Last week, Intown 411's Event Team made an appearance at the GCCA (Gold Coast Concierge Association) concierge party at Las Olas' recently-opened Italian restaurant, Solita -- the name is short for "South of Little Italy".
Upon entering the dimly-lit restaurant, we were greeted by a smiling hostess, and immediately took to exploring the various rooms, all fancy and inviting with chandeliers and mod decor done in a purple color scheme. We headed over to the GCCA party in the lounge area, where we mingled with some of the town's top concierges. Over drinks, they shared fascinating tales about local culture with us, and let it suffice to say that they've seen it all. After a few laughs, we moved along and shot some pictures of the crowd and design at this striking new restaurant. In the lounge, which is situated in the middle of the restaurant, the hard wood floors, purple crushed velvet sofas and white leather tufted sofas, chandeliers, grey and silver damask wallpaper and purple, velvet drapes set a fashionable tone that spread out through the rest of the restaurant.
The restaurant's sophisticated lounge was certainly swanky enough to merit
a visit in its own right, but the much-touted, home-style Italian cuisine was what we came for, and we were eager to give it a try. As we settled down at our table, Alan Myers, one of Solita's owners, came by to say hello and help us navigate the menu. A light switch inside the menu's cover illuminated SoLita's selection of appetizers, entrees and sides.
Myers knew his Italian food, but he certainly should considering that he has ten years of experience working for the celebrity-frequented hot spot Cafe Martorano on Oakland Park Boulevard.
Upon his suggestion, we tried the pork chops, the pan-seared snapper and a side of roasted potatoes. The main courses were pure indulgence, Myer's strongest recommendation, the amazing Brussel sprouts, was my favorite thing at SoLita -- aside from the little light in the menu. I guess the sprouts made a particularly deep impression because I've never been a fan of the vegetables before. But, SoLita has certainly converted me.
Situated across from the beautifully-designed open kitchen, our table offered a nice vantage point to Solita's wood-burning oven. This is where the pizza-making magic takes place.
Myers informed us that SoLita caters to both those who prefer to dine in prime evening hours and the late night crowd, which will find DJ Angelo spinning top 40 tracks every Wednesday through Saturday starting at 9 p.m. The crowd can dance and dine throughout the night as Las Olas' newest eatery stays open until 2 a.m. and bottle service is available in the lounge areas.
