. Limited vegetarian options - would like to see more in an Italian restaruant. Expensive but not overpriced - $300 for family of four (including tip)."
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2005
0points
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Review 30 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fabulous, but careful with the wine

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The first really good place we dined in SW FL.
The Antipasta was a very nice collection of meats, cheese, grilled vegetables and seafood. One of the best we've ever had. The grouper was flavorful and fresh. The sea bass was nicely presented on top of a Parmesan risotto. However, the best, (everybody agreed) was the tagletalle bolegnase. Rich, flavorful combination that ranks up with Figs in Boston. Desserts were outstanding. The traditional and key lime tiramisu were light as air. The canolli was almost as good as Mikes in the north end. Service was attentive and professionally engaging. The only negative was the $50 bottle of chianti that was ordinary at best. Quadrupling the price still makes it a $13 wine.
"
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 31 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I'm Italian and also a cook,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I'm Italian and also a cook, the food I had at Il Tesoro in Sanibel was fabulous. It reminded me of a New York city restaurant.
The antipasto as you walk in was to die for, right down to my homemade pasta. And did I mention the wine? It was wonderful.
Thank you for a great night
Marie A. Del Padre
Cranston, RI
"
Dined on 03/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
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Review 32 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delightful experience. Food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Delightful experience. Food was very good, and very attentive. Food was very good. Not inexpensive. A good dining experience."
Dined on 03/15/2013
 2010
Special Features: notable wine list
0points
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Review 33 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Italian Seafood gem!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is our third time in 3 years to Il Tesoro- we'd go more-but this is a favorite annual vacation spot for us. Food is absolutely suberb- best italian seafood outside of Italy for us. The service only enhances as well as the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant. We're going back tonite-now twice in our week!"
Dined on 03/13/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
0points
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Review 34 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The food was excellent---all

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
"The food was excellent---all four of our entrees were very, very good.....lovely dining destination."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
0points
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Review 35 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Better than ever! We'll return

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Better than ever! We'll return often"
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 36 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Had two delightful meals during

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had two delightful meals during a recent visit to Sanibel. The food is prepared in the open kitchen with wonderful smells wafting through the cozy space decorated with funky artwork. The grouper and sea bass were perfectly baked with nicely complementing sauces. The service has improved dramatically this year from surly to quite professional and pleasant. This is a must stop in the Sanibel dining scene."
Dined on 03/06/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 37 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

worth wait

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"this is a real restaurant with really good italian food; it made me feel that i was in Italy. It has one sister restaurant in NYC. Foodies have found this place now and the small space is packed. Both times we have gone we arrived on time for our reservation but were kept waiting, once for a half hour. (They comped us a glass of wine during the wait.) In other words, they are overbooking. Lobster ravioli was a special both times I went and a member of my party insists that it is the best thing she has ever eaten, anywhere. they are very good at handling special requests because everything is being cooked to order in an open kitchen."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
0points
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Review 38 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful Italian restaurant.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wonderful flavors and very efficient and knowledgable servers. A real gem for Sanibel."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 39 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This restaurant is most definitely

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This restaurant is most definitely very pricey, but has what I think may be the best Italian food I have ever had. So fresh. Delicious! We had three vegetarians in our party and they were very accommodating to us. If you are looking for an upscale Italian dining experience, this is the place to go. The ambiance itself is pleasant and was actually quite similar to the places I went to in Italy! It can, however, get quite noisy as the actual restaurant space is very small. Another point to add is that there is an art gallery next door that was really fun to look at while we waited for our table. All in all, this place is great and worth the money."
Dined on 03/03/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 40 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Service and great food.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great Service and great food. One of our top three restaurants on Sanibel."
Dined on 02/21/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 41 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The selection of food and

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The selection of food and quality are very good. However, it is a very small restaurant and you can hear the conversation next to your table.
Service is OK, since it's not easy to get around the tables.
"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2004
0points
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Review 42 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My fiance and I had a wonderful

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My fiance and I had a wonderful dinner here this week. The bolognese was to die for, and the mushroom ravioli reminded me of a dish I had in Rome last summer. Our server, Dimitri, was extremely knowledgeable and made perfect recommendations for wines to accompany our meal. The prices reflected exactly what we got: incredibly flavorful food, homemade dishes, a small independent restaurant, knowledgeable and experienced staff/chef, and fresh, local ingredients. Therefore, worth every penny."
Dined on 02/19/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 43 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Food has really gone down

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food has really gone down in quality, while prices are outrageously high. After dining there a couple of times and thinking it must've been an off night, we decided to try one more time. The specials may be made with fresh ingredients, but regular entrees are clearly made with canned sauce, dry/inexpensive pasta, canned olives and frozen seafood. Horribly disappointing. It actually ruined our enjoyment if the evening."
Dined on 02/19/2013
 2002
-2points
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Review 44 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food. If you are looking

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great food. If you are looking for a quiet, intimate spot for outstanding Italian food -- this is it."
Dined on 02/18/2013
 2007
0points
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Review 45 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Italian restaurant,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great Italian restaurant, great wines, fantastic food."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, notable wine list, hot spot
0points
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Review 46 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A new discovery...a gem

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Il Tesoro is a small, delightful restaurant tucked away from the road, with delicious aroma floating into the garden and parking area.
We began with a butternut squash soup drizzled with caramel and mint. It was so delicious. We then had homemade ravioli stuffed with lobster...light and just enough. Our dessert was limoncello sorbet......outstanding! We left knowing we will return. It was a perfect meal, served by people who really cared that we would enjoy whatever we chose.
"
Dined on 02/11/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
+1point
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Review 47 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

this was our second meal here

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"this was our second meal here in the last two years. both were great. diverse menu and wine list. staff is very helpful and upbeat. food is some of best Sanibel has to offer. definitely fine dining. definitely reservations."
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 48 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had two great meals at

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had two great meals at Il Tesoro. The restaurant was packed both nights and very energetic. The food is comparable to the best NYC Italian restaurants and, in fact, the owners have an Il Tesoro in NYC. The winelist is extensive. Service is friendly and helpful, if a bit harried at times with a full house. Joleen,one of the owners, jumps in personally to keep the service level high. it is a great find and we highly recommend it."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 49 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

My major disappoint was with

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My major disappoint was with reservations at the restaurant. Since we were there before, we had requested a particular table # for
6:30 dinner. Earlier that same day, I called the restaurant to confirm the reservation and the table. The manager?? said that she would not be able to guarantee that specific table, but would try to accommodate us. However, she said that if we could change the time to 6:00 she could guarantee the table we desired.
Well we arrived at 5:59 pm and the table was not available.
Will we go back to Il Tesoro.... most definitely not."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2013
0points
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Review 50 for Il Tesoro-Sanibel
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

pleasant night

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"WE found the service and the food to be excellent. There is a large menu and a nice wine list, no cocktails , I think.
We shared the caprese sale, it was nice of the server to split it beautifully . I had the pasta bolegnese -- finished every bite, al dente and homemade. Tried the Super Tuscan red by the glass.
I liked the bread with the different oils. It's a little crowed and the chairs could be more comfy, but overall a pleasant room.
"
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
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